MIKE FRIOLO: THE MAN WHO SET THE BAR FOR PACQUIAO NIKE DESIGNS -- PART IV
By Oliver Iglesias
PhilBoxing.com
Sat, 12 Apr 2014
This is a four-part article/interview on Mike Friolo, the Nike designer of Pacquiao's Nike brand. Click here to read Part III.
Oliver: Were there any secret designs that you created and kept that were supposed to be used for the Pacquiao apparel and shoes? Could you share a design or two for the benefit of your fans and followers?
Mike: Oh, there are many designs but unfortunately, I'd rather not. I don't mean to be guarded about that, who wants to get taken? If fans want them, I pray that they will demand it from someone who can make it happen. I have lots of ideas to reenergize the Pacquiao Nike brand, but I'm not going to lose sleep over it. It has taken me a long time to struggle with not working on the project. Bottom line is, it was my passion project but I needed to check myself. If it comes back to me, it will. Until then, you'll just have to keep guessing and wonder how cool that would be.
Nonetheless, I am sharing a few old designs from my portfolio for you to enjoy. Of course, by comparing it with the designs as printed on your tees and shoes, you know which designs were eventually adopted by the Nike higher-ups. For example, on the Official Crest, Version 4 as illustrated was the approved blueprint.
Mike Friolo's studies Pacquiao's Nike crest.
Mike Friolo's studies on Pacquiao's Nike shorts.
Oliver: Any message for your fans who follow your work and also any advice to prospective graphic designers?
Mike: I'll say this, if you want Pacquiao gear to stay "true," demand it. One of Nike's ethos is "listen to the consumer." If you want the design, demand it as a consumer. After all, you are the one in control. Do not just settle for the hype.
I would greatly appreciate if you get on the forums, write reviews, or start a movement to campaign for something "AWESOME."
I would like to work on the gear one last time and do a ?collab? and let out so many ideas which were never realized, if Nike allows. If he wins convincingly against Tim Bradley this Saturday, I guess that would be the perfect time to start conceptualizing on his stuffs for his next fight. I'd like to finish and complete this opus. I'd like the opportunity to come correct and if Pacquiao doesn't have too many fights left, it would be nice to complete the circle, and give the fans something with true intention. That is, if the fans want that. Otherwise, it really was a pleasure and l look forward to what's next!
For new designers out there, my advice would be to "stay true to yourself, be consistent, create daily, never settle or rest, get involved and question everything." You are the visionary, show people what you see. As a designer, you have the rare opportunity to have different perspectives and to share a vision. As you stand on the precipice of everyone who came before you, challenge yourself on how you will leave your own mark!
Oliver: Thank you very much for your time, Mike. I know you?re busy but still had time for this one. I am sure all your followers will appreciate this Philboxing exclusive. I am thrilled to making this interview a reality. May God bless you and your loved ones!
Mike: Thank you all for this opportunity. Thank you Oliver! A BIG shout out to my family for all their support over the years.
* * *
Oliver Iglesias lives in Basking Ridge, New Jersey with his family and has been working at New York City?s garments industry since 2007. For comments, suggestions and violent reactions on his articles, you may contact him at oliiglesias@yahoo.com.
He is a former contributor to Digital Journal and you could view his previous articles on ?http://www.digitaljournal.com/user/182731/news
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Oliver Iglesias.
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