one man's project...

I'VE always liked art projects that take the form of a daily process. How much is one capable of achieving in a day? How does this evolve over a number of days? And what is the cumulative effect of this?

'mexico drug war : made in the US'

'passive smoking "kills 600,000" worldwide'

Johnny Selman's project 'BBCx365' intends to 'bridge the knowledge gap between current events and the American public.' It involves taking one news story every day for a year (from the BBC) and designing a poster in reaction to its headline. Through visual stimulation Selman hopes to ignite an interest in world news amongst his American audience, accompanying his images with a link to further information on the article in question.

The stories span a range of themes and continents, Selman being unafraid of selecting features that shed light on aspects that some in the US may not be so eager to acknowledge. And the posters - though always clear and simple - vary in their use of text and graphic imagery; at times shocking, at times mildly humorous.

'how south african doctors make life-and-death choices'

Ultimately I believe that this is an extremely positive approach to addressing an issue that, although acute within American culture, is probably not unique to it. I would like to think that I keep abreast of most major news stories. And I am always ready to debate the media's representation of the world in which we live. But I must admit that there are many issues raised on the BBCx365 site that I was not aware of, and I am grateful for this means through which to learn more about them. 

 

'snow disrupts travel across northern europe'

The method through which Selman has chosen to tackle this project is certainly an effective one. By reducing the story to bite-size pieces - headline/striking image - he is not only allowing the audience to digest a wide (albeit basic) selection of information, but also provoking a desire to expand on one's understanding of it. 

However, I do fear that those who are getting most excited/involved in following the project are not the ones that it is at it's core addressing. Therefore I will be interested to observe how it evolves, who it reaches, and the level to which it actually succeeds in effecting any change within the American psyche.   

'shark attacks in egypt's red sea probed by experts'

play time

NOW I never thought I'd say this but... I would love for my friends and I to go back to school for a break.

I know. Not your typical idea of fun.

Though I suppose school's the wrong word. I’d like to go to class (excuse the American twang). Not just any class. But Le Classe. A wonderfully restored old village school in Belgium.

La Classe is one of two converted properties by Anne and Jean-Luc Laloux (the other being Les Duves, an open-plan gite not far from Brussels). They are architectural photographers who have travelled the world seeking exceptional homes designed by the best contemporary architects. The outcome of this has been a desire to "create beautifully appointed holiday accommodation which combines both the conviviality of group living with the aesthetic pleasure of great design."

With a home cinema, giant-games playroom, basketball court, Wendy house, table football and Wurlitzer jukebox you have the freedom to play like a kid again. Or even try your hand at playing 'grown-ups' in the underground bar, fantastic entertaining space upstairs and outdoor dining area complete with BBQ.  

Although its suggested use is one of work retreats and seminars, I propose an escape  with a group of friends - in the height of summer - to this idyllic getaway. A capacity of 21 ensuring that there would be more than enough room for everyone. 

With stocks of all the local wine, beer and edible delicacies that could possibly be acquired, a long weekend could indulgently be whiled away: lounging in the large garden, cooling off indoors, moving on from an evening BBQ to late night sounds of the jukebox in the basement bar, and finally flopping onto the crisp white sheets of a bed in one of the  immaculately finished en-suite bedrooms. 

And all this within a surrounding of sophisticated design that does not impose upon the rustic charms of the property - if anything effortlessly complementing them.

My one complaint would be a lack of pool. Though perhaps that would look a tad out of place when the property is in use for seminars and courses. 

and the winner of most bizarre Christmas present goes to...

mleczna : milk (chocolate)

...THIS curiously designed bar of chocolate, from relatives in Poland. Apparently the image is by a well known Polish painter. That is no excuse. I question the mind of a) the person who deemed it a suitable idea to put a woman breastfeeding on the front of a bar of milk chocolate, and b) those who were responsible for bringing the idea to fruition.

Of course I cannot simply judge those who produced this packaging. I am also very much alarmed by the fact that I am related to a person who was clearly oblivious to its disturbing nature. This is one edible gift that I will not be breaking into anytime soon. If ever.

oh my, what a lovely package you have...

TrueCoffee hot dog : design by subconcious co

LOVELY PACKAGE is a site dedicated to showcasing the best that package design has to offer. Recognisable brands sit alongside small businesses and student work. And besides sourcing the examples themselves, you are invited to submit your own. 

My favourite category is Student Work. The ingenuity is fantastic, displaying some of the quirkiest yet functional ideas. Here are a few of my favourites:

jean-maxime landry : tofu

neal fletcher : spaghetti

yeongkeun : disposable butter

Lovely Package's appeal is broad, whether you are doing research for your own design work or on package design in general, you may also choose to browse for gift inspiration or simply for some entertaining pieces that will put a smile on your face. 

profile: Soojin Kang

SOOJIN Kang views today's culture of mass production and disposable fashion as deeply problematic. Her suggestion is that we consider our basic needs against our possessions and use the materials already within our means wisely and beautifully. One of her outcomes has been a collection of 'dressed furniture'.

Kang's sensitive approach has resulted in pieces that - through the use of traditional crafts - have been rejuvenated, yet still retain their original identity. These suede covered chairs are particular favourites of mine. And her jewellery is pretty interesting too. Take the bracelet below: antique chain and plastic is combined to create, in Kang's words, designs that are both 'unique and meaningful'. Visit her site soojinkang.net for more information and images.

sleeping out of the box

IN my opinion good design has as much - if not more - to do with ergonomics and effective function as it does with aesthetics. It always comes as a disappointment when that cosy looking sofa turns out to be a back-breaker, or if that beautiful coffee cup is impossible to grasp when filled with piping-hot liquid. And yet, aesthetics are important. And of course must be appealing. 

When designing, one should endeavour to extend that moment of joy experienced when presented with a visual delight right through to its utilisation - be the function practical or conceptual. Sleeping Out of the Box appears to be giving up-and-coming designers the opportunity to prove that they can do this. Therefore providing a platform from which they may to form a solid reputation.  

This Dutch guesthouse is offering you the chance to: 'explore the unknown designers, experience their designs, make memories, fall asleep to the sounds of the city of Ghent'. By this they mean that every three months a new young designer is invited to set the tone of The Studio accommodation, whilst above it in The Flat,  Maison Caro is also joined by 'friends' on a regular basis. As a result, the guests are able to not only admire their stylish surroundings but also interact with them - putting new design approaches to the test. In effect a type of 'try before you buy' concept. A brilliant idea and no doubt a potentially lucrative one for the designers themselves.

I discovered Sleeping Out of the Box on Pauline Egge's Petite Passport, one of my favourite blogs of the moment. Whether you're looking for inspiration on where to eat/sleep/drink for your next trip abroad, or simply indulging in fantasies of globetrotting, this is a blog in which you can lose yourself. The places featured range from luxury hotels, quirky shops, various eateries, hidden bars and exhibitions, each chosen for their design credentials. Not all have been personally tried and tested, which provides a perfect excuse to pack your bags and find out for yourself...