One of my first influences back then was (for example) a creative agency in London, called Tomato. I loved the way they handled typography and composition. I also loved the total atmosphere of their work. A couple of the members were also the people behind Underworld. So the artwork for their cd's is probably something that people of my generation can recall.

I also liked the experimental type treatments of David Carson a lot. They were a great example of what was possible using typography as the most important tool to design. By the end of my graduation I was also very impressed by the designs of 'the Stenberg brothers' from Russia, who created amazing theatre and film poster in their Constructivist style.

But of course there have also been some really great Dutch designers who have been influencing graphic design around the world. Graphic designers such as Ootje Oxenaar (who, in my opinion, designed the most beautiful banknotes ever designed), Anthon Beeke and Wim Crouwel were also a big influence.

What is a day like for you? What usually keeps you busy?

At the moment I still have a full time job as graphic designer at a small graphic design agency over here in The Netherlands. So my day mostly starts with the alarm going off at 7 am and finding myself in the train to work at 07.50 am. About 9 am I get to my work and really start the day, with a cup of coffee. I take care of the mails that I got and start working on whatever project there is that day or week.

I always carry a little black Moleskine notebook with me, so when I end my day at work and head back home in the train, little things that occur to me I write down or draw. You never know when those spontaneous ideas could be useful... Most of the time, the best ideas occur to you when you least expect it, so you better be well prepared!

I must say that you have an amazing array of typography work. Where do you find your inspiration?

Inspiration is everywhere and around you in my opinion. We live in an era that is dictated by images, so our brains are working overtime!

I can not tell specifically where I find it. It can be in a phrase I read, a song I heard, in the pattern of the pavement, or in a line drawn on the street. For example, I recently saw the speech that Steve Jobs gave at Stanford University. The phrase 'Stay Foolish, stay hungry' inspired me in a creative way.