New York City graphic designer and illustrator Christopher Dina‘s work ranges from identity and print work to wayfinding and environmental graphics, including a recent collaboration with his wife – herself an interior designer – on a children’s clinic in Japan. Chris draws inspiration from his love of illustration and painting, travel, and music like the eclectic pop and indie tracks of this week’s Playlist.

What do you listen to while you work?
I listen to whatever is inspirational and anything that serves as a good backdrop to the work I am doing. If I’m coming up with ideas or sketching I prefer something softer and melodic, perhaps with some electronic or jazz influences – and if I’m cruising along then I can really listen to almost anything. There are also times when I choose music based on the type of project I am doing.

How do you listen?
I prefer computer speakers – I can step away from the desk and move around freely without disrupting the tone I’ve set. The iTunes Radio is nice for a little randomness and I’ll use headphones when I want to listen to music more finely.

Do you have any favorite music websites/providers?
iTunes is really great for seeing what’s new and sampling artists.

Does music influence your work?
The music I like to listen to relaxes me, its creates a space for me to think and generate ideas and sketches when I design. It allows my thoughts to go places which can lead to some pleasant surprises creatively.The influence is usually more direct if I am painting or drawing since sound, emotion, movement and physically making the mark are more closely connected.

Where do you find music recommendations? Who influences your musical taste?
I find music recommendations everywhere, friends, other designers, the outside environment. I think for me it has always been about exploration and being open to new artists and sounds.

What song or artist best represents the work you create?
I don’t know if there is one artist but I can say that pop music may best represent the work I create. I seem to gravitate toward pop-art sensibilities, bold colors, geometric shapes, and pattern in my work. The Pet Shop Boys are definitely at the convergence point of music I enjoy and design I love; their packaging, set designs and costumes have always been incredibly inspiring.

Ideal place to sit and listen to your playlist:
Although I have many favorites – the Aeron chair which I sit in at the office is simply amazing, both on a comfort and aesthetic level – the ideal place to sit and listen to my playlist is on an Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman (Black Cow Leather with Walnut Veneer). The Eames Lounge Chair is sophisticated and iconic in its form, a timeless modern classic which I think makes it a great match for my mix. Also perfect because it will totally elevate your level of comfort and listening enjoyment.

Chris’s Playlist:
1. Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots Pt. 1, Flaming Lips
2. Photograph, Air
3. Carrion, British Sea Power
4. The Origin of Love, Mika
5. Fake Plastic Trees, Radiohead
6. Hoppipolla, Sigur Ros
7. Girls, Death In Vegas
8. History Chimes, Echo And The Bunnyman
9. You Don’t See Me, Keane
10. The Wanderer, Johnny Cash
11. Home And Dry, Pet Shop Boys

Photos: Chris Dina