30 July 2009
I am starting this design blog to sort of normalize the cultural influences which media has in the lives of myself, my friends and generally those who I perceive as driving influences in social and commercial enterprise. Mainly, there are certain ideas which we would take the time to express which might hope to make the world a better place, a place where it is easier to get through the complexities of art and design and stare face to face with the message being presented. Inasmuch, going with our philosophy and perhaps against the very nature of our name, "simple design" is indeed exactly what it sounds like.
Design ought to be simple, at least that is our philosophy. Look at your favorite logos - easy to read, your favorite garments - easy to wear, your favorite tools - easy to use. These are the things we think are designed well - attractive, durable and filling a variety of purposes quite comfortably. There is a reason why blue jeans have flourished and pliers are a staple in any workman's toolbox. There is also a reason why certain logos have become a part of mainstream culture.
Some of our favorite places are those places that are undiscovered; diamonds in the rough. For example, places like Brooklyn years ago was an untapped cultural jewel complete with underground night clubs, hidden delis and otherwise unfound record shops. Today, the paunch of mainstream culture and gentrification have all but made their home here. Brooklyn is still lovlier than ever, but for lack of a better term, has lost the feel of it's underground essentials. The danger is gone and now instead of the genuine article, you have many counterfeits among the true Brooklyn folk that have made the borough their home for the last decade or more.
I guess, in the continual expansion of culture and cultural planning, something of the simplicity gets lost once areas are rezoned, buildings are gutted and parking lots are built from razed land. Perhaps this same simplicity which makes old buildings so fascinating and the corner café such a fantastic meal are being lost. Perhaps many of the logos that have gone through transformation are trying to recapture a market that may or may not be carrying the trend to diversify while constantly simplifying.
