Community: Austin Rossborough
On our journey as brand so far, we’ve exclusively created our graphics in-house, allowing us to exercise a true portrayal of the Café Mountain ethos…
That was until we met Artist and Illustrator, Austin Rossborough.
Discovering Austin’s work, we were instantly taken back with the skill and authenticity within each illustration, which often portrays outdoor influence and a certain sense of calmness that is rare in today’s pace driven world.
Austin has been quietly cultivating his craft whilst simultaneously creating illustrations for some very commendable projects, including everyone’s favourite instagram page, Hidden NY and their collaboration with Salomon.
Our introduction was through a chance interaction, in which we shared an mutual appreciation for each other’s craft, which naturally led to us collaborating on the Mountainside Tee.
To celebrate the launch of the Mountainside Tee, we sat down with Austin (virtually) to gain an insight into his creative approach, philosophy and inspirations.
You can read the interview below:
CM: Hey Austin, how is it going? Firstly, thank you for taking your time for the interview, I've been a fan of your work from the moment I saw it, for those who don't know what you do, would you be able to introduce yourself?
Austin: Thank you so much for making space for me here Lewis! Very honoured and happy to be a part of Cafe Mountain and the community your building. My name is Austin Rossborough, I am a self-taught illustrator, art director & designer. I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio USA, but have been calling Portland, OR home for the past 5 years where I live with my wife, Deziree. In addition to my freelance work I am also a Brand Manager & Art Director with Ransom Ltd., where we do creative direction and photo & video production, often working in Japan. I only recently in the past three years was able to really get my practice off the ground, so I’m always learning and growing.
CM: The mutual appreciation that led us to collaborating was bound in a connection to nature and a particular way of seeing the world. Is there a conscious connection between how you interact with nature and your approach to illustration?
Austin: Cleveland, where I grew up; actually has an amazing parks system. As a child I would spend most of my time outdoors. Although Ohio doesn’t have much to offer in terms of vistas and panoramic views, it makes up for in a slow pace of life. This influenced me greatly, teaching me to pay attention to the details and slow down to the pace of the natural world. It’s a practice that has really affected the way I create. My process is pretty time intensive, which leaves lots of time to think and listen, just like in nature. My walks and time in the woods affect my work, and vice versa in this way.
CM: Being a self taught illustrator, could you tell us what led you to finding your craft and what challenges you had to overcome to cultivate your style and process?
Austin: As a boy I was always drawing. My homework would be covered in doodles and characters. I’ve always loved storytelling and imagery, and the power of visual art. At some point, I decided that it was all I was going to do. That if I didn’t succeed, I’d be doing odd jobs for the rest of my life. There was this “make it or break it” mentality that just really sunk in and became a part of my life. I don’t think of myself as naturally talented, I’ve had to work hard to develop my style and practice, and still have such a long way to go. One of the biggest challenges i think any creative person faces is to give up. I’m still figuring it out, but so far I’ve been able to hold on and keep moving forward with it. I believe it’s true that if you don’t quit: you win. I think that the hard work ethic of my blue-collar family really helped instill that importance of endurance and perseverance in me.
Image by @jamesfitsfranz
CM: The Mountainside tee feels authentic to us and what we represent here at Café Mountain. Could you give us an insight into your approach and inspiration for the Mountainside graphic?
Austin: For this graphic, I wanted to create something that really embodies the spirit behind Cafe Mountain, while also pulling from my own memories and nostalgia. The idea of hiking with friends and reaching a destination isn’t new, but the goal of spending time together and enjoying the outdoors rather than trying to beat a time or climb the highest peak feels important in this fast-paced time we live in. I wanted to get that feeling if taking your time and enjoying the little things with good people. Hopefully the Mountainside Tee feels like the end of a perfect day does.
CM: Your mindset and creativity seems to come from a place of calm and peace (Something which could be envious for many creatives!). Is there a particular routine or technique you utilise to reconnect with yourself and your practice?
Austin: Although this isn’t something I intentionally curate in my work, it always seems to come out in the end, and I couldn’t be happier. There is so much to be stressed and anxious about in this day and age. I hope my work can be a small moment of peace for someone. I try to spend a lot of time walking, praying and meditating, and I’ve found these practices have helped me slow down even when life gets busy.
CM: Aside from the Mountainside Tee, are there any pieces from the collection that you're resonating with?
Austin: It has to be the Mountain Fleece Vest! I’m actually wearing mine right now, it’s become one my favourite items in my wardrobe. Whether wearing as an outer layer or underneath a light jacket it’s been perfect for Portland’s temperamental weather. I used to be a big vintage head, so the classic styling really connects with me also. That perfect blend of quality, function and style.
CM: Thank you again for your beautiful illustrative work and for sharing an insight into you and your practice.
We are truly grateful to have worked together and for you becoming part of our community. Are there any final words you'd like to leave?
Austin: So very thankful to have worked together and to be a part of this community!
Special shout to Austin for being so open and sharing an insight into his practice. We are grateful for our new friendship and looking forward to making more art together.
Thank you.
You can follow Austin and check out more of his beautiful work here