Back in June 2008 I wrote about an Ikea Hack of mine involving door stops and a Lack shelf to sit my TV on. I submitted the image and link to one of my fav blogs, Ikea Hacker and after a very long wait, in December they published an entry about my idea which got mixed ("I am shocked, SHOCKED, that somebody let's a non-Ikea product into their life..." Jon) but mostly positive responses. Since then, not only has 95% of new blog traffic come from that page, but people have adapted the idea for their own use. I'm really impressed by these example, all using a variation of the idea as a computer stand. How great is technology in the 21st century where we can share these ideas like this. I love it.
I might just have to do this for my computer...
Thanks to Brian, Patrick and Frank Zen for the images above.

Labels: black and white, computer, ikea, Ikea Hacker, lack wall shelf

Marco van Hylckama Vlieg has put together a dramatic and spectacular collection of his photographs showing mid-century signage that has seen better days.
I would love a collection of these prints framed in my hallway or perhaps this one, Fabricare, wallpapered in my bedroom.
Check out Neon Ruin.

Labels: black and white, Marco van Hylckama Vlieg, neon, photography, red, retro, sign, wallpaper

Apparently beer isn't just fun to drink, not only inspires art, but can actually be used in it's production too, who knew? Kevin Hayes of Lovely MPLS did the experiments and came up with the following conclusion:

beer + paint + skill + inspiration (see also beer) = ART

There is even an LED light thrown in for good measure.
Did I even mention how great the poster is? A collage of beer labels in black and white screen printed on the German paper (mostly also made from beer!) and with a spot varnish finish, looks awesome.
Kevin, I think this work needs to be the first of a series. I'll be watching out for more!
Check out the Lovely MPLS Etsy page for a description of how Drunk Lightning was made and go to the Lovely MPLS Flikr page to see photos.

Labels: art, beer, black and white, brown, Etsy, flickr, Lovely MLPS, screen printing

As a perpetual forgetter, this is something that I could really use and way less annoying than having a real piece of ribbon tied around my finger.
Ben Floeter's Don't Forget Chalkboard found at The Curiosity Shoppe and at his Etsy shop, is such a friendly wall feature. It would be perfect at my friend door which is also near my kitchen, it would even double as a pointer, guiding guests into the living room.
Now to find out how much postage to Australia will be...
Check out the Don't Forget Chalkboard.

Labels: art, Ben Floeter, black, black and white, decor, Etsy, kitchen, red, The Curiosity Shoppe

Yesterday I picked up issue two of Mayk zine.
Mayk is the side project for three female graphic designers who want to show that Perth is not 'dullsville' but has a varied and vibrant art and culture scene.
If it's just a matter of knowing where to look, then Mayk can certainly set you on your way.
I bought my copy of Mayk at Keith+Lottie but you can also get it from their website. I'm looking forward to issue three!

Labels: black and white, Mayk, perth, photography, print, zine

Mimi Kirchner is a talented doll-maker who as a knack for the unique. I love this black and white tattooed man that seems to be from a black and white movie. Beautifully stitched and with a steely gaze here peers at the world with disdain. What a character!
Mimi has also created a set of men-dolls in vintage bathing suits and a sepia pirate.
Check them out!

Labels: black and white, craft, doll, Mimi Kirchner, toy, vintage