The Story of Emoji

Gavin Lucas explores the history of the tiny picture phenomenon

As a former senior writer at Creative Review and the co-founder of London-based illustration agency Outline Artists (and CH contributor), Gavin Lucas’ professional career bridges communication and illustration. That combination makes him well-suited for his latest project: the new book “The Story of Emoji.” The thoroughly-researched, entertaining tome traces the history of everyone’s favorite communication enhancer, looking at early predecessors, like typeset ornaments, through to …

The Darkest Pigment in the World

British artist Anish Kapoor is currently the only person in the world with the rights to use Vantablack—a pigment so dark, it traps 99.96% of incoming light. Vantablack was first created by British company NanoSystems and is made up of microscopic tubes that capture light and bounce it around internally—allowing just a fraction to escape. It was originally developed for military use, but Kapoor plans …

Seven Tiny, Instagram-able Hotels Across the World

More than just a place to sleep, hotels are sometimes the sole reason for travel. With that in mind, Interior Design Magazine has rounded up seven tiny hotels across the world—from France to Malaysia to Mexico—that astound guests with their dreamy interiors. Some offer immersive, art-filled spaces while others utilize unique construction and design methods that are perfect for Instagramming. Head to Interior Design Magazine …