Selected Projects

Archive for March, 2011


Manchester Design Symposium

Today I’m heading back up north for the first Manchester Design Symposium which will discuss the value of design. This is an important issue for the design industry and one that I have been considering for a while.

Speakers at the event include illustrator Si Scott, Bruno Maag of type foundry Dalton Maag, typographer and graphic designer Jonathan Barnbrook and Tom Dorresteijn partner of Dutch design agency Studio Dumbar. I’m sure, with speakers of this calibre there will be lots of discussion and different ideas to take away, but before the event begins I’d like to share this video of Saul Bass discussing his views on the challenges of producing high quality work while at the same time making a living.


Stephen Mallon: Next stop Atlantic



When I first saw this collection of images by industrial photographer Stephen Mallon my reaction was one of disbelief. Surely the powers that be should be recycling trams that have reached the end of their line, rather than dumping them into the sea. But with these stunning images (in more ways than one), all is not what it seems.

“Since the 1600′s man has artificially created reefs. The Metropolitan Transit Authority’s recycling program has been involved for the past decade, retiring over 2500 subways cars to the ocean to help rebuild underwater reefs along the eastern seabed.”

Mallon’s thoughtful photographic work focuses on artificial landscapes, he captures the surreal beauty of airports, rail yards, and construction sites. Even documenting the salvaging of flight 1549 from the Hudson River. Definitely worth a look.


Quote: Charles Mingus

Charles Mingus (1922—1979) was a jazz musician, composer, bandleader, and civil rights activist.