Gesign

Well, I'm afraid they've gone and done it again.

Just picked up my copy of Plastic Beach; the latest offering from the ever experimental Gorillaz. They've reinvented themselves with each album, both musically and in terms of design. I'm a massive fan of their illustrative style and brilliant animation. The Gorillaz are a unique outfit, shrouded in mystery. They just get their heads down, and create excellent music; fronted by highly likable digital characters. A sublime blend.

Oh and the albums an absolute winner by the way...buy it

Decode

I took a trip down to London this weekend, mostly to watch my team (proudly) fall to defeat at Stamford Bridge. But while I was down there, I noticed a poster on the tube for a digital design exhibition at the V&A called "Decode". This took my interest, especially since taking the digital design module last semester. It was honestly one of the best exhibitions I have ever been to. The interactivity, innovation, and originality on show was incredible. It was such a fun experience to see people from all backgrounds and cultures coming together and really having genuine fun with art. Far too often I think people feel restricted in galleries. Be quiet...don't take photographs, walk around slowly from piece to piece - remarking on how inspirational it all is. I appreciate this element to galleries, and it is nice to be somewhere peaceful...but this environment I found to be very refreshing, and shown art to be as it should...a pleasurable and accessible tactile experience.

Above are a few snaps I took while I was in there...I think the exhibitions open for about a month more so hurry down if you get the chance...its not one to miss.

Book him ref

I thought it was about time I blogged about some of my own work for a change. Here is a selection of pages from a book that I have recently produced. My concept was based around creating the artwork for an album of my life. I've loosely based my ideas on album artwork, drawing inspiration from a range of artists and photographers to create something that I feel really reflects me both as a designer and a person.

The text may seem a little odd or vague, but this is because I've tried to blend the concept of song lyrics with my own personal thoughts and feelings. This I feel has added some depth to the imagery, and allows the audience to look at things from a different perspective.

I've tried not to over complicate the pages, and utilise the space I had effectively. With a CD booklet sized scale, space was a great concern for me. But I think that the space has been filled nicely; not too compressed, and not exactly bare either.

When it came to choosing a colour scheme, I looked to restrict myself as much as possible. Much of this book comprises of black and white, and pale shades of colour. This way, when I have opted for bright colours it really stands out. This limited swatch has helped to maintain a quite serious tone throughout the book, which was always one of my aims. I wanted the pages to share a consistent personality.

Hydro74

It only seems appropriate to begin blogging by talking a bit about one of my favourite websites - hydro74.com

I came across Joshua Smiths site a couple of years ago now during college, yet I still find myself coming back for more! I just really love the gloss and general attitude of his work, it's so striking. His typographic and poster work in particular look immense. When looking through his extensive portfolio, it's clear to see that some pretty impressive commisions have came his way over the years...I'm highly jealous.

What do you think of his work? Admittedly it is an acquired taste, prehaps not one for the purests amongst you. There is clearly a very brash, americanised feel going on. For me, it is very good graphic design. I think it's highly important for you to develop a distinct style as a designer, it gives your work that sense of instant recongition. This is something I'd love to achieve one day...for now, I think I'm still searching for my niche.

Thats it for my first post, short and sweet. I jsut wanted to share this brilliant catalogue of work with you all...

Keep up the good work Josh.

http://www.hydro74.com/