Bon Iver collaborator Eric Timothy Carlson discusses the art of 22, A Million

The artwork and videos and general visual direction of Bon Iver's modern masterpiece 22, A Million is stunning - we have Eric Timothy Carlson to thank for that.

Speaking to Emmet Byrne for the Walker Art Center's blog, Carlson explains how the collaboration came about and how all the artwork came together.

"It’s been a long process," says Carlson. "Five years ago, I received a message from Justin that said 'I like what you’re doing, and I want you to know that.' A year or two later after actually meeting for the first time: 'Can we work on something together? You should come over and we’ll vibe.'"

"I worked closely with Justin. I worked at April Base - the recording studio - a couple times a year," continues Carlson. "Each time was a unique experience focused on that stage of the music. Usually with an intimate group of two or three guests (musicians, writers, chillers, curators) and the studio crew, for a week or so at a time, to make a unique creative space, where each of us would be a part of defining that period of creation. The whole Bon project is for the most part entirely driven in house. Each visit would be a new experiment - creating temporary installations and interventions, painting murals, sharing books and inspiration, playing music. We came to listen and work and get to know one another, to get a feel for how to work and talk and think together. Not overthink anything. Developing the conversation, making art, and sharing our scope of vision and capabilities."

Carlson also discusses the importance of symbols and symbolism, his thoughts on Bon Iver's music, the lyric videos, the "digital milieu", and much more. It's a fascinating chat.