THE CREATIVE CORNER: MAURIX

For Maurix, design isn't just a job: it's a way of seeing and living in the world. Every color, shape, and space speaks to him, and his creativity doesn't stay on screen: his skin is also a canvas, full of stories, influences, and experimentation. From his studio Treehauss in Madrid, he has left his mark on projects that combine identity, authenticity, and a global outlook, such as the rebranding he led for Jimmy Lion in 2023.

In this edition of The Creative Corner, we chat with him about the cities that inspire him, the value of creative processes, and how passion becomes a legacy, even within family life.

Your style is very personal and authentic. Where does that inspiration come from? What are you most passionate about in design?

I'm self-taught.

My passion for design was born out of punk, fanzines, posters, and all that graphic imagery. DIY was my starting point. I've always been fascinated by traditional American design, the way they nurture branding, and the strength of their messaging. I try to convey that energy in everything I do.

I'm very meticulous with processes and details, even if the end result seems simple or aims for that feel. I'm 100% Capricorn.

I used to be obsessed with the impact of the end result. Now I enjoy the process more: the research, colors, mood boards, finding meaning in what you do. When there's consistency and study behind it, it shows. We live surrounded by stimuli: every day you might see a thousand designs you like, but you'll only remember two or three. That's the challenge. Finding your own voice.

Design isn't just in your work: it's also on your skin. Tell us about your tattoos and how they connect to your creativity.

It all goes hand in hand. That youthful passion led to a lifestyle that is still with me today. I could talk for days about my tattoos (especially the worst ones) — there's everything: great pieces and total disasters. But they represent me.

What I have most of is traditional tattoo. I have my entire front, back, and pieces on my arms and legs tattooed by Bara, who is a global benchmark. I also have pieces by Dientes de Vampiro, Fvego, Rodrigo DC, Mario Prado, Juan Jiménez, and many more.

Almost all of them are by people close to me, which makes them even more personal. For me, every tattoo holds the same value as a design: an aesthetic choice that speaks to who you are, a moment in time, or an idea you wanted to leave stamped on your skin. In the end, it's just another way to compose, except the canvas is different and ages worse, hehehe.

How did your relationship with art begin and where is it taking you now?

I studied Audiovisual Communication, focusing on video and motion graphics, but I was already deeply plugged into the underground scene. My thesis was on graphic deconstructivism and David Carson (the visionary graphic designer who has worked with Nike, Pepsi, Ray-Ban, and many more). It was a turning point. I thought: I want to do this. His covers for Raygun or Transworld Skateboarding were pure power.

Over the years, I've learned to simplify, to value order and clarity. I strive to give every project its own identity and rhythm. Although I have a clear workflow, every client is different.

I'm very outgoing, and I believe building a personal relationship with the client changes everything. I don't see myself as an agency; I like keeping that direct connection. Often, a good chat gives you far more insight than a briefing.

Right now I'm developing the identity and packaging for a premium cannery — a large, diverse project that's pushing me to explore new creative territory.

Speaking of creative processes, what was yours like for the Jimmy Lion rebranding?

My relationship with the brand goes way back. First as a customer, during their earliest, most colorful days. Then Felipe and Álvaro (the founders) asked me to design special packaging that accompanied the product for years. We clicked immediately, and some time later they reached out for the rebranding. I admit it was nerve-wracking at first: they'd had their lion for many years, and touching it was a risk. The goal was to mature the brand without losing its essence.

We streamlined the logo to make it more versatile and easier to integrate across all platforms. The result has more power and presence. I genuinely believe it was a success.

Now that you're a father, how do you share that creative world with your son?

The real artist at home is my wife: illustrator, designer, and writer. There are a thousand materials at home for painting and sculpting, though sometimes you never know what will click.

One day while cleaning, something stained our son… and it ended up turning into an amazing tie-dye on my Jimmy Lion Athletic Essentials. We've laughed about it ever since.

He enjoys painting and is starting to take an interest in color, but we don't want to force it. Music is our great bond: we dance, sing, and discover things together.

Madrid has changed a lot over recent years. How have you experienced that evolution?

Madrid has changed, but so have we. The city in 2025 isn't the same as in 1999 when I arrived, and that's just fine.

Today there's more energy, more culture, more movement. Galleries, exhibitions, projects… The city is alive.

I don't know if I've evolved for better or worse, but I've grown up the way life unfolded. I'm fortunate to be surrounded by artists and creatives, which keeps you sharp. The years fly by, but I'm not complaining.

Speaking of "your Madrid": what are your favorite spots to…?

  • grab an aperitif

Beer Garden in Chamberí, El Gato in Malasaña, Hola Coffee in Lavapiés or Lagasca, Las Nieves, and Trafalgar.

  • discover art or catch an exhibition

The now-defunct Watdafac Gallery, Elba Benítez, La Casa Encendida, Swinton, Matadero, or Colección SOLO are frequent stops. But above all… the streets.

  • find peace and quiet

At my place, always!

  • eat great food

I'm vegetarian and ZERO of a foodie, but I love Invernadero, Barganzo, Numa, Vega, Noi, Parking Pizza, and the vegetable rice at Espiedo.

  • get tattooed

Birdcave Tattoo, True Love Tattoo, Trinidad in Pontevedra, and looking forward to trying Gony Zubizarreta's studio.

Which Jimmy Lion designs fit you best?

The Athletic Essentials, without a doubt. For their composition, shape, and colors. This confirms I'm officially getting old and boring.

And to wrap up: describe Jimmy Lion in three words.

Quality, Trend, and Solid.

Thanks socks much for reading!

Athletic Essentials Collection

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