Lab-Grown Leather

Brooklyn-based start-up Modern Meadow is currently developing the world’s first lab-grown leather. By taking advantage of recent advances in cell engineering, the company is hoping to shape a future that is “cultured not slaughtered.” The leather is grown by first isolating an animal’s skin cells and then multiplying those cells by the billions, producing sheets of the faux-skins. Not only can this technology decrease leather-specific …

Milan Design Week 2015: Nicola Formichetti

The megastar creative discusses cultural differences, gender and childhood inspiration

Fashion editor, creative director, stylist and a mega-star in his own right, Nicola Formichetti embodies contemporary creativity. From collaborating with the likes of Lady Gaga, Diesel and Mugler, Formichetti has a unique and thoughtful approach which can elevate an individual or a brand’s appeal beyond belief. At the moment, Formichetti is an ambassador for the Pepsi Challenge, an international competition aimed at redefining the brand’s …

2015 Pick Me Up Festival, London

From dinosaur sculptures to illustrations of intimidating women, the sixth annual graphic arts event highlights emerging artists

This year’s edition of excellent London graphic design festival Pick Me Up had a slightly more commercial feel than last year’s, with a number of the upstairs studios and galleries offering multiple products beyond prints, and retailer Lazy Oaf showcasing its new collection. As the 12-day festival gets underway, we spoke with co-curator Karishma Rafferty to get the lowdown on this year’s program, and chose …