Patternizing Maps

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Oftentimes I am hired to beautify info graphics. For any designer tasked with such an assignment, there is always an underlying urge to challenge the guidelines with as much flair as possible. Striking the perfect balance between translatable content that evokes human nostalgia is every designer’s goal- or at least mine. Here are a few creative approaches to this idea. Vitra recently redesigned their website, filling their homepage with fabric samples sectioning off continents within the world. A valid attempt to display product and distribution, though I wonder if there is any underlying symbolism in the placement of patterns- at first glance the assortment is a bit jumbled. Duck Down Designs takes a more DIY approach to map-making with illustrated paper cut-outs on a metaphorically inspirational treasure map.

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February 3, 2009 | By: Shayna Kulik

Street: Observing Origami

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Delicate sophistication is synonymous with origami. Though simplistic, there’s a beautiful complexity to every folded 3D figurine. As of late, creative pop culture has embraced this ancient art with a modern tune. Using color, form, figurative interpretation, and various materials, designers throughout the fashion, media, and home industries have embraced this budding trend, making unique, yet paralleling commercial interpretations.

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See above for various examples: The Unrising Intl’s Keane poster with graphic animal forms, A futuristic dress, worn by pop vocalist Lady Gaga, homeware ceramic plates, sold at Lancelotti’s in the East Village of Manhattan and delicate metallic pendents by Origami Bijiou.

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A more functional and figurative take can be found by the Italian design team at Lago Casa with these tanagram bookshelfs. Movement is balanced by stillness in this beautifully playful design. In the more abstract realm, folding vivid graphics are illustrated quite literally on this 2006 coverart for The Rapture’s album, Pieces of the People We Love.

February 2, 2009 | By: Shayna Kulik

Artist Profile: Alan the Gallant

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I’ve often described the NY Times Sunday Magazine to be my weekend dessert. Interesting treasures can always be found within the wide glossy walls of this publication. In mid September, a profoundly talented design team from Barcelona was profiled, collectively called Alan the Gallant. Alex Bedoya and Ana Montiel are the masterminds behind this design studio and are constantly applying patterns to modern day living. From wallpaper to t-shirts to refrigerator door coverings, this team is continually discovering new surfaces to beautify with their illustrations and graphics.

January 27, 2009 | By: Shayna Kulik

Home: Insect Kingdoms in Paris

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If you pay attention, you’ll almost always notice art imitating life and vice versa. I find this most exciting when unexpected trends weave their way through a city I am unaccustomed to. This was the case on a recent trip to Paris. While exploring the Marais, I stumbled across the most beautiful collection of hand painted silk pillows. The beetle toss was a high-end approach to playful décor. This beetle theme consistently reappeared in various stores – most interestingly as a woven monogram at Printemps. Later on in the day, on a more guided stroll through the Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle, I stumbled upon a beautiful collection of preserved butterflies. The color, composition and collection were impeccable. A commercial version of this natural wonder is translated well as individually printed insect candles from Elizabeth’s Embellishments.

January 26, 2009 | By: Shayna Kulik

Fashion: Neckwear Gets Nifty with Sovereign Beck

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A common complaint from many of my male friends has always revolved around formal dressing. What’s the most creative and subtle way to stand out from the mass of suits without standing out too much? Well the designers at Sovereign Beck have crafted a quick and beautiful fix for this annoying dilemma. Using both a creative and conservative eye, Ryan Sovereign and William Beck have fashioned a line of ties that are both classic and cutting edge. Influenced by music and the never ending abstract subtleties of life, this duo have collaborated to produce a beautiful line of neck wear in a much lacking area of fashion.

January 23, 2009 | By: Shayna Kulik

Music: A Look at Santogold's Closet

Every once in a while, an artist comes along with so much charisma and personal style, that they don’t need a stylist or any professional help getting dressed, or showcasing their creative opinion. Santi White does this quite well- across multiple platforms. Her personal style and alternative attitude is showcased in Lights Out, her lastest singles release from Downtown Records. Below you’ll find a few other examples of Santogold’s personal style- a fresh approach to 80’s fashion, with unpredictable pop.

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