Helen Butterworth

Photographer : Julia Kennedy

2012-02-06T17:04:00.004Z

One #HOT fashion photographer I discovered today - Julia Kennedy, she graduated from Manchester Met. in 2000 and has made quite a name for herself in London, working for clients including Hudson, The Independent and Harpers Bazaar.

Beautiful work - capturing the topic in such a soft and delicate manner, yet looking so dam hot at the same time! Each piece makes me want to see more - from front covers to fashion shoots she has a timeless way of pulling in the viewer. She will no doubt be seen around the fashion scene with this incredible work!

A very clean, simple & user friendly site - see it here.

Images courtesy of Julia Kennedy.

I am #LOST

2012-02-02T16:52:00.002Z

Cecilia Paredes - Peruvian born artist and photographer creates beautifully blended pieces of art combining "the illusion of disappearing".

Her photo performances uses body paint, costume and installation as a theme to make us reconsider what it means to be virtually lost within migration and displacement. Our origins are what makes us interesting and in such a beautiful progression we see how they become part of the background.

I feel myself not able to tear away from the gaze in her eye, the awkward body positing and what is it exactly am I meant to be reflecting. I am lost. But in a positive and true self-exploration way ...

Images courtesy of Cecilia Paredes.

NEW { i heart } Blog #3

2012-01-27T16:33:00.000Z

Kleinmania a weird and wonderful Blog of just about everything you can think about. A design inspiration for all, and some equally brilliant use of photoshop (slightly way above any level of thinking!!) But it doesn't stop there ... Kleinmania is also a Designer, Illustrator and movie maker and by the name of Same goes.

Same goes aka Michael Kleinman produces, collaborates and designs some pretty good design. From branding, website design and print ... his talent has no limits. I love his website - clear and large imagery that is well produced and presented. His style breaches several different style but these are my favourite!

Love his work!

Images courtesy of Michael Kleinman

Music for your Ears

2012-01-26T17:04:00.003Z

RCRD LBL are a brilliant FREE site to download and listen to streamed music - various artists and genres. A delightful listen for all and to experiment with new sounds - I know there are more sites out there so do share if you know of any good ones. A nice site to navigate as well - it has clean, clear images to entice the viewer and a great 'listen now' right hand-side bar for quick access!

A must ... if you have any spare time that is!

ManvsMachine

2012-01-25T14:01:00.000Z

ManvsMachine are a design & motion studio based in London - since opening in 2007 they have quickly become recognised as an award winning creative specialist team for animation, print film & branding. Some of their clients include; Nokia, Five, Toyota, Sky and much more!

They have just recently launched their design for the rebrand of More4 { i heart it } - after successfully winning the pitch they then went on to develop the brand identity on on-air look. They have created a unique installation that breaks out into the environment - the logo flips, folds & reveals and combined with colour - well ... it truly comes alive! Stunning visuals capture the moment of some great engineering - a collaboration with Jason Bruges Studio and it looks magical. See the video for more ...

MvsM / More4 Idents from ManvsMachine on Vimeo.

MvsM / More4 Idents – Making Of from ManvsMachine on Vimeo.

And ... some more work they have created - SYFY Kids - toy-like characters go on various adventures as the brand rolls out. Again, I love it, the animation is superb, engaging and to a top notch standard.

MvsM / Syfy Kids from ManvsMachine on Vimeo.

All images / videos courtesy of ManvsMachine

ADS of the week #1 & #2

2012-01-24T17:12:00.002Z

The Bark Side
The latest Volkswagen 2012 ad based on the iconic Star Wars - The Dark Side.
Superb to watch - humorous and entertaining! I say no more - with over 3 million views over 2 days ... you can guess why it is so popular!

Be Wonderful & and Wise
Lurpak's Light ad - beautiful sound composition and coordination.
I love the way it has been filmed, various angles taking the viewer through the notions of home-cooking. Lurpak has a consistent integrated campaign - with an instant recognisable brand imagery and stunning stand alone images that would make any food lover melt - it depicts all that good, wholesome food should - devotion!

Books - Music - Perspective

2012-01-17T15:10:00.001Z

Respublika. Motion graphics from CJ Basie on Vimeo.

A very cool Animation of posters for Respublica Bookstore - created and designed by Pavel Paratov, Stas Leontev and Vasiliy Filatov. The Russian Based designers use animation and motion graphics to illustrate the posters in gif. format, the transitions, sounds and graphics are subtle & gorgeous!

I love the typography style and illustration - a simple mechanism that transforms, moves and it makes it so easy to watch ... and keep on watching it!

Video courtesy of Pavel Paratov on behance.

NEW i { heart } Blog #2

2012-01-11T16:33:00.000Z

Hello, I'm Tiger is my second i { heart } Blog - another inspirational read! The Swedish based blogger collects interesting finds // objects // desires and posts a new one each day - like myself he uses the world wide web as an inclusive journal to inspire others.

His style is also particularly interesting - the blog is simple yet effective (a phrase I say all too often!) but it works - it's a shame there is no other link to a website but it is well worth a read! Or join his RSS feed!

Images courtesy of Hello, I'm Tiger

Sanna Annukka

2012-01-09T16:41:00.001Z

Half English / half Finnish - Sanna Annukka is an Illustrator and Print-maker with a love for nature and folklore.

Her work explores prints on paper, wooden objects and stunning photography. She expands on her passion for nature, wilderness and wildlife by using Illustration, colour and materials as guidance.

I love the simplicity and beauty of her Illustrations, and it is to no surprise that she has worked for some impressive clients - including Keane (see Album Cover image below).

Images courtesy of Sanna Annukka.

Howard Daniels - Photographer

2012-01-05T21:37:00.000Z

Howard Daniels is a fashion photographer - his work has earned him a well deserved reputation and it gives me great pleasure to say I will be working with him this weekend!

I am currently working on the Summer 2012 season at work, and after the completing the creative brief - this is the exciting bit! Meeting, working with and art directing the shoot allows you to see how your idea goes through different processes to create the final output. This is what I most enjoy - the freedom and ability to style a shot, create the look you want, and be responsible for it - is very rewarding!

My NEW i { heart } Blog

2012-01-05T21:11:00.000Z

This Blog is a recent discovery - and a brilliant one at that!
I am eager to see what they will post next - it is a great way to engage and encourage the viewer to return to find out more. Their relationship of the bloggers is also a poetic way to bring two people together - they use this as a visual diary about absolutely everything.

Please enjoy - fuckyouverymuch.com

I { heart }

2011-12-29T19:40:00.000Z

Birds on a bookshelf!
Not only is this educational but I { heart } the way they are looking at each other!
It's as if we don't know something ... what also looks amazing is the new Earthflight series on BBC1, a breathtaking experience over 6 continents all from a birds eye view.

And I { heart } 2012!
What an epic year this will be ... why not count the year away with these lovely calendar styles from designworklife. I am loving the cheery, childlike approach with such a nostalgic feel.

Pepper and Cinnamon

2011-12-27T12:56:00.000Z

Pepper and Cinnamon - the online portfolio of Benjamin Koh Ju Ren, a Singapore Designer whose discipline covers branding, graphic design, identity, packaging and many more.

"He firmly believes in the intrinsic capacity of humans to be emphatically and emotionally engaged about great design solutions; or even the simplest of gestures that touch us in a very human way."

His ethos and personality are clear in his work - I love his attention to detail and print finish, see his project below 28 Hong Kong Project.

The festive name is not because its Christmas (however very similar!) but because its great design!

Images courtesy of Ben at Pepper & Cinnamon

Anthony Burrill

2011-12-19T17:29:00.002Z

Anthony Burrill -a illustrator, print-maker & collaborator who combines colour and composition with a witty approach to words. I love his poster collection and collaboration with other film/print makers - he also created the design mantra - Work Hard & Be Nice to People (see image below).

This fresh approach to print making is invigorating - his practise is a beautifully tactile approach to design and it is this what draws me to it. I love the smell, feel, ergonomic state of the printed matter, and we should celebrate it!

Images courtesy of Anthony Burrill.

3.2 Million Dots

2011-12-14T21:03:00.000Z

Hero from Miguel Endara on Vimeo.

Amazing what 3.2 million dots can do!
Be sure to watch it all - incredible detail, persistence and a very steady hand.
A stunning performance by Miguel Endara 'Hero' - using an old technique of mere dots to draw his father. Amazing!

Social Media Shoes!

2011-12-06T20:50:00.001Z

They say Social Media is taking over our lives, so much so that by 2015 we will use our mobile to access our Facebook, pay for groceries and buy flights to Spain. All with the click of a button! But what happens when it takes over our fashion apparel? What if we become trapped in a society where its not just how much time we spend on it but it determines what we wear?

This is Social Media at its best!!
Who would have thought - but it almost seems too obvious (think my favourite is the Twitter design! What's yours?)

Images courtesy of Lumen Bigott.

EAST London Design Show

2011-12-04T20:58:00.001Z

I was in 'Lanndan' this weekend and couldn't miss on seeing the East London Design Festival - lovely to do something full of art, culture and craft with some highly talented artists/designers. With the 2 for 1 entry it was remarkably worth the measly £5 - across the 3 floors the show included artists, typographers, makers, printers and many more ... a great way to celebrate such talent, and here are some of my favourites ...

Vic Lee - on a mission to draw London in all its full glory. I LOVED the Tate Modern Poster - his extraordinary illustrations are so delicate but have a definite presence - making me want to buy one! (Or this would be a lovely present...) I love how much effort and appreciation he has put into discovering and portraying some of London's hotspots and some totally that are unearthed.

Zeena Shah - a printer, maker, collector, drawer of this things beautiful her home interior collections were stunning! I LOVED her printed cellotape and wrapping paper - I even thought of framing it as her illustrations were that eye catching. Inspirational!

James Brown - Illustrator and Print-Maker. I LOVED his British Isles Poster and detail in the illustration - his connection with the subject matter and choice of colour & typographic styles varies across all his work. Love it!

Magpie Studio

2011-11-29T21:33:00.001Z

Magpie Studio - Amazing website, I love the typographic lettering's of the different M's as the main navigational image. It sets the tone for the type of work they produce, their ethos and mentality and the great work to feast your eyes on.

This style of website is becoming more and more familiar, and as I scour the Internet for new sites I am beginning to submerge myself in the different templates that people reuse & recycle. This site is so successful in my mind because of the stark contrasting mono colour and its impressive overwhelming image that dominates. I can't help but take my eyes of those M's!

The work! Yes, some great and equally impressive clients - the BAFTA's, Channel 4, Tate Britain and many more. They use visual communication as a tool to connect with the audience, deliver clear briefs and making the message memorable. And I am impressed - creative concepts, strong executions and persuasive language.

Definitely one to stop by and take a look! Even if it is just to look at those M's!!
Let me know what you think...

Images courtesy of Magpie Studios.

Everything in between - Carl Kleiner

2011-11-27T19:31:00.001Z

Truly Amazing - Colour, geometry and raw talent, Carl Kleiner is everything in between.
From his humorous and witty ideas to the ones that need no explanation - he is totally awe inspiring. I blogged about the work he did for IKEA last year, and when returning to update myself on his new work I was pleasantly surprised. I love the simplicity in his designs, the anal ritual organisation of items and the how he turns the mundane into something of a spectacle.

A pleasure to look at and decipher - Carl Kleiner everybody!

BURO RENG

2011-11-24T21:32:00.001Z

BURO RENG is a Creative Design team based in the Northern part of the Netherlands - I blogged about them in March this year (see the post here) as I found their work inspiring, provocative and most of all creative! They produce and develop the creative process for a large client list, and having been in contact with them recently they wanted me to feature their most latest work.

They are designers who like to work closely with their client, they start by talking, writing and thinking - a process that so many agencies fail to strike with their client. Their portfolio consists of visual communication/identities, campaigns and editorial design.

They have a simple design strategy - you can see their execution, creative concept and visual style - all beautifully explained filling the voids. A design team worth more than just the final piece!

To find out more visit their website here.

All images courtesy of BURO RENG.

RUSSTLE

2011-11-24T20:37:00.001Z

The latest Creative Review Cover was designed by RUSSTLE - Russell Reid, a Liverpool based Graphic Designer (who I just happen to work with!!) Creative Review were featuring the Creative scene in Liverpool and asked him to design the cover. He is an independent designer who has a vast portfolio - he works for one of Liverpool's biggest club, CIRCUS, see flyers below!

An amazing opportunity, and what better way to celebrate such a diverse city that is rich in culture and art!

Images courtesy of RUSSTLE.

Victoria Beckham On Denim!

2011-11-23T21:56:00.001Z

"To celebrate the launch of Victoria Beckham's spring/summer 2012 Denim collection, we will be launching a fashion film, previewed here, directed by Quentin Jones and styled by AnOther's fashion editor Agata Belcen on Wednesday November 30. The film, entitled Steps for 2, is inspired by the youthful energy of the Denim collection and the French New Wave and incorporates Quentin Jones' striking animations."

Great theme tune, stunning visuals and animation - seriously for Victoria Beckham?
Most definitely! It seems her radical celebration truly celebrates all that SS12 is...and more.
I like it, its different, intriguing, and different (did I say that already?) I want to watch it again, and again as I always miss something - a sign of something worth watching!

What did you do on 12 // 11 // 11 ?

2011-11-15T21:50:00.001Z

How did you celebrate 12th Nov 2011?
Did you celebrate Britain in a day?

Here is our thought - an abstract take on what it meant to us, at that moment,
that place!

"Britain is a culture of a non-static environment, it moves, it changes, it evolves. Through the different seasons we can see how colour and movement occur, and in this we wanted to portray an ever-changing atmosphere that so importantly inspires our day life on an autumn day."

September Industry

2011-11-15T21:29:00.001Z

September Industry is an amazing online resource for the very best of contemporary graphic design. Not only is their site well navigated and full of rich content, but it is based on everything I love, typography, photography, visual projects - I am uber jealous of their design skill and spectacular eye for detail. They have a passion for great design, 'quality not quantity' - (something close to my own heart) and inspiration.

You must look at their website, (whether you've heard of them or not!), subscribe and be inspired. I love exploring new websites so if like this one you see something cool/great/different please do pass it on!

Christopher Ruprecht

2011-11-09T21:44:00.003Z

Designer, Creative collaborator, Illustrator, Art Director and technically gifted - Christpher Ruprecht. A German based designer who has a vast portfolio of impressive creative pieces ranging from advertising, interactive projects and website/ipad designs. I find the pieces of work below exciting and visually interesting - so complex yet so so fluid and easy to view. Amazing. See his work here.

Beautiful Posters

2011-10-30T18:02:00.000Z

Beautiful Poster Series by Jason Munn, a designer and illustrator of Oakland, CA.
He uses a simple and iconic graphical style that he applies to each poster - the complimentary colour theme running throughout really houses them as a series and independently. I love his style!

Jenny Odell ~ Satellite Collections

2011-10-27T21:44:00.000+01:00

I will let you read the explanation from Jenny Odell to decipher her work, as I think my interpretation will obscure her main intentions. Please read it - hugely intriguing and conceptual! You will find more of her work here.

"...because human existence is conditioned existence, it would be impossible without things, and things would be a heap of unrelated articles, a non-world, if they were not the conditioners of human existence.
-Hannah Arendt

In all of my prints, I collect things that I've cut out from Google Satellite View-- parking lots, silos, landflls, waste ponds. The view from a satellite is not a human one, nor is it one we were ever really meant to see. But it is precisely from this inhuman point of view that we are able to read our own humanity, in all of its tiny, reliably repetitive marks upon the face of the earth. From this view, the lines that make up basketball courts and the scattered blue rectangles of swimming pools become like hieroglyphs that read: people were here.

At the same time, like any photograph, satellite imagery is also immediately an image of the past. That is, to look at satellite imagery is to look not only down upon ourselves but back in time, even if only by a matter of hours or days. In recording the moment at which things as bizarre as water parks and racetracks covered the earth, the photograph also implies that moment's own passing, encoding each tiny structure with vulnerability and pre-emptive nostagia. My desire to collect these pieces stems not only from the fascination of any collector but from a wish to save these low-resolution, sporadically-updated pixels--these strange pictures of ourselves--from time and the ephemerality of the internet."

e1000ink - 3D without glasses!!

2011-10-24T21:51:00.003+01:00

With technology developing at a rapid pace, 3D will become a forgotten fascination, an overnight success that dominated our at-home cinemas. Isn't it 4D now? But put into the environment - it has a whole new context, not only does it explore diverse territory but it interrupts the norm. It makes us look twice in order to understand and work out it's positioning. Who doesn't appreciate it? And you don't need glasses!!

ATIPUS_Graphic Design

2011-10-24T21:29:00.002+01:00

ATIPUS_Graphic Design Studio based in Barcelona - some really nice type and execution of the creative concept. I particularly like the colour palette they use, soft, mundane yet totally appropriate and appealing! See here more their blog, also worth a read ...

Taking a closer Look .... "Into the Fray"

2011-10-18T21:48:00.000+01:00

Creative agency Rosie Lee and photographer John Ross, have coincided to take a closer look at the sport Rugby, as it is the World Cup Final on Saturday.

"Into The Fray" is a self-initiated project "to visualise the power and strength of rugby players, and freeze-frame it"

For this exploration, they built a giant glass tank and packed in as many rugby boys as the space would allow, Ross then photographed the results. Emotional, intense and down-right dirty would be an understatement, but then Rugby is a powerful and brutal sport that involves more than just a rugby ball!!

Lets hope the best team wins.

VW - Think Small, Think Blue

2011-10-18T21:32:00.001+01:00

VW = Think Small, Think Blue.
VW has and will continue to drive efficiency, their latest TV advert refers to the 1960's unforgettable slogan 'Think Small'.

Conceptual and engaging - a process VW have never forgotton or ceased to depict in their campaigns.

Wonderful Stuff - Muller

2011-10-11T21:51:00.000+01:00

Watch. Love. Stir in something Wonderful......
Turn the mundane into something brilliant!!

The brand new £20million integrated campaign created by TBWA/London for Muller. There is a topical debate on the concept - do people get it, what is its main purpose, nostalgic or pointless ... Either way, it is trying to capture the beauty of the everyday life and how a bit of wonderful magic can make it better - Stir in something wonderful! Great use of traditional hand drawn cell techniques of the characters which tries to take us back to our childhood and post-production by The Mill.

360 Project

2011-10-11T21:30:00.000+01:00

On Creative Review they blogged recently about the 360 Project - created by Canadian Filmmaker and photographer Ryan Enn Hughes. His process to create these videos uses 48 cameras arranged in a circle, triggered simultaneously to explore the crossover between still and moving image. I love the combination of how the two interact - you clearly see this and it is captured so well in the videos.

The camera rig was design by The Big Freeze, and music by Zelig Sound.

KRUMP 360 (The 360 Project) from Ryan Enn Hughes on Vimeo.

And to see how it was made, just watch this video! Amazing.

The 360 Project - Behind the Scenes from Ryan Enn Hughes on Vimeo.

Rogue Studios - Artist Exhibition

2011-10-08T13:16:00.001+01:00

I visited the opening Preview Night of the latest exhibition at Rogue Studios, celebrating artist over 3 floors in one of the largest creative communities. Artists included Anna Frew, Rob Bailey, Paul Cordwell and many many more. Some of the highlights below - the exhibition is open this weekend only, so don't miss it as it is well worth a visit!

Own A Colour

2011-10-04T21:31:00.000+01:00

Your average computer, smartphone and tablet
can display 16.7 million colours?

Did you know that?
Well now you do - Dulux Paint are offering 16.7 million people the opportunity to purchase a colour for a small fee to help save a child's life.

"Adding colour to people's lives" is a beautiful and memorable way to change the way a child lives. Colour has such a powerful presence in our daily lives - we are bombarded with colour from the minute we open our eyes, it is simply everywhere. As the mobile is becoming larger and is expected to feature more so in our lives by 2015, it seems that this is not only a great cause but creatively it is challenging the media we use on a hourly basis.

You can support the cause here.

Turkey

2011-10-04T21:16:00.000+01:00

Whilst it may seem that England has had a very belated Indian Summer last week, I did however manage to catch some sun this year and explore Turkey. I hesitated on the decision to visit Turkey, as I have a slight passion for Greece (and it seemed like I was being a traitor) but I was totally surprised!

Once you forgot about the bustling streets and commercial aspect of their trade, you can see in full glory why it is such a lovely place. We stayed near to Alanya, on the Eastern Mediterranean Coast - a luscious green environment, a picturesque harbour and lots of exploring opportunities.

Whilst there is snow in the pipeline - I'd like to share the 40 Degree heat we had to endure...

Tube Map of the World

2011-09-25T20:17:00.003+01:00

A design classic which features the lines of the traditional tube map positioned over a map of the world with corresponding stops!

Originally designed by Harry Beck in 1931, during his spare time while working as an engineering draftsman at the London Undergound Signal Office, it has since undergone several variations most notably changing from a geographical diagram to a linear one.

Beautifully iconic!

Painted Lady : Alex Box

2011-09-19T21:03:00.003+01:00

Art and Beauty have crossed paths many times and this incredible photo shoot by Alex Box definitely tells us the journey through her favourite Art movements - including Cubism, Dadaism, Post-Modernism, Romanticism and Baroque.

The stunning detail, accuracy and different perspectives that portray each image confront your perception to search for the history, style and visible connection that we all recognise and can relate too.

Beautiful pieces of art in their own right.

Cadbury: TWIRL Bites

2011-09-17T16:47:00.000+01:00

I've just come back from holiday (yes I had a fabulous time!) but I have seen lots of juicy stuff since I've been back - firstly, the first advert from Cadbury's Twirl in 15 years!!

Brilliantly filmed - from the moment it came on last night I thought it must have to be the one and only Cadbury - who else ... the joy of whirling ... characters, scenarios and lots of twirling. Fireworks, momentum, weird Cave-Man's spiralling arm - joyous! It's fun - a persona that Cadbury's seems to capture beautifully in all their adverts and it is a great use of invigorating the Twirl brand personality.

15 years of WALLPAPER*

2011-08-31T21:08:00.004+01:00

Creative Review just released the 15th anniversary celebration of WALLPAPER* in collaboration with GFSMITH - 15 designers or brands created a special cover design to be printed on the Colorplan paper stock. And those designs/brands included Build, It's Nice That, James Joyce, MadeThought and Nike ... and many more.

"In the true sense of bespoke, using digital printing by FE Burman, each cover design was printed on to the stock of the designer's choosing from our Colorplan range, they pushed the printing by using many different processes including multiple passes of white ink. The results show how choice of paper plays an integral part of the design process."

Wallpaper* is a fantastic source of inspiration, and what better way to celebrate then collaborate with designers and celebrate the work of others. Here are my favourites of the 15 covers designed!

Enviro-TYPE

2011-08-31T20:45:00.004+01:00

Something to brighten the day ... brilliant use of typography in the environment. Amusing but so tacky that its good!

I know type in the environment is everywhere, from road markings to signs, to street numbers, to shop windows...they consume our daily lives. It seems copy-laden radio commercials, newspaper ads, billboards and logos are also everywhere.

Consumers are exposed to a ridiculous 3,000 advertisements on a daily basis - yet we might only retain a few. These commercial messages have invaded our public consciousness, and whilst many sadly are not remembered, you will undoubtedly remember either the worst, the best or the one that made you stop...and look twice!

Think about what you saw today and what you can remember ... I have a feeling it wont be much... correct me if I am wrong?

Giuseppe Mastromatteo

2011-08-23T21:10:00.004+01:00

I blogged about Giueseppe Mastromatteo several months ago - and it seems just more of her work keeps popping up over all the trend spots. I still love how she brings poetic Surrealism back to life, and the series 'Indepensense' is a perfect example of this. She uses digital collage techniques to reproduce ears, eyes and faces in the most illusionary and impossible dimensions.
Taking influence from the likes of Man Ray, she represents the most contemporary photography of our time.

He would have been a 100!!

2011-08-17T21:04:00.004+01:00

Bill Bernbach - an advertising legend, would have celebrated his 100th Birthday on August 13th.
This man who taught me valuable lessons, was widely recognised for leading the creative revolution in the advertising Industry during the 50's and 60's. And for creating the creative structure that most agencies still adopt today!

I studied him in my dissertation - the work he produced, the methods, his style of thinking ... all of which inspired me to work the way I do and will continue to in the future. He based his work on being engaging, interesting, intelligent and most of all believable. He is a credit to our industry and to the way we work, here are just a few of his most iconic from DDB - you will recognise them all.

Happy Birthday Bill !

Seven Dwarves

2011-08-17T20:47:00.006+01:00

Seven Dwarves is the latest reality TV show on Channel 4 - I love their exposure and marketing push for the screening which aired this week. The camera filmed residence marks the latest subculture richness that seems to draw us all in ... well most of us - remember ' Big Brother' OR 'My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding?'' And you should know what I mean, it is trying to:

"Break through Panto stereotypes to show how this group of dwarf actors face the challenges of ordinary life head-on."

The marketing material out and about is clever - cliché maybe ... but Channel 4's in-house creative team have done well, they created 20 mini billboards which launched before the show around London, see below. Great stuff!

Absolut BLANK .

2011-08-09T21:19:00.006+01:00

Absolut Blank from Sérgio Costa on Vimeo.

Absolut BLANK is a campaign created by TBWA, USA - in collaboration with a new generation of artists they have created a global movement that appears to lead the way in contemporary creativity. Absolut have worked with other artists in the past such as Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst and Spike Jonze and now it is their daring nature that provokes me to post this.

I love their passion for the blank canvas ... inspiring other artists to get involved, turning the blank canvas into a collaboration of art and creativity. The 20 artists participating in Absolut BLANK represent a variety of creative disciplines from across the globe; from drawing, painting and sculpting to film making and digital art. See below for Mario Wagner’s attention-grabbing cut-out imagery, and the detailed work of Good Wives and Warriors - they are vibrant and most importantly allowing people to work together. This is something that does inspire me, and hopefully all other aspiring artists too ... as they think about sharing their skills and creative passion.

HOUSE Industries

2011-08-02T20:53:00.002+01:00

House Industries has long been my friend, not only as a great source of inspiration for typography but for the amazing work they produce. From the printed booklets, screen-printed posters and rendered letters - they produce some of the best work and now they are promoting their Photo-Lettering service.

A little info from their website:

"Known throughout the world as a prolific type foundry, House Industries has made a considerable impact on the world of design. House Industries fonts scream from billboards, wish happy whatever from tens of thousands of greeting cards, serve as the basis for consumer product logos and add elements of style to a wide range of mainstream media. Their typography deftly melds cultural, musical and graphic elements. From early forays into distressed digital alphabets to sophisticated type and lettering systems, House Industries’ work transcends graphic conventions and reaches out to a broad audience. What ultimately shines in the House Industries oeuvre is what always conquers mediocrity: a genuine love for their subject matter."

I received an email just recently - not only was this a great marketing tool but it was interesting and yes! although I am a member I gave in and created a new account just to receive the latest catalogue!! It is promoting their Photo-Lettering Catalogue which has 96 pages of beautiful work - not only is it great work - but usually really nice tactile paper (people who like to smell/touch will appreciate this!!)

So you can sign up and receive your very own & to find out just how nice it is ... and ultimately sign your life away to third parties! But who cares, I love good design!

All in the eye of the beholder ...

2011-07-27T20:43:00.005+01:00

I was saddened by the death of Lucian Freud on July 20th - he was an incredible artist whose forceful and undeniable physical presence of people and things was a bold example of how he challenges modern notions of pure beauty.

On Another, I read this post today which was so well written I need not re-write it but share the passion with you:

"I've always been interested in extremes, but I'm not interested in doing freaks. I want to paint ordinary people with the attention freaks might get if they appeared in public. I don't want to use the fact that someone may be made differently as a point of interest."

Bold, brilliant and brutal, there are many ways to describe the paintings by Lucian Freud, but all descriptions come down to the fact that he portrayed his subjects with a clear, incisive directness rarely seen in painting today. He studied humanity's flaws with a kind of avaricious hunger, peeling back the layers to reveal the insecurities lying hidden beneath. For the viewer, his portraits were like a light being switched on, a startling clarity that pierced through an anodyne world of airbrushing and makeovers.

He eschewed fashion and art movements and paid little attention to the continual re-appraisal of his work. For him it was blatantly simple; it was all about the painting. Over the years he has painted everyone from the denizens of Soho to benefit supervisors to nobility. Yet each subject received the same unflinching report whether they were the performance artist Leigh Bowery or model Jerry Hall. It is difficult to imagine a painter who will ever have the courage and sincerity to do the same again.

Lucian Michael Freud, OM, CH, was born in Berlin on December 8, 1922 and passed away at his London home on July 20, 2011.

Text by Jessica Lack"

Here are some examples of his work, most famously known is the 'Benefits Supervisor Sleeping' (second image), which sold for a staggering $33.6 million - the highest paid of art ever paid for from a living artist. And the iconic Kate Moss Masterpiece!

RHYTHM Jerk - MTV idents

2011-07-21T21:38:00.004+01:00

RHTHM JERK from MTV WORLD DESIGN STUDIO on Vimeo.

MTV have launched some new idents to define their visual identity onscreen - with four idents in total they have collaborated with agencies such as The Mill and ilovedust.

The one that I think has the strongest creative concept was designed and directed by Carl Addy from The Mill - called 'Rhythm Jerk' which shows five bespoke pop-up toys dancing collapsing and jerking to music. They include Metal Dude, Weather Man, Bangle Gal, Bananamana and Sumo who went through to the final film. The pop-up toys remind me of the childhood toy with the spring underneath that uncontrollably collapses and springs back to life when released. Obviously there was a lot of editing and skill involved to direct the timing of each toys, to coordinate the dancing pattern and movement.

It is a step forward from what MTV have previously done - the more modern and younger approach seems to suit the direction of who they are aiming at and why. Nice work from all of whom were involved!

PAPER GANGSTA - SAZELI JALAL

2011-07-15T21:44:00.002+01:00

Absolutely stunning Paper Origami creations by Sazeli Jalal.

The beauty series titled "Paper Gangsta" explores colour, skilled craft, photography and drama!! The styling of the palette and model work in perfect harmony - they compliment and enhance one another - telling a picturesque, poetic story.

Beautiful!

Stone Fields

2011-07-15T20:41:00.003+01:00

Stone Fields is a project from Novastructura by Italian designer Giuseppe Randazzo - initially inspired by the work of Richard Long and the way he fills lonely landscapes with archaic stones patterns.

I love the 3D patterns created - each one evolves into something different, creating a beautiful piece of art. They are in fact created by a piece of software - too technical to explain or worth mentioning - but the use of how trial and error can create outputs that over deliver the initial brief is what intrigues me. They may be a poor show of the work of Richard Long - but the experimentation involved impresses my naive mind!

THE CONTEXT IS THE CONTENT

2011-07-12T20:34:00.002+01:00

Dave Trott is a fantastic blogger - his posts are usually quite deep, contextual and require a focused mind - and this post is by no means an easy read, but it is a good read! And the way he explains the point that he is making is an acquired taste - so feel free to skim read but make sure you take it in - because they are insightful and educational - and they may do your business some good!

The Context is the Content

When you’re getting an underground train, do you ever stop to listen to the buskers?
Nope, me neither.
The reason you’re in the underground is to get a train.
You’re not down there to listen to live performances by street musicians.
You’ve got something else on your mind.
And that’s not just in London.
It’s pretty much the same the world over.
I’ve used underground transit systems in New York, Paris, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo.
I’ve never noticed anyone standing around listening to buskers.
People are too busy getting on with their lives.
Going where they’re going.
The Washington Post recently filmed people walking past a busker.
He was playing classical violin in the DC Metro station, at quarter to eight on a cold winter morning.
About two thousand people walked past him.
Only six actually stopped to listen for a few minutes.
Several young children tried to stop and listen.
But their parents pulled them away.
The busker played for an hour.
Out of 2,000 people who walked past him, 20 dropped money in his violin case.
That’s 1%.
About the return you’d expect for direct mail.
So far no surprises.
The interesting part is the part that isn’t obvious.
The Washington Post had set up the experiment using the concert violinist Joshua Bell as the busker.
The previous week he had sold out a concert hall in Boston, with seats averaging $100 each.
The violin he was playing in that Metro station was worth $3.5 million.
He was playing six pieces by Bach.
The same six pieces he’d played the previous week.
Amongst the most beautiful and intricate music ever written.
The box office receipts at the concert hall were $2 million to hear that music.
Here it was free.
And no one wanted it.
The point is, it’s all about context.
The people who went to see Joshua Bell in concert had prepared themselves for weeks for the experience.
They sat in a hushed hall and concentrated on Joshua Bell on stage.
They stopped whatever else they were doing for that hour.
The people in the Metro didn’t do any of that.
This was just something happening as they went by.
At best an irrelevance, at worst an annoyance.
Now we all know it was actually a beautiful piece of art.
But only in the right place.
In this context it was the wrong thing in the wrong place.
That’s what a lot of people currently working in advertising don’t understand.
They think we’re just here to make a work of art.
An interesting technique, a stunning piece of film, full of delicate nuances, something everyone who’s worked on it can be proud of.
The director, the musicians, the sound engineer, the editor, the digital graphics guys.
They think we’re here to make a brilliant piece of craft.
But where it has to work isn’t a concert hall.
Or an art gallery.
Where it has to work is in people’s lives.
On TV, on posters, in magazines, on radios, on laptop screens.
On the street, in the living room, in the car, at the office.
And yes, even on the underground.
We have to think about this.
Think about the context.
Beautiful pieces of art work in art galleries, and in museums, and in concert halls.
Anywhere where people are expecting them.
Now take a look at the places were advertising has to work.
The other night on TV I saw a commercial that had some terrific animation.
My wife and children all work in advertising.
I told them all about it.
The lighting, the framing, the camera angles, the editing.
They said let’s see it, let’s look it up on YouTube.
The trouble was I couldn’t remember who it was for.
It was a terrific piece of craft, I remembered every single detail.
I just couldn’t remember who it was for.
And I work in advertising.
If I can’t remember it, what chance have the punters got?

I’m not saying don’t do art.
I’m saying do art that works in the context it’s supposed to work in.

Philippe Halsman - JUMPOLOGY

2011-07-05T21:51:00.004+01:00

Stunning, emotive Jumpology photography by Philippe Halsman.
Pure happiness and emotion captured in one shot - un-staged, and priceless!!

Halsman claimed the jumps revealed character that was otherwise hidden. "When you ask a person to jump, his attention is mostly directed toward the act of jumping and the mask falls so that the real person appears"

He photographed many comedians and celebrities in the 1950's and here are some of the best.

Ian Stevenson

2011-07-05T21:25:00.004+01:00

Ian Stevenson's work will make you laugh - his combination of words and imagery entertains the everyday life, and his use of illustration and comic style approach is funny and light-hearted.

"Ians influences of the everyday strangeness of people and the world around him shines through in his odd world of distorted characters. Drawing on walls, floors, rubbish and anything else he can find, his works bright cheery colours draw you into a sometimes dark world ..."

I loved it - especially the 'butt-cheek woman'.
Check his work out here

HABITAT - THE END.

2011-07-05T21:08:00.003+01:00

I was very sad to hear the news of of Habitat last week - the store has history (nearly 50 years of it!), style, modern design and above all recognition. Some may question what it means to shoppers these days? Retro & vintage now cater for our needs and line our shelves, but it seems the some what over-priced items in Habitat just do not compete with the likes of Ikea and Clas Ohlson - very sad but true!

CONOR CRONIN

2011-06-28T21:36:00.002+01:00

Conor Cronin - is a 25 year old Art Director & Graphic Designer who is based in Barcelona. He has an interesting portfolio of work and an equally impressive work experience to date including Design Agencies such as ODD, London and Base, Spain.

I love his project called 'Adaption' - a campaign for Barcelona City Council, a peculiar mix of intriguing colour combination and art direction of a male and female model covered in paint. Really moving but speechless at the same time.

His website is also cool - simple but clever navigation when you load the homepage - definitely very different from anything I've seen recently. Well worth a look here.

F ' E L D

2011-06-28T21:12:00.003+01:00

I have found an amazing digital and graphic design studio that are seriously cutting edge, unique and down right good at what they do!

"FIELD is a studio for digital art and graphic design based in London they use computational design, interactive technology, and generative strategies to create images with a life of their own.

Inspired by the patterns of nature and the dynamics of life, FIELD‘s visuals take up on our shared ideas of the world. Familiar motifs appear in a world of abstraction and imagination in their poetic and associative works.

Their projects take shape in illustration and animation, interactive installations and realtime generative visuals. FIELD has created work for global brands and cultural institutions, while their experimental films and installations have been shown at festivals and galleries around Europe and in the U.S."

To begin with, their site is beautiful - strong interaction between viewer and graphics, emotional to the movements of you mouse/touch. You must take the time to experience it! A spectacular connection is created and it got me hooked! Their navigation and links to projects are also well designed - nice font & chosen colour palette throughout. They have worked on projects for the likes of MUSE, RedBull and Xebox and it is an impressive portfolio.

Incredible work - definitely worth a look!

EvianBabies

2011-06-21T20:10:00.007+01:00

Absolutely brilliant - I only saw this last night and loved it, it was so fun and like-able that it would be hard not to make you smile!!

I read on Leanne's Blog (Advert Junkie LD) about how she won an Evian Baby T-shirt and thought what a great campaign it was - get people to take pictures of them wearing the T-shirt - encourage fans to join in the dancing fun via a website and iPhone app that allows them to become actors in the video and wham! You've got yourself a brand experience...

It proposes that we're all babies inside... and BETC Euro RSCG have executed this video from the Print campaign released last year - it captures spirit, movement and energy. Does it reflect the Brand or Bottled Water? Some may say it benefits the entirety of the bottled water industry rather than Evian in particular - I don't agree or disagree. I think it is clever, has an awe of spontaneity and makes the viewer smile...

__________

2011-06-21T20:07:00.000+01:00

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IYA Studio

2011-06-19T21:13:00.004+01:00

London based IYA Studio collaborates with like-minded clients to create innovative and well crafted ideas in the fashion, lifestyle and sport sectors. I originally found this site on a Site Inspire and only after looking through their work did I realise how great the work was, not only do I love the work but the layout of their website as well. Simplicity and great interaction with the images allow the viewer to easily guide their way through and enjoy the work.

I in particular loved the Hudson Lookbooks - great product selling as well as design. Photography is a powerful tool and when used to its advantage it can make a brand seem prestige and luxurious. Well used I reckon! (See below)

Hudson Lookbooks

The Manchester School of Art & Design Show

2011-06-19T20:11:00.007+01:00

The invites and branding for the School's show were A4 and very different from last year! They are trying to incorporate the type of students and peers that make up over 1000 students that graduate this year - I think the branding is particularly strong - it pieces together each person and it retrospect summarises the 2011 graduates as a unity of creative people, whether from a fine art, graphic or photography background.

And below the D&AD Degree Show Branding and some highlights from the show - which again had a strong presence running throughout the fourth floor - not to mention it was most likely was the busiest department!! I agree so! Find all the highlights on their website which features all the students work.

It's that time of year again

2011-06-16T21:20:00.004+01:00

Yes I am afraid to say it but it's that time of year again!!
Has a year really gone that quick?? It seems so...and without me and even noticing!

The next round of Art and Design Degree Shows kicks off this week - Salford University starts on the 16.06.2011 titled "My Big Fat Show" and our very own The Manchester School Of Art starts on Friday 17.06.2011 titled "On Your Marks 2011".

It doesn't feel like a year since we graduated last year - but that's a good thing, most people said that it would go so quick...and it certainly has! Placements, free-lance work, and now finally a job has taken over the past year for me and I will be toasting my glass tomorrow for the next round of budding designers that will embrace the wider world. I wish them all the luck and hope the best for them where ever they may go...

The Manchester School of Art Degree show:
On Your Marks 2011

Salford University Degree show:
My Big Fat Show

Yulia Brodskaya

2011-06-16T21:03:00.005+01:00

With an international reputation Yulia Brodskaya creates innovative paper illustrations and beautiful designs - she explores and experiments with typography, paper, and highly detailed craft objects.

She combines painting, origami and collage in her work and as you can see below they are beautiful in all forms...true dedication and hard work really does pay off. Such intricate detail goes into each piece and it must be so time consuming - but I bet hugely satisfying!!

More of her work can be found here.

VOLT Magazine

2011-06-14T21:22:00.004+01:00

"Volt magazine is a creative hybrid that we created to showcase original (specifically commissioned) work from some of the most directional and vital international fashion talents that are fuelling the British scene right now."

- It needs no more explanation, just explore and enjoy some of the best Fashion talent there is!
My favourite examples are below, I am drawn to the art direction and styling of both - they combine saturated colour, beautiful photography and most of all they look amazing!

Le Cafe Noir

Monstopolis

PRINTOUT

2011-06-07T21:44:00.003+01:00

If anyone has a few hours spare on Thursday night, 6.30pm onwards - this looks interesting especially if you're interested in Magazines. Not only will they have speakers from Article and Blanket but you can buy and discuss independent publishing in the North.

More info on the event see Stack Magazines.

LOVE Creative

2011-06-07T21:18:00.004+01:00

LOVE Creative produce incredibly creative and outstanding work, they are at the top of my list and I thoroughly enjoying updating myself on their latest work and reading their blog posts (whoever writes them - you are funny!).

Their Latest campaign for Umbro - 'Stealth', consists of daring straplines that probe your innerself and make you think twice. The imagery is engaging and directly connects with the copy - the oversized font gives nothing away, but works perfectly with the tone of voice. Love it! (cheesy...)

I love that LOVE are doing so well - I have a huge passion for design studios in Manchester, and I am happy to celebrate their achievements because I don't feel that London outshines us up North. I would just love to part of one...someday...soon!

MORE from Moxy Creative House

2011-06-07T21:01:00.003+01:00

I found these images from Moxy Creative House on another site whilst scouring the web - and although I have blogged about them before, I just love the simplicity of the ads. Beautiful illustration, simple concept and although there may be a slight repetition...I like the fact that there is!

A DAILY FIX OF ...

2011-05-31T20:16:00.005+01:00

YAY!EVERYDAY is a very special site - it has an ethos similar to my own as they love to share inspiration. They don't selfishly hoard images for ourselves - they share the inspiration, website and artist behind the work that you can see on their site.

And I love it - its fun to view and use, and the layout of the images allows all the work to shine working in harmony with one another. I strongly believe that this is the most positive way to celebrate design and design that inspires others...

Please enjoy their site here

Moxy Creative House

2011-05-19T21:37:00.006+01:00

Some very interesting work by Moxy Creative House - they combine illustration with graphical elements in most of their work - see their website here to see some more gems from their portfolio!

The poster series above of the Rock 'n' Roll story has been told in many ways but they use twenty of music's most stylish dressers - each musician is represented by one of their most distinctive outfits. My favourites are those that don't really challenge the artist - I prefer them to be literal!

Cadburys 'Dancing Clothes'

2011-05-17T20:45:00.002+01:00

The latest Cadbury's video which launched on the 15th May, is most definitely a glass and a half full! Not only have we seen a Guerilla drumming, eyebrow party freak out and now it seems - Clothes Dancing!! The larger than life clothes and props were specially made, and over 2 weeks dancers prepared the moves which would ultimately create the theatrical performance.

A Cadbury spokesman said: ‘They were effectively blind within the suits. They had to rehearse heavily to ensure they could perform without crashing into things.’

Sam Hibbard, from advertising agency Fallon, (who always produce such amazing creative and provocative work) said: ‘People now are so used to CGI so we wanted to create the ad in a traditional very lo-fi way. It’s almost a performance rather than an ad.’

And I love it! As always, you might question the relevance to chocolate - but who cares when it makes people smile, enjoy life and it has the feel good factor.

125 years of Coca-Cola

2011-05-14T11:11:00.003+01:00

Exclusive to Selfridges, Coca–Cola have reproduced four of their very first bottle designs for the brand's 125th Anniversary. Packaged in a commemorative wooden crate, this iconic symbol of American culture makes a wonderful collector's item.

Whilst out and about I have seen lots of promotional work for the anniversary of Coca-Cola 125 years and I think what better way to celebrate a brand that has such a huge heritage and is loved by so many. Here are just some of their ads over the recent years.

Street Art London Tour - Happening NOW

2011-05-14T10:57:00.003+01:00

I saw this advertised the other day and it looked so good - It is shame I am not in London this weekend but what better way to spend a Saturday!

The journey takes you through East End of London to the streets of Old Street, Shoreditch and the Brick Lane which are seen as the epi-centre for Street Art, not only in London but the UK. The ever-changing nature of East London's street art means that the street scene changes on a weekly basis. During the Street Art Walking tour you will see works from well know street artists such as Ben Eine, Invader, D*Face, Roa, Stik, Anthony Lister, Swoon, Conor Harrington and Ronzo to name a few.

The tours take place regularly, for more info find it here.

BONOBO :: Black Sands

2011-05-10T19:39:00.003+01:00

My day would not be the same without Bonobo - a British musician, producer and DJ.
Bonobo uses a wide variety of samples in his music combined with heavy, often complex basslines. His music generally develops linearly - with new elements such as basslines or percussion coming in one after the other.

You MUST listen if you haven't heard - music will never be the same without his immense technical and incredible skill.

BONOBO :: BLACK SANDS :: TOUR DATES :: FREE DOWNLOAD

One of my favourite songs - Enjoy.

Stockholm // A Beaut-i-licious Place

2011-05-02T19:43:00.007+01:00

If you have never been to Stockholm, Sweden ~ you must!
If you have then you will appreciate how beautiful it is.

You can do almost everything, and see almost everything ~ my visit this weekend to see my sister was a fun-filled weekend from start to finish. From watching May Day Protests, eating cake in the tallest tower, to sight seeing the city and drinking tea in remarkably amazing glass cups, to finally visiting the smallest village 'Margretelund' and watching planes pass over whilst watching the sun set.

I could have not asked for more...a thoroughly enjoyable weekend had by all!

Tacky or Spirited ?

2011-04-26T19:32:00.005+01:00

For those of you that are not in high spirits in preparation for the Royal Wedding - I bring you some cheeky reminders of those who aren't! They say over 2 billion worldwide will be watching the wedding - which you might say is a huge global following and shows great community spirit, however some people are not amused! With huge debts and a steadily growing climate, you may wonder how so much money could be made from tacky, worthless memorabilia that will no doubt litter our streets into next year ahead of the Olympic Games!

And for those of you are relishing in the full-on Britishness spirit - these are for you!
Among tasteless china cups and kitsch artefact's, there are some highly amusing fridge-freezer covers, condoms and just in case Kate leaves Will for Harry - a mug to celebrate it! Genius...

Oi Polloi ~ Pica Post

2011-04-19T20:16:00.002+01:00

A really nice bi-annual fashion zine from Manchester Male fashion Store Oi Polloi - it features 26 pages of illustration by Ben Lamb. What is shows is a more humane approach to fashion magazine styling, and how the product denotes more than just a piece of fabric - it is meant to be worn, and worn well!

The look and feel is consistent and really works well with the overarching feel of what they set out to achieve - I can imagine this appeals well with their target audience, and more so people like me who would love to get my hand on a copy!!

It's Nice That & ASOS

2011-04-15T19:22:00.002+01:00

This is very exciting news as It's Nice That collaborate with the fabulous fashion e-store ASOS to create limited edition T-Shirt Prints, including work by illustrators and designers.

Designers include some of the best young talent out there with Rob Matthews, Greg Eason, Sophie Kern, Owen Gatley and Rose Blake all making an appearance. Each buyer also get a lovely print to compliment their new purchase - don't miss out, buy them here!

Lyme Park

2011-04-14T19:21:00.003+01:00

"On the edge of the Peak District, nestling within sweeping moorland, Lyme Park is a magnificent estate. Its wild remoteness and powerful beauty contrast with one of the most famous country-house images in England – the backdrop to where Darcy meets Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice. Discover a colourful family history – from rescuing the Black Prince, sailing into exile with the Duke of Windsor, to the writing of the hit series Upstairs Downstairs. Enjoy hearing visitors play the piano as you discover impressive tapestries, clocks and beautifully furnished rooms, or escape to the park and feel miles from anywhere. "

I recently visited Lyme Park and in all honestly it is one of the loveliest Parks I have been to in some time - the breathtaking views and surreal calmness was a pleasure to part of and it was easy to fall in love with the vast openness.

My pictures highlight the 'Cage' a place that women used to watch over their men while hunting, stunning views from the 'Lanton' and finally the 'Manor House' surrounded in its own gardens.

On the next sunny day - take a visit, eat ice-cream and bake in England's finest sun!

Interesting 'FINDS' of the week ...

2011-04-10T15:53:00.003+01:00

Gotta love the humour of David Shrigley - always brings a smile to mind as his sometimes crass and dirty minded thoughts entertain us. Not for the faint hearted!!

As a passionate researcher and ideas-led Graphic Designer, I think that interesting 'finds' are an ideal source of inspiration (and no matter how many times I say this...) I am always surprised by what I come across on a daily basis. I seem to collect an immense amount of sources from the most unlikely places to the most reliable sources, so I will continue to share them with you.

Enjoy for now!

TYP-O-GRAPHY

2011-04-10T15:32:00.005+01:00

Examples of posters that combine typography and communication as the topic in conversation!

Posters included in a 2011 Calender - notice how the use of words and colours highlight what particular 'month' it is e.g. January (poster above).

Lovely use of hand drawn type and illustration - if done well (there is a lot out there at the moment!) it works in harmony together and visually appeals to the eye.

Beautiful Home Styling

2011-04-10T15:22:00.003+01:00

These are stunning examples of still life photography - great use of layout, space and colour with Home objects. Photography is an essential part of Design if used correctly and can either 'make or break' a campaign.

Enjoy!

Keetra Dean Dixon

2011-04-04T20:31:00.002+01:00

Just some of Keetra Dean Dixon's cordial invitations, her work is graphical and beautiful - exploring typography in its most natural form. Engaging and provocative.

Great website too - find it here

Khristian Mendoza

2011-04-04T20:24:00.003+01:00

Stunning visuals by Khristian Mendoza.
'Transparency' explores space in a memorable and defiant way. Beautiful!

Would love to see more of this - challenging the unexpected and the environment.

MAC : Wonder Woman

2011-03-27T14:13:00.003+01:00

Some great packaging design for a new range at MAC.
The Wonder Woman range is a collaboration between MAC and DC Comics and was launched in stores on the 3rd March.

"Wonder Woman is psychological propaganda for the new type of woman who should, I believe, rule the world,” creator William Moulton Marston once wrote of his super heroine.

With her strength, animal cunning, physical prowess and super-agility she is as much an icon for the modern day woman as she was for women in the early 1940s, when she first leapt onto the screen with her lasso of truth and indestructible bracelets. While we don’t have the bracelets a coat of red lipstick always does the trick for a sense of empowerment and thwarting of enemies."

So with this new secret weapon let the real you be unleashed!

BURO RENG

2011-03-17T18:41:00.003Z

"The best work you are not only, but as a team.
Graphic Design does not begin with form, but with language.
Communication requires inspiration and sometimes confrontation."

BURO RENG is a Design Studio based in the Netherlands - above is just one of their projects, a rare form of design that provokes a reaction and has similar views to my own when it comes to putting pen to paper. Their quote above reminds me so much of why I love design .. and where it is I want to be and the type of work I produce. Communication is so important and its great to see a studio doing it, and doing it well.

TOPSHOP 214

2011-03-17T18:31:00.003Z

Topshop has launched its 214 Magazine : a Spring Summer update on everything that is fashion!! Including trend updates, style advice and like always beautiful layout! Really nice and simple design, even on the Accessories pages - looks clean-cut and product focused.

Grab yourself a copy now - not to be missed!

FRENCH CONNECTION : Man or Woman?

2011-02-28T20:06:00.006Z

I love this Campaign - it has been featured everywhere, and more recently the latest version was released in early January and it is just as good! The design has kept consistent with the earlier work - a slight change in art direction digs deeper to allow the viewer to question and answer what the copy does not...

The campaign is also featured on the website - (see screen shots above) where viewers can watch videos and participate in discussing what it means to be a Man or a Woman. The SS11 Lookbook also is a really nice piece of design - using stunning imagery to capture the clothes and create situations that compliment how they are worn.

See the campaign here Man or Woman?

Diesel SS11 Campaign

2011-02-28T20:03:00.003Z

Diesel's latest Spring/Summer 2011 Campaign is very impressive - the 'look and feel' takes form on-line and off-line encouraging the viewer to access it within all areas. The design of the campaign is quite daring - the stunning graphics and photography really do stand out, the vibrancy of the colours complete the look - but what I love about it is that I am drawn to it...

The graphics keep me wanting more, it has become more than just a Look Book - it creates desire for the products, and for the brand. It has really nice visuals that provoke your senses - wanting you to want more, and importantly dress better!

To see the campaign for yourself (please do!!) just visit their website here.

Northwich Salt Museum & Artist Michael Hitchens

2011-02-28T19:41:00.003Z

Northwich Salt Museum is not a place where I would normally visit - however I did, and whilst it was not a particularly stimulating experience ... I found myself appreciating the typographical posters and packaging a whole lot more!

The packaging and posters of the salt was typical of that time - clean, bold and oversized. It was these that drew my attention to how it was packaged and promoted - many of us will take salt for granted, however the heritage of how it was made will remain an important part of history for the town.

Whilst at the museum - passing the toilets - I stumbled across a piece of art that did not fit entirely with the decor!! That is because is wasn't - and looking closer I found out that in fact it was the work of Michael Hitchens (Artist and Screen Print Technician at MMU) - his work mainly revolves around water-based screen printing and acrylic painted canvases. It was quite interesting to see, and I felt proud to see his work as I had never seen it in this way previously.

You can see Mike's work here and below are a few images of his work.

"Made for Evenings"

2011-02-02T20:44:00.004Z

You may have seen the recent launch of the Horlicks 'Made for evenings' campaign - a huge success to say they haven't advertised in over four years! The campaign is aimed at celebrating tea and coffee that people love to drink in the day, whilst reserving the evenings for Horlicks - Grey London have created the campaign which is backed by off-line and on-line promotions to get more people involved.

It is a pleasant watch - I myself do not drink Horlicks but I do appreciate adverts that make me stop. And want to know more - and this satisfies just that. It is nicely executed and paired with the soft undertones of people actively busy in the day, it makes me desire the moment I sit down after a long day! A perfect match!

My two favourite things ...

2011-02-02T20:35:00.004Z

The Best Thing Ever ... cheeseandburger.com literally could (and would) satisfy every temptation. Not only a visual treat but a bloody good excuse to make them!!!

A Beautiful Appeal

2011-01-25T19:36:00.003Z

As I am using the internet on a more regular basis - I want to come across sites that not only deliver grand entrances, but entice me to enter and feel like I want to click past the homepage.

In rare cases the visual appeal makes me want more, and it is then that I am hooked ... note all you web designers - there is a need to design and create the passion in what the consumer is looking at! In my example I present Established & Sons - one of the few that deliver throughout their site. Correct me if I am wrong (as I know there are plenty, plenty of amazing sites that deliver all this) but let it be a lesson to those who don't/want to notice.

A Must See ...

2011-01-25T19:35:00.005Z

At the weekend 'Black Swan' was released and there has been a lot of talk about the films success in all the media, some negative, but mostly positive - and it truly lived up to all that I expected!
From the first scene you enter the dark, wonderful and lonely world of Nina - an oppressed ballet dancer that fights off the deeper side of life to succumb to those around her.

It was truly griping and intense - I think that it simply cannot fit into one genre as it covers horror, thriller, romance and many more ... The ending will come as a surprise, so without ruining it, please go and see it - Enjoy it!

Just some of them ...

2011-01-25T19:33:00.002Z

A few of my favourite finds over the last few days.
Sources unknown but they provide me with a great source of inspiration when I am working and in my personal work - I will always be inspired by other peers, people, designers as there is such great creative design undiscovered ...

The latest in ... Fashion

2011-01-18T20:09:00.004Z

ASOS

:: They have won numerous awards for their website, not only is it superbly designed - but it has great advice & tips on the latest fashion. I particularly love the simple yet aspiring visuals that are used as promotional tools - as in the examples, the photography works beautifully with the solid and profound font. A great combination.

If you haven't, do explore as there is lots to do & get involved with at http://www.asos.com/

Topshop

:: Who can not admire Topshop? For all their flaws, joys & over-priced clothes (to some maybe ..) they have great design taste. The SS11 Look Book is at the tip of trend setting this season and I am mouth watering at the bold, block colours paired with pale lustrous tones that are oozing summer. It captures my attention and makes me want more ... their website also is an experience - from the latest trends, features and blog you can literally live in Topshop if need be! Enjoy

MORE TH>N FREEMAN

2011-01-03T08:05:00.007Z

You may have noticed the recent release of the MORE TH>N Freeman TV adverts, such excellent copy and art direction needs a massive round of applause! They create a new wave of complete motionless advertising that captures the attention of the viewer straight from the word go ... you are totally absorbed in the voice and moving image (most of what many of us will take for granted, i.e. car tyres and roof tiles).

It also seems that MORE TH>N are branching out in terms of social media and have created interactive and engaging ways that you can experience the brand, check out there "I'm MORE TH>N Freeman" Facebook page http://on.fb.me/MT-Y .

Their mission is "We do More", and they have captured it beautifully!

18-2120 ... A New You?

2011-01-02T18:34:00.005Z

"Pantone's fortune cookie for 2011 tells us that "Energising Honeysuckle Lifts Spirits and Imparts Confidence to Meet Life's Ongoing Challenges"."

What a difference a colour makes ... the new Honey Suckle 18-2120 has high expectations for the coming year, the start to a New Year, a New You and all that we (I) may achieve ...

I feel that this is going to be a challenge - 2011 will see me taking my first steps into the big wide world of real life, an actual pay cheque and an opportunity that I had not predicted, so lets say its going to be ... fun!

Santa brought me a very special gift this year - my very own Pantone Mug (I adore 2010's turquoise 3272 c and it is my favourite colour in the whole world!!) which will serve me magically - thank you Santa!! I also thought I'd share another special gift - my very own Upside Down Press Notebook courtesy of Anna and Maaya.

L/ADY WARHOL

2010-12-21T10:18:00.002Z

A Lady indeed!!
This one of a kind exhibition at the Fotografiska Museum in Stockholm was a true delight!
Some background on the exhibition;

"It´s 1981. Andy Warhol is to be 53 years old later in the summer. He and his old friend Christopher Makos visits an elegant wig shop in the 57th Street. The two friends heads off to the photo studio with eight wigs. 48 intense hours and 349 images later the result – Lady Warhol – is completed.

”Andy and I were relaxed enough to let his grace and his awkwardness show. I see in these images openness and vulnerability and Andy’s need to express himself. These were parts of Andy that he rarely exposed in public, but I remember them well.” explains Makos.
Magnus Naddermier"

The superb essence captured within the images is so unique, and portrays Warhol in a completely different manner - a softer secret emerging. The stunning photography and art direction drives the images further and allows the mind to wonder.

See more info here.

A visit to Hyper Island, Stockholm.

2010-12-19T18:49:00.004Z

Last weekend I had the pleasure of going to visit Hyper Island - somewhere I had wanted to visit since learning more about the opportunities available and the amazing career paths that would open doors in the creative industry.

I organised to meet with a current student and the recruitment manager whom made my stay even more pleasant - I seemed to fit right in and became one of the students (something very similar to uni life) and it felt really good! The atmosphere was busy as they all had strict deadlines, but the working environment was more like agency life than university and it was interesting just to listen, offer my advice and be consumed by it all.

In the images you will see the three different courses on this floor; E-commerce, Interactive Art Director and Digital Motion.

I thoroughly enjoyed myself - a totally new experience and one that I may consider with the new school opening in Manchester, which is an incredible opportunity for professionals and students in this industry!

Hyper Island in Manchester ... Yes Please !

2010-12-07T11:16:00.002Z

I regularly update myself with news from Hyper Island, as I have been keen to visit the school in Sweden. This nice surprise of it locating in Manchester's Northern Quarter was a treat! The school operates a program developed by the US Military in 1960s which required leadership skills and life/death decision making.

"The programme's creators realised that the leadership and communication skills were the best way to train personnel for the rapidly changing environment in which they found themselves."

It sounds exciting, with 92% of graduates getting a job before they've finished school - sounds more impressive than ever as it widely recognised across the creative industry.

I am visiting Sweden at the end of this week and I hope to meet the fabulous David McCall, this will definitely be a talking point not to be missed! Just hope he is free ...

A Visual Treat !

2010-12-02T16:17:00.004Z

Exactly that.
A Visual Treat.
Truly Magical.

Enjoy.

http://www.jimcarrey.com/

Helen Butterworth

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