Graphic Design
February 23, 2021

How Helvetica Became the “Little Black Dress” of Typography

Typography is primarily thought of by designers, but there are some typefaces so popular that they enter the larger cultural zeitgeist. Helvetica is one of those typefaces. Developed in 1957, it has become ubiquitous and can be found everywhere from labels on grocery store shelves to transportation to the logo of American Apparel. Helvetica was not the first name for this now-iconic typeface.

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Design
February 23, 2021

First U.S. Stamp by Alaska Native Designer Tells a Tale of Tlingit Lore

The U.S. Postal Service recently announced the upcoming stamps for 2021, and for the first time in history, the collection includes one designed by an Alaska Native person. Tlingit (“People of the Tides”) and Athabascan artist Rico Lanáat’ Worl created the Raven Story stamp, featuring a black bird with a star in its beak. The Raven is of great significance to the Indigenous peoples of the Northwest Coast and it features in many Tlingit stories.

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Crafts
February 22, 2021

Massive Woven Wall Hangings Modernize the Ancient Art of Weaving

Textile artist Tammy Kanat has an innovative approach to the traditional art of weaving. While a lot of weaving is done on rectangular looms, Kanat opts for a more organic shape and creates large-scale textile projects that are housed within circular forms. Her massive pieces incorporate fuzzy textures and rings of bright colors. This combination is magnetic; Kanat’s work begs for a long look to fully appreciate her range of wrapping, fringe, knots, and more.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.