Well, I've made it to post number 60. It seems like a nice round number, perfect for reflecting on the whole of the semester. This semester was good. Met some new people, got taught by some new instructors, took some new classes. I think I finally understand the pace that this program runs at now. Took me a year to get it, but I think I at least understand it now. It'll be tricky to change my habits, but I'll adapt. I think I'm still learning about what makes design compared to other aspects that work with it such as illustration and the like. I guess that'll come with time though.
I liked the fact that this year had a different feel from all my past years in school. Something about knowing that this will end up being a career really settled in. Hopefully, keeping that in mind, I'll try to push my design more and figure out what works for me.
Signing off for summer days....
Friday, April 30, 2010
Skull-A-Day
Based on the conversation from earlier today, I had to post a link to this blog. People may have already posted a lot of stuff from here, but I guess it's an interesting concept. Similar to the ring concept from my previous post, this is taking the archetype of a skull and finding different ways of creating design (amongst other things) with it in mind. Personally, I like the piece above. It has high contrast and a bit of thought behind it. Otherwise, there aren't too many design pieces on the website. Interesting to take a little look at though.
http://skulladay.blogspot.com/
Natural Electronics
Here's another example of taking an unexpected material and making it part of design. Andrew Ross has made design pieces out of wasted cow bones. It's an interesting idea to make electronics out of a natural substance. It's quirky and chic.
http://www.dezeen.com/2008/07/14/the-bone-project-by-andrew-ross/
Paper Lamp
With everyone wanting to be 'green' and environmentally friendly, designer David Gardener has taken it to a place that I know a lot of other people are, making the product part of the packaging. He's created a lamp that is packaged in paper pulp. The packaging also holds the paper pulp shade made for the lamp. Rather than throwing the whole paper part out, a good part of it is reused. I think that this is where design is heading towards. Eventually, if people are not expecting this from their products, it will become necessary regardless. I think it's a challenge most designers are willing to take on.
http://www.dezeen.com/2008/08/14/packaging-lamp-by-david-gardener/
Book Vases
The idea of taking a material that's unexpected and transforming it is really intriguing. Designer Laura Cahill has done just that with her vases and furniture made out of used books. Although the designs for her furniture are nice, it's the medium that really makes them stand out. I'd love to do something like this again. Last year, I had an assignment where we had an archetype (mine was a ring) and we had to create three pieces of work a week out of different materials based on the archetype. I found it really opened me to looking at all materials differently. For example, laminate floor padding is a really cool material to design with. Regardless, I got what I think I needed to out of the project, the idea that anything could be used to design with. So, now I don't count anything out. People still surprise me; always interesting to see how designers are able to look at things in a different light.
http://www.dezeen.com/2008/09/05/book-vases-by-laura-cahill/
Wet Paint
I thought this ad really stood out. It's an exciting idea, having things on a large scale like that. It made me think of how work must be planned depending on size. There's no way that this ad would've been as effective if it was smaller. Or maybe it would've been. It's hard to say. Just looking at it you know that it took much planning to make it work. It also makes you think of the possibilities of how big your work could really be (figuratively speaking).
P.S. I also really like the fact that the ad for the paint and the insurance company play off one another. They make for an interesting combo.
http://designyoutrust.com/2010/04/04/50-extremely-clever-ads-from-around-the-world/
No Clownin' Around
The structure of this ad is interesting. It's really easy for me to see the grid in it now. There are a bunch of different typefaces in there too, yet all of them manage to work together. Maybe it's a little less cohesive that it could be because of them all, but somehow it still works out. The colours in this ad are great though, the bright hues contrasting with the white all throughout the piece. Putting all design elements aside, this ad is freaky. From the overexcited clown to the fact that Mr. Kool Aid looks like he's melting, I can't imagine how many dreams this ad must have haunted.http://www.retroist.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/kool-aid-klown.jpg
Limited Edition Chair
The way that the type is able to be created out of wood in this piece is really cool. The type itself is really interesting in the way it's able to connect all throughout the piece. I think the piece might also be able to actually be used as a chair. Function and fashion, what a great combination.
Stamps by Feel
I like the fact that these stamps are made for people who are blind and also those that can see. The design has the same idea running for both concepts so they feel as if they're on a level playing field. Either the braille or the letterforms do not overpower one another, instead they work together seamlessly. I also like the use of a bold letterform for a small stamp and the fact that everything's centred really making it the main focus. Seems like a unique solution all around.http://www.dezeen.com/2009/11/03/lees-mee-braille-stamps-by-rene%CC%81-put/
Inside Sketches
I always think it's interesting to look at people's sketchbooks. It's as if a person is more themselves in one than in their work sometimes. After all, work is edited many times for the right purpose. A sketchbook is just working how to combine yourself with what the client needs. I found a designer named Dave (that's the only name he gives) and his sketchbook seems really interesting. They're just little drawings and thoughts but they give an idea of where he's coming from and how he sees his work within his designs. He's more of an illustrator so it's not so much about layout but his illustrations have a real graphic feel. Plus, they're really intriguing. And truly random. I guess that's a part of his character.http://www.flickr.com/photos/blackandwhiteanimals/sets/72157604641137126/
Zany Zoo Flavour
I liked the design on this packet. The colours work really well together, giving the feeling of raspberry while still being fun. I also really liked the mix of typefaces, each random yet complementing each other. The illustration's also a lot of fun; I like how it looks like it's made from cut pieces. Kinda Saul Bass-esque. Then again, I probably don't know as much about Saul Bass as I probably should, so I can only go on what I know of his work. Would be interesting if he created a design for a kids drink packet...
http://ionoi.blogs.sonance.net/category/graphische/characterdesign/page/2/
Mean Streets
I found this poster re-designed for the movie Mean Streets (I'm not sure who has designed it unfortunately). I think it really represents the idea of the movie (the little I know of it anyways; mainly the title) and has a different take than the original poster. While the original poster focused on the cityscape, this more modern poster takes it a step further by including a map. I like the composition in the original poster as it's not all centered, giving a little variety. Despite one poster being from the 1970's, both posters seem very current. Funny how things seem to come around like that.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
That Chair
Now, I've been looking for random stuff to talk about in this blog and on pretty much every one I go on there's this chair. Now, the chair is cool and does provide some interesting design details but I don't get why everyone's talking about it. I guess the idea is kind of funky, covering a seemingly average chair in red pinked felt but otherwise it seems pretty lack-luster. Then again, maybe that's the point to this chair, the fact that it doesn't have a crazy concept to it or that it follows a certain style. Maybe it is just about being fun. I guess I can appreciate that (despite what others may say about my choices sometimes. I can be a practical person sometimes...) Regardless, it's a fun chair.
http://www.dezeen.com/2010/04/23/fury-by-roel-jan-elsinga/
Artsy Cards
I know there are a lot of decks of cards involving artwork from illustrators and designers. This pack from "The Black Rock Collective" especially stands out. I like the fact that every card is unique and reflects the artist's personal style. The subtle details of the designs posted are also really interesting. I wish I could see more of them.http://moadesign.net/illustration/black-rock-collective/black-rock-collective-cards
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
"Joy of Text"
Designer David Hyde has set out a plan. A celebration, if you will. He has decided to discuss "52 fonts you could use instead of Helvetica"; 2 fonts, every 2 weeks. He completed his plan and now has a list from A to Z of typefaces that he thinks have merit and that have been overshadowed by Helvetica. For example, his first entry was talking about the typefaces Albertus and Avenir. He says that Albertus was more popular during the 1970's but isn't used as often now. He also says that Avenir, based on the typeface Futura is seen mostly everywhere these days. He even uses it in his own blog heading. Personally, I like Avenir. But it's really similar to Futura, so it makes sense that I would. I should probably start looking into using a few more fonts he's got listed here. Maybe they'll make my work more exciting.
http://www.davidthedesigner.com/davidthedesigner/2007/11/the-first-two-f.html
http://www.davidthedesigner.com/davidthedesigner/2007/11/the-first-two-f.html
Billboard Bag
p.s. They also make a leather version of the bag; it's shown above.
Wow.
When I was a kid, all I used to use was pencil crayon. Then, I grew up and still used a lot of pencil crayon. So when I saw this, I just stopped.
500 of them. I'll be honest, I don't know what you could possibly need all those colours for but still. Even the way they're arranged works well. A large gradient running through line after line...
My next thought is "Who got the job of naming them all?"
Raw
The package design for Bee Raw Honey seems to have something that I like about it. It could be the thinner clear jars or the minimal type. I think I like the fact that the honey is allowed to pretty much speak for itself. Truly seems like simple yet effective design.
A Wedding Story
I remember seeing this invitation at the TDC Show last semester and absolutely loved it. The typefaces used are all very different but seem to work well together. The variety of typefaces really provides visual contrast and excitement as you're going through the piece. I find it's kind of like when you tell a story, you don't use the same tone of voice for every part that you tell. Using the different typefaces is almost like a change in tone.
I also really enjoy the fact that it's not a traditional invitation and that it allows you to connect with the couple despite if you know them well or not. I wish Jill and Matthew a good wedding and I'm not even invited! I guess the fact of getting to hear their story it keeps you and makes you want to continue through the whole of the piece. That's one thing I haven't designed yet; a wedding invitation. This one makes me want to try for the fun of it though. Doesn't make me want to get married, but does make me think of trying a new way to design.
P.S. It's too bad I can't remember who designed this invitation. Well, credits and kudos to whomever it's from.
Life as Grids
Although this concept is not directly related to design, it points out the interesting ways grids could have an effect over the way we see our lives. I found this concept in an article by Derek Lin. It says to see the grid above as each little box being a day and each full grid being a year. Then he says for you to look at the fact that maybe you may only have 4 or 5 grids left in your lifetime.
Although the concept may be a bit morbid, it does put things slightly in perspective. I think it's funny about the fact that one's life could come down to grids considering how important they seem to be to design work. I guess design seems to find its way into every part of life in one way or another.
Design History 101
I found a valuable resource for information about the history of graphic design. It's a site put together by Nancy Stock-Allen that outlines her lectures for a history class that she teaches. It is very well laid out and easy to follow. All the information is clear and concise, providing a resource whether it is need for a large project or just general knowledge. I also really like the fact that the information comes together with a lot of images, giving a visual reference as well as a written one. Too bad I've found this so late in the year. It's still a good thing to know about though for next year (or for whenever I'll need it next)!
Glennz's Pop Culture
I've seen designer Glenn Jones' work here and there on the internet. Usually his pieces have to do with a funny social commentary. This, paired with the bright colours he uses really makes his work stand out. Most of his compositions involve a central image with a good amount of negative space around them. This is so your eye focuses on the one image but doesn't get crowded in the space. I like his use of outlines as well, making the images pop out even more. In getting viewers to think about aspects of media and pop culture in a different way, it makes an impression that stays with them.
Pencil Cards
Speaking of business cards from my last post, I've also come across two smart uses for pencils as business cards. One involves the pencils having one end be the shape of drumsticks (for a drum instructor) and the other has a large eraser (meant for a proofreader). I thought both designs were witty and unique in their own right.
Love Will Tear Us Apart
I've known about this business card design for a while. Usually it will appear on a 'best business cards' list simply because of it classy design and smart idea. I quite like this card, especially the fact that it uses a traditional and understated font combined with an unique concept. Centre alignment is key on this card as both parties will split the card down the middle. It was wise to keep the contact info align left at the bottom though, centring that type would've been too much. All in all, a very useful card for all parties involved. Swissin' It
Stuck for time? Want a clean, modern look? Well, look no further than Dirk+Weiss's anyonecanswiss.com. 'anyone can swiss' is site that will automatically make posters set in Helvetica for you. Using 'Swissification', their patented poster making technology, they are able to anyones' message from bland and boring to smart and sophisticated. This way anyone is able to achieve that truly Swiss look.
I think this site's hilarious, if not for the concept then for the written content inside. I especially like their explanation of their "patented Swissification process".
Procrast...
I think that this film (also by Johnny Kelly) has somewhat summed up my life for the past semester. Half way there and half way to go!Seeds in Motion
Just saw the craziest little video. It is called 'The Seed' created by Johnny Kelly. Some say that it is an example of 'motion graphic design'. I didn't know there was a difference between motion graphic design and animation. Well, I didn't know there was a thing such as 'motion graphic design' in the first place. Now looking at the video and comparing it to others I've seen, it makes sense. This animation is almost like an animated infographic except it seems to tell more of a story than plain facts.
I can't imagine how long this must have taken to put together. The papercrafting alone must have taken forever to make. I really like the way the paper is able to create solid 2D shapes as well as moving 3D structures. Overall, the video makes for a very charming watch.
Movable Type
For Type class, we had to create images out of letterforms for a type children's book. Although I've seen some pretty awesome designs from my classmates, designer Katerina Orlikova has taken this concept one step further. She has made skeletons of animals out of type and then has animated them running. At first it doesn't seem that it could be type, but on further investigation, it becomes evident. With exclamation points for limbs and brackets for ribs, it makes you wonder about the detail that has gone into making this small reel. She also has many other interesting projects including a set of kaleidoscopes that use different styles of type inside as well as a Kama Sutra that uses only numbers forms to convey its visual messages. She has certainly helped me look at the different possibilities that exist for type in design.
Around the World
To tell you the truth, if there's one thing I like more than gig posters, it's travel posters. I know they're mainly ads to get you to want to go to the idea of a place but I still think they have strong merit. I especially like those in a Art Deco style, mainly because everything always seems like it's modern and in movement using soft gradients and hard lines. The use of simple shapes also adds to the overall cleanliness of the design. For example, in this poster created to advertise San Sebastian in Spain, it's easy to see the use of angles in the sails to help create movement as well as the lines in the waves. Most of the shapes are simplified as well and use a limited colour palate. Just makes you feel like San Sebastian is a chic place to be. I've been lucky enough to travel a bit already but I can't wait until I'm able to go off again. Maybe I'll look into San Sebastian...
One A Day
Here's a neat idea from designer Brock Davis. Every day of the year create something cool. It sounds like a simple idea, but I'm sure it was much more complicated than it seems. I know that it would've been tricky for me to pull off but it seems like an exciting challenge. It doesn't seem to be a 'practice makes perfect' kinda deal, more of a experimental kind of thing. At least it'd keep your skills sharp for a year. Hmm...another idea for the summer? (hmm, who am I kidding; I'll just end up making gifts and designing cards like last year. Or will I...? Yes, yes I will.) It's still an inspiring sort of exercise though.
Got A Hot Gig
If there's one mystery I can't solve in graphic design, it where all the gig posters come from. They're ambiguous in the sense that I know they exist, but I always have yet to see them anywhere. Regardless, this art form is truly an awesome part of poster design. It almost seems that there's total freedom with how designers can choose to portray musicians and create concepts for the posters. I can't imagine how it would be to bring two different art forms together coming up with something that represents both well. It sounds exciting. I'm glad that the tradition of gig posters has continued on despite people being so involved in the digital world. Now, to just get my hands on one someday...
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Some Kinda Eecards
Found this site not too long ago with humorous e-cards. Most of the cards feature a vintage illustration paired with a modern and often cynical statement. All of the cards feature the illustrations in black silhouettes with a pale coloured background. The combination of pairing the old with the new is really effective as they contrast in both style and context. Plus, they're pretty funny. Although they're not the first to do this: www.marriedtothesea.com but then again, I'm sure even they were not the first ones to apply this technique. Everything I've seen using this idea seems to be free, so at least there's no bad feelings over money (or so it also seems...). Regardless, there'll be more funny comments for everyone this way!
Guess the Logo
Here's a little diversion: the 'Guess the Logo' quiz. It really gets you to remember the little things about logos that you may see everyday. I tend to forget all the little subtle things about a logo that makes it truly unique. Maybe you'll have better luck?
TV Tributes
Albert Exergian has come up with some tribute posters based on some popular TV shows. The blog where I found these posters said that they were "highly influenced by Paul Rand". I'm not so up on my knowing of designers' work, so I decided to look him up in the process (I know I had heard the name before...but it didn't clue in until I saw the IBM logo). Exergian's work reminds me a lot of Paul Rand's but there are subtle differences. From what I saw, Paul Rand's work seems a lot more playful and offbeat than Exergian's work. Regardless, Exergian's posters have a really clean and geometric look to them that really gets the object within them down to its essentials. Most of the posters also include objects that are specific to that show. Honestly, I haven't seen most of these shows but I have seen House. So, I can say that instead of him putting a prescription pad or something medical, he chose to make the object a tennis ball (which House frequently likes to throw around). It's little subtleties like that which help make these posters work well. I won't deny, I'm definitely going to have to catch up some of these TV series over the summer. Except Twin Peaks. David Lynch's work creeps me out.
Tools of Times Passed
In this world of computers and programs, it is only now that we students are hearing about 'how things were done' and are discovering tools like a typescale (I can't speak for all students; I mainly mean myself). Now, I know there's still a place for typescales in modern design but the programs make dealing with type less reliant on these kinds of tools. There are many tools that I am discovering found on a blog called 'The Museum of Forgotton Art Supplies'. There are items such as a C-Thru pen (which can be loaded with paint which I thought was pretty interesting; I had only used a ruling pen with paint before that and it wasn't the easiest for me to use. It happens to be part of this collection too) and Letraset (which I have had sheets of for years and have found out its significance just recently). Using mostly traditional media and materials before this year, I'm interested in figuring out the traditional methods as much as the digital way of doing things. Maybe it'll be something for me to research over the summer. And maybe I can find out more about 'X-Acto' Man (my new hero).
Remix it Up
Nonsek Clothing has created a 'Remix' graphic t-shirt creator. You click and 3 logos are combined on a t-shirt randomly. Although I like the different logos on their own, I'm not a fan of the way they're put together. It may not be this way, but it seems that the 3 logos are simply just put together in any random way without much consideration going towards the overall design. They're not totally off of course, the generator still keeps certain design principles in check like colour and some aspects of placement. Otherwise, it just doesn't seem thought out to me. It is pretty fun though clicking to see what the designs it comes up with. It's like design slots; addictive and colourful (but with t-shirts).
A Bull with Wings?
I look at Red Bull every weekend while at work but I never bothered to wonder where the designs around the brand came from. That was until I stumbled on a site for 'Red Bull: Art of the Can'. It's where people create works of art with and based on Red Bull cans. The can itself has an interesting design, separating the can into four parts, using symmetry to create balance and unity amongst the design. The pieces that are created from the cans are completely unique from one another. They range from a Red Bull Faberge egg to a sculpture of a cat playing with a ball. Each uses the cans well and features the Red Bull logo prominently. I wonder what other kind of twists people have put on existing containers and logos out there...
Info, Anyone?
It seems the more I go perusing around sites, the more I find infographics to be all the rage. There seems to be one about anything you'd want to know; anything from statistics on how beer is made to how to get a date (which can sometimes be connected themselves). There are also much more serious topics outlined in these infographics as well as they provide a visual way of recieving information. The Japan - A Strange Country video as well as a video that you showed in class were also infographics and it didn't even clue in to me until after. Here's another film infographic based on the state of the internet by Jess3. You may have already seen it but it was definitely informative to me. People really like social networking it seems.
http://www.coolinfographics.com/blog/2010/4/2/the-state-of-the-internet-infographic-video.html
http://www.coolinfographics.com/blog/2010/4/2/the-state-of-the-internet-infographic-video.html
Evolution
Speaking of changes from my last post, here's a piece of design involving changes of Michael Jackson. This piece is a phenakistiscope created by Kelly Coats. A phenakistiscope is a toy that uses card wheels and a mirror to create an animation. I tried experimenting with phenakistiscopes for another project of mine, but I wasn't able to make them work for me. This one is designed really well though; using the contrast and outlines to really show how Michael developed through the years. The fact that the wheel starts small and ends up large is a testiment to his status as well as his age (I could be reading into it a little there though). Regardless it's a strong piece with a quirky concept. Seems fitting for such a legendary performer.http://designyearbook.blogspot.com/2010/04/epic-thriller-by-kelly-coats.html
Bare Essentials
I'll admit, I've learned a lot about design this year. I'll also admit that I'm still learning about how to be a designer. A poster created by Grid's Ashwin Patel seems to have the answers though. He's laid out the 'bare essentials for the graphic designer' all on one poster! Each aspect has its own logo and each is connected to other aspects as they relate (somehow 'gun' is related to everything...I think that's relatable enough sometimes...). The logos are arranged on a clear grid which makes them easy to follow. The logos themselves are cleanly designed involving simple forms to get their message across quickly. It's also smart that the title bubble and the 'Grid' logo bubble are the only ones in complete black and white as well frame the rest of the logos being the the top left and the bottom right.It's also interesting to see what one designer's take is on what makes a designer. Wish I could see the whole poster up close though. I guess I'll have to figure some aspects out for myself.
http://www.gridlondon.com/Grid-poster.html
Here for Good
Stefan Sagmeister created ads for Standard Chartered Bank that involved creating type out of unusual forms. The ads with the theme 'Here for Good' are meant to focus on the people involved in the bank as opposed to the business. Using people to create letter forms as well as items connected to the landscape or scenery involved with people internationally. I think the combination of type within the different scenes of the commercial really makes the commercial visually interesting and really allows viewers to be able to relate. Plus, it gives me ideas of how to incorporate different materials to create typefaces out of when doing my own work. Crafty, indeed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTZIMe1KGp8&feature=player_embedded
My Elliot Jay Stocks beats your Khoi Vinh
http://thetypefac.es/
Macbook Covers
Well, I got a Macbook earlier this year. I know there are lots of accessories and add-ons that you can buy for it to make it personalized. Macbook covers are just one fun way people are making their laptops theirs. A lot of the designs that I found involve playing off the idea of the apple whether it is being eaten, held or become a super hero's emblem. All of the vinyl decals find ways to use space creatively and each is an unique take on pop culture. I really like the one with the Lego minifig. The use of light and dark to create variations in the colour (so the minifig isn't just an outline) and the fact that he's reaching out for the logo are very effective. I also really like his expression. I can imagine that it's gotta look like he's even more in awe when the apple lights up.
http://blogof.francescomugnai.com/2009/12/50-amazing-macbook-decals-that-you-can-buy-online/
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Kozyndan Blues
I fell into finding an illustrating team called Kozyndan. They have some really cool work; a lot that has a hand-drawn, slightly quirky feel. Despite them being known for an illustration of 'The Great Wave of Kanagawa' featuring bunnies, I found some of their other work to be just as interesting. One that stands out is a piece called 'Salaryman Blues'. The piece creates a pattern of blue figures that at first doesn't seem depressing at all. It is only when one looks closer that the Japanese businessmen committing suicide become apparent. I find the juxtaposition between the bright blue and subject matter to work really well together making the viewer feel that the piece is apporachable and then have to look closer to see the detail and message. There's a sense of movement throughout the piece that really relates to the idea of jumping (and falling) as well as keeps the viewer's eye moving through the details.
All of the figures have been placed as to continue this sense of movement throughout the piece. For example, even in details such as two hands connecting through a figure to a foot to another head....everything's very strategically placed.I also like the fact that the piece related to a larger issue. It's crazy how intense it is:http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/japan/5273786/Japanese-suicides-rise-as-world-recession-hits-countrys-businessmen.html
I guess illustration provides another way to approach issues like these. It's interesting to be able to make a statement both graphically and politically in such a subtle way.
http://www.kozyndan.com/art/salaryman-blues
Fancy Games
Ever thought Monopoly could be more expensive looking? Andy Mangold has created a new design for the game based on luxury chocolate boxes. The idea of a simpler, more monochromatic colour palate and cleaner design gives the game a more refined look. I think it makes the game more attractive to adults as a party game instead of it being seen as a children's board game. Makes passing 'GO' feel a little more chic, no?
Hot Design
Here's a poster from Polish design firm Homework. It's a re-design of a poster for the movie 'Some Like it Hot'. I like the fact that idea of the movie is portrayed in simple forms letting those who know the movie understand the concept right away and those who don't know it wonder what the graphic is. The use of red, black and white provides a lot of contrast making the poster really stand out. The use of clean sans serif type works well with the clean graphics above it. There is also a nice balance of black and white throughout the poster as well. I just saw this movie recently and didn't realize before how awesome it was. Hopefully this summer I'll have time to check out a few more films I keep hearing about but haven't seen yet.
Seasons Greetings
While I found the type personality test, I also stumbled upon Pentagram's Christmas cards that they hand out to friends and clients. Now, I may be already a little biased because I love designing cards, but these are fantastic. Not only are they interesting, including all sorts of quirky themes and ideas, they are also very well designed. Each card has its own feel and style; some with centre alignment and understated typefaces and those with strong colours and bold type. Regardless of the year or card, there is always clean design throughout in both look and layout. Plus, they seem like a really fun thing to get in the mail. Who wouldn't love a little book of rhyming slang?Personality Type
Pentagram Design has created a "What Type are You?" quiz that is more than just a 'fill-in-the-web-bubble' kind of test. Based on the stereotypes of psychotherapy, a Freud-like character asks you four questions to determine what typeface you're like. I got Courier, which at first I was disappointed about (because it wasn't something snazzy per se) but then came around. I guess I do like old typewriter faces. Maybe I should use them more within my designs. I've been getting into a funk where I'm tending to use sans serifs like Futura and Helvetica a lot of the time. I still love using them to pieces but maybe it's time to branch out into something new. Anyways, here's the quiz if you'd like to have a typographic diagnosis: http://www.pentagram.com/what-type-are-you/
Home Alphabet
This chart created by Blue Ant Design reminds me a lot of the alphabet books that we just had to complete in Type class. All the cells follow the same grid system and each of the images is treated very similarly. Although these images are of silhouetted home furnishings as opposed to type, they all are a part of a overall theme and use the same typeface throughout. I like the use of colour as it separates each letter making them look distinct while still being cohesive. Seems like a good idea for knowledgeable and inexperienced designers alike.
Stylin' Sewers
Sometimes when looking at the streets here, everything can blend in with one another. The curbs, roads and and sewer covers all seem to combine into a shade of grey. Not in Japan though, they decorate their sewers with graphic patterns and images. I like the use of geometric shapes in the patterned covers and the sense of balance that is created with them. Ones with images seem to use simple shapes of bright colour similar to stained glass windows. It's interesting how a small space such as a sewer cover could have so much opportunity for design.
Tokyoflash
Tokyoflash watches are pretty cool. They combine aspects of design to create an unique way of telling time. For example, the model above uses LED lights to tell the time. The lights themselves are on a brick style grid system and light up according to the hour, ten minute digit and single minute digit.
The colour palate and the use of pattern in this watch really make this watch an interesting piece of design. I'll be honest, it's not the most clear to read so I probably wouldn't pick it as my first choice for a watch. Otherwise, it's a pretty cool looking wrist-piece!
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