Art & Design The 10 + 1 Design Theses

"Before you can break the rules, you must first learn them." This quote from my instructor had a profound impact on me and stays with me to this day. It reminds me that true creativity and innovation only arise when you master the fundamentals.

So why am I listing Dieter Rams's 10 design principles? Quite simply: They are not only crucial to my artistic work, but also to my life as a whole. These principles help me maintain clarity and structure, both in the creative process and in my everyday life. And like Michael Mauer, I believe that everyone needs to read and understand them.

Michael Mauer, Chief Designer at Porsche, put forward another crucial thesis, which I also incorporate into my work. And quite honestly, between us Porsche enthusiasts:
11 just sounds better than 10, doesn't it?

1. Good design is innovative

Impressionism was a revolutionary movement in the second half of the 19th century that broke new ground. Today, I'm following the same path with my digital art. In my Porsche interpretations, I combine classic design elements with modern, creative approaches. In doing so, I dare to transcend the traditional boundaries of art while simultaneously creating something new and unique in its form.

2. Good design makes a product usable

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 work of art of your vehicle is far more than just a picture. It becomes a tribute to unforgettable moments, to a past love, or to the sheer joy of owning such an icon. It captures the pride of having this beauty not just in the garage, but also on the wall – as a lasting reminder of what makes your heart beat faster.

3. Good design is aesthetic

The aesthetics of my work are at the heart of my creative process. I emphasize the elegant lines and characteristic shapes of Porsche vehicles in a way that emphasizes their timeless beauty. Every work of art by Sechszylinder is a tribute to the perfect interplay of technology and design.

4. Good design makes a product understandable

In my artwork and sketches, I focus on capturing the essence and avoiding distractions. The models I depict are works of art in themselves; they don't require any additional elements that distract from the car. The vehicle itself always remains the focus.

5. Good design is unobtrusive

My works don't impose themselves, but rather blend harmoniously into their surroundings and respect the individuality of the viewer. Before creating a work of art, I consider the space in which it will hang and develop a coherent overall concept that complements the interior design.

6. Good design is honest

For me, "finished" is far from complete. When I've completed a piece, I let it work for two weeks and then review it again. Sometimes the client is already enthusiastic about an interim version – but that alone isn't enough for me. Even after two weeks, I have to be completely convinced of my concept before I finally approve it.

7. Good design is long-lasting

Like the Porsche vehicles themselves, my artwork strives for timelessness. They are not bound by fleeting trends but endure through their classic aesthetics and quality. In a constantly changing world, my works remain consistent and relevant.

8. Good design is consistent down to the last detail

Each of my works of art is crafted with the utmost care and precision, down to the smallest detail. Just as in a Porsche, every component is perfectly coordinated with the overall design, I place the utmost importance on ensuring that every element in my work is harmoniously connected. From the first brushstroke to the final presentation, this attention to detail is reflected in the creation of a perfect, aesthetically coherent work of art.

9. Good design is environmentally friendly

In addition to the longevity of my works, I place particular emphasis on the sustainability of the entire creative process. Digital art offers enormous advantages: It reduces the use of resources often required in traditional art. Furthermore, I have my artwork printed in Germany using climate-friendly methods, which keeps transport routes short and minimizes the ecological footprint. By using sustainable printing techniques and high-quality, durable materials, I actively contribute to making art more climate-friendly.

10. Good design is as little design as possible

In my artwork, I strive to highlight the essential and reduce the superfluous. I focus on the essence of Porsche design and use minimalist touches to emphasize the natural beauty of the vehicles without overloading them.

11. Good design – where the soul lives

Whether a work of art is created on canvas or digitally is irrelevant. A great deal of passion and dedication goes into each of my pieces. I engage intensively with the vehicles and the clients, thus giving my work a special soul. This passion is palpable in every work of art I create.

Inspired by Michael Mauer