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Archive for inspire – Page 10

inspired by . Damien Hirst Spots

It was just a way of pinning down the joy of color.” ~Damien Hirst

I have to admit that in looking at Damien Hirst’s spot paintings, it’s still quite difficult to pin down the joy of color. It’s almost explosive. I was sifting through some of my browser bookmarks again and came across the online gallery of Hirst’s work in “The Complete Spot Paintings 1986–2011,” which was shown at the Gagosian Gallery simultaneously in all their locations earlier this year. [I really appreciate it when galleries offer an online version of some of their exhibits — very fun for a Mississippi girl!]

The Spot paintings are so simple — mostly spots of color in grids — but the “joy of color” as Hirst described it is very present. And, even though the grid formats may seem staid, that joy is still quite uncontained. In fact, the spots almost seem to be in constant motion with various shapes trying to emerge.

Seeing the photos again was a very refreshing reminder of the power (and joy) of color. See for yourself…

VIEW THE ONLINE EXHIBIT

favorite things . Be Prints

You know I’m a huge fan of hand-printed designs. I have fallen in love with the “BE” prints from Honeycomb Print Shop. These imperatives paired with bold type and bright colors make me want every one. And, you can even suggest a “be” phrase for printing!

inspired by . Grow House Grow

I’m so inspired by the patterns and creative concept behind the wallpaper designs of Grow House Grow. The self-described “narrative-inspired” designs clearly have a story to tell. But, looking at them carefully, they make me want to do more than just read the story (which is lovingly displayed for each pattern on their website). The patterns make me want to write my own story. Perhaps the words of Grow House Grow say it best…

“It can be argued that a good story–and we all have one–inspires and gives meaning to the world around us. From personal histories and architectural details, to souvenirs and heirlooms we hold dear, it’s important to fill our living spaces with things that create an environment that is both personal and universal; just as a good story does. Each pattern Grow House Grow creates has a different tale to tell, and endeavors to spark the creativity, mystery, and comfort of stories in those around us.”

Patterns shown: “Ode to the Unhasty” in guava | “Cottontail” in sweetpea | “Christopher” in thistle | “Ms. Ward” in mantis

[images courtesy growhousegrow.com]

favorite things . Map Keepsakes

I was weeding through my browser bookmarks this week and found the serendipity of a collection staring me in the face. As a graphic designer, I’ve always admired the ability of maps to graphically depict places — places that are often layered with so much more meaning for us than simple lines and symbols. At some point, I’ve bookmarked these three unique approaches to keepsake maps — the kind that hold our hearts near to specific places in a tangible way. Enjoy!

1. Map quilts from Haptic Lab: Their baby and full-size quilts like this one showing New Orleans are available for several major cities, and they also offer the option of custom quilts created from the place of your choosing.

2. Brass map pendant necklaces from Brass and Chain: I love the antique look of this jewelry, and you may choose your own place. I was also smitten by the bracelet option where you can choose six city destinations.

3. Custom map children’s floor maps from Board Stiff: Such a clever idea! Your city or neighborhood map of choice becomes a custom-designed vinyl floor mat ready for all the matchbox cars you can find.

favorite thing . Conversation Starter

This pillow from Heather Lins Home just makes me smile. I’ve mentioned Heather’s work before. I love her clever and simple designs and her exquisite use of typography.

I’ve been reading a lot lately about creating a more intentional digital life. Most of us are plugged in constantly. We see an ever-broadening view of the world — but often behind the glass of our laptop, smart phone or tablet screen. As I devote more and more of my work time to designing for digital media, and as I develop more and more client relationships with folks I may never see, I’m reminded that actual conversation is no small thing. No sir. I hope I’m taking the time to voice  what matters.

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