Episoder
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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
Giorgia Lupi's Website: giorgialupi.com____
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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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Mangler du episoder?
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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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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
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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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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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Renowned designer Pum Lefebure shares her journey from her artistic roots in Bangkok to co-founding Design Army in Washington, D.C. She discusses her experiences leading high-profile campaigns for clients like the Washington Ballet, her philosophy on creativity and design, and the challenges of balancing her roles as a business owner, creative visionary, and mother. Listen in as Pum reflects on the impact of her cultural heritage, the importance of taking risks in design, and her advice for aspiring designers.
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Follow Pum Lefebure
Instagram: @pumlefebure
Design Army: @designarmy
Website: designarmy.comAbout Pum Lefebure:
Pum Lefebure is the co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Design Army, a renowned creative agency based in Washington, D.C. Originally from Bangkok, Thailand, Pum has brought a unique global perspective to American design, blending artistic vision with strategic business acumen.
Over the years, she has spearheaded high-profile campaigns for clients such as Adobe, GE, Disney, the Ritz Carlton, and the Washington Ballet.
Her work has not only garnered countless awards but also set new standards in the industry.
Pum has served as a jury president and judge for some of the world's most prestigious design competitions and she has been recognized by Graphic Design USA as one of the top 50 People to Watch and has been featured in esteemed publications like Communication Arts and HOW magazine.
In addition to her professional achievements, Pum is a dedicated mother and a passionate advocate for creativity. She seamlessly balances her roles as a business owner, creative visionary, and family woman, making her a true icon in the design world.
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We dive into the history of Architect Norma Merrick Sklarek, who broke new ground as the first Black woman licensed in New York and California, with guest Tobi Ashiru reflecting on her own experiences as a Black architectural designer teaching at USC and how Norma's pioneering achievements have inspired her.
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About Norma Merrick SklarekNorma Merrick Sklarek (1926-2012) was a pioneering architect who shattered racial and gender barriers in the profession. As the first Black woman licensed as an architect in New York and California, Norma made significant contributions to iconic projects such as the Fox Plaza in San Francisco, the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles, the US Embassy in Tokyo, and Terminal One at LAX. But as a black woman, she faced a lot of discrimination throughout her career. In fact, after graduation, she was rejected by 19 firms purely because of her race and gender. But she made an impact at 5 notable firms, including Victor Gruen Associates where she worked with Frank Gehry and Cesar Pelli. She also co-founding a firm with 2 other women, named Siegel-Sklarek-Diamond, which was the first architectural practice led by women in the US. She was also the first Black woman to be part of the AIA in 1959 AND became an AIA fellow later in 1980. Sklarek's legacy extends beyond her architectural achievements; she was a passionate advocate for diversity in the field, mentoring countless young architects and leaving an indelible mark on the architecture community.
About Tobi Ashiru
Tobi is a passionate designer and alumna of the USC School of Architecture. With a mission to change the world through design, she strives to push the boundaries of creativity. Born in Nigeria and raised in South Africa, Tobi seeks to create contextually relevant work that celebrates blackness. She's a interdisciplinary designer with diverse experiences as an architectural designer, installation artist, forever student, educator, and business owner.
She stays committed to the advancement of underrepresented voices in many ways and through Poché Design Studio, a black woman owned design agency she co-founded, where the mission is to occupy and amplify the black space in design. Tobi is currently an adjunct professor at USC School of Architecture where she is the lead instructor for the A-Lab program.
Instagram: @bypoche
Website: tobiashiru.com, bypoche.com____
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New Bonus Episode series! The topic for the first one is all about Persistence, submit your story and listen to host, Amber Asay's own story of Persistence on this episode.
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Paper artist Kelli Anderson pushes the boundaries of design, drawing inspiration from legendary Muriel Cooper's innovative approach at MIT to merging information design with technology.
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About Muriel Cooper
Muriel Cooper (1925-1994) was a pioneering graphic designer known for her groundbreaking work in digital design and visual communication. As the first art director of MIT Press, she revolutionized academic publishing with her innovative book designs, including "Learning from Las Vegas." She co-founded the Visible Language Workshop at MIT, which evolved into the MIT Media Lab, where she spearheaded research in computer graphics and user interface design. Cooper's legacy endures through her contributions to integrating design with technology and her advocacy for women in the field.
About Kelli Anderson
Kelli Anderson is an innovative artist, designer, and educator known for her inventive paper engineering and interactive books. With a background in both design and art, she creates works that explore the intersection of art, technology, and everyday objects, often transforming the mundane into the extraordinary. Kelli’s notable projects include a functioning paper record player and a pop-up planetarium book, showcasing her ability to merge creativity with technical skill. Her work has been widely recognized and celebrated for its ingenuity and playful approach to design.
Instagram: @kellianderson
Website: kellianderson.comSources:
Book: Muriel Cooper (Mit Press) by Reinfurt and Wiesenberger
Eye on Design “Muriel Coopers Visions of a Future”
Designer Observer’s Podcast episode w/ Michael Beirut & Jessica Helfand"Learning from Muriel Cooper"
YouTube, Talks at Google — “Muriel Cooper” by David Reinfurt____
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Sustainable fashion is a complex issue, but women are the ones leading the charge. Join Roanne Adams and Amber Asay as they shed light on fashion industry's 4 most influential women designers, who are putting in the work to be kinder to the earth.
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Description:
For today’s episode, I’m joined by the inspiring Roanne Adams, as we dive deep into the ebbs and flows of her career journey and then we also talk about the world of sustainable fashion, discussing the impact and contributions of esteemed women designers like Stella McCartney, Eileen Fisher, Gabriela Hearst and Mara Hoffman. We explore the intersections and moral impact of creativity, entrepreneurship, and sustainability in this enlightening episode.
About:
Roanne Adams is an acclaimed designer and creative director known for her innovative approach to branding and visual identity. She is the founder of RoAndCo, a New York-based design firm that collaborates with leading fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands. With a talent for storytelling and community building, Roanne has established herself as a prominent figure in the design industry. Her work has earned several awards, including a prestigious Young Guns win from the Art Directors Club, as well as recognition from AIGA.
Thank you Roanne for joining!
@roanneadams / @roandcostudio / roandco.com
4 Women Designers who are at the forefront of Sustainable Fashion:
Stella McCartney — @stellamcartneyEileen Fisher — @eileenfisherGabriela Hearst — @gabrielahearstMara Hoffman — @marahoffman____
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Renowned graphic designer Gail Anderson shares her journey from creating magazines in her youth to working at Rolling Stone and beyond, discussing her experiences as a woman of color in the design industry and the evolution of her career. Listen in on how Gail's mentors shaped her path and the fulfillment she finds in seeing her designs in the world.
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About Gail:
Gail Anderson is a distinguished designer, writer, and educator, renowned for her impactful work at Rolling Stone magazine where she served as senior art director. She’s an AIGA Medalist, has authored 14 books and currently chairs the BFA Advertising and BFA Design departments at the School of Visual Arts. Anderson's creative portfolio extends to Broadway, where she has designed posters for notable productions, and she has several awards, including the 2018 Cooper Hewitt National Design Award for Lifetime Achievement
In this episode, Gail shares her journey, starting from her early years as a creative in grammar school to what it was like navigating the challenges as a Black woman designer in the 80s and 90s, while breaking barriers in the industry.
Join us as we explore Gail's career, her inspirations, and her thoughts on the evolving world of design. Today, we’re bringing you a firsthand look into the mind of a true design trailblazer.
A massive thank you to Gail for sharing her incredible journey, insights, and wisdom with us. It’s been an absolute honor to have her on the show and to learn from her experiences and expertise. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and passion.
Highlights:
Gail's creative beginnings and inspirations in the BronxHer education at SVA and women teachers like Paula Scher, Carin Goldberg, Louise FiliNavigating the design industry in the 80s and 90s as a black womanIconic work at Rolling Stone and BroadwayThe importance of writing books on design for continual learningReflections on her career and legacy in the design worldLinks:
Learn more about Gail Anderson's work at her websiteSubscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifySocial Media:
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In this episode Amber Asay and Lisa Congdon talk about the legend that you may have not heard about, Gere Kavanaugh, who's work spans 1950's through 2020. She's another Cranbook Academy and multi-hyphenate designer, and has the most impressive repertoire of work.
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Have a 1:1 mentor call with Amber Asay: intro.co/amberasay1-min Reel of Gere Kavanaugh's Work
Sources:
Architectural Digest Articles:
A Look at the Life's Work of Multi-Hyphenate Designer Gere Kavanaugh
The Unlikely Story of One of General Motors's First Female Designers
LA Times: Gere Kavanaugh’s color avalanche brightened midcentury California design
2019 Book: A Colorful Life: Gere Kavanaugh, Designer (written by Louise Sandhaus, Kat Catmur)
Metropolis: Gere Kavanaugh: Pioneer With a Penchant for Color
AIGA Medal Article
AIGA Short
Gere Kavanaugh, born in Memphis in 1929, is a legendary American designer known for her vibrant and innovative contributions across industrial design, textiles, and interiors. Educated at the Memphis Academy of Art and Cranbrook Academy of Art, she was influenced by greats like Charles Eames and Eero Saarinen.
In the 1950s, Kavanaugh broke barriers at General Motors as one of the few female industrial designers. In 1960, she founded Gere Kavanaugh Designs in Los Angeles, known for bold colors and playful forms. Her work spans textiles, furniture, and interiors, always pushing the boundaries of traditional design.
Kavanaugh's influence extends through her collaborations, mentorship, and numerous awards, including the AIGA Medal in 2010. Her legacy is marked by innovation, courage, and an unwavering dedication to making the world a more beautiful, functional place.
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Thank you to Lisa Congdon!
https://lisacongdon.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lisacongdon
Her exhibit is up at St. Mary's until June 23, 2024: https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/museum-art/lisa-congdon-hold-it-lightly
Lisa Congdon an internationally known fine artist, illustrator and writer. She makes art for clients around the globe, including The Library of Congress, Target, Wired Magazine, Amazon, Google, Schwinn, Warby Parker, Method, Comme des Garcons, REI and MoMa, among many others. She exhibits internationally, including solo shows at Saint Mary's College Museum of Art (California), Chefas Projects (Oregon) and Paradigm Gallery (Philadelphia), along with group shows at Hashimoto Contemporary in Los Angeles, Museum of Design Atlanta and The Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco. She is the author of ten books, including Art Inc: The Essential Guide to Building Your Career as an Artist and Find your Artistic Voice: The Essential Guide to Working Your Creative Magic. Lisa is self-taught and didn’t achieve momentum in her career until she was nearly 40 years old. Despite her untraditional path, Lisa has achieved recognition, not just as an artist, but as a leader in the industry for her work in social justice, mentoring and teaching. In March of 2021, she was named “One of the 50 Most Inspiring People and Companies According to Industry Creatives” published by AdWeek. When she's not making art, you can find her racing her bike around Oregon. She lives and works in Portland, Oregon.____
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Today I am joined by Catherine Casalino to talk about the life and work of the incredible graphic designer and artist, Barbara Kruger. From her graphic design background, how that influenced her art, to the meaning and impact of her collaged artwork. We even dive into the ironic cycle of her regurgitated work being regurgitated by the skateboard brand, Supreme, and their head-scratching lawsuit story.
1-min Reel of Barbara Kruger's Work
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Barbara Kruger was born in 1945 in Newark, New Jersey. Kruger briefly attended Syracuse University, then Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she studied with artists and photographers Marvin Israel and Diane Arbus. Kruger worked in graphic design for Condé Nast Publications at Mademoiselle magazine, and was promoted to head designer within a year, at the age of twenty-two. Kruger has described her time in graphic design as “the biggest influence on my work…[it] became, with a few adjustments, my ‘work’ as an artist.”In the early 1970s, Kruger started showing artwork in galleries in New York. At the time, she was mainly working in weaving and painting. However, she felt that her artwork lacked meaning, and in 1976, she quit creating art entirely for a year. She took a series of teaching positions, including at University of California, Berkeley. When she began making art again in 1977, she had moved away from her earlier style into photo and text collages. In 1979, Kruger developed her signature style using large-scale black-and-white images overlaid with text. She repurposed found images, juxtaposing them with short, pithy phrases printed in Futura Bold or Helvetica Extra Bold typeface in black, white, or red text bars. In addition to creating text and photographic works, Kruger has produced video and audio works, written criticism, taught classes, curated exhibitions, designed products, such as T-shirts and mugs, and developed public projects, such as billboards, bus wraps, and architectural interventions.
Kruger addresses media and politics in their native tongue: sensational, authoritative, and direct. Personal pronouns like “you” and “I” are staples of Kruger’s practice, bringing the viewer into each piece. “Direct address has motored my work from the very beginning,” Kruger said. “I like it because it cuts through the grease.” Kruger’s work prompts us to interrogate our own positions; in the artist’s words, “to question and change the systems that contain us.” She demands that we consider how our identities are formed within culture, through representation in language and image.
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catherinecasalino.com
@cat.casalino
Catherine Casalino is the principal and creative director of Casalino Design, an independent design company in New York City, focusing on book design and branding.
Prior to founding Casalino Design in 2016, Catherine worked in-house as an art director and designer at Simon & Schuster, Random House, and Hachette Book Group, and she began her career at Rodrigo Corral Design.
Over the past two decades, Catherine’s work has been recognized by numerous international design organizations and publications. She has served as a competition chair and judge for The Type Directors Club, The One Club, The Art Directors Club, and the Association of American University Presses.
She frequently speaks about design at art schools and organizations, is an instructor on Domestika.com, and volunteers as a mentor for Alphabettes—a community that supports women in type.
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Barbara Stauffacher Solomon (graphic designer) passed away days after we recorded this episode. Guest, Rachel Gogel and Amber Asay dive into Barbara's life, design approach, and impressively long career as a woman designer.
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Have a 1:1 mentor call with Amber Asay: intro.co/amberasayView 1-min Reel of Barbara Stauffacher Solomon's Work
About Barbara:
Barbara Stauffacher Solomon is a prolific designer, muralist, landscape designer, and architect.
Born in San Francisco in 1928, she spent her formative years studying ballet, cultivating a deep appreciation for rhythm, movement, and expression.
Her path took a transformative turn when she journeyed to Switzerland to study at the Basel School of Design. It was here, that Barbara immersed herself in the principles of the International Typographic Style.
Returning to San Francisco in the 1950s, Barbara found herself at the forefront of a cultural revolution, she burst onto the design scene with her groundbreaking concept of "Supergraphics" when she became involved in the design of Sea Ranch, the experimental utopian town on the coast of Northern California. Her work at Sea Ranch embodied a holistic approach to design, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between humans and their environment.
She once famously declared, "I'm not an artist, I'm a designer," emphasizing her commitment to functionality and purpose in all her creations.
She's not just a trailblazer; she's a visionary whose indomitable spirit continues to shape the way we think about design and innovation.
Sources:
Hall of Femmes
Why? Why Not
Adobe Create YouTube
Interview with Wallpaper Magazine
Thank you Rachel for joining us!
rachelgogel.com
@rgogelRachel Gogel (she/her) is a Parisian creative director, designer, speaker, mentor, and educator whose career has followed the rise and dominance of an entire era of digital design.
Based in San Francisco, she runs her own small consultancy as an independent design executive and has led major brand initiatives at GQ, The New York Times, Meta, Godfrey Dadich, Airbnb, and Dropbox. Now working as a solopreneur, Rachel has influenced many exciting projects for her clients — from launching editorial publications from scratch, to crafting story-driven digital experiences, to leading org design efforts, to designing TV show pitch decks and book covers for influential public figures, to building brand systems for global media and entertainment companies in a fractional capacity. As an experienced people manager, she is committed to designing teams that build brands — with a focus on culture and technology. Having stepped into interim executive creative director, head of brand, and design director roles in recent years, she has helped companies through transitional periods, built out their cross-disciplinary creative teams, and trained her full-time replacement(s).
When she is not consulting, Rachel teaches in the Master’s of Interaction Design program at the California College of the Arts (CCA). She is also a passionate advocate for gender equity in the design industry. For 2.5 years, she has served on the AIGA San Francisco Board of Directors with a focus on amplifying women and non-binary designers’ collective power and visibility through a program called Women in Leadership & Design (WILD), for which Rachel is the Chair. Rachel also actively participates in Neol and Queer Design Club. Her words and actions over the years highlight how she's come to care deeply about using her voice and privilege to help create connected communities, especially for women.
Nominated for a 2022 Webby for her work on Departures, Rachel has been recognized by Inc. as one of 2016’s “30 under 30 Movers and Shakers” and by Forbes as one of 2015’s “30 under 30” in media. She has been featured in publications such as PRINT Magazine, Design by Women, Fast Company, among others. After hours, you can find Rachel museum hopping, planning her next trip abroad, or relaxing with her wife at home.
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On today’s episode, we’ll discuss the life and work of industrial designer, Evelyn Ackerman, who’s work was prolific during the Mid-Century California Modernism era in the 50s and 60s But what makes this episode even more exciting is that we’re joined by her daughter, Laura Ackerman-Shaw, who offers a unique perspective and personal insights on the incredible work of her mother.
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Have a 1:1 mentor call with Amber Asay: intro.co/amberasayLaura Ackerman-Shaw, is a Stanford University graduate with a bachelors and masters degree in English literature, boasts 35 years of experience in publishing and has been the Executive Director of Ackerman Modern since 2015. She passionately preserves and promotes her parents’ design legacy through museum exhibitions, presentations, scholarships under their name, preserving their archive of work, writing articles, and licensing her parents products with brands like Design Within Reach and CB2. Based in the Bay Area, Laura, her husband Marc, and their son Aaron live in a vibrant mid-century modern Eichler home, embodying the artistic essence inherited from her renowned designer parents.
Evelyn Ackerman, alongside her husband Jerome, was a leading figure in Mid-Century California Modernism. Her colorful and whimsical designs spanned ceramics, mosaics, tapestries, woodcarvings, and hardware, embodying the Bauhaus philosophy of blending art, craft, and industry for accessible quality goods. Her design style ranged from geometric minimalism to biomorphic abstraction to figurative stylization, highlighting her intuitive use of pattern, color, line, proportion, and composition.
Evelyn and Jerome’s pieces from the early 1950s through the early 1980s gained recognition nationally and internationally, noting the cultural nuances encountered in Evelyn’s creative journey. Her and her husband’s timeless creations adorned postwar modern interiors, fueling California’s housing boom, have been seen in museums and even on sets in movies and television. Despite retiring from manufacturing in 1979, their legacy endures, captivating collectors today and resonating with a new generation drawn to their collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication to their artistic vision.
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Here's where to follow the Ackerman Modern legacy to stay up to date on exhibits and future brand collaborations:
https://ackermanmodern.com/
https://www.instagram.com/ackermanmodern/CB2 Collection as part of their Design Legends series:
https://www.cb2.com/collections/ackerman-modern/1IG Reel of her work:
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6gk90qrpYl/____
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