Massive Change?

Image: courtesy MediaBistro

This sketch blew my mind when I was in school. It stood for everything I wanted to be and a rule by which I would abide by when creating all things material. It made me change the way I think about my surroundings, and ultimately how I can use design to help change the world (I certainly am not–by any means–changing the world, but it helped me change my thought process). Consequently, Bruce Mau became a personal favorite of mine, and when I shuffled through the book again the other day, I wondered how he has progressed, and if the movement is still making headway. Is it still relevant? Anyone know?

It seems still relevant to me at least, because I think more and more people are investing energy in understanding how our actions affect our surroundings. 5 years ago, conversations about conservation, bio-mimicry, sustainability, nanotechnology, etc… were not really happening in design studios or corporate offices (perhaps still a stretch). I’d like to think that Massive Change helped put a little dent in that harsh reality. Anyways, the sketch is still and inspiration to me, and a friendly reminder to always be thinking about the future of this planet.

“Now that we can do anything, what will we do?” -Bruce Mau, the Institute Without Boundaries

More Time, My Muse

Image: ©Bradley R. Hughes

I keep taking this picture over and over (here and here). I believe, because this is one of the very first shots I took in New York when I arrived 2 years ago. And when my anniversary came along last wednesday, I made a point in going down to that place again and taking a few more. It’s strange how indispensable this park has been in the “reclamation” of my mental well being. Whenever I’m lost, it’s the place I always end up. It’s like a monument of some kind– a place that gives me a certain energy that can help guide me through all the nonsense in life. I suppose it reminds me why I came here in the first place. And also, that in the middle of all this chaos those beautiful, precious moments do happen. And they make it all worth while.

It also occurred to me to dig up what I was thinking the last two years of my life, and this little bit stood out: ”This is just one moment in time.” I think that’s pretty good… I’ll stick with that.

Cool Find #9

Image: courtesy butdoesitfloat

Eduard Imhof (25 January 1895 – 27 April 1986) was a professor of cartography at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zürich, from 1925 – 1965. His fame, which extends far beyond the Institute of Technology, stems from his relief shading work on school maps and atlases. —Wikipedia  I love this stylistic approach to his topography…. so simple and beautiful, truely inspiring.

Something for Everyone

Image: Courtesy DWR

The Tools For Living store caught my attention on a day when I had been sitting static in a cab on Spring street in SoHo for beyond twenty minutes. Frustrating to say the least, but I got out of the cab and stumbled upon my new favorite place in the retail realm. There is literally something for everyone at this small sidestep store from DWR. It’s filled with new items and classic re-inventions like the Stanley flask above. Hey, if Filson made a comeback so will Stanley– in fine “camper” fashion. (pssss…. my birthday is coming up!)

And that’s exactly why I posted this write up my friends. No, not as a self-indulgent shout out to possible gift givers, but more as a recommendation for the months to come. See… believe it or not, Christmas is right around the corner! And if you are like me, you need ideas. And lots of them. Tools For Living has it all. I found something for my close friend AND something for his wife, believe it or not. Perhaps your buddy who is planning to ice fish this winter needs an all wood and leather hand-crafted folding tri-pod stool? Perhaps he’ll need a flask too! Who knows. Check it out, you wont be disappointed.

Note: I admit, I know none of the history of Design Within Reach, so I’m not quite sure how long these Tools For Living stores have been in existence. It’s the first time I’ve seen one. So please, if I’m way out of date on this one please excuse the ignorance for a friendly attempt to help you succeed with brainstorming this future holiday season.

New Work, PM, Eco. Bus Stop

Illustration: ©Bradley R Hughes

New work; a small spot illustration for the September issue of Popular Mechanics. This illo models a new, self-sufficient, environmentally conscious bus stop that is light years ahead of the busted one on your corner. Posting up in SF and other metropolitan areas right now.