Tracing the Influence of Early Black Designers

In a new exhibition at the Chicago Cultural Center, titled African American Designers in Chicago: Art, Commerce and the Politics of Race, the influence of black designers is traced, from 1900 to 1980. Jackie Ormes’ highly sought-after Patty-Jo Doll, based on her cartoon character, is on display. As is work—for Coca Cola and more—from the country’s first African American-owned advertising agency, helmed by Emmett McBain and Thomas J Burrell. “It’s …

Studio Visit: nanimarquina

We explore the Barcelona space with the brand's founder and head designer

“A rug always makes you feel home.”

Brendan Ravenhill’s Versatile Ada Sconce

A new short film explores the method behind the dynamic yet minimal piece

The works of LA-based designer Brendan Ravenhill stem from a process involving many people. The Ada Sconce, for example, goes through metal-bending, hole-punching, and powder-coating before its assembly in Ravenhill’s Glassell Park studio. To offer a peek into this way of making, Ravenhill and his team have created a mini-documentary that follows how the minimal yet versatile light fixture is produced. “Ada is a celebration of …