Capturing Migration Patterns

migration_captured

Walking along the Hudson last weekend, something seemed off. The birds weren’t the typical bunch. My husband, who’s somewhat of an aviary guy, started to stare in fascination- he was certain these weren’t ‘New York’ birds. As we stared at the ever-growing flock in Battery Park City, we realized that these circlers were in migration. They were making a weekend pit-stop (insert amusing NYC joke here), much like my McDonald coffee breaks along I95. Coincidentally (or perhaps not), the next day I stumbled across this fantastic mural by Kai and Sunny, measuring 20 x 26ft, entitled Migration East. It’s lively and energetic, much like the real thing.

April 18, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Textiles: Hand Carved Block Prints

1johnrobshaw_blockprints 2johnrobshaw_blockprints

There’s an element of luxury and simple surprise when it comes to block printing. It’s the furthest thing from digital enhancement and reminds us of the human hand. John Robshaw’s a master and is forever experimenting with patterns, colorways and cloth. Here’s his latest set.

April 12, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Around the Globe: Milan Design Week

milandesignweek

Instagram continues to invite us to the party. Today we’re delving into Milan Design Week. Since I’m here in Rhode Island making logos and doing crossword puzzles with my grandmother and not eating pizza and drinking wine by iSaloni 2013, I’m observing from afar. Here are a few favorites:

1. Coolhunting: Zigzagging installation by Karnovsky @Missoni
2. Giuliettioto: Spaazio Orlandi… #fuorisalone #salonedelmobile
3. Memozam: Nendo design collection #fuorisalone #salone2013
4. Leilapalermo: Fashionable #wallpaper #design #milandesignweek #fuorisalone
5. Fedelehome: Loving it #design #isaloni2013
6. Timewaster: #gardenhose #spaziorossanaoriandi #milano
7. Missalexandrageorgescu: Laser cut veneer carpet

April 12, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Giving: a Cloud Mobile

baby_mobile

Who remembers the cloud trend from 2009? Everything was round and plump with rain in the forecast. This mobile from Lucky Wang is reminiscent of this theme and a lovely gift for a newborn. If you’re feeling crafty, it’s also easy enough to make. Which face is your favorite?

April 1, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Screen Grabs & Glitch Blankets

1glitch_blankets 2glitch_blankets_Phillip Stearns

Every time my screen freezes, I wish I were faster to capture it. The patterns are so unexpected and beautifully frustrating. As brands have woven the concept of technology into their products, the transition’s been interesting to observe. From McQ’s and Mr. Hare’s paralyzing ads last year to Phillip Stearns’ more recent glitch blankets, the concept celebrates our utter lack of control- and a visual acceptance of the future.

March 26, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Budget Buy: Handmade Porcelain

1sprout_studio_ceramics 2sprout_studio_ceramics

Have you heard of Sprout Studio? They sell lovely one-of-a-kind, fire-glazed porcelain. The illustrated textures are a beautiful compliment to minimalist looks, revealing traces of human touch. The raw edges and pressed fingerprints remind us of the artist’s process – a true contrast from mass market sameness.

March 15, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik