After 11 years (co-)running branding and design agency Fivefootsix, Algy started a side project (Art of Ping Pong) that would become so much more than a side project.

With a simple mission to make art more playful, AOPP specialises in fusing art with functional design to create unique and innovative objects that spark a connection with others through conversation and play.

Algy has collaborated with so many brands and people, the list is too long to write here: Nike, Mira Mikati, The Conran Shop, Pucci, Yayoi Kusama, Javier Calleja, Mr Doodle, Kelly Anna, André Saraiva, Malika Favre, …

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In our conversation, Algy shares his journey from graphic design to founding Art of Ping Pong, exploring the challenges of turning a passion into a business, the balance between creative work and client relationships, and the importance of vulnerability in the creative process.

We discuss our experience with running communities, the evolution of social media's impact on hobbies and the importance of collaboration in art and charity initiatives. We also touched on some of the apparent absurdity of modern entertainment, such as watching others engage in hobbies and the significance of maintaining a balance between commercial needs and charitable efforts.

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We’ve known Algy since the early days of Run Dem Crew and it was a pleasure to talk with him here on Unorthodox Blend about creativity, collaboration and all sorts of other stuff. Algy is always willing to offer upbeat, open, intelligent conversation about creativity, the design industry and life in general.

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