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Ellen Raskin transformed from a prolific book designer to an award-winning author, blending design and storytelling in classics like The Westing Game, with insights from Briar Levit, designer, filmmaker, and advocate for women in design.
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Graphic Means DocumentaryNew Book — Briar Levit: On Design, Feminism, and Friendship_______
Book — Baseline Shift by Briar LevitArticle — Cooperative Children's Book Center
Sources:
About EllenEllen Raskin (1928–1984) was a trailblazing designer and author who seamlessly blended her expertise in graphic design with her passion for storytelling. Born in Milwaukee during the Great Depression, Raskin pursued a fine arts degree at the University of Wisconsin before launching a prolific career in New York City, where she designed over 1,000 book covers, including the original cover for A Wrinkle in Time. Later, she transitioned to writing, creating critically acclaimed children’s books known for their intricate plots and visual clues. Her most famous work, The Westing Game, won the Newbery Medal in 1979 and remains a beloved classic. Ellen’s books, including The Mysterious Disappearance of Leon (I Mean Noel) and Figgs & Phantoms, exemplify her unique ability to combine puzzles, humor, and thoughtful storytelling, leaving an enduring legacy in children’s literature.
About Briar
Briar Levit is a graphic designer, educator, and filmmaker whose work brings underrepresented voices in design history to light. With nearly two decades of teaching at Portland State University, Briar encourages her students to explore design’s role in shaping culture and amplifying diverse perspectives. She gained widespread acclaim for her documentary Graphic Means: A History of Graphic Design Production, which chronicles the evolution of design tools and highlights women’s significant contributions during the shift from manual to digital production. Briar’s feminist advocacy is further reflected in her book Baseline Shift, which celebrates the pivotal yet often overlooked roles of women in design. A former art director at Bitch magazine, she’s dedicated her career to showing how design can be a tool for activism, history, and cultural critique.
Follow Briar:
Instagram: @briarlevit
Website: briarlevit.com____
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Learn about the life of self-taught architect Eileen Gray, whose groundbreaking modernist designs faced vandalism, loss, and ultimate rediscovery, with reflections from guest architect Emily Farnham.
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Documentary — Gray Matters: Architect and Designer Eileen Gray (2014)Book — Eileen Gray: Her Life and Work by Peter AdamBook — Eileen Gray: Design and Architecture 1878–1976 by Philippe Garner (Taschen)
Sources:
About EileenEileen Gray (1878–1976) was a groundbreaking designer and architect whose work pioneered modernism in the 20th century. Originally born in Ireland, she spent her career in France, becoming a self-taught architect and an innovator in furniture design. She's known for blending functionality with bold, avant-garde aesthetics. Her early career began with mastering lacquer work, a craft she honed despite its physical challenges, and she became a leading figure in Art Deco. Gray’s most iconic work is the E-1027 house, a modernist masterpiece designed with meticulous attention to detail and human-centered design principles. Despite her contributions, her achievements were often overshadowed by her male contemporaries, including the controversial vandalism of her work by Le Corbusier. Gray’s designs, like the Bibendum Chair, the E-1027 table and her modular lacquer screens, continue to inspire today. Rediscovered in her later years, she is now celebrated as a trailblazer who forged her own path, proving that vision and resilience can leave a lasting mark on the world of design.
About Emily
Emily Farnham is the founder of Emily Farnham Architecture, a Los Angeles-based practice known for its innovative and holistic approach to residential design. With an impressive career that spans architecture, interiors, and custom design, Emily's projects balance aesthetics, function, and personalization. She holds a Master of Architecture degree from Harvard's Graduate School of Design and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Virginia's School of Architecture. Before establishing her practice in 2014, Emily honed her skills at several leading design firms in Los Angeles, New York, Boston, and San Francisco. This diverse background equipped her with the expertise to tackle projects of varying scales and complexities, from residential spaces to large-scale civic and educational buildings. Emily is a licensed architect in California and a LEED-accredited professional, known for her meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of the construction process.
Follow Emily:
Instagram: @emilyfarnhamarchitecture
Website: emilyfarnham.com____
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Puuttuva jakso?
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Discover the life and legacy of Agnes Martin, an artist who channeled struggles with mental health into serene, abstract expressionist art, with insights from the co-founders of Nature, Michelle and Ellen.
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MoMA.org Agnes Martin PageBook — Agnes Martin: Painting, Writings, Remembrances by Arne GlimcherThe Guardian Article — Agnes Martin: the artist mystic who disappeared into the desert
Sources:
About AgnesAgnes Martin may not be a household name, but her influence on abstract art is profound and lasting. Known for her minimalist grids and soft color bands, she crafted paintings that evoke pure calm and joy, all while living in near-total solitude in the New Mexico desert. Martin’s life is as intriguing as her art—she left the bustling New York art scene at the peak of her career to follow a deeply personal path. Though she struggled with mental health challenges, her discipline and commitment to simplicity made her a ‘desert mystic’ of the art world. Her story is one of resilience, solitude, and visionary work. Discover her life and legacy on episode 24 of the podcast.
About Michelle & Ellen
We take a curious and open-minded approach to the work that we do. We ask a lot of questions and have an affinity for both referencing the past and co-creating the future. We value our clients, their trust and their brands over everything. Relationships above all else. Our work is far beyond transactional and the connections that we create with the people we work with usually far out-live the span of the project. We have a lot of repeat clients and we take that as the highest compliment. We don’t believe that cold + pixel perfection equals luxury and we ardently swear by moments of wabi sabi and human-ness as drivers of resonance. We think that design done well and that is built from your narrative has the ability to cut through noise and stand out in vivid definition to the right people. Along with our client work we have a tightly edited resource shop for fellow designers. We believe that a rising tide lifts all boats and anything we learn the hard way on this journey we happily share with others.
Follow Nature:
Instagram: @hellowearenature
Website: by-nature.co____
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67% of creative professionals reported experiencing burnout, with women more likely to report feeling overwhelmed by their work environments. Badal Patel opens up about how she struggled with creative burnout, and what she does now to prevent it from happening.
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About Badal:
Badal is the founder of Super Spicy. A small yet seasoned studio focusing on creative direction, branding, and design with extra flavor. She creates impactful brand experiences that merge style with substance through her unique perspective and design sensibilities. Her studio, Super Spicy, focuses on a variety of different areas including branding, packaging, website, campaign, print, and more. Badal’s goal with Super Spicy is to drive culture forward by sharing more nuanced stories and creating more representation.
Working remotely between NYC and LA, Badal has built up a roster of talented individuals that she collaborates with including but not limited to: strategists, designers, copywriters, illustrators, and photographers. She believes collaboration creates better work and aims to create the diverse teams of talent specific to the needs of each project.
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Explore the genius of Ray Eames, from her key role in shaping mid-century modernism to the iconic Eames Lounge Chair, with insights from guest Amanda Jane Jones, designer and author of Mother / Founder.
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Documentary — Eames: The Architect and the Painter (2011)Podcast — New Angle: Voice — Ray Eames: Beauty in the EverydayWebsite — Pioneering Women of Architecture: Ray Kaiser EamesBook — Eames: Beautiful DetailsWebsite — Eames Office Official Website
Sources:
About RayRay Eames was more than a design partner—she was the quiet force behind every iconic creation that bears the Eames name. From the revolutionary Lounge Chair to the vibrant, Mondrian-inspired glass walls of their Case Study House, Ray’s vision and meticulous artistry shaped modernism as we know it.
But behind the sleek lines and bold colors was a woman often mistaken for a man—'Ray,' they assumed, must surely be Charles's male counterpart. This misconception gave her an unexpected advantage, opening doors that might have otherwise stayed closed.
Yet, Ray’s journey was anything but easy. She endured a lifetime of her contributions being overshadowed, her name eclipsed by Charles’s fame, and even the painful betrayal of his infidelity. Still, she poured everything into their work, her impact far deeper than most people know.
About Amanda
NEW BOOK! Mother / Founder
Amanda Jane Jones is a graphic designer, author, and illustrator whose minimalist aesthetic has redefined modern editorial and product design. Amanda’s talent became widely recognized through her role as the founding designer of Kinfolk, where she crafted the magazine's iconic, minimalist style, inspiring countless designers and publications.
Her creative influence extends beyond editorial design; she has collaborated with major brands such as Opinel, Revival Rugs, Solly Baby, and Schoolhouse Electric, blending her clean and thoughtful aesthetic across diverse projects. In addition to brand collaborations, Amanda has illustrated children’s books, including Yum Yummy Yuck and The Hair Book, inspired by her own children and designed to engage young readers with playful simplicity.
Amanda’s latest project, Mother / Founder, celebrates the journeys of 68 women balancing the challenges of entrepreneurship and motherhood. Her work has been featured by Architectural Digest, The New York Times, Martha Stewart Living, and online platforms such as Mother Mag, Cup of Jo, and Domino. Now based in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Amanda continues to shape the design world with her distinctive vision, seamlessly blending elegance, versatility, and purpose into each project
Follow Amanda:
Instagram
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Learn the untold story of architect and furniture designer, Charlotte Perriand, whose innovative designs and fearless independence reshaped modern interiors, with insights from special guest Adi Goodrich, spatial designer, who reflects on how Charlotte's legacy continues to inspire today's designers.
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The Guardian ArticleCharlotte Perriand Autobiography “A Life of Creation”Book: Living with Charlotte Perriand by Francois Laffanour and Cynthia FleuryBook: Charlotte Perriand: The Modern Life by Justin McGuirkBook: Charlotte Perriand: Inventing a New World (Published by the Foundation of Louis Vuitton)
Sources:
About CharlotteCharlotte Perriand was a visionary French designer and architect whose contributions to modernist design reshaped how we think about furniture and interior spaces. In 1927, after famously being dismissed by Le Corbusier with the remark, "We don’t embroider cushions here," she eventually joined his studio and co-designed iconic pieces like the LC4 Chaise Longue and LC2 armchair.
Though these collaborations are what she is most known for, Perriand’s career extended far beyond them. She designed the modular Nuage Bookshelf and minimalist Tokyo Bench, blending functionality with clean, modernist aesthetics. Perriand was also integral to larger architectural projects like the Unité d'Habitation, where she introduced multifunctional interiors, and the Les Arcs Ski Resort, where her modular furniture designs embraced the natural environment.
About Adi
Adi Goodrich is a Los Angeles-based multidisciplinary designer known for her vibrant and imaginative approach to Environmental design, Interiors, and furniture. Growing up in Chicago, she was heavily influenced by her father’s work in architectural and furniture restoration, which fostered her love for craftsmanship from a young age. Adi studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and La Sorbonne in Paris, where she explored various disciplines including painting and art history.
Goodrich first gained attention working on window displays for Barneys New York and Anthropologie, which led to a flourishing career in set design for films, commercials, and photoshoots. Adi is Co-founder of Sing-Sing Studio, a creative practice she shares with her partner, filmmaker, Sean Pecknold where they have worked with major brands such as Apple, Google, Nike, Target, and more, bringing a unique blend of storytelling and design to each project. Adi also launched her own furniture line, in 2022 called "Sing-Thing." Her work is characterized by a bold use of color, materials, and a focus on creating spaces that are narratively driven. Learn more about Adi's design approach and career on Episode 22 of the podcast.
Follow Adi
adigoodrich.com
@adigoodrich
sing-sing.co
@singsingstudio
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Hear how Susan Skarsgard built her career from calligraphy to founding the GM Design Archive, blending art, design, and education to leave her mark on both the art and automotive worlds.
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Have a 1:1 mentor call with Amber Asay: intro.co/amberasayAbout Susan
Susan Skarsgard (b. 1954) is a designer, artist, and author whose career bridges the worlds of fine art and industrial design. With roots in Detroit, Susan’s passion for calligraphy led her to study under Austrian master calligrapher Friedrich Neugebauer and to apprentice with legendary Detroit lettering master Jerry Campbell. Under Campbells' tutelage, she designed logos and lettering for advertising and automotive clients before ultimately joining General Motors Design in 1995. She earned her MFA from the University of Michigan in 2004.
At GM, she initially applied her skills to emblem and nameplate design for cars and trucks, but her most lasting legacy was founding the department GM Design Archive & Special Collections, which is the official repository for the history of design at General Motors. Susan is also the author of Where Today Meets Tomorrow, the definitive book on the history of the iconic GM Technical Center designed by Eero Saarinen.
Her journey as a woman navigating a male-dominated industry, along with her stunning work in calligraphy and book arts, is truly inspiring.
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Discover how self-taught designer Elaine Lustig Cohen became a defining force in modernist graphic design and fine art, with insights from design author and historian, Steven Heller, on her legacy and the importance of re-writing design history to include more women.
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elainelustigcohen.comThe Daily Heller: Elaine Lustig Cohen’s New Website by Steven HellerThe New York Times Article by Anita GatesAbout Elaine
Elaine Lustig Cohen (1927–2016) was a pioneering modernist designer and artist, known for her bold, abstract book covers and museum catalogs that helped shape mid-century American graphic design.
After the sudden passing of her husband, renowned designer Alvin Lustig, Elaine—without any formal training—took over his studio in the 1950s, working with high-profile clients like Philip Johnson, Richard Meier, General Motors, and the Jewish Museum.
What set her design style apart was her ability to merge avant-garde European influences, like Constructivism and Bauhaus principles, with the clean, functionalist aesthetics of American modernism. She brought typography to the forefront, often treating it as a visual and emotional narrative element, while incorporating geometric abstraction to create a sense of movement and rhythm. Her work is now part of the permanent collections at MoMA, LACMA, and Cooper Hewitt.
About Steven
Steven Heller is one of the most prolific design historians and writers in the field, having authored, co-authored, or edited over 200 books on design, illustration, and popular culture. He is best known for his long-running column, The Daily Heller, published by Print magazine, which offers daily insights on visual culture, design history, and current events. In addition to his writing, Heller is the co-chair of the School of Visual Arts MFA Design/Designer as Author + Entrepreneur program, where he continues to shape future generations of designers.
Throughout his career, Heller has been a steadfast advocate for women in design. His work has consistently featured and celebrated the contributions of women who have been overlooked in design history. He has worked to bring attention to underrepresented figures in the industry, often calling for a rewriting of design history to include more women. As early as the 1990s, Heller began amplifying the work of female designers, championing their influence on design movements across modernism, typography, and visual communication. He has been vocal about the importance of gender equality in the design industry and has pushed for more inclusive recognition of the women whose innovations have shaped the field.
In 2011, Heller was awarded the AIGA Medal for his outstanding contributions to design journalism, education, and history. His ongoing commitment to uncovering the stories of women in design has made him not only a key figure in documenting design history but also an advocate for equity in the industry. Through his work, he has inspired a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of the design world, one that reflects the achievements of all its contributors.
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Uncover the fascinating story of Zelda Wynn Valdes, whose mastery of the mermaid silhouette led to her creation of the iconic Playboy Bunny costume, with insights from special guest Tobi Ashiru.
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Sources:
Dazzling Zelda (Children's Book by Farai Simoyi and Aura Lewis)About Zelda Wynn Valdes:
Zelda Wynn Valdes (1901 – 2001) is often overlooked in design history even though she was one of the most influential fashion designers known for her hourglass silhouette dresses, and helping popularize the mermaid dress.
In fact, the femininity of her work caught the eye of Hugh Hefner who commissioned her to design the iconic and patented playboy bunny costume in 1960.
But before that, In 1948, Valdes became the first black person to open her own boutique on Broadway in Manhattan.
Zelda’s alluring yet sophisticated dresses were embraced by prominent figures such as Joyce Bryant, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Eartha Kitt, Josephine Baker, Diahann Carroll, Dorothy Dandridge, and Mae West. She even designed Maria Cole’s gown for her wedding to Nat King Cole in 1948.
Zelda continued her impactful career until her passing in 2001, contributing to over 80 ballet productions at the Dance Theatre of Harlem.
She made it her mission to leave the door wide open for all the black women designers following in her footsteps. She led a fashion coalition that was founded with the sole purpose of promoting black designers.
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A brutal massacre at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin estate, where love, scandal, racism, paranoia, and murder intersect in a story that few have heard, involving the murder of his mistress, Martha Borthwick Cheney, at his beloved home he designed for their love.
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Sources:
PBS.org — Wright at the Time
History.com — The Massacre at Frank Lloyd Wright’s ‘Love Cottage’ by Christopher Klein
All That's Interesting — The Life and Death of Mamah Borthwick, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Controversial Lover by Jessica OConnor
Solved Murders Podcast Part 1 & Part 2 (2021)____
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Lella Vignelli’s impactful contributions to product and interior design take center stage in this episode, with guest Giorgia Lupi, data visualization pioneer and Pentagram partner, and returning guest Rachel Gogel.
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Designed by: Lella Vignelli by Massimo Vignelli (Rochester Institute of Technology)About Lella
You’ve likely heard of Massimo Vignelli, the renowned designer behind iconic works like the New York City Subway map, but did you know that behind many of those projects was an equally brilliant mind? Lella Vignelli—Massimo’s wife and design partner—was a powerhouse in her own right. With a background in architecture, she seamlessly blended elegance and functionality in everything from interior spaces to product design. Her meticulous attention to detail was the driving force behind many of their best-known works, including the timeless Handkerchief Chair and the stunning interiors of Saint Peter’s Church in New York.
Lella was more than just Massimo’s collaborator—she was a visionary who believed in creating design that was truly timeless, free of trends and fads. Yet, despite her immense contributions, Lella’s name often remained in the background. So, why is her story so often overshadowed? And how did she quietly reshape modern design?
Tune in to this episode to hear the incredible legacy of Lella Vignelli—a designer whose work deserves to be front and center.
About Giorgia
Giorgia's Books:
This is Me and Only Me
Observe Collect Draw!: A Visual Journal
Dear Data: A Friendship in 52 Weeks of Postcards
Giorgia Lupi is an Italian information designer, a partner at design firm Pentagram, and co-founder of research and design firm Accurat. She is a co-author of Dear Data, a collection of hand drawn data visualizations, along with information designer Stefanie Posavec. Her work is also part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art.In 2011, Lupi co-founded research and design firm Accurat, that combines design and data to create data visualizations, interfaces, and tools. Among their clients are Google, IBM, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Starbucks, United Nations, the World Economic Forum and the Museum of Modern Art. Lupi's influences for her work come from fascinations by geometrical feel and balance of abstract art compositions.
Follow Giorgia Lupi on Instagram: @giorgialupi
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Host, Amber Asay, explores the male designers who have either championed or dismissed the contributions of women in the design world. From Le Corbusier’s undermining of female collaborators to Paul Rand’s advocacy for Lella Vignelli, we dive into the varying dynamics of support—or lack thereof—among iconic male figures in design. Tune in to hear who lifted women up and who left them in the shadows.
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Read Anne Helen Petersen's original article here: A Unified Theory of Glen Powell
And Celeste M Davis's poem and full article linked here: The men who like women and the men who don't. Yes we can tell.
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Anni Albers’ pioneering journey in elevating textiles to fine art is discussed with guest Marian Bantjes, renowned for her intricate, ornamental designs that blend typography, art, and personal storytelling.
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1968 Interview with Anni Albers — conducted 1968 July 5, by Sevim Fesci, for the Archives of American ArtBook — On Weaving by Anni Albers – A seminal work where Anni reflects on her life, her craft, and the philosophies behind her approach to weaving.Book — Anni and Josef Albers: Equal and Unequal by Nicholas Fox Weber – A comprehensive biography that delves deep into Albers' life and work, offering insights into her creative process and legacy.Book — Anni and Josef Albers: Art and Life by Julia Garimorth, Vincent Broqua, and Brenda DanilowitzVideo — "Bauhaus: The Face of the 20th Century" (1994) – A BBC documentary that covers the history of the Bauhaus, including interviews and insights into Anni Albers' role within the movement.Video — "Black Mountain College” Visionaries Episode – This documentary explores the experimental college where Anni and Josef Albers taught, emphasizing its influence on modern art and design.The Josef & Anni Albers Foundation – https://albersfoundation.org/ – The official website of the Albers Foundation, featuring extensive information on her life, work, and exhibitions.MoMA Learning: Anni Albers – https://www.moma.org/learn/moma_learning/anni-albers/ – A resource that provides an educational overview of Anni Albers’ work within the context of modern art.About Anni Albers
Anni Albers is widely considered to be the foremost textile designer of the 20th century. She made major innovations in the field of functional materials and at the same time she expanded the possibilities of single weavings and individual artworks. She was also an adventurous graphic artist who took printmaking technique into previously uncharted territory.
Not only was she a pioneering textile artist, and printmaker, but she was an educator whose work redefined the boundaries between craft and fine art. She may arguably be THE person responsible for helping the masses see textile as art, not just craft. She studied at the Bauhaus, taught at Black Mountain College in North Carolina, where she continued to push the limits of weaving, experimenting with unconventional materials and techniques. Her book On Weaving (1965) remains a seminal text in textile design.
About Marian Bantjes
Marian's Books:
I Wonder
Pretty PicturesMarian Bantjes (b. 1963) @bantjes is a Canadian graphic artist who is known for her signature maximalist style. Her intricate ornamentation creates texture and illusion, and challenges the minimalist boundaries of traditional graphic design.
Her clients include Pentagram, Saks Fifth Avenue, Print Magazine, Wallpaper* , WIRED, Creative Review, The Guardian (UK), The New York Times, AIGA, TypeCon, and more.
Her career spans 3 stages: she started in the 80s as a book typesetter for a publishing company and then from there she became partner at a small design firm in Canada, working on brand identity and communication designs.
In 2003 Marian decided to embark on the work that has brought her international recognition and fame as a world-class visual designer
Her work has an underlying structure that frames its fluid nature and she has an impressive way of interweaving word and image.
She says "throwing your individuality into a project is heresy" but she has built a career doing just that, as her signature style is unmistakable. In 2007 she released Restraint, a typeface that integrates her style of ornamentation to be used as shapes and borders.
Marian has been honored with several awards over the years and her work is now part of the permanent collection at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum.
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Phyllis Madonna’s fearless design vision at the Madonna Inn is the focus of this episode, where branding expert Emily Heyward from Red Antler joins us to discuss the branding strategies behind this beloved cultural landmark.
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madonnainn.com
Their signature goblet (inspired by Alice Turney Williams wallpaper and rug designs)
Obsessed: Building a Brand People Love From Day One by Emily HeywardAbout Phyllis:
Phyllis Madonna is a visionary designer, philanthropist, and co-founder of the iconic Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo, California. Born in 1928 in Orange County, she moved to the Central Coast in 1948 after marrying Alex Madonna. Although she had no formal design training, Phyllis’s creative instincts played a crucial role in shaping the Inn’s distinctive style, famous for its eclectic themed rooms and lavish use of pink. Encouraged by her husband to take the lead in designing the rooms, Phyllis’s designs became the heart of the Inn, transforming it from a roadside motel into a world-renowned destination.
Beyond her work at the Inn, Phyllis has made significant contributions to her community, supporting local arts organizations and spearheading the Phyllis Madonna Musical Revue and Fashion Show, which raised millions for women’s shelters over three decades. Her blend of creativity, community spirit, and entrepreneurial drive has made her a beloved figure on California’s Central Coast
About Emily Heyward:
Emily Heyward is a co-founder and Chief Brand Officer of Red Antler, a leading brand agency known for launching some of today’s most successful startups, including Casper, Allbirds, and Hinge. With a background in advertising and a degree in postmodern theory from Harvard, Emily pivoted from working with big brands to helping emerging companies create purposeful, consumer-driven identities. She has been recognized as one of the Most Important Entrepreneurs of the Decade by Inc. Magazine and is the author of Obsessed: Building a Brand People Love from Day One, which explores how brands can inspire deep loyalty from their very beginnings. With a reputation for building “cult brands,” Emily is frequently featured in media outlets like Forbes and Fast Company, and she continues to be a prominent voice in brand strategy
Buy Her Book: OBSESSED
Emily Heyward Website
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Host Amber Asay dives into the untold stories of design power couples where the husbands received most of the credit, exploring how history has often overlooked the equally brilliant contributions of their wives.
(This new bonus series, called "Extra Sketches" will be where we explore common themes and trends within women designer stories.)
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View all the visually rich 1-min reels of each woman on IG below:
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Learn about the minimalist jewelry designer, Betty Cooke, from another legend, Ellen Lupton, graphic designer, educator, and author of dozens of books including "Thinking With Type"
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Thinking with Type, book by Ellen Lupton
Extra Bold, book co-authored by Ellen Lupton
Betty Cooke's Store
_________About Betty Cooke:
We recently lost another design legend, Betty Cooke, whose passing marks the end of an era in modernist jewelry design. Born in 1924 in Baltimore, Maryland, Betty Cooke was a trailblazing designer celebrated for her minimalist and sculptural jewelry. Her work is defined by clean lines, geometric forms, and a timeless elegance that resonated across generations. After studying at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), where she later became a beloved faculty member, Betty opened her own studio and eventually co-founded The Store Ltd., a Baltimore institution that showcased her work for over five decades. Her jewelry, often handcrafted in silver and gold with touches of wood or acrylic, is iconic for its simplicity and boldness—pieces that remain instantly recognizable as “Betty Cooke.” Cooke’s influence is immortalized in museums, galleries, and in the collections of those fortunate enough to own her designs. Her legacy is one of innovation, elegance, and unwavering dedication to her craft.
About Ellen Lupton:
Ellen Lupton is one of the most influential voices in contemporary graphic design. Born in 1963, she is a celebrated designer, writer, curator, and educator whose work has profoundly shaped design education and practice. After graduating from Cooper Union in 1985, she became a curator at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, where she curated groundbreaking exhibitions that connected design to culture and society. Ellen is perhaps best known for her book Thinking with Type, first published in 2004, which has become an essential guide for designers and is used in classrooms worldwide. Beyond her writing, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the Graphic Design MFA program at MICA, inspiring generations of designers with her innovative teaching methods. Her body of work extends to over 20 books, exploring topics from typography to storytelling in design. Ellen’s contributions continue to influence how designers think, create, and communicate in today’s visual world.
Keep up with what Ellen Lupton's up to:
Instagram | Website____
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Explore the illustrious career of design icon Louise Fili and her impact on typography, with insights and anecdotes from guest Kevin Cantrell, renowned typographer.
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AIGA Medalist: Louise FiliLouise Fili LtdGrafica della Strada: The Signs of ItalyElegantissima: The Design and Typography of Louise FiliAbout Louise Fili:
Louise Fili is a true titan of the design world, known for her impeccable taste, unrivaled craftsmanship, and deep-rooted passion for typography. She has revolutionized the landscape of graphic design with her elegant, vintage-inspired aesthetic. Her career spans decades of groundbreaking work, from her iconic book covers at Pantheon Books to the founding of her own studio, Louise Fili Ltd., where she has created stunning branding for top-tier clients like Sarabeth's and Bella Cucina.
Fili's work is a symphony of intricate lettering and timeless design, influenced by her love for Italian art and architecture. Her contributions to design have earned her the prestigious AIGA Medal and a place in the Art Directors Club Hall of Fame. Beyond her professional achievements, Fili is a dedicated educator at the School of Visual Arts, nurturing the next generation of designers.
Louise Fili continues to inspire and captivate with every project, embodying the perfect blend of historical reverence and modern sophistication. Her legacy is one of beauty, precision, and enduring impact on the world of design.
About Kevin Cantrell:
Adam Vicarel is a brand designer, lettering artist and mural painter who is obsessed with merging the worlds of fine art and strategic design. In his personal work Adam infuses his love for travel and the outdoors into his typography, illustration and storytelling to create visceral experiences for his audience. That’s visceral, not Vicarel.
His graph design studio, Vicarel Studios works on visual identity systems, packaging art installations, and more, and they’ve created for brands like NBC, Twitter, Lululemon, United Airlines and Sharpie. Their unique process of combining fine art with design allows them to craft provocative brands and artful experiences unbound by industry or medium.
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Uncover the incredible journey of Iris Apfel, whose design career spans textiles and fashion, from transforming the White House interiors to becoming a global style icon, joined by special guest designer Adam Vicarel.
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Have a 1:1 mentor call with Amber Asay: intro.co/amberasaySources:
The CEO Magazine “How Iris Apfel, 100, defies her age in the business world”South China Morning Post “Meet Iris Apfel”2014 Documentary “IRIS” by Albert MayslesAbout Iris Apfel:
Iris Apfel, born on August 29, 1921, in Queens, New York, is a renowned American businesswoman, interior designer, and fashion icon. Alongside her husband Carl, she founded Old World Weavers in 1950, a textile firm celebrated for its reproduction of antique fabrics. Their work included notable projects like the restoration of the White House under nine presidents, enhancing its historical elegance.
Iris's distinctive personal style, characterized by bold accessories and eclectic fashion choices, made her a fashion muse and a beloved figure in the industry. Her influence was further cemented by the 2005 Costume Institute exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art titled "Rara Avis: The Irreverent Iris Apfel."
In addition to her work in design, Iris has collaborated with brands like MAC Cosmetics and H&M, bringing her unique aesthetic to a broader audience. She continues to inspire with her memoir "Iris Apfel: Accidental Icon" and a modeling contract with IMG signed at age 97, showcasing her enduring appeal and influence.
For more information, explore her memoir or the New York Times article.
About Adam Vicarel:
Adam Vicarel is a brand designer, lettering artist and mural painter who is obsessed with merging the worlds of fine art and strategic design. In his personal work Adam infuses his love for travel and the outdoors into his typography, illustration and storytelling to create visceral experiences for his audience. That’s visceral, not Vicarel.
His graph design studio, Vicarel Studios works on visual identity systems, packaging art installations, and more, and they’ve created for brands like NBC, Twitter, Lululemon, United Airlines and Sharpie. Their unique process of combining fine art with design allows them to craft provocative brands and artful experiences unbound by industry or medium.
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Discover the captivating and untold story of Ann Lowe, the brilliant designer behind Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress, as we delve into her legacy with fashion historian and author, Elizabeth Way.
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Have a 1:1 mentor call with Amber Asay: intro.co/amberasayCheck out the original reel / video this podcast was based on: https://www.instagram.com/p/C6EDEMrLDsn/
Sources:
Ann Lowe: American Couturier by Elizabeth WayMargaret Powell's master's thesis, The Life and Work of Ann Lowe, published in 2012 by the Corcoran School of the Arts & Design (Included in the book above)By Her Own Design by Piper Huguley (Fictional Novel based on her life)The Mike Douglas Show InterviewAbout Ann Lowe:
Ann Lowe (1898-1981) was an influential African American fashion designer whose exquisite gowns were sought after by America's social elite. Born in Clayton, Alabama, she learned the art of dressmaking from her mother and grandmother, both skilled seamstresses. Despite facing significant racial barriers, Lowe's talent led her to design dresses for prominent families, including the Rockefellers, the du Ponts, and the Kennedys.
Her most famous creation was Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress in 1953, a masterpiece completed under extraordinary circumstances. Lowe’s work was known for its meticulous craftsmanship, hand-sewn details, and elegant designs, yet she received little recognition during her lifetime. Financial struggles and the racial discrimination she faced often overshadowed her achievements. Today, Ann Lowe is celebrated as a trailblazer in the fashion industry, whose contributions continue to inspire and influence designers around the world.
About Elizabeth Way:
Elizabeth Way is a curator who specializes in fashion history, particularly focusing on the intersection of fashion and African American culture. Elizabeth has curated several exhibitions, including "Black Fashion Designers" and "Fabric In Fashion," which highlight the contributions of Black designers and the significance of textiles in fashion. She also co-edited the book "Black Designers in American Fashion," contributing to scholarship and public understanding of the impact of Black designers in the fashion industry. AND authored a book that just came out in 2023 about Ann Lowe
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We delve into the impactful career of Venezuelan graphic designer Karmele Leizaola with guests, Oriana Nuzzi and Faride Mereb, Venezuelan designers now based in Brooklyn, share their research and insights into Karmele's legacy and discuss how her pioneering work continues to influence contemporary design. Join us for a captivating exploration of Karmele Leizaola's creative vision and enduring impact.
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About Karmele Leizaola:
First documented woman to work as a graphic designer in Venezuela. She is considered a pioneer of editorial design in Venezuela, working at several independent and her work has been influential for many generations of editorial designers.
Karmele was born in 1929 in Basque Country in Spain and starting at the age of 7, she was uprooted twice, first fleeing from the Spanish Civil War, and settling in France, and then fleeing France because of WWII, finally landing in Venezuela.
Her father was a printer and photojournalist which led to her connections and interest to becoming a publication graphic designer for various magazines and newspapers.
Her 55+ year career spanned from early layout design to hiring and consulting for countless publications.
Learn More at karmeleleizaola.com
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About Faride Mereb & Oriana Nuzzi
Faride and Oriana, both talented designers from Venezuela are now based in Brooklyn, where they co-direct Letra Muerta, a studio that specializes in art books.
Their dedication to preserving and celebrating Karmele's contributions to graphic design is nothing short of remarkable. In this interview they explain how they first came across her work, and how they’ve pushed through hours of research in Venezuela’s National Library. They took this research and created newspapers and zines of her work, and even Karmele’s wikipedia page is thanks to them.
Faride is an award-winning book designer, researcher, editor, and art director. Her love of books has deeply influenced her work. She’s worked for Penguin Random House, Kenning Editions, and is a member of the American Printing History Association.
Her friend and colleague Oriana, is an editorial designer and book designer. She has an artistic approach to her work, after first studying to be an artist. Along with Faride, she works on preserving and showcasing archival materials, while also exhibiting the work of Venezuelan artists and writers, and their cultural contributions.
Learn more about Faride and Oriana's studio Letra Muerta: https://letramuerta.nyc/
Follow their studio on IG: @letramuertainc
Follow Faride Mereb: @fmereb
Follow Oriana Nuzzi: @orianamrgarita____
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