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Ars Longa is a journal of fine arts, modernist design, and thrift shop archaeology. Nicely designed objects and beautiful artworks can be affordably attained by everyone, you just have to know where to look ... read more >
A New Era in Wrightian Studies — "Next Sunday everything you thought you knew about Frank Lloyd Wright changes." At least according to Blair Kamin and the The Rediscovering Wright Project. There is supposedly an article slated to be published this Sunday, July 6th in the Chicago Tribune followed by additional information to be posted to the The Rediscovering Wright Project website detailing many unknown Wright buildings still standing. Write himself allegedly stated "I did that one but no one will ever know" in regards to several Chicagoland area bungalows. While the site in question exudes a bit of an air of conspiracy theory, it will be interesting to see what comes of these statements.
07.02.08 LINK1 COMMENT
The Chicago Antique Market — Their tag line compares them to New York's Chelsea, London's Portobello, and Clignancourt in Paris. While I've never been to any of these three flea markets, this weekend we did make a trip up to the Chicago Antique Market and have to say that it is wonderful. Around every curve was another modernist wonder, from Russel Wright linens to the ubiquitous fiberglass chair by Charles and Ray Eames, there was a little bit of something for everyone who was looking for mid-20th century decorative arts. And to top it off, our friends at Handmade Market had a booth of their hand made one-of-a-kind wares alongside an entire section of independent designer's clothing, jewelry and various accouterments. It was a great way to spend a day in the city visiting with friends, and I'd highly recommend a visit.
06.30.08LINKNO COMMENTS
The Devolution of Dinnerware — This is one reason why postmodernism sucks. You all know the old design adage that "form follows function." It is a useful — albeit more and more cliché — saying that designers often follow. But with postmodern design we often see both form and function give way to concept. And the concept usually is only interesting for about five seconds before you start actually considering ... well ... how the object looks and how well it addresses its intended purpose. Not to rally too hard against Kathryn Hinton's work. I'm sure she's a nice person, and she's obviously clever. And remember that Ms. Hinton isn't the first designer to work in this mode, and I'm sure she won't be the last. I'm just growing weary of design turning into schtick. It happens all too often today and it needs to stop. Soon.
06.27.08LINK2 COMMENTS
Daphne Padden Travel Posters — Lately I've noticed that I have a very soft spot in my heart for Daphne Padden's posters. With a style reliant on children's book illustration and modern design, Padden surpasses the "kitsch factor" that many illustrators working in a similar vein during the 1950's and 60's might have run up against. Her posters are cute, charming, and sophisticated all at the same time ... a remarkable accomplishment by an utterly remarkable artist!
06.25.08LINK1 COMMENT
Going Dutch — Sorry I've been so lacking in posts lately. I won't make excuses for myself, especially since everyone else out there seems to be doing much better at this blogging thing than I. For example: PrairieMod's latest feature on midcentury modern Dutch Ceramics. I've never heard of Ravelli, Groeneveldt, Zaalberg, Westraven or Mobach ... but this is a great place to start to learn more. And don't forget the photo gallery. It will be indispensable for identifying these little stoneware wonders from the Netherlands if you are lucky enough to ever see any in a thrift store ... besides the fact that the Groeneveldt pieces in particular are truly wonderful to look at.
06.24.08LINKNO COMMENTS
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