We had the good fortune of connecting with Hector Gotay and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hector, what are you inspired by?
I can truly say that I take inspiration from everything around me. I like to find ways to take something that is unorthodox and incorporate that into my designs. For example, on my portfolio you’ll see a section called “sneaker redesigns”. There I have taken a favorite color way of mine from a shoe I like and redesigned an application with that color palette. As designers we are problem solvers, so to take inspiration from one source would be near impossible!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I do not come from an art background. My professional and educational background is in Information Technology. I realized while in my studies that I want to work in a creative field. From IT I found UI/UX Design which allows creativity and problem solving in the world of tech. I decided to peruse that and created a portfolio (hectorgotay.com). I have aspirations and I’m currently working on starting my own digital design studio of sorts. I also have aspirations to get into the world of fashion. Fashion is so big in my life and I can’t imagine not taking a chance and making some products. All of this will be under my brand name Yatog.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Here in Miami we have a ton of places to go. During the day I’d say we have to hit Wynwood. Take in some art and culture, have lunch at one of the little hidden gems in that city. Once night time hits, for sure have to do dinner at Komodo in Brickell. For bars and hang out spots, I love any type of outdoor bar like The Wharf or Sugar.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Someone who inspired me to venture into the world of product design is founder and CEO of Kith, Ronnie Fieg. His love for product and creating an experience for his customers stuck out to me when I discovered his brand years ago. It made me realize that there is a world out there to create products and experiences that transcend time and make people feel something.

Website: hectorgotay.com

Instagram: @hectorgotay

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/hectorgotay

Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/golfer5786

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