REILLY — Soul Safari

"If you had told me three years ago that something I loved doing so much would reach out to so many and would end up becoming a large part of my job... well, I’m not sure what I would have said."

To assign a title to Reilly’s creative and professional pursuits would be as futile as defining his unique brand of art. Since graduating from the Royal College of Art, Scottish born Reilly has forged an entirely original and unpredictable path that spans graphic and new media art, menswear design and social media. His aptitude for traversing the commercial and art worlds has seen him featured on campaigns for brands as varied as Chloé, Microsoft, Lamborghini and Kylie Minogue.

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What was the pivot point that set you on your current path?

An obsession with creating imagery for my Instagram over the past few years has led me to where I am now. I have always worked within the creative industry - in fashion, art direction or illustration - but my fascination with Instagram has taken my work in a totally different direction. I'm now working on social media campaigns for brands such as Gucci, Paul Smith, with a few more in the pipeline. If you had told me three years ago that something I loved doing so much would reach out to so many and would end up becoming a large part of my job…..well, I’m not sure what I would have said.

Photo: My creative schizophrenia (as someone described me)

What’s the one piece of advice you’d give someone who’s going through their own transformation?

Do what you're obsessed with and love every minute of it!

Photo: My ongoing projects

Are you following the path of a trailblazer or being guided by a mentor?

I'm not sure. I think I'm creating my own path, if you could call it that. There seem to be a few detours leading off at the moment, which I'm intrigued to take and happy see where I end up. Currently, I'm collaborating on a project with hairdresser Guido Palau and Art + Commerce, which is pretty exciting and a fantastic opportunity to work with such creative talent.

Photo: Glencoe Scotland

Where in the world would you describe as the place that speaks to you - your soul place?

It has to be my homeland of Scotland, especially the Highlands. I go back every year to holiday, spending my time walking and hiking the Munros mainly on my own. There's nothing more magnificent than reaching the summit from a 3000ft climb, stopping to take it all in and even letting out one mighty scream. I also have a strong affinity with Italy and try to get there at least once a year. It never ceases to amaze and impress me. My dream place is a sweet, cool break in San Francisco - that would do the trick right now!

Photo: Sunday Times Style Magazine commission

If you could do anything, what in the world would you want to do next?

Anything? I would love to take a dive in the Triton submersible around the Great Barrier Reef! On a work vibe, creating some kick ass film credits has always been a bit of dream. Also, a solo show in America would be a touch, and to quell my fascination with perfume, create and design my own scent.

Photo: A place I love - Eltham Palace - London UK

All images used with permission from Reilly.