A Word on Words

I don’t think it’s a stretch to admire a bit of creative writing in this here blog. These two stories (offered below as podcasts for all you multi-taskers) inspired me in the way that all good art should. I felt utterly naked by their relentless insight into the human psyche, all the while impressed that each could so bluntly, lovingly and accurately capture the deepest parts of grief.

Hey, I know that I’m not the only one here with dark places. So, maybe these stories will resonate with you too. Maybe in your own set of fears, anger, loss, etc. etc. you’ll feel less alone—and maybe ultimately: hopeful, too.

click here: SPAR
Written by Kij Johnson, presented by EscapePod (fantasy fiction podcast magazine).  Don’t listen to this one at work—it’s rated X.

then here: LITTLE GODS
Written by Tim Pratt, presented by PodCastle (fantasy fiction podcast magazine).

Ooo la la!

I have been perusing the world of fashion illustration lately, researching for a graphic design project we’re currently working on in the studio. And I have to say, as in all fields there sure are a number of duds. What a breath of fresh air Barcelona-based Ms. Sandra Suys was for me. Yes, I am biased towards high contrast art—the marriage of muted monochromatic tones plus brilliant color; expressionistic strokes mixed with crazy photo-realistic details; etc—but I think anyone would attest: these illustration sure are sweet, no?

Calling all typophiles!

Russian-born typographer and quilling expert Yulia Brodskaya:

Letterpress Lust

A sweet wedding invitation set from Emory Allen:

BIT TRIP BEAT

. . .stumbled across this video on my web wandering this morning. I appreciate the integration of sound this game. What's more fascinating to me is that it looks like the player is either extremely relaxed and focused—in a meditative state—or totally stressed out and tripping balls. . .anyone played this game before? Which is it?