Last week – Jake from Made. This week – Matt from Clusta.

Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Matthew Clugston, I’m creative director and co-founder of Clusta. I oversee all the creative output from the studio as well as managing jobs. I also do a fair amount of post-production and motion graphics work.

What was your route into this job?

I’ve always been into computer generated imagery, I used to obsess about pixel pushing on DeluxePaint 2 many years ago. I had a keen interest in art and graphics and this lead me to a do a foundation at Bournville. I then went on to do a degree at UCE on a course called BA Negotiated studies. The course allowed you to essentially teach yourself. Myself and a few colleagues used this 3 year period to teach ourselves around 9 different software packages, everything from 3dsMax through to After Effects Flash, Photoshop etc.

What do you think of the West Midlands as a place to work?

We’re based down by the Custard Factory and there’s quite a nice buzz down here. It’s good because you’re more easily noticed, whereas in London the competition is very fierce – however this of course works both ways, it would be nice to see more agencies springing up in Birmingham.

What events might we catch you at?

I’m usually at the Hare and Hounds in Kings Heath. It’s on my door step, which is rather lucky as i’d consider it one of the best venues in town now, for both atmosphere and events. Aside from that I often go to The Rainbow, I’ve been a big fan of Below since it started doing events down there.

How do you keep up with what’s going on in your industry?

Just keep browsing really, the whole team are quite keen on keeping up with trends, and if there’s anything really interesting it gets sent round the whole team. Also, Martin updates our blog with some really nice things, so its easy just to pop on there and see what’s going on.

Which tools of the trade could you not do without?

The Adobe and Autodesk suites.

What have you got on the walls?

We don’t have a lot in the studio, although ive been eyeing up some James Jean prints that i’d really like to buy.

Who makes the tea?

Every man/woman for themselves

Have you got any tips for potential employees?

Just make sure your portfolio is shit-hot.

Lastly, who should we speak to next?

Neil at Tak is a good dude and they do some really nice work