"Before you can break the rules, you must first learn them."
This sentence from my instructor deeply impacted me and still guides me today.
It reminds me that true creativity and innovation only emerge when one has mastered the fundamentals.
So why do I list Dieter Rams' ten design principles?
It's simple: they are not only crucial for my artistic work but also for my life as a whole.
These principles help me maintain clarity and structure – both in the creative process and in everyday life.
And like Michael Mauer, I believe that everyone should read and understand them.
Michael Mauer, Chief Designer at Porsche, has added another crucial thesis,
which I have also integrated into my work.
And frankly – between us Porsche enthusiasts: eleven just sounds better than ten.
1. Good design is innovative
Impressionism was a revolutionary movement in the second half of the 19th century, blazing entirely new trails.
Today, I walk the same path with my digital art.
In my Porsche interpretations, I combine classic design elements with modern, creative approaches.
I dare to push the traditional boundaries of art while simultaneously creating something new that is unique in its form.
2. Good design makes a product useful
Of course, no one "needs" a picture of their Porsche – just as no one truly "needs" a Porsche.
But that's precisely the magic: it's not about needing, but about wanting.
A personalized artwork of your vehicle is far more than just a picture.
It becomes a homage to unforgettable moments, to an old love, or to the pure joy of owning such an icon.
It captures the pride of having this beauty not only in the garage but also on the wall –
as an eternal reminder of what makes the heart beat faster.
3. Good design is aesthetic
The aesthetics of my works are at the center of my creative process.
I highlight the elegant lines and characteristic forms of Porsche vehicles in a way
that emphasizes their timeless beauty.
Every artwork from Sechszylinder is a tribute to the perfect interplay of technology and design.
4. Good design makes a product understandable
In my artworks and sketches, I focus on capturing the essence and avoiding distractions.
The models I depict are artworks in themselves – they don't need additional elements that distract from the car.
The vehicle itself always remains the focus.
5. Good design is unobtrusive
My works are not obtrusive; instead, they harmonize with their surroundings and respect the viewer's individuality.
Before I create an artwork, I consider the space where it will hang,
and develop a coherent overall concept that complements the architecture and atmosphere.
6. Good design is honest
"Finished" for me doesn't mean completed by a long shot.
Once I've finished a piece, I let it sit for two weeks and then look at it again.
Sometimes the client is already thrilled with an intermediate stage – but that alone is not enough for me.
Even after two weeks, I have to be completely convinced before I finally release the work.
7. Good design is long-lasting
Like Porsche vehicles themselves, my artworks also strive for timelessness.
They are not tied to fleeting trends but endure through their classic aesthetics and quality.
In a world that is constantly changing, my works remain constant and relevant.
8. Good design is thorough to the last detail
Each of my artworks is meticulously crafted with the utmost care and precision down to the smallest detail.
Just as every component in a Porsche is perfectly coordinated with the overall design,
I place great importance on ensuring that every element in my work is harmoniously connected.
From the first stroke to the final presentation, this love for detail is reflected.
9. Good design is environmentally friendly
In addition to the longevity of my works, I place particular emphasis on sustainability throughout the creative process.
Digital art offers enormous advantages: it reduces resources often consumed in traditional art.
I have my artworks printed in Germany in an eco-friendly manner, keep transport routes short,
and use sustainable printing techniques and durable materials to create art responsibly.
10. Good design is as little design as possible
In my works, I try to extract the essential and reduce the superfluous.
I focus on the essence of Porsche design and use minimalist accents
to emphasize the natural beauty of the vehicles without overloading them.
11. Good design – It has a soul
Whether an artwork is created on canvas or digitally makes no difference.
Every one of my works is filled with heart and dedication.
I immerse myself deeply in the vehicles and the people behind them,
thereby imbuing my works with a special soul.
This passion is palpable in every artwork I create.
How it all began
Crossing the yard at 80