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WORK/LIFE FIRST EDITION

This is the cover of the First Edition, illustrated by Darren Booth

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PRAISE FOR THE FIRST WORK/LIFE

This book is so much more than eye candy; it is a feast. With luscious illustrations and photography backed by engaging profiles, it’s a peek into the creatives’ studios and sketchbooks, giving a sense of their process. It feels so intimate it’s almost a guilty pleasure. Every detail is considered, thought out, flawless, and is there only to enhance the great body of work exhibited by these exceptionally talented artists. Congratulations Janine for the idea, the design, and for enriching our lives with art that is beautifully brought to our doorstep.

—Zahra Al-Harazi, Foundry Creative Inc


Our studio gets many illustration and photography promotions, and it’s unusual that we keep any. This one was different. I saw many copies on designers’ desks in my own studio. The editorial format was fresh and engaging, and the design was elegant and understated, allowing the photography and illustration to shine. The juxtaposition of illustration roughs and studio environments against the finished work added great insight into how illustrators work. Also, the writing is credited to the designer, a rare combination of talent in one person.

— Carey George, Up Inc


I don’t often keep illustration or photography directories, but I kept this one on my desk. The size and weight of the book are fitting for a novel, which reflects its added benefit—it is full of stories. It’s visually compelling. Each artist has been interviewed and their story accompanies their work. The typography is clean and unobtrusive, which enables designers to easily visualize how the illustrations or photos would work in a layout.

— Pamela Lee, Samata Mason Design Inc


Without the shadow of a doubt, this document proves that placing artists in their environment is an appealing approach. Work/Life offers a close-up look by inviting us to see their work behind the scenes. Using uncoated paper helps to immerse us in the day-to-day practice of their craft.

— Vincent Martel, Communications, Cirque du Soleil

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Friday
Nov062009

'Wild Things' Inspire

DateNovember 6, 2009 at 11:00 AM

After watching the movie Where the Wild Things Are I was inspired to buy the soundtrack and after a thousand plus listens all I want to do in life is write a song as gloriously simple and affecting as 'Worried Shoes' (track 4 for fellow listeners). I wonder how many others felt the same?

I thought this was the genius of Karen O. (of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs) but it turns out that Karen O & the Kids are covering Daniel Johnston. I had long heard of the myth, and the madness, of Daniel Johnston but deliberately shied away on account of the darkness. This is the first time I've encountered the raw beauty of his lyrics. Sold.

So now, thanks to 'WTWTA' I am also inspired to watch 'The Devil and Daniel Johnston' (2006) an acclaimed documentary celebrating Johnston's complex life and art. Click here to watch the film's trailer.

 

 

Visual artists have also taken inspiration from Where the Wild Things Are. I spoke to the talented artist, and UPPERCASE magazine contributor, Stefanie Augustine about the film and her personal creation "Wild Things" (pictured above).

"I loved the movie. It felt like a rare gift in the midst of so many bad movies out there -  really beautiful and refreshing. I had the urge to paint after seeing the movie, but even more so I had the urge to build things out of sticks!! (which I didn't actually do), but it makes you feel like, why don't we build things for fun more often?" Good question.

The artwork that Stefanie did make after seeing 'WTWTA' was directly inspired by the film's colors and her curiousity to see how the characters would work in a collage style. Scratchy whimsy are the words I find to describe her unique vision and style. Love it!

To see more of Stefanie Augustine's original creations and her client work, visit her website here. Thanks for sharing Stefanie!

AuthorDeidre | Comment2 Comments | |
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Reader Comments (2)

I adore the sound track too. How could something involving Karen O and a bunch of kids not be good, eh?
Thanks for the links to the other artists. :)
November 6, 2009 | Unregistered Commenteramanda
The Devil and Daniel Johnston is a phenomenal doc. Interesting subject and so well done.
November 8, 2009 | Unregistered Commenterguiniveve

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