Sigur and Clive

Sigur Rós- Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust (2008), The Boys are Back (2009)

I have longed to see The Boys are Back since I heard rave reviews about it on Radio 2. It was definitely everything that I hoped it would be- emotional, sensitive, spiritual and captivating. Sigur Rós provides a wonderful accompaniment to the story and the stunning scenery of South Australia- it really is a delight and I urge you to watch it! Although, make sure those tissues are close to hand.

Album artwork at its best

Bombay Bicycle Club- I Had The Blues But I Shook Them Loose, Metronomy- Pip Paine, Hockey- Mind Chaos, Little Dragon- Machine Dreams, New Junk Aesthetic- Everytime I Die

I just wanted to share some of my favourite album covers from 2009. Whether it be simplistic shapes, blue Futura type layered on top of a black and white photograph, D.I.Y. cut and paste methods or the abstract painstakingly detailed illustration approach, these album covers each carry the artists unique energy, soul and a clear statement.

Christmas memories

Gift bag from the German Market, Birmingham 2009

I found this recently. At the time I remember keeping it because it just oozes everything folk and craft-like. The German Market in Birmingham is absolutely delightful. We go every year and make sure we buy something to get us in the Christmassy mood- usually a hand-decorated candle. Not forgetting the garlic bread, which is outstanding!!

2 Tone Graphics

The original 2 Tone graphical elements were created by The Chrysalis graphic designer, David Storey.

As an avid fan of anything to do with British music history, this story of the music label 2 Tone, which features in the recent NME Magazine, is a must-read. The article talks in some detail about Jerry Dammers aspiration to create graphical elements that were so simple, yet they captured the very essence of the label; “The black and white checkerboard harked back to the mod era, but provided the perfect symbol of the racial integration the label proudly boasted”.

A must-see!

I went to see 'Up in the Air' last night. It completely surprised me. I sat there for the first half wondering why I hadn't chosen to see 'It's Complicated' or even 'Did you hear about the Morgans'-something that would be a guaranteed feel-good. But then I suddenly got what the film was all about: its essence, its point. I've always said if a film has the ability to move me: to make me cry, and really pull on my heartstrings, then it's something special. Well, Up in the Air did make me shed a tear, or three. I really recommend it- but you have to stick with it. I can't stop playing a song from the soundtrack- 'Help Yourself' by Sad Brad Smith. George Clooney's character goes on a journey of self-realization. It's a really poignant film, and leaves you thinking about your life and what's really important.

Devastation

Haiti Earthquake: January 12th, 2010 (7.0-magnitude)

Images courtesy of National Geographic

Catastrophic scenes. I can't even begin to imagine the fear and

the chaos.

No limits

Divine examples of the endless possibilities of typographic usage in advertising. These ads are just so clever. Every single detail is carefully considered. Images courtesy of Smashing Magazine. Particularly a fan of TRASH- any typography drawn with the beauty of the human hand is a favourite of mine.

Greg Ferris

I sometimes feel starved of creativity, distracted by thoughts of angst and worry. But outside inspiration is something I look for to get my mind off such self-pity. Greg Ferris' creations are epic and indeed, inspirational. His fusion of different mediums and appropriation techniques has created sensational layout designs. I don't care to understand them, but I admire these pieces of work because they are bursting with energy and life. Check out his website here.

Casiotone for the Painfully Alone

Album Covers: Casiotone for the Painfully Alone

Top: Vs Children (2009)

Middle: Etiquette (2006)

Bottom: Advance Base Battery Life (2009)

Even if you aren't familiar with a band, I really believe you should get an essence of their spirit from the album artwork. I love these charming illustrations, and they confirm Casiotone for the Painfully Alone's dreamy, rich and sensitive sound. Go check them out on Spotify... I did!

Beautiful Illustrations

Amy Dover- Images courtesy of the Behance Network

Haven't posted for a while, but having got back to my beautiful home for the Christmas period, its time to get back on track! Just been scanning the net and came across Amy Dover. Using the simplistic medium of graphite pencil, her illustrations are detailed and dramatic. I love her work, and these pieces inspire me to draw... The horse is stunning. I love it when illustrators draw on to textured/used paper; i love the contrast between the layers and depth, against the perfect drawing. Check her website out here.