Adam Ferrier, Brent Smart Interview Artist Chris Yee in Special Black T-Shirts Podcast

Following a sold-out live session at SXSW Sydney as part of MIK Studio’s acclaimed 'Show Notes' series, the Black T-Shirts podcast has released a special episode featuring renowned Sydney artist Chris Yee, presented in partnership with Adobe.

Recorded in front of a packed house, the conversation dove deep into the evolving creative landscape — from how upbringing and cultural identity shape artistic expression, to the rise of AI and what authenticity means in a world of infinite tools and infinite possibilities.

In this special edition, hosts Adam Ferrier and Brent Smart sit down with Chris Yee to explore the intersection of technology, culture, and creativity. They unpack how the neighbourhoods we grow up in leave a lasting imprint on our work, the tension between traditional craft and emerging tools, and why authenticity matters more than ever as artists and brands navigate generative AI.

The episode captures the same energy that made the SXSW Sydney event one of the most in-demand sessions of the festival, offering listeners rare insight into an artist who embodies the future of Australian storytelling.

Chris is a Sydney-based illustrator, animator, and designer celebrated for his bold pen-and-ink style and his ability to blend Asian-Australian identity with pop culture, subculture, and street-influenced aesthetics.

His commercial work spans Apple, Sony, Vans, Universal Music, VIVID Sydney, and Marvel, and he has exhibited internationally with permanent public artworks installed across Sydney. Known for bridging hand-drawn tradition with digital experimentation, Chris is fast becoming one of Australia’s essential creative voices.

Adam is one of Australia’s leading creative strategists — a behavioural psychologist turned award-winning ad creative and founder of Thinkerbell. A respected commentator and author, he brings a sharp, behaviour-driven perspective to creativity, branding, and cultural influence. His ability to frame creative work through psychology and impact makes him a unique voice in the marketing landscape.

Brent is recognised globally as a champion of bold, brand-building creativity. After leading agencies including Saatchi & Saatchi New York, he now drives Telstra’s marketing vision as its chief marketing officer. Brent is known for pushing businesses to embrace risk, cultural relevance, and long-term brand differentiation — a philosophy that underpins the Black T-Shirts ethos.

The conversation originated from MIK Studio’s 'Show Notes' series at SXSW Sydney — a four-day program of live panels spotlighting the Australian podcasting and creative industries. Curated and produced by MIK Studio, 'Show Notes' was one of the festival’s most talked-about additions, bringing together creators, marketers, and storytellers to explore the future of audio and culture.