Radical Shifts

The last few weeks have been little nuts, but in a good kind of way! I took an intensive course at school; submitted my thesis proposal; started organizing a symposium; assisted on a show that opened at the Cooper-Hewitt; and mounted an exhibition, Radical Shifts, that I'd been planning since last summer. I had a really good time working with my co-curator, Danielle Epstein, and the staff of the Kellen Design Archives at Parsons, and it was so satisfying to see research develop into something more physical, immediate and visual than an essay. I can't wait to do it again!

This has been my view for the past few weeks. Or some other combination of desk, books, glasses, coffee. But if everything that has to get done gets done, next year could be pretty exciting.

Laura Carlin

Sometimes I wish I'd never heard of the internet. Other times I come across such happy surprises that I want to share them right away, even if it means a temporary neglect of schoolwork.

I just found out that one of my all-time favourite illustrators, Laura Carlin, started a blog. And she's posting the most amazing new work: ceramic figures, bowls, tiles and urns in her amazing sketchy and charming, but really sophisticated style.

Tapis et Tissus, présenté par Sonia Delaunay

I've been working on an exhibition that's opening at the Cooper-Hewitt on March 18, Color: Moves: Art and Fashion by Sonia Delaunay. Seeing the material in person the last couple weeks has been super exciting, but I also discovered some amazing stuff during research for the show. The Cooper-Hewitt has a design library with the most fantastic and beautiful rare books, including Tapis et Tissus. Published in 1929, the book has a foreword by Sonia Delaunay, and features a couple of her textile designs, and designs chosen by her, including some from the Bauhaus weaving workshop (Anni Albers!). The patterns are incredible, and sometimes so contemporary looking it's crazy!

Loie Fuller

Drawing in class again. Poster ladies (including the amazing Loie Fuller) after Cheret and Grasset, and a visiting professor.

A couple photos I found at a Toronto flea market.

Also posted by Tyler at Wens and Nobs and Distortions of the Trunk, a fantastic tumblr.