Dan Funderburgh

Designer Dan Funderburgh’s work is off the wall, even though it mostly exists on the wall. That’s because Dan creates awe inspiring wallpaper designs through his partnership with the Flavorpaper studio, where his designs are hand screen printed to turn ordinary walls into masterpieces. His clever designs have been featured at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair and at Pulse Miami and are a part of the Cooper-Hewitt’s permanent collection. Occasional collaborations with companies like Brooks, Furni, and Gravis have even allowed the work to live on bicycle seats, furniture, and luggage as well. See what keeps Dan from hitting the inspirational wall in his 10 ANSWERS below.

1. How would you describe your work in three words?
Historical ornament misremembered.

2. Who is your creative role model?
William Morris.

3. If you had an extra hour each day what would you do with it?
Over think!

4. What place in the world most inspires you and why?
Every place ever featured in a Tintin book, but especially anywhere with Islamic architecture. Turkey, Morocco, Alhambra. I can’t get enough of that stuff.

5. If you could do a different job for a day what would it be and why?
19th Century Explorer. They fully had the best gear.

6. What is your favorite homemade gift to give?
Cardboard tools? Rude caricatures? Bad advice? I’m not sure.

7. What is your favorite object in your home?
Tie between cat and Grammar of Ornament by Owen Jones.

8. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
“Walk tall, kick ass, learn to speak arabic, love music, and never forget you come from a long line of truth seekers, lovers, and warriors.”  - Hunter S. Thompson.

He didn’t say this to me personally. I read it on a website and I don’t know if it’s even true, but it sounds right.

9. What websites do you use for inspiration?
Library of Congress. BibliOdyssey.

10. When do you consider a piece of your work complete?
A piece is done when my attention is draw to some new and exciting idea. Completion is a different story and happens only occasionally. Normally there is some sort of financial incentive involved.