In their own words
There is no right way, just the creative way.
Design isn’t really just about producing output.
The best design is experienced, not just seen.
Every time we posted a podcast, we'd come up with some new and unique way to visually promote it through graphic and motion design.
We try not to think about ourselves as a service; we are a product that people pay for, and I think that perspective makes us really unique.
To only commit to client work, to playing it safe, and sticking with what we know works, is like trying to drive while only looking in the rearview mirror.
Articles & interviews
- There is no right way, just the creative way: Alex Tan on Mouthwash Studio’s multi-media projects
At Nicer Tuesdays LA, Mouthwash Studio co-founder Alex Tan discussed the studio’s approach to creative strategy and its work across multiple media, from visual identities to hospitality ventures. The talk emphasized flexibility and experimentation in creative processes, showing how teams can thrive without adhering to a single 'right way' of working.
- "Get Tickets for LA's First Nicer Tuesdays Event: Creative Talks & Inspiration"
It’s Nice That announces the first-ever Nicer Tuesdays event in Los Angeles, featuring talks from Mouthwash Studio, Clay Hickson, James Junk, and Thalía Gochez. The event will explore creative processes across design, illustration, and photography, with Dropbox as the event partner. Hosted by Elizabeth Goodspeed, the evening aims to inspire the LA creative community through candid discussions and showcases of artistic practice.
- Mouthwash Studio Talks Design Philosophy at POV Budapest
The Brand Identity interviews Alex Tan, Co-founder and Creative Strategy Director of Mouthwash Studio, ahead of their talk at POV Budapest 2025. Tan discusses the studio’s evolution from a creative experiment to a globally recognized design practice, emphasizing their philosophy of 'sensemaking' and operating as a 'product' rather than a service. The conversation explores their holistic approach, research culture, and the experiential project Café Tondo.
- "MOUTHWASH Studio Revolutionizes LA's Creative Scene"
Creative Boom profiles Los Angeles-based MOUTHWASH Studio as it celebrates its fifth anniversary. Founded by Alex Tan, Mackenzie Tan, Abraham Campillo, and Ben Mingo, the studio evolved from a magazine and podcast into a full-service design practice known for its holistic, strategy-led approach. The article explores their growth, culture, and notable projects for clients like Air Company and Thom Browne.
- Hotlist 2025: 25 Most Popular Design Studios Voted by Peers
Creative Boom’s 'Hotlist 2025' highlights 25 of the most admired design studios worldwide, as voted by industry peers. The article celebrates leading agencies such as Pentagram, PORTO ROCHA, Ragged Edge, and &Walsh for their innovative branding and design work across sectors from tech to fashion. It aims to inspire creatives by showcasing studios that are shaping contemporary design culture.
- “It helps us stay sharp.” Mouthwash Studio’s Research Center gives R&D the attention it deserves
The Brand Identity interviews Mouthwash Studio about the launch of their new R&D vertical, the Mouthwash Research Center. The initiative provides a dedicated space for experimentation, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and creative exploration beyond client work. The team discusses how the Research Center has influenced their approach to motion design, collaboration, and innovation across the studio.
- Mouthwash on how they balance client work with their podcast, magazine, journal and apparel
The Brand Identity interviews Los Angeles-based studio Mouthwash about balancing their client work with their self-initiated projects, including a podcast, magazine, journal, and apparel line. Co-founders Abraham Campillo, Mackenzie Freemire, and Alex Tan discuss their collaborative ethos, notable projects for Waka Waka and filmmaker Salomon Ligthelm, and their focus on timeless, narrative-driven design. The team also reflects on sustainability, creative freedom, and maintaining momentum as a young studio.