Meet Jen Hsieh and Kyle Reed, the husband and wife team behind Sorry You’re Happy, an art licensing and surface design studio based in Hamilton, Ontario.
How did you get into licensing and surface design?
Seeing as we are both illustrators and have worked in editorial, publishing, advertising and animation, we formed Sorry You're Happy to promote and present our work in other markets. In researching new markets, we came across art licensing and the Surtex trade show which is held every spring and is dedicated to selling and licensing original art and design. We walked the floor in 2010 and decided to exhibit last year. Thrilled with the response to our work and with meeting new contacts, we are excited to return this spring.
What's the story behind the name Sorry You’re Happy?
While visiting some friends in Japan, they told us that the Kanji characters that make up Jen's name translate as "sorry, happy, you”, essentially “Sorry You’re Happy”. Jen's parents had picked her name to mean an honest, respectful, lucky person, so we found this alternate translation pretty funny. The phrase is ironic, catchy, and tongue in cheek, so when deciding on a name, we chose "Sorry You’re Happy". It definitely grabs people’s attention. At least we’re not happy you’re sorry, right?
How does your collaborative process work?
After working on some collections individually from start to finish, we realized we wanted to create them more collaboratively. Starting with brainstorming together and figuring out the main images, motifs and details, one of us will then create a number of sketches, characters, different motifs and possible repeats. From that point, we’ll figure out together what’s working, what can be added, pruned, etc. We realize certain collections are better suited to one of us: Kyle’s work is very kid-friendly, while Jen's is more geared towards women with a focus on colour palettes and texture. From the sketches and colour stories, one of us will then return to the collection and finalize the artwork at which point we do a final review together to make sure we’re happy with everything.
What's the appeal of surface design and pattern for you?
Jen: I love textile and fabric design. It’s tactile, beautiful and mesmerizes me. I could spend hours in a fabric store. Fabric is used to create something else, a quilt, a shirt, a bag, anything. I love that my artwork is contributing to the community of craftsmanship. Kyle: I’ve always had a soft spot for the kids’ market. And being able to reach children through games, books and toys really appeals to me. I can begin projects with my own voice and ideas, then propose the artwork to be used in a variety of ways.
Can you describe the experience of jumping into a new market?
Being in a new market is tough but educational. It takes time to build your presence and for manufacturers to know your work as the industry is highly competitive. We've also had to learn about licensing, adapt to new business practices and develop new marketing skills. For example, neither of us had ever put out a press kit before, but now it’s a skill we’re learning.
Surface design has forced us to rethink our own processes and become more versatile in how we work. But even with the bumps along the way, we’re confident in our work and what we offer.
Where are you products available?
The products from our first licensing deal are now available for purchase here. We also opened up an etsy store selling prints of our artwork. We're adding paper products and textiles soon.
Can you give us any hints about upcoming projects?
We’re excited about the new collections we'll be unveiling soon. We post some close ups on our dribbble account as teasers. In the spring, we’ll be introducing the collections of Aaron Leighton and Katy Dockrill, two members of Nook. We’re thrilled they’re working with us! To stay in touch, follow us on twitter, sign up for our newsletter, or keep an eye on our website, sorryyourehappy.com.
Any parting words of wisdom?
Perseverance takes a long time.
Aaron
