He didn't know what to draw. Then one song changed everything

Every month, we feature a new take on the CBC Arts logo created by a Canadian artist. Check out our previous logos!

Don't fear the reaper, draw him instead. And for as long as Jared Fox-Morin can remember, he's been sketching the same gnarly skeleton. "I used to call him 'Skull Man,'" says Fox-Morin, an illustrator from Kainai, Blackfoot Confederacy, and over the years, he's become a constant presence in the zines, drawings and apparel Fox-Morin creates for his art brand, Stankdaddy. He's even made an appearance in Fox-Morin's latest assignment: a logo design for CBC Arts. The scene is inspired by the first signs of spring — which Fox-Morin is already enjoying on the west coast. But garage rock — or rather, one song in particular — was an even bigger influence. The artist told us more over email.

Name: Jared Fox-Morin/Stankdaddy 

Age: 29

Homebase: Vancouver

How did you get your start as a working artist? 

I started out designing show posters and stickers for my friend's band (Illacuda). I also made zines during art school, which I would sell at parties held in my friend's backyard. Then I started taking Stankdaddy more seriously, and people seemed to like it. It wasn't an overnight success — I've been going hard for years, meeting people at markets and constantly drawing. Now, I have a small fanbase that buys my shirts whenever I make them, and I'm really grateful for their support.

What sources do you often turn to for ideas and inspiration? 

Zines and music inspire me so much, but sometimes when I can't think of anything to draw, I switch to my beadwork. I'll work on that until I come up with an idea or get tired of it and want to draw again.

Let's talk about your logo! What inspired the concept?

I wasn't really sure what to do at first, but then I started listening to music. A song by Skeggss called "Spring Has Sprung" came on, and it got me excited for flowers and nice weather. 

Spring is quickly arriving here on the west coast. That gave me the inspiration, and it was all easy after that.

What's the project you're most proud of?

If I had to pick my top three, I'd say I enjoyed working with Studio A-OK (RIP); designing a wine bottle for Neon Eon; and creating art for musician Janky Bungag. Having my art on vinyl for the first time was pretty cool.

What's your favourite place to see art?

I enjoy seeing new art at the art markets around town.

Who's the last artist you discovered online?

Check out Celina Media (@celinamedia), a Blackfoot photographer who takes amazing pictures. The editing and style are incredible!

What work of art do you wish you owned?

My friend Lauren Crazybull has painted me a few times, but the first time she did a huge painting of me where I look like a young elder. I wish I owned it, but I don't think it would fit in my place.

What's new in your world? What are you working on these days? 

I'm working on my new zine and I'm potentially organizing an Indigenous group show. I'm also in talks to do our annual Good Stank Stampede market.

Tell us more about Good Stank Mart. What's your role in the operation?

Good Stank Mart is an arts and crafts market organized by me and my friend James Spetifore (@goodluck.studios). We started it to offer vendors a more affordable option, as other markets were getting expensive. In the beginning, we held it monthly, but now we plan it every few months, usually at the Anza Club in Vancouver. You can follow us on Instagram and find out when the next market is happening.

Where can we see more from you?

On Instagram (@stankdaddy_) and www.stankdaddy.com.