Skillshare Shorts | "Designer in a Van: On Tour with Aaron Draplin"

This short documentary is a never-before-seen-look at Aaron Draplin, the man behind the legend.

Join the Skillshare Film Team on the road with Aaron Draplin — iconic designer, hit Skillshare teacher, and legendary man of mystery. In 2017, Draplin hit the road in a one-of-a-kind orange van to meet with fans, students, and designers for a book tour unlike anything a designer has done before.

Inspired by the DIY and punk bands before him who have taken their tours into their own hands, he and his partner Leigh McKolay did all of the scouting, booking, driving, talking, hyping, fighting, making up, and making it work — all the while shipping merch and running the Draplin Design Company (DDC) from the backseat.

How does he make it work? Whether you're a creative searching for inspiration, a Draplin fan, or simply curious for a real-world look at a successful side hustle, see how Draplin has built an iconic career from the ground up . . . all from his signature orange van.

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This short documentary is shared with the Skillshare community for behind-the-scenes inspiration and insight into the design world. Please be sure to check out the Class Resources & Project for additional related classes, links, and learning opportunities.

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Directed, Produced, and Edited by Bill Antonucci and Elliott Curtis

Animations by Daniel Fakharzadeh

Music by Los Roys

Additional Images Courtesy of Walker Art Center, Sam Fritch, Chelsea Parrett, Dan Hawk, and The Sage Colleges

Special thanks to Steve DeCusatis, Philadelphia University, and Sizzle Pie Brooklyn