Jon Sibal designs body kits and creates renderings for builders and tuners as well as Livery Designs. He's also the inker for DC Comics’ “Batman Earth One” graphic novel. We sat down and talked about inspiration, design and the love for cars.
The Drum
JON SIBAL: FROM BATMAN TO AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN
27.09.2018
Tell us about your design work in the US. We see a lot of special cars coming by, but also comic drawings, what’s your daily job?
I design body kits and create renderings for builders and tuners as well as Livery Designs. I’m also the inker for DC Comics’ “Batman Earth One” graphic novel. It is the second original graphic novel to be announced by DC Comics as part of the Earth One line of graphic novels established in 2009, marking the first collaboration between writer Geoff Johns and artist Gary Frank on a Batman story. I’m quite proud to be part of this team.
How & when did the petrol started running through your veins?
It started at a young age, Japanese Anime was a big influence that carried over when I started getting into cars. Especially the race cars, the way they looked and the noise they made got me hooked.
How did it found its way into automotive design?
It was when I got a BMW E36 and wanted to make it look different than anything currently available, but since there were no body kits i liked, I designed one myself. It’s always a great feeling to see the design renderings become reality so I try express myself through my personal project cars.
Which designers are your biggest source of inspiration?
I’m not sure if there was one specifically but more of a combination of different artists whether they’re in the Automotive field or not. It really doesn’t matter, I can get inspired by any good artist actually. Creative minds gets my attention always.
From a designer’s perspective, is there one car or object in particular you wished you’d designed yourself?
Nothing in particular but more of creating a different look without fully redesigning the whole thing. Depending on the client’s needs, my designs can go from mild to wild.
You drive a RWB 911, right? Is that a movement which assimilates your personal design style?
Yes, I have a Nardo Grey Porsche 964 RWB. I appreciate the style and look that Nakai-san has done with it and certainly is in line with my aesthetic preference.
Your career is moving quite fast at the moment. Do you have time to think about the future?
With my work, the future, just like the present and the past, is a big factor so I can keep my designs fresh. With all the deadlines, staying healthy both physically and mentally is key.
What are the projects you are currently working on?
A few renderings and livery design that will be unveiled at SEMA Show in Las Vegas this November, as well as some body kit designs for a couple of companies. Besides this I’m also working on Volume 3 of the Batman Earth One.
Pictures : ©Jon Sibal
Related articles
