Business in Shoreditch: interview with James Burke – a creative director at Acrylicize

G: Tell us about your business: What do you do? 

We are an Art Collective. We are commissioned to create art installations and art schemes for interior spaces. Our work explores the relationship between fine art, design, graphics, interior design and architectural features. The project started as my University project. I studied Contemporary Art at university and wasn’t ready to finish the project just cause my degree had. Our USP is the fact that we tell your unique story through art. The work is very personal. I also have a personal art project called ‘Shesh’, which incorporates art, graffiti, fashion and music.

G: What were the most successful or unique projects?

Winning the Wembley Stadium project was a huge deal for us as it was such a significant step up in terms of the scale and stature of project we were used to. It was also a real honour to develop work for our national stadium and led to lots of press and ultimately lots more commissions.

G: Why did you choose Shoreditch to run your business?

The energy here is great. It’s a vibrant part of town filled with artists, designers and people doing their thing, creating a constantly evolving landscape on an almost daily basis.

G: Tell us about DO’s and DON’Ts when running the company?

Do keep it real and follow your heart. Trust your instincts and remember it’s the process that drives the outcome, not the other way round.
Don’t chase the money – Stay true to yourself and work hard and the money will chase you.

G: Who are your favorite businesses in Shoreditch?

Big fan of Moo as a business. Great product and great brand, beautifully crafted.

G: What are your favourite places in Shoreditch?

Hawksmoor for steak, Cargo for music, also played lots of gigs at Vibe bar and 93 Feet East – always have a great time there.

G: What does the future has in store for Shoreditch and your business?

Shoreditch is changing everyday. It’s clear it’s attracting a different crowd as more creative businesses move in and it’s clear that the tech companies will have a part to play in its further growth. As for Acrylicize, we will always look to challenge ourselves creatively and look to stay firmly out of our comfort zone. We have some very exciting projects coming up which I can’t talk too much about but will take us to the next level. Very exciting times…

Social links:
Twitter: @jmsburke / @acrylicize
Linkedin: James Burke
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/acrylicize / www.facebook.com/Shesh
Blog:  www.acrylicize.com/blog
Website:  www.acrylicize.com /  www.shesh.typepad.com
Pinterest:   pinterest.com/acrylicize