In the world of graphic design, few names shine brighter than Vito, better known as “DinoDidThat.” From humble beginnings experimenting with photo manipulation in a high school computer class to creating stunning visuals for some of the music industry’s hottest names, Vito has carved out a space as a creative force to be reckoned with. Recently nominated for Graphic Designer of the Year by Thizzler.com, his journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and an unyielding dedication to his craft.
With a client roster that includes rising stars like Snot, BrickBoyDior, Likybo, Girlsluhdev, TopRankGangg (OTR Records), Killatwan (All Money In Records), and even the late Drakeo The Ruler, DinoDidThat has become synonymous with eye-catching, story-driven designs. Whether he’s creating album artwork, crafting promotional visuals, or bringing a cultural narrative to life, Vito’s work leaves a lasting impression.
In this exclusive interview, we explore how Vito’s multicultural upbringing in Los Angeles shaped his creative perspective, the projects that have defined his career, and what it takes to stay inspired in a fast-paced industry. Get ready to dive into the mind of a visionary designer making waves across the creative world ans Southern California.
-How did you become an illustrator/graphic designer?
I became very interested in graphic design practice whilst still in my junior year of highschool and failing out of a computer education class, i fell in love with manipulating photos and making vinyl cover-art using various photo editing websites during our class periods. While everyone was busy learning how to use computers and build them, I occupied myself with learning the basics of photoshop and other artistic applications.
-Who or what has been the biggest single influence on your way of thinking?
My biggest single influence on my approach and way of thinking within graphic design all has come from my father and his multicultural background. Growing up I was immersed and exposed to a diverse array of cultural traditions, artistic expressions, unique films, real music and most importantly raw emotion ; all hailing from the creative city of Los Angeles, thanks to my father’s heritage. This unique upbringing has profoundly shaped my perspective and creativity, allowing me to draw inspiration from a wide range of visual styles, traditions and cultural narratives making every artwork piece I create a unique and personal experience for the viewer. He has always been a constant source of motivation coming from what we’ve come from, driving me to explore new techniques and push beyond the boundaries of my creativity, past just what the eye can see.
-What has been your best project and why?
I’d have to say out of my entire body of work ; it’s hard to pick just one, however one of my best projects that i’ve personally enjoyed working on most would have to be the 2021 studio album “Still Bangin And Slangin” by TBDAGUNSLANGA who is a known Hip-Hop artist hailing out of the Long-Beach district of Los Angeles County. This project was the one of the most meaningful to me because it was one of the first roll-outs where i was given full creative freedom to create numerous billboards around my own home-town for the album release, which i later was able to visit and present to my mother as we drove down one of the busiest highways in los angeles and seen them together. It was a very prideful moment in my career and a memory I’ll hold with me forever.
How do you stay creative under pressure? The best way I personally stay creative under pressure involves a few simple techniques I’ve used since high-school that have helped me over the years maintain focus and inspiration. Firstly I immerse myself in music related to the artistic subject or direction at hand, which sets the vibe for the entire roll-out and sparks creativity, allowing me to connect more deeply with the project’s theme. Whenever an idea or inspiration strikes, I write it down on a white board immediately to ensure no creative spark is lost, and I can revisit and build upon those thoughts later. I approach every aspect of each design with an open mind, remaining receptive to new ideas and perspectives, which allows me to explore various creative avenues and find the best solutions navigating beyond the canvas. Actively seeking new sources of inspiration, whether through art, watching a film, peeling through past-work or asking another fellow creative, keeps my creativity fresh and dynamic. Another personal technique that works wonders for me when I’m overwhelmed is breaking the project into smaller, manageable goals, allowing me to focus on each component with greater clarity and precision. Most importantly, out of everything above, I always maintain a positive attitude and stay excited about the project even in times of doubt, looking forward to the future and the potential impact of the work to come, which keeps me motivated and driven with every minute.
-What would you say is your strongest skill and how have you honed that skill over the years? One of my strongest skills I’ve honed over the years in my pursuit of learning the art of graphic design is my ability to create personalized and unique collages. Whether it’s for recording artists, clothing brands, personal projects, or beyond, my collages have reached and touched the world in many ways and have been at the viewing pleasure of millions. This form of designing brings out the best of my creative decision making, giving me the ability to speak through my composition and convey a message bigger than just the images on the canvas channeling a new creative energy each time and captivating unique colors, textures and intricate patterns.
-What’s the best piece of advice you have heard and repeated to others?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever heard and always repeat to others is to always embrace the hard times as they are the biggest blessings in disguise. You will come to know who is willing to stand by you. You will understand the power of faith and hope. You will receive support in the most unexpected ways as a reminder that you will never be abandoned by the universe but most importantly you will find your deepest inner power. The power that no one can ever take away from you. Your strength and perseverance. After it all, you will be rewarded with life, love, peace and happiness. Things that have always been inside of you even in the hardest moments. Life will always come full circle.
–Describe your creative process. What are the major steps?
My creative process in itself is simple and all begins with Inspiration and Research behind the subject matter at hand. I immerse myself in relevant information and gather ideas to spark creativity. Following that, I dive into brainstorming and final end planning where I work hard to develop and refine official concepts. Once I have a solid plan and an official concept, I move on to execute the design fully, where I bring all my ideas to life and share them for your viewing pleasure. Finally, I seek feedback from creative peers and or my clientele and reflect on the project to identify areas of improvement and celebrate creating something special together that’ll last forever.
-What originally made you want to become an illustrator/graphic designer?
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always had a deep passion for art and a creative soul. I would spend countless hours drawing, captivated by the simplicity and joy of creating with just a paper and pen or even a box of crayons at times. Those early moments of artistic exploration drawing whatever came to my mind sparked a love for visual storytelling that has stayed with me throughout my life. The ability to convey my own ideas and true emotions through my drawings fascinated me, and that passion naturally evolved into a career in graphic design. It’s a field where I can blend my love for art with the power of music, creating designs that resonate a feeling way beyond consciousness that make you want to navigate back to ask for more alongside a world of questions. It’s as big as you want to make it and as far as you want to take it, and that in itself was what originally made me want to become a designer.
-What are you passionate about besides your work?
All of my graphic design work aside, I’m deeply passionate about helping people, spending quality time with my family, and traveling around the world to reach the highest levels of peace. I find immense fulfillment in giving back to my community and making a positive impact on others’ lives. Whether it’s through volunteering, supporting a small-business, or lending an ear to listen. Helping people is something I always have truly cherished. Family is incredibly important to me as well, and I love creating memories with them that I can hold onto forever as I know time in itself doesn’t always last. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a once a year holiday, I value every opportunity to connect and share genuine time with my loved ones. Traveling is another passion of mine, experiencing different cultures, exploring new places, and meeting people from all walks of life has opened my perspectives on so much and fueled my creativity in every way imaginable.
-What’s your personal motto?
A motto that i live by is “The best teacher in life is your own experience”
Photos credit: Jaime Vargas
