Designers Block

London Venue Confirmed & Selfridges projects

Posted by Rory Dodd at 12.06pm - 12. May 08

We have a new location for London in September.

We will be at No1 The Piazza. Covent Garden.

Show dates are from 18th - 21st of September 2008

Same dates as 100% Design.

Show takes place during the 6th London Design Festival.

Many thanks to The London Design Festival for arranging the venue.

More information soon.

We are also delighted to be working with Selfridges once again.

From 5th September to 25th of October there will Designersblock windows on Duke Street and a pop up shop retailing work from exhibitors past and present on the 4th Floor.

More information Soon.

Looking For The Heart of Saturday Night

Posted by Rory Dodd at 11.32am - 12. May 08

Looking For The Heart of Saturday Night This was the Scene at Designersblock Milan 2008 at Piscina Argelati during The Salone Del Mobile.
Our second event of the week was busy busy. Over 2000 very happy folk entertained by a Secret Wars Special featuring Jimi Crayon & Jeba. Likened to Michaelangelo and Leonardo by The Italian audience, it was very special. The contest was MC'd by Reeps and his amazing Human Beatbox exploits followed by a set from Amsterdams finest La Boleur.

Here's a taste from youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_Zkj9x-LTs

Have a look at http://www.verydesignersblock.com/ for more pictures from the show.

Thanks to Designboom and Core77 as always for publishing lovely nice big reports.

http://www.designboom.com/snapshot/gallery-view-all.php?SNAPSHOT_ID=12&GALLERY_ID=747

http://www.core77.com/gallery/photos_search.asp?album_id=58&tag=milan+offsite&context_id=3&page_no=1

Huge thanks to our sponsors. Milano Sport. UKTI. Bombay Sapphire. Brunchy Pizza. Cassina Salicetti. POKE.

Thanks to everybody who helped, exhibited and visited us in Milano

First and Last and Always Rossita

Thank you.

Designersblock Milan 2008

Posted by Rory Dodd at 4.59am - 28. March 08

17 - 21 April
11.00 - 20.00 hrs Daily

Opening party Wednesday 16 April 18.00 - 23.00

2nd Party Saturday 19th 20.00 - 24.00

Piscina Argelati
Via Segantini Giovanni, 6
Piazza Arcole / Via Fillippo Argelati
20143
Milano

Please visit http://www.verydesignersblock.com/ for pictures

This is the list of exhibitors and links

Alice Rosignoli
http://www.alicerosignoli.it/

Anatomic Factory
http://www.anatomicfactory.com/

Arabeschi Di Latte
http://www.arabeschidilatte.org/

Chorus design group
http://www.chorusdesigngroup.it

Design Species
http://www.designspecies.org/

Falinc
http://www.falinc.com.au/

Francesca Signori
http://www.francescasignori.com/

Frauke Stegmann
http://www.ineedtimetothinkaboutwildlife.org/

Glasgow & Caledonian University
http://www.gcal.ac.uk/

Hanna Zoon
http://www.hannazoon.com/

Heather Smith
http://www.heathersmithcollection.com/

James
http://www.jamesvanvossel.be/

Jane Abernethy

Jill Phillips
http://www.zero4zero7.co.uk/

Joana Meroz
http://www.TheOrnamentedLife.com/

Kith Kin
http://www.kith-kin.co.uk/

Lambert Kamps
http://www.lambertkamps.com/

Lina Meier
http://www.lm-design.co.uk/

Macki*
http://www.macki.co.uk/

Marcella Foschi
http://www.privatecircle.it/

Martina Von Meyenburg

Matthew Plummer-Fernandez
http://www.plummerfernandez.com/

Mattia Frongia

Matthias Froböse
http://www.froboese.info/

Maz Zaeh
http://www.mazzaeh.ch/

Ninette Van Kamp
http://www.souffrezpourmoi.com

Okinczyc-design
http://www.okinczyc-design.com/

Powerbrands
http://www.powerbrands.nl/

Radu Comsa
http://www.raducomsa.ro/

Rebecca Otero
http://www.rebeccaotero.com/

[re]design
http://www.redesigndesign.org/

Studio Roam
http://www.studioroam.com/

Studio Verisssimo
http://www.studioverissimo.net/

Thomas Antonietti
http://www.thomasantonietti.com/

Toby Summerskill
http://www.tobysummerskill.com/

Vahakn Matossian
http://www.vahakn.co.uk/

[we]make
http://www.wemake.co.uk/

Winoldi
http://www.winoldi.com/

Woodloops
http://www.woodloops.de/

Zp Studio
http://www.zpstudio.it/

ZZZZZZZ8 ZZZZZZZ8
http://www.zzzign.com
http://www.red.mi.it

Milan 2.0

Posted by Rory Dodd at 3.45am - 19. February 08

Milan 2.0 Designersblock Milan 08
17 - 21 April

Piscina Argelati
Piazza Arcole / via Filippo Argelati

District is Navigli over the canal from Zona Tortona

For pictures visit http://www.verydesignersblock.com

We are welcoming applications. If you would like to participate email rory@designersblock.org.uk

We have outside space, inside space and 3 pools, for exhibition, presentation, event, performance, and camping.

A new kind of show for a different kind of Milan.

Milan 2.0

C'mon Mcanelly

Posted by Rory Dodd at 5.09am - 06. February 08

He's in The Guardian. Hawaii Design. Check it out. A LIttler Us. From Designersblock Illustrate back in September during the London Design Festival.

Brit Insurance Designs of the Year at the Design Museum

13 February – 27 April

The first in an annual exploration of the most innovative, interesting and forward looking new work in design of all kinds. Selected from around the world, Brit Insurance Designs of the Year presents 100 projects nominated by a group of internationally respected design experts, curators, critics, practitioners and enthusiasts. These projects fall within seven categories: architecture, fashion, furniture, graphics, interactive, product and transport. The exhibition gives an overview of the most significant achievements in design and architecture in the last year, whether they are projects by a
practice, a team or an individual.

An international jury, each with expertise in their respective fields, will select a winner for the Brit Insurance Design Awards, recognising the best of contemporary design from around the world in each category as well as an overall winner. These winners will be announced and presented in March 2008.

Designboom Book of the Show

Posted by Rory Dodd at 12.04pm - 31. January 08

Designboom Book of the Show From september 19-23, 2007 designboom held an exhibition on contemporary ceramics at
designersblock during the london design festival. 'handled with care' featured 500 pieces by
163 established and upcoming designers from 35 countries.

A full catalog of the 'handled with care' exhibit is now available through the designboom shop.
the limited-edition book highlights 180 projects from the show. at 112-pages, it captures a
snapshot of contemporary ceramic craft. only 1000 copies will be printed, so make sure to
get your copy before they're gone. It looks really nice and a snip at 19 dollar plus shipping from the link below.

http://www.designboom.com/eng/index.xtml

designersblock illustrate shortlisted

Posted by Rory Dodd at 3.37am - 30. January 08

designersblock illustrate shortlisted Our graphics for designersblock illustrate back in September last year have been shortlisted for the Design Museum Design of the Year awards. Our long term Graphics master Paul Mcanelly of Hawaii Design got together with States based illustrator Oliver Hibert to came up with four characters based on four anagrams of Illustrate, Ultra Stile, A Littler Us, La Sluttier and Tail Rustle which were used on invitations, posters, signage, T-shirts, and pretty much everything else we could think of, resulting in our most ambitious and multi layered package to date. Visitors to the show were greeted by an army of four meter high bright orange Ultra Stiles which you don't often see in deepest Holloway. They are still there at Highbury Studios if you want to go and see them.

A full set of limited edition prints are available from us if you want to treat your walls.

Thanks to Paul, Oliver, Forex, MTA Digital and Anthony Green & Spencer.

If there is voting to be had then vote for Hawaii Design.

Results are out in March

Good luck Mcanelly San

for more pics please visit
http://www.verydesignersblock.com

B'HM

Posted by Rory Dodd at 2.03am - 30. January 08

Designersblock were at Interiors Birmingham

20 - 23 January 2008

NEC Birmingham Hall 6

http://www.interiorsbirmingham.com

Designersblock Trends Area

200 Square Meters presenting trends for 2008/9 in association with CMP with trends from GLOBAL COLOR RESEARCH LTD / mix FUTURE INTERIORS and Jellyhaus

Featuring work from

Anne Brodie
Charlie Davidson
Crispin Jones
Dan Chen
David Restorick
Dutch Connection
Guinea Pig Design
Heather Smith
Henny Van Nistelrooy
Hulger
Jack Cole
James Carcass
John Wischhusen
Jon Male
Kith Kin
Lucy Fergus
Lunartik
Mathew Plummer-Fernandez
Ninette Van Kamp
Oscar&Ewan
Pinch
Postlerfergusson
Rebecca Otero
SCP
Secret Wars
Seetal Solanki
Soner Ozenc
Steve Watson
Tamsin Van Essen
Taschide
Timorous Beasties
Tom Price

Five individual stands in Association with Designersblock

Charlie Davidson
Concrete Blond
Click For Art
Jon Male
Timorous Beasties

Designersblock & Associate Sessions
Monday 21
Seminar Theatre Hall 6

Designersblock & Associate presented a one day programme of talks and panel discussions for especially for Interiors Birmingham; delivering perspectives on the most interesting and relevant trends for 2008/9 from a pre-eminent list of industry professionals and designers. Each session focused on different trend areas: colour, interiors, product and digital, taking the form of panel discussions hosted by Duncan Riches of Associate.

Designer Session
10.30 to 11.15
Eric Barrett - Concrete Blond
Paul Simmons - Timorous Beasties
Charlie Davidson - Designer
Jon Male - Designer

Colour Session
11.30 to 12.15
Justine Fox - GLOBAL COLOR RESEARCH LTD / mix FUTURE INTERIORS

Interior Session
13.00 to 13.45
Jasmine La Beau – The Future Laboratory
Russell Pinch - Designer
Paul Simmons – Timorous Beasties

Technology Session
14.00 to 14.45
Nick Roope – Poke and Hulger
Graham Powell - Designer

Product Session
15.00 to 15.45
Rory Dodd - Designersblock
Kith Kin - Curators / Designers

Many Thanks to

CMP & Interiors Birmingham

Duncan Riches

Printing - MTA Digital
Forex Panels - Alcan
Trends - GLOBAL COLOR RESEARCH LTD / mix FUTURE INTERIORS and Jellyhaus
Architecture - Rob Thompson
Stand Design - Oscar & Ewan
Designersblock Graphic - Hawaii Design

Picture is of Sound Tag Albert by Mathew Plummer-Fernandez atop table from Dutch Connection
infront of Devil Damask wallpaper from Timorous Beasties.

For images from Birmingham and more info please visit
http://www.verydesignersblock.com

Future sound of Architecture

Posted by Rory Dodd at 4.32am - 05. December 07

Future sound of Architecture The Under The Bridge show, was the first sight of sound tagging, from the fertile mind of Mathew Plummer- Fernandez Sound tagging is a new activity for documenting the sounds of our city. Most large buildings have distinct auditory signatures as a result of vibrations generated by traffic, underground, and wind that resonate through the solid structures. In simpler terms: buildings have voices.
The sound is professionally recorded by capturing the otherwise unnoticed sound of the structure and graphed 3-dimensionally on a volume/frequency/time graph. The graph is turned into a 3-D sculpture by laser-cutting acrylic.

For more pictures please visit
http://www.verydesignersblock.com

Under The Bridge

Posted by Rory Dodd at 4.28am - 05. December 07

The most exciting thing I have been to in a long time, Under The Bridge was curated and organised by Macki*. A one night only guerrilla gallery showcasing artist talent from a range of disciplines, including product design, illustration, 3D installation, styling, photography and poetry.

In September Kith Kin showed the strongest and most refreshing take on design curation anywhere in London and now there's this. Be nice if it kicks off a new wave.

The event was inspired by street renegades and their innovative and quirky methods of communicating with the urban environment. The movement into fresh directions beyond street art and graffiti are subverting the 3D streetscape by using new materials and techniques to shock, educate and entertain the public, changing the way we experience city life.

''Under the bridge exhibition makes the most of the public space that surrounds us, without destroying, vandalising and defacing it permanently. Using magnetic hooks and temporary methods to display the work of selected artists.''

Macki* hopes ''to develop a platform on which artists who do not have the means or access to exhibit, a chance to shout out their message. A guerrilla gallery can do this and this is what “Under the Bridge” is about, claiming the streets back. Advertisers and large corporations don’t ask for the public’s permission to bombard us with their messages. So why should we ask permission to expose ours?''

For more pictures and a link to Macki* please visit
http://www.verydesignersblock.com

Tokyo 07

Posted by Rory Dodd at 3.41am - 05. December 07

Tokyo 07 This was Designersblock in Tokyo. Thanks to Design Association and 100% Design Tokyo for inviting us back for Tokyo Designers' Week. We had five containers featuring Secret Wars, Charlie Davidson, Kith Kin, Mathew Plummer- Fernandez & Henny Van Nistelrooy and Surface Synergy.

Surface Synergy included work from Rebecca Otero, Seetal Solanki, Ninette Van Kamp, Heather Smith and Lucy Fergus. It was the container that people loved to touch.

Charlie Davidson showed Monster and Iris Lumieres. With a little lace from Timorous Beasties.

Sound Chair from Mathew Plummer-Fernandez and Henny Van Nistelrooy's Kevlar chair were the two most experimental pieces of furniture in the whole show by a country mile. Nothing else went so far in terms of process, materials and imagination.

The boys to watch, Kith Kin curated and produced another witty, ambitious, provocative show of small objects and big ideas that was perfect for Tokyo. And they made it out too.

Also very out were Secret Wars in the shape of Terry, Teck and Zadok.

They loved Tokyo and Tokyo loved them.

100% Design Tokyo is a big joined up generous show,a trade show in a very big tent, concepts and installations in the container show and a big Japanese and Korean Student show in the open air on top of the containers.
Everybody sees everything and the audience is interested informed and diverse. It was very nice to be back and in good company.

Thanks to Kawasaki San for your support and inviting us to Tokyo again, Kengo Kizawa. All ninjya, Masako Sato, Aki, Maki, Masumi.

Notcho and Notcho's Workshop.

Gunter and Paul.

We have been invited back next year but the best news is that Design Association will be doing something special with us at London in September.

For more pictures please visit
http://www.verydesignersblock.com

Next Stop Tokyo

Posted by Rory Dodd at 6.04am - 04. October 07

Next Stop Tokyo We are going to Tokyo again.

You will find us showing in five containers at 100% Design Tokyo during Tokyo Designers Week.

Location is:
Jingu gaien (the baseball ground)
2-3,Kasumigaoka-cho,
Shinjuku-Ku,Tokyo,160-0013
Japan.

Dates are 31 October - 4 November

http://www.c-channel.co.jp/en/exhibition/
http://www.100percentdesign.jp/

Big thanks and LOVE to 100% Design Tokyo for inviting us back again See you soon xxx

designersblock 07 Links

Posted by Rory Dodd at 5.55am - 26. September 07

Thanks to everybody for posting photos, words and movies about last weeks shows.

Here are some of the links we have found.

http://www.designboom.com/weblog/index.php?&start=10&num_record_tot=1651

http://www.dezeen.com/2007/09/27/untitled-lights-by-karen-ryan/#more-5413

http://www.dezeen.com/2007/09/23/designersblock-opening-party-and-illustrate-07/#more-5308

http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=designersblock+2007

http://blip.tv/file/395836

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8bwumD2pzM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gLbGh8dJtE

http://www.designspotter.com/weblog/archives/2007/09/floor_lamp_by_s.php

http://www.core77.com/blog/events/london_design_week_07_designersblock_7533.asp

http://deadbysunrise.blogspot.com/2007/09/cd_24.html

http://nascentideas.wordpress.com/2007/09/24/designersblockillustrate-photos/

http://studiobiganimal.blogspot.com/2007/09/designersblock-illustrate.html

http://iconeye.sites.subhub.com/articles/20070919_4/

http://iconeye.sites.subhub.com/articles/20070921_2/

http://www.designboom.com/weblog/read.php?CATEGORY_PK=&TOPIC_PK=1662

http://www.core77.com/blog/technology/postlerfergusons_the_future_on_your_plate_7527.asp

http://theideafeed.com/ldf/?p=32

http://futureblog.designhotels.com/

http://www.dexigner.com/graphic/news-g12021.html

http://www.blanka.co.uk/Events/50_Exhibition/50_venues/Designersblock_Illustrate

http://wemadethis.typepad.com/we_made_this/2007/09/more-london-des.html

http://www.jonburgerman.com/index.php/Work/comments/designersb_ill/

http://www.pu-tai.com/blog/2007/09/miss-geschick-lady-lapsus-at.html

http://www.andybennett.net/2007/09/20/london-design-festival/

http://www.designboom.com/weblog/read.php?CATEGORY_PK=&TOPIC_PK=1658

http://www.core77.com/blog/events/london_design_festival_07_designersblock_opening_7511.asp

http://www.dezeen.com/2007/09/23/designersblock-opening-party-and-illustrate-07/#more-5308

http://fuzz.newgrounds.com/news/post/29502

http://oliverhibert.wordpress.com/2007/09/20/designersblock-07-london/

http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/london_design_festival_preview_concrete_blond_designersblock_7498.asp

http://sergeseidlitzblog.blogspot.com/2007/09/doodlearth-london-friday-14th-sept.html

http://www.bd4d.com/blog/2007/09/18/illustrators-and-iphones/

http://wemadethis.typepad.com/we_made_this/2007/09/the-london-desi.html

http://www.urbanretrolifestyle.com/2007/09/17/designersblock-illustrate-london-2007/

http://blog.goo.ne.jp/awkgallery/e/9f3c7f353f4663bf6bc420f259fd4a03

http://www.hellavate.com/?p=14

http://www.verydesignersblock.com/?p=337

http://smallritual.blogs.com/small_ritual/2007/09/designersblock-.html

http://designswarm.com/blog/2007/09/16/topoware-london-design-festival/

http://pointyeyes.blogspot.com/2007/09/designersblock-secretwars.html

http://www.creativereview.co.uk/crblog/designersblock-illustrated/

http://www.die-gestalten.de/news/detail?id=2209

http://boico.net/blog/archives/1034

http://nascentideas.wordpress.com/2007/09/03/designersblockillustrate/

We have updated http://www.verydesignersblock.com/

with new images from Toby Summerskill photography

designersblock:illustrate

Posted by Rory Dodd at 12.11pm - 21. August 07

It's our tenth year so we thought we should bring something a bit special to the table so as well as designersblock london 07 in Shoreditch we are launching designersblock:illustrate at Highbury Studios in Holloway.

Designersblock:illustrate.

In association with Debut Art, Monorex, Secret Wars, one dot zero and Anthony Green & Spencer.

15 - 23 September 2007

Highbury Studios
Hornsey Street
Holloway
London N7

Times: 10.00 - 19.00 Hrs Daily

Free entry

Showcasing work from over 80 leading illustrators, artists, designers and film makers designersblock: illustrate is a major new festival taking place in 4 acres of brand new developments on Hornsey Street, Holloway.

40 Commercial units have been illustrated together with outside space. Installations, short film animations, live art performances, web and graphics based work and workshops. Public participation in drawing, bar, music and club nights.
Spaces kindly provided by Anthony Green & Spencer.

launch: Friday 14th September 18.00 - 22.00 Invitation Only.
With Secret Wars at the Electric Lighting Station

Party: Friday 21st September 19.00 - 24.00.
DJ+VJ Fred Deakin of Lemonjelly.
From Tokyo - Shantell Martin Live.
Secret Wars all star industry tag team special at the Electric Lighting Station. Teams to be announced.

Designersblock:illustrate

4Wall Ltd
Airside
Alex Young
Alfa
Association of Illustrators
Astec
Blam
Blanka
Bonzai
Cable Street
Celyn
Christine Berrie
Chu
Container
Dan Mumford
Daydream Network
Debut Art
Dep
Elmo
James Carey
James Taylor
Jon Burgerman
Haroun Haward
Harry Malt
Hawaii
Hicks
Ilovedust
Inkfetish
Jamie Jongo
Jimi Crayon
Jorge Moita
Kai Bergmann
Kenn Goodall
Lie-ins and tigers
Matt Harriman
Monorex
Mr P
Octopus inc.
Odisy
O.Two & SheOne – rockGroup™
Oli Hydes
Oliver Hibert
Otwo
Pandarosa
Peter Edwards
Peter Ibreugger
Peter Quinnell
POKE
Probs
Remi
Rich Clarke
Rolf Schulenburg
Ross Holden
Rupert Griffiths
Sarah Howell
Sarah Lloyd & Petra Storrs
Secret Wars
Serge Seidlitz
Shantell Martin
Sick Boy
Squintopera
Studio Rarekwai
Supafly
Tado
Tech1
Teck
Tim Ellis
Turbo Loaf
Twiy
Ulla Puggaard
UNIT – Albarn & Birdsell
Vault49
Wen
Will Barras (Scrawl Collective)
Will Robson-Scott
Zadok
Zip

WWW.DESIGNERSBLOCK.ORG.UK
WWW.VERYDESIGNERSBLOCK.COM
WWW.SECRETWARS.CO.UK
WWW.DEBUTART.COM

WINNER

Posted by Rory Dodd at 1.58am - 31. July 07

WINNER Behold the mighty Charlie Davidson accepting his Grand Designs award for best designer in the world.
Well done Charlie.
http://www.charlie-davidson.com/

Visualux

Posted by Shantell Martin at 3.22am - 25. July 07

VISUALUX at Super Deluxe (August 6th).
http://lightrhythmvisuals.com/visualux

New event - A social audiovisual immersive experience,
with an interactive and cinematic edge.

Visualux highlights audiovisual talent and technologies,
which are flourishing in the contemporary art/club scene celebrating
international cultural movements alongside local Japanese talent.
From refined experimentation to a environmental installations a
full range of AV techniques will be explored over the course the year.
Visualux will includes music, performances, and multi-media art, all originating,
evolving, and drawing inspiration from visual culture.

Visualux
http://www.lightrhythmvisuals.com/visualux/

Schedule:

Screenings 19:30 - Lightrhythm Visuals - Notations 01

Presentation 20:30 - Tom Stobbs - Processing
http://movingbrands.com

Installation (all night)
Shantell Martin - Live Sketch - http://shantellmartin.com
Moving Brands - Processing - http://movingbrands.com

Performance
21:30 - VJReel – Lightrhythm / Insector Labo (JP)
http://www.lightrhythmvisuals.com/news/?page_id=151

22:00 - VJ M.M.M. – Lightrhythm Visuals + GAVJ (JP)
http://www.lightrhythmvisuals.com/news/?page_id=147

22:45 - C-TRL – Lightrhythm Visuals (NY)
http://www.lightrhythmvisuals.com/news/?page_id=150

Map to the event - http://www.super-deluxe.com /map/
SuperDeluxe - B1F 3.1.25 Nishi Azabu, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 106-0031, Japan - tel 03.5412.0515

LONDON UPDATE 2

Posted by Rory Dodd at 10.41am - 18. July 07

Designersblock London

Tenth London Anniversary Show

20 - 23 September 2007

The Nicholls & Clarke Buildings. 3 - 10 Shoreditch High Street. London E1.
England.

Times: 10.00 - 19.00 Hrs Daily

PRE REGISTER FOR FREE ENTRY ONLINE NOW

International & UK Designers including:
ANNA-MARIA ANTONIADES & JUDITH LEVIN
ANON PAIROT
ASSOCIATE
CHARLIE DAVIDSON
CLAYSTATION
CONCRETE BLOND
CRISPIN JONES
DAVID RESTORICK INTERIORS
ELENA CORCHERO
FRESHWEST DESIGN
HEATHER SMITH
HENNY VAN NISTELROOY
JESSICA NEBEL
JOHN HARRINGTON
JOHN WISCHHUSEN
JULIA WÜLFING
KAREN RYAN
KITH KIN
LALIT HIRA
LINDA FLORENCE
LINK
LUCY FERGUS
LUKA STEPAN
LUKE WOJCIK
MASAKO SATO
MATHEW PLUMMER-FERNANDEZ
MATTHEW DURRAN
MISS GESCHICK & LADY LAPSUS
NINETTE VAN KAMP
OOF DESIGN
PETER IBRUEGGER
PHILIPPE KINDELIS
POSTLERFERGUSON
REBECCA OTERO
REIKO KANEKO
RINGLEADER
ROSE TINTED SPECTACLES
RM*
S.C.N.U.K.
SEETAL SOLANKI
SONER OZENC
STEVE WATSON
STUDIOMOLD
SUNTAE KIM
TASCHIDE
TINA TSANG
TITHI KUTCHAMUCH
TOBY SUMMERSKILL PHOTOGRAPHY
TOM HIGGS
TOM PRICE
UNDERGROWTH
ZINOO PARK

More to be confirmed

For links to all exhibitors see DB Database

MAJOR EXHIBITIONS AND PRESENTATIONS INCLUDING:

Designboom
Monorex/Secret Wars
POKE
London Manufacturing Advisory Service
Book Launch and exhibition Manufacturing Processes for Design Professionals By Rob Thompson published by Thames & Hudson
Liquid Projects

TO PARTICIPATE APPLY NOW we are welcoming applications from designers and companies at all levels.

Designersblock have produced 34 shows in 10 countries with over 500 exhibitors from 30 nations. We are celebrating our tenth year.

Designersblock London 07 takes place at the same time as 100% Design and during the London Design Festival.

Designersblock London 07 will consist of presentations from between forty and sixty UK and international designers and design companies. Last years show included, furniture, lighting, design product, fashion, graphics, interactive art, cinema, live performance and music.

DESIGNBOOM will curate ‘handled with care’ an exhibition of contemporary ceramic wares from established and upcoming international designers.

Since their origin ceramic works have expanded the
functional dimension and contemporary production
engenders ornamentation, sculpture and installation.
The exhibition will feature a selection of ceramic objects, which express subjects and details of everyday life, their departure from tradition and the current conflict of ecology and
consumerism. Designboom are currently selecting ceramic pieces for the show,

MONOREX the multi-functioning, ever evolving media company will stage their hugely successful Secret Wars during the show. Their eclectic-cross section of artists balances renowned household names with the hottest prospects on the design circuit. Secret Wars is a battle like no other. Similar to Fight Club it thrives on word of mouth. Put simply, it is a war between artists. The ultimate question however, is who will reign supreme? The only weapon they carry is the pen they hold in their hand.

POKE the multi award winning creative agency and long term sponsors of Designersblock will take part, When they participated in 2003 it was to launch the award winnining inteactive digital installation ‘Room 10101’. At Designersblock in 2004 they produced the ‘Poke Lab’ to unleash the groundbreaking ‘Hulger’ concept to the world.

MANUFACTURING PROCESSES FOR DESIGN PROFESSIONALS BY ROB THOMPSON PUBLISHED BY THAMES & HUDSON Book Launch and exhibition.

MANUFACTURING ADVISORY SERVICE will produce a space to showcase products, businesses and MAS services together with workshops on sustainability and inclusive design and a competition.

LIQUID Project is self initiated by Designersblock. We have always thought that design is as much about communication, generosity and collaboration as it is about stuff. Over ten years we have developed relationships with a huge international network of people at all levels with the skills to achieve pretty much anything.

We've become confident with the idea that outcomes are rarely predictable and that with some sideways thinking problems become possibilities. We work to the notion that if you present sustainable concepts to people in conditions where they feel stimulated and relaxed enough to make up their own minds then they will respond positively.

One such sustainable concept is being presented at our tenth anniversary show in London this September, we are working with Mathew Durran to initiate something that neatly encapsulates what we do and believe in as a company.

We are having a very special kiln built in East London, with the best glass artists and technicians in the country together with designers, musicians and artists prepared to give their time and expertise to what has been named the Liquid Project.

The Liquid Project originated from a frustration with being unable to constructively dispose of the empty bottles after of our parties and events. 6-10,000 beer bottles is a lot of glass so we thought we would get a kiln made, melt down the glass and invite everyone we have worked with over ten years to make wondrous items live at Designersblock. Find out more about liquid projects in the post below.

If you would like more information or high resolution images please contact:

Rory Dodd

Designersblock
32 Cremer Street
London E2 8HD
UK

Tel. +44(0)20 7613 0134
Cell. +44(0)7815 871 472
Skype: Rorydodd
Video: rorydodd@mac.com

email: rory@designersblock.org.uk
web: www.designersblock.org.uk

Designersblock is sponsored by POKE

Liquid Projects Call Out

Posted by Rory Dodd at 6.02am - 16. July 07

Liquid Projects
At Designersblock 2007

Liquid Projects is a design led initiative that seeks to provide innovative and inspiring solutions to the problems of recycling. In September 2007, during the London Design Festival, Liquid Projects will present their first live interactive exhibition at the 10th Anniversary London Designersblock.

Introduction

What happens to empty bottles? After a Designersblock event there are typically around 5000 empty beer and spirit bottles lying around. It’s harder than you may think to dispose of these constructively. Rather than them ending up in land fill, or on a barge to Holland to be crushed up for use in road building, Designersblock wondered if there were possibilities that went beyond these options and came up with the idea of getting a kiln on site.

Designersblock asked glass artist Matthew Durran what he the thought. After a period of research Matthew and his collaborators James Carcass and Jon Lewis have developed and produced a customised kiln that can melt recycled glass at low energy to allow for the creation of new objects. Then, with the help of invited glass artists and designers, Liquid Projects will perform live glass blowing and casting throughout Designersblock.

The glass objects created will include a variety of musical instruments made for the purpose of the Designersblock Family Day on Sunday the 23rd of September, where free entrance is extended to all adults accompanied by children. Directed and overseen by professional musicians, The Family Day will include a musical performance by a glass orchestra, workshops for children and a sale of the glass objects made throughout the week. All proceeds from the auction will be allocated to the Liquid Project bursary.
Liquid Projects is provocative, it creates an environment in which the debate around recycling can be enlivened and developed. It delivers something inclusive, tangible and worth discussing. It promises to be educational, interactive and inspirational.

Opportunities

Designersblock and Liquid Projects are seeking individuals or companies interested in exhibiting in this inaugural event, which is being staged at Designersblock’s 10th anniversary London event from the 19th to 23rd September 2007. We are looking for products/designs/art based work which uses recycled glass as its main component. If selected we would like you to have an involvement with this event, which would include invigilating, giving a lecture/demonstration or being involved in a glass activity on the premises during the exhibition. We also ask that people donate a piece for the auction, if appropriate.

Applications must include a written description and one image (compressed) and contact details.
Please note that there is no fee for this application

All participants will benefit from involvement in a new project that communicates the relevant but somewhat dry recycling subject in a deeply poetic way. The 2006 London event attracted 8000 visitors and this year’s show is likely to see an increase in attendance.

Further information

Designersblock

Since 1998 Designersblock have developed a reputation for staging the most exciting, innovative and memorable design events in the world. Their reputation is based on consistently delivering exhibitions that showcase progressive design and new ideas. Designersblock create environments that are as relevant as they are enjoyable to their audience of architects and design professionals, journalists, retailers and manufacturers, cultural and educational institutions, opinion formers, trend forecasters, cool hunters, students and public alike.

Designersblock take pride in actively designing the environments in which they present work. They focus on creating the conditions where productive dialogues between both exhibitors and visitors are possible. Designersblock work with context to promote the values of place, exchange and longevity.

Designersblock have curated 34 events in 10 countries involving over 600 companies and individuals from 30 nations. London, Tokyo, Milan, Frankfurt, Seoul, Barcelona, Cologne, Gwangju, Istanbul, New York, Stockholm, Glasgow.

Designersblock 10th anniversary London event is a time for celebration, it will consist of presentations from between forty and sixty UK and international designers and design companies. Last years show included furniture, lighting, design product, fashion, graphics, interactive art, cinema, live performance and music.

The Glass Artists

Matthew Durran, James Carcass and Jon Lewis have nearly 60 years of combined experience in working on all areas of glass production, from studio blown work to industrial production. They have provided the impetus for New London Glass, communicating with relevant audiences, worked Internationally in factories and studios, have won numerous awards and have work displayed in galleries and public spaces across the world.

For all enquiries, please contact Rory Dodd and Matthew Durran

rory@designersblock.org.uk info@mattdurran.com
t. +44 (0) 20 7613 0134 t. +44 (0) 20 8558 4734
m. +44 (0) 7940 925 421 m.+44 (0) 7939 242 312

Please note, all emails must be cc to both e mail address’s

Watermelon Noise Feast

Posted by Shantell Martin at 7.29am - 10. July 07

Watermelon Noise Feast Glory comes your way, Vikings!
Test your strength against international banquet of noise enemies:
the dangerous live circuit attack of the notorious Loud Objects from the Far West analogue sensory meltdown by Astro from Tokyo and Neon Music from New York, the primal hypnotic guitar whirlwind Keiichi Miyashita from Damo Suzuki Network, colossal environment manipulation by Shantell Martin from London and an unidentified combatant rumored to be an early reincarnation of John Zorn.

Watermelon Noise Fest – 07/20/2007 @ Super Deluxe
Start: 8pm close: 1:30am
Door: 1,500 yen (Admission price includes all you can eat watermelon).

http://watermelonnoisefeast.com

China Designersblock B&Q Kingfisher

Posted by Rory Dodd at 6.52am - 09. July 07

Opportunity for UK based Designers to be selected to design Signature Products for B&Q and other Kingfisher stores - deadline Friday 13 July 5pm

Kingfisher is seeking to launch a range of own brand Signature Products in 2008 for their B&Q stores in the following categories:
* Lighting
* Storage
* Bathrooms

Kingfisher is looking for designers to work with on this exciting development project.

Those shortlisted will be asked to attend a meeting with Kingfisher on Monday morning 23rd July at which they will receive a full brief as well as further details on schedule for the project.

Key facts:
* Designers need to submit an 'expression of interest' by Friday 13th July, in the correct format.
* Selected designers will have to attend a briefing meeting in London on Monday 23rd July.
* Selected designers will receive £1000 for design development work to prototype stage.
* Designers will travel to Hong Kong and China in October for the buyers selection meeting and factory visits.
* Selected products will be awarded a 5% , 3 year worldwide royalty contract.
* Products launch in May 2008.
The project is a joint design initiative between UK Trade & Investment Kingfisher plc. Designersblock are partners in the project alongside Metropolitan Works and Hidden Art.

How to apply:
You will need to submit a Powerpoint presentation which includes images of products or prototypes that reflect your style and capability as a designer.
You do not need to submit any ideas at this stage.
Please do not include any new designs you don't want to be seen by anyone else.
The powerpoint presentations will be shown to the Kingfisher selection panel and to shortlisted designers on Monday 23rd July.
To get the powerpont template please email me rory@designersblock.org.uk

The deadline for submissions is Friday 13th June 5pm. At this stage you only need to submit the Powerpoint presentation. This should consist of no more than 5 slides: your company name, company background and three
products with basic details. The Powerpoint presentation should be emailed to rory@designersblock.org.uk cc piers@designersblock.org.uk or delivered to our office.

Shortlisted candidates will be notified in the afternoon of Thursday 19th July. Should you be selected, please make sure that you will be able to attend the meeting with Kingfisher in London on Monday 23rd July.
If you have any questions, please email rory dodd / piers roberts at rory@designersblock.org.uk cc piers@designersblock.org.uk

Someone’s Garden

Posted by Shantell Martin at 8.01am - 08. July 07

Earlier tonight at Flaneur café the release party for Someone’s Garden latest issue took place. Shantell Martin was invited down to draw on the walls and anywhere else her pen took her. If your lucky enough to find your self a copy of the free magazine have a look out for Shantell, she’s hiding somewhere inside!

Someone's Garden
http://someonesgarden.com

Flaneur Cafe
http://www.flaneur.co.jp/

New Tokyo Art Beat T-shirt collection

Posted by Shantell Martin at 8.32am - 07. July 07

New Tokyo Art Beat T-shirt collection Tokyo Art Beat releases a collection of five exclusive, limited edition t-shirts each year. The designs are donated by both famous and up-and-coming international designers and artists living in Tokyo. With Tokyo as the main theme Shantell came up with this t-shirt and concept…Enjoy.

Concept:
Take a walk around Tokyo and you will come across buildings, animals, and people of all shapes and sizes. It’s as if someone has just completed an enormous jigsaw puzzle using all the wrong pieces. Nevertheless it all makes one very complete picture.

Designers:

Gelman
http://www.glmn.com/

Dainippon Type Organization
http://dainippon.type.org/

Shantell Martin
http://www.shantellmartin.com/

Ayako Ookubo
http://kiteki.cc

Tomoko Konoike
http://mizuma-art.co.jp/_artist/konoike_j.html

Enjoy.....

LONDON UPDATE

Posted by Rory Dodd at 12.15pm - 05. July 07

LONDON UPDATE Designersblock London

Tenth London Anniversary Show

20 - 23 September 2007

The Nicholls & Clarke Buildings. 3 - 10 Shoreditch High Street. London E1.
England.

Times: 10.00 - 19.00 Hrs Daily

PRE REGISTER FOR FREE ENTRY ONLINE NOW

International & UK Designers including:
Karen Ryan
Peter Ibruegger
Concrete Blond
Mathew Plummer-Fernandez
Charlie Davidson
John Harrington
Matthew Durran
Soner Ozenc
John Wischhusen
(more to be confirmed)

MAJOR EXHIBITIONS AND PRESENTATIONS INCLUDING:

Designboom
Monorex/Secret Wars
POKE
London Manufacturing Advisory Service
Book Launch and exhibition Manufacturing Processes for Design Professionals By Rob Thompson published by Thames & Hudson
Liquid Project
Design from the Netherlands (details to be confirmed)

TO PARTICIPATE APPLY NOW we are welcoming applications from designers and companies at all levels.

Designersblock have produced 34 shows in 10 countries with over 500 exhibitors from 30 nations. We are celebrating our tenth year.

Designersblock London 07 takes place at the same time as 100% Design and during the London Design Festival.

Designersblock London 07 will consist of presentations from between forty and sixty UK and international designers and design companies. Last years show included, furniture, lighting, design product, fashion, graphics, interactive art, cinema, live performance and music.

DESIGNBOOM will curate ‘handled with care’ an exhibition of contemporary ceramic wares from established and upcoming international designers.

Since their origin ceramic works have expanded the
functional dimension and contemporary production
engenders ornamentation, sculpture and installation.
The exhibition will feature a selection of ceramic objects, which express subjects and details of everyday life, their departure from tradition and the current conflict of ecology and
consumerism. Designboom are currently selecting ceramic pieces for the show,

MONOREX the multi-functioning, ever evolving media company will stage their hugely successful Secret Wars during the show. Their eclectic-cross section of artists balances renowned household names with the hottest prospects on the design circuit. Secret Wars is a battle like no other. Similar to Fight Club it thrives on word of mouth. Put simply, it is a war between artists. The ultimate question however, is who will reign supreme? The only weapon they carry is the pen they hold in their hand.

POKE the multi award winning creative agency and long term sponsors of Designersblock will take part, When they participated in 2003 it was to launch the award winnining inteactive digital installation ‘Room 10101’. At Designersblock in 2004 they produced the ‘Poke Lab’ to unleash the groundbreaking ‘Hulger’ concept to the world.

MANUFACTURING PROCESSES FOR DESIGN PROFESSIONALS BY ROB THOMPSON PUBLISHED BY THAMES & HUDSON Book Launch and exhibition.

MANUFACTURING ADVISORY SERVICE will produce a space to showcase products, businesses and MAS services together with workshops on sustainability and inclusive design and a competition.

LIQUID Project is self initiated by Designersblock. We have always thought that design is as much about communication, generosity and collaboration as it is about stuff. Over ten years we have developed relationships with a huge international network of people at all levels with the skills to achieve pretty much anything.

We've become confident with the idea that outcomes are rarely predictable and that with some sideways thinking problems become possibilities. We work to the notion that if you present sustainable concepts to people in conditions where they feel stimulated and relaxed enough to make up their own minds then they will respond positively.

One such sustainable concept is being presented at our tenth anniversary show in London this September, we are working with Mathew Durran to initiate something that neatly encapsulates what we do and believe in as a company.

We are having a very special kiln built in East London, with the best glass artists and technicians in the country together with designers, musicians and artists prepared to give their time and expertise to what has been named the Liquid Project.

The Liquid Project originated from a frustration with being unable to constructively dispose of the empty bottles after of our parties and events. 6-10,000 beer bottles is a lot of glass so we thought we would get a kiln made, melt down the glass and invite everyone we have worked with over ten years to make wondrous items live at Designersblock.

If you would like more information or high resolution images please contact:

Rory Dodd

Designersblock
32 Cremer Street
London E2 8HD
UK

Tel. +44(0)20 7613 0134
Cell. +44(0)7815 871 472
Skype: Rorydodd
Video: rorydodd@mac.com

email: rory@designersblock.org.uk
web: www.designersblock.org.uk

Designersblock is sponsored by POKE

UPCOMING LIVE INFO:

Posted by Shantell Martin at 12.13pm - 04. July 07

UPCOMING LIVE INFO: Catch Shantell Martin drawing live PPP (pen, paper, projector), LCI
(Live Club Illustrations) or plain pen on canvas style around Tokyo
town this month at:

07/07/07 Someone's Garden at Café Flaneur Aoyama. Live Music, drawing
and much more. Flaneur/7:30pm/free. (Pen, Canvas).

http://www.flaneur.co.jp/
http://someonesgarden.com/dig/index_f.html

07/07/07 at Liquid Loft Minimal Tokyo 1st Year Anniversary Party.
Modern minimal electronic dance music event. Guest Dj's Katsuya
Urushizaki, Penny and Ashtray. Liquid Loft/11:30pm/2,500 yen. (LCI).

http://www.minimaltokyo.com/

07/20/07 LoudObjects at Super Deluxe. Neon/Music video-audio
environment w/special guests LoudObjects! Super
Deluxe/8:00pm/Price…TBA (PPP).

http://www.super-deluxe.com/#LoudObjects

07/29/07 Konen Digital Lounge party at Seco. VJs, Animators, Motion
Graphics Artists, Music People, Music Lovers, Chill Out People, Free
Thinkers, Drinkers, welcome! Seco/6:00pm/Free (LCI).

http://www.sus-shibuya.com/seco/

Enjoy...

Minimal Tokyo 777

Posted by Shantell Martin at 3.24am - 01. July 07

Minimal Tokyo 777 The next Minimal Tokyo party will take place on 777 (the 7th of July 2007) at Liquid Loft in Ebisu, Tokyo. Shantell Martin has now vj’d at the last few Minimal Tokyo parties, which have proven themselves to be great, fun parties full of audio and visual delights and many bouncy people. At Minimal Tokyo Shantell draws live club illustrations with the aide of her Wacom to the sounds of funky minimal techno beats. Due to popular demand Shantell has now become a permanent member of the Minimal Tokyo crew.

Minimal Tokyo
http://minimaltokyo.com

Special Guests

Katzo
http://www.katzo.co.uk/katzo/katsuya_urushizaki.htm

Penny and Ashtray
http://www.myspace.com/pennyandashtray

Take-g toys

Posted by Shantell Martin at 3.10am - 01. July 07

For those toy collectors out there perhaps you will be interested in this article on Cool Hunting about Take-g toys... Very kool little wooden robots n animals.

Cool Hunting
http://www.coolhunting.com/archives/2007/06/takeg_wooden_ro.php

Take-g toys
http://take-g.com/index.html

Yomar Augusto at Nanzuka

Posted by Shantell Martin at 2.49am - 01. July 07

Yomar Augusto at Nanzuka Friday night was the opening of the Yomar Augusto exhibition at the new Nanzuka galley in Shibuya Tokyo. Yomar presented a lovely body of work using a variety of media from acrylic, to photography to digital illustrations. If you have a chance its most defiantly worth a visit... Plus nanzuka is a really nice gallery space... (a little difficult to find, so make sure you print out a map).

Photo: Yomar (right) with Nicolas Fiore.

Event on TAB
http://www.tokyoartbeat.com/event/2007/7415

Nanzuka
http://nug.jp/english.html

Yomar Augusto
http://www.yomaraugusto.com/

Designboom at Designersblock

Posted by Rory Dodd at 5.04am - 18. June 07

Designboom at Designersblock We are very happy to anounce that leading design website designboom have confirmed their participation in this years London event.

‘handled with care’
contemporary ceramic works

'designersblock, shoreditch high street, east london
september 19 - 23, 2007

as part of the london design festival designboom will
curate an exhibition of contemporary ceramic wares
from established and upcoming international designers.

since their origin ceramic works have expanded the
functional dimension and contemporary production
engenders ornamentation, sculpture and installation.
the exhibition will feature a selection of ceramic objects,
which express subjects and details of everyday life,
their departure from tradition, the current conflict of
ecology and consumerism.
we are currently selecting ceramic pieces for the show,
which should be, either created by the designers
themselves, or under their direct supervision.

please see the call for participation:
http://www.designboom.com/callceramics.html

Test Tone Vol.24

Posted by Shantell Martin at 12.48pm - 14. June 07

Test Tone Vol.24 Test Tone is a free monthly event that promotes varied and interesting
live music in Tokyo.

Vol.24 took place at the noisy hole (Super Deluxe) this Tuesday
evening and what an amazing night it was!

Here are links to the first live show featuring Tetragrammaton,
Yasumune Morishige (cello) + 'Zulu' (butoh dance) + Shantell Martin
(live drawing).

The whole show was just over 30 minutes, so it has been broken up into
four shorter videos.

Test Tone Vol.24:
1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7zhtQp8VKI

2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLE4xgsE-5c

3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF3tuIA0uaw

4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpLAC7aJZU0

Test Tone:
http://www.soundispatch.com/

Zulu
http://yanshu.20m.com/Main/Principal.html#

Yasumune Morishige
http://www.myspace.com/morishigeyasumune

Presented by Lightrhythm Visuals

Posted by Shantell Martin at 3.48am - 07. June 07

Presented by Lightrhythm Visuals Monday evening I checked out a new event called Visualux down at Super Deluxe.

''Visualux brings to Tokyo audiovisual talent and technologies, which have flourished in Europe and the US, celebrating those cultural movements alongside local Japanese talent. From refined experimentation to a environmental installations a range of AV techniques will be explored over the course the year. Visualux will include music, performances, and multi-media art, all originating, evolving, and drawing inspiration from visual culture''.

Artist:

http://lightrhythmvisuals.com/visualux/

http://audiovisual.jp/

http://www.anyone.org.uk/

http://sweetrice.com/

HITOTOKI

Posted by Shantell Martin at 11.18am - 01. June 07

Hitotoki an online map/archive of people’s experiences in Tokyo all in the form of personal words and stores. Each ones location is marked on a google map, which is a really nice idea.

They are looking for contributors; so if you have stories to tell that are linked to a specific place out here… get you typing fingers ready.

Is London next…. Tick Tock?!

A couple of my favorites: n.o: 03, 10.

Hititoki
http://hitotoki.org/tokyo/

Graniph

Posted by Shantell Martin at 11.15am - 01. June 07

Graniph Just in time for summer! Shantell Martin did a t-shirt design for Graniph Design T-shirt store, which they started selling online and in stores from yesterday. It’s available in all sizes and in limited quantity. So don't be shy.

There are many kool Artist/Designs on the site… Well worth having a good look at!

Graniph
http://www.graniph.com/

Shantell Martin T-shirt
http://www.graniph.com/artist/detail.php?i=1

GELMAN LOUNGE

Posted by Shantell Martin at 11.05am - 26. May 07

Friday night was GELMAN LOUNGE at Super Deluxe in Tokyo.
A pretty amazing night full of Dj's, Live music and kool visuals.

Here is a nice little clip from my Vj'ing session:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7CYJ1GIQig

Artist, Dj's, Vj's:

MAGNUM38
http://www.myspace.com/magnum38

Aoki Takamasa
http://www.aokitakamasa.com/

iLL
http://www.illtheworld.jp/

Shantell Martin
http://shantellmartin.com/

Bento
http://www.bentographics.com

Minimal Tokyo
http://www.minimaltokyo.com/

NZUKA UNDERGROUND
http://www.nug.jp/

Coming your way soon Tokyo!

Posted by Shantell Martin at 12.33pm - 17. May 07

Coming your way soon Tokyo! If you are in Tokyo over the next couple of weeks.. Here are a couple of must go to and have a dance parties/events:

Gelman Lounge @ Super Deluxe
Date: Friday, May 25 2007
Time: 21:00 to 29:00

Guest artists (live):

MAGNUM 38
Berlin, Germany / Shitkatapult.
AOKI TAKAMASA
Paris, France / op-disc
DJs: MUTRON (Dekathlon Records) and Minimal Tokyo resident DJs.

VJs: SHANTELL

http://minimaltokyo.com/blog/gelman-lounge-may-25-2007
http://super-deluxe.com

LONDON CALLING @ La Fabrique
Date: June 9th Saturday
Time: 22:00 to 29:00

DJs:
Mike McKenna (Discoscience - UK)
Mike Munoz aka The Disco Infiltrator
Nik Jones (Presh - UK),
Luis Sanchez (RubyRoom - Peru)

http://www.lafabrique.jp/
http://www.london-calling.jp

TEST TONE @ Super Deluxe
Date: June 12th Tuesday
Time:20:00 to 00:00

(Artist line up not yet confirmed... But ill be there).

http://www.soundispatch.com

Uniqlo’s Concept T-Shirt Store

Posted by Shantell Martin at 12.32pm - 17. May 07

Uniqlo’s Concept T-Shirt Store On Saturday I checked out the new Uniqlo concept Tee shirt store. I was pretty impressed! Three very large white floors full with hundreds of labeled canisters; each with a pretty kool t-shirt inside.

http://ut.uniqlo.com/store

UT Store Harajuku
Tokyo Shibuya Ku Jingumae 6-10-8
Business hours: 11:00-21:00
Telephone: 0120-090-296

LiNK Tokyo

Posted by Shantell Martin at 11.33am - 17. May 07

LiNK Tokyo This was the first fashion show of LiNK a charity bringing awareness of North Korea to the world.
This event introduced the work of "Encadeurs" and Shantell Martin as the illustrator for this season's collection, Anna-Maria Antoniades and a few others. Anna-Maria Antoniades work was simple and original, a selection of individually crafted garments sculpted by the heavy pleating and the drapes of the fabric. Her work can be found in MONDE GARAGE Nakameguro Tokyo and No.15 Thorton's Arcade Leeds.

http://www.geocities.com/linktokyojapan/home.html
http://www.monde-group.com
http://www.lunamahia.com
http://www.shantellmartin.com
http://www.cafe-studio.jp/

designersblock Milan 07 Tour

Posted by Rory Dodd at 11.42am - 11. May 07

if you missed us in Milan or would like another look then use the link below for a wondrous and warm virtual tour put together by arch photographer TOBY SUMMERSKILL.
Also check his photographs on his site.
Enjoy.
1000 Thanks.

http://www.tobysummerskill.com/tour.html

Milan Coverage

Posted by Rory Dodd at 11.35am - 11. May 07

Milan Coverage Beyond the Valley was picked out by the mighty Barbara Chandler in the Evening Standard's annual Milan Design Fair review as the official 'One to Watch' for their own-brand range of homewares and design products on show at Designersblock this year.

Trade and Press readers go here to see what they're talking about.

http://www.beyondthevalley.com/milan2007.html

Cover photo Toby Summerskill Photography

CANDY

Posted by Shantell Martin at 8.49am - 11. May 07

CANDY Today I popped into CANDY a Super Kool 80's neon esque select boutique in the centre of Tokyo.

http://www.myspace.com/candynippon

Ultra Living...

Posted by Shantell Martin at 12.23pm - 10. May 07

I popped down last night n checked out the free bi monthly event Test Tone.. Always something live and interesting going on there... The high light of the night was a very kool Jazzy band called Ultra Living...

Last night the band consisted of a piano, guitar, a double-bass and drummer. Super stylish...

http://www.myspace.com/ultralivingsound

http://www.soundispatch.com/ttsnews/

http://www.ultraliving.org

Tea Tree Houses....

Posted by Shantell Martin at 1.15am - 10. May 07

Tea Tree Houses.... Architects Terunobu Fujimori and Rojo experiment with a vast amount of natural material from stone to charcoal to bamboo. This show at the 'Art Gallery' in the Tokyo Opera City building showcased some really amazing photos of specially built Tea houses, a plan of Tokyo in the 21st century after the sea level has continued to rise due to global warming n covered half of Tokyo city, and some fun grass houses.

'Art Gallery'
http://www.operacity.jp/ag/exh82/e_index.html

'Some more photos'
http://www.jpf.go.jp/venezia-biennale/arc/e/10/04.html

designersblock on You Tube

Posted by Rory Dodd at 11.28am - 08. May 07

Here are links to movies on Youtube from shows in Milan, London and Tokyo.
Enjoy
xx

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRPskwgueDA
DIY Kyoto at designersblock London 06

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpbdukEAQGs
Jim Rokos at designersblock Milan 07

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNFJ1GfSSPQ
Nacho Carbonell Ivars at designersblock Milan 07

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofHmZgj8bpY
Matthew Plummer Fernandez at designersblock Milan 07

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alh3eTrJbVE
Charlie Davidson at designersblock Tokyo 04

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Rd6Sfl4tSE
Hulger at designersblock Tokyo 06

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5lDpAsrKdY
Charlie Davidson at designersblock Tokyo 05

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTKlKqeXn5I
Two fine fellas on their way to see The Matinee Club (formerly The Modern) at designersblock London 06, with gig footage.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16Hj4QGgCTo
Nacho Carbonell Ivars at designersblock Milan 07

FANCY HIM...

Posted by Shantell Martin at 9.52am - 05. May 07

FANCY HIM... ''What do you get when a white Australian, a Japanese-German, a Serbian, a South African, a Brazilian, a Kenyan, a Colombian-Australian, a Japanese-Dominican and three Britons (black, Japanese and Indian) walk into a bar?'' (ilbonito).

http://www.myspace.com/jonteonlinee

http://ilbonito.wordpress.com/

http://fancyhim.com/

Hi Kitaro!

Posted by Shantell Martin at 9.09am - 05. May 07

Hi Kitaro! My favorite animation in the world Gegege No Kitaro has just become a movie. Kitaro is half-human and half supernatural being (Yokai). Born in a cemetery; he is missing his left eye, but his hair usually covers up the empty socket. He spends his time fighting to keep peace between the humans and the yokai. Kitaro have a kool/odd crew of friends and weapons. Recently I went to Chofu city in Tokyo, the birth place of Kitaro and met the Kitaro...

http://www.gegege.jp/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ge_Ge_Ge_no_Kitaro

More db Milan Coverage

Posted by Rory Dodd at 4.35am - 04. May 07

A big yell of thanks from East London Town to mother of all design websites Designboom. Part 1 of their db Milan coverage is unleashed and it is lovely. You can see the birth of Charlie Davidson's Crunk chair and plenty more. Watch that space. They're faster than most.
Thank you.

http://www.designboom.com/snapshot/gallery.php?SNAPSHOT_ID=5&GALLERY_ID=140

Now part 2 is up.

http://www.designboom.com/snapshot/gallery.php?SNAPSHOT_ID=5&GALLERY_ID=147

Designersblock Milan Coverage

Posted by Rory Dodd at 10.39am - 30. April 07

Milan 2007 UK Press Day

Posted by Duncan Riches at 6.57am - 28. April 07

Milan 2007 UK Press Day Designersblock&Associate are staging a UK press day on Thursday 3rd of May from 10.00 until 20.00 at:

Designersblock
32 Cremer Street
Shoreditch
London E2 8HD

This is an opportunity for the UK press who did not visit Milan to see selected exhibits from last weeks show, meet the designers and pick up a press pack. There will be food, drink and conversation all day in the congenial atmosphere of Designersblock HQ.

To RSVP please contact:

duncan@andassociate.co.uk

TAB to KAB

Posted by Shantell Martin at 7.48am - 23. April 07

Tokyo Art Beat (TAB) is Tokyo's bilingual art & design events calendar. It is pretty simple and easy to navigate through its tidy library of events sorted by media, schedules, and location, as well as event lists like Closing soon, Most popular, Open late, and Free.

Tokyo Art Beat has now expanded into the Kansai regain of Japan. April saw the launch of Kansai Art Beat (KAB). KAB launched with more than 300 current and upcoming events at more than 300 venues in the areas of Osaka, Hyogo, Kyoto, Nara, Shiga, Wakayama, and Mie. Both TAB and KAB can be accessed via PC or mobile phone.

http://www.tokyoartbeat.com/

http://www.kansaiartbeat.com/

To Many Vj's

Posted by Shantell Martin at 4.29am - 23. April 07

The MINT launch party took place Saturday night (21st) at club AIR. Special guest Dj Ricky Stone played for the first time in Japan along side some of Tokyo's best: Mike Mckenna, Duck Rock and many others. As a result of a little miscommunication in the week (people not being able to check their email). The night ended up with two many vj's... Well four of us. Bento, Hadi, Richard Boase and Myself. The night was very successful and gave us the added opportunity to experiment mixing n merging our Vj'ing styles... Something we most defiantly want to do again in the future!

http://www.bentographics.com/visuals.php

http://www.richardboase.com/

http://shantellmartin.com/

http://www.discoscience.net/2007/jan/main.html

http://www.air-tokyo.com

FIG

Posted by Shantell Martin at 4.22am - 23. April 07

FIG May saw the first FIG party at Super Deluxe.... It was an evening to early morning event packed with music, art, fashion, but more importantly Cakes and Candy. The space looked really kool with lots of black balloon's floating about with Candy attached to them, not quite sure if we could help our self to the little bags of delights hanging from them.... but I did anyway and got a nice little bag of candy made by papabubble... The main feature of the night was a performance dress made by the Tokyo based fashion designer Anna- Maria Antoniades.

DJ CHEN HU REN
http://www.myspace.com/chenhuren

Ly
http://www.ly-m.net

RYUSUKE INOUE
http://www.shimokitazawa12.com　　

The event was supported by:

Tokion http://www.tokion.jp/

papabubble http://www.papabubble.com/

Designersblock Milan

Posted by Rory Dodd at 9.07am - 15. April 07

Designersblock Milan Designersblock
Studio Romeo Gigli
Via Angelo Fumagalli 6

18-23 April
10.00 - 22.00 hrs Daily
Cocktail 17th April 18.00 - 22.00

Associate
Beyond The Valley
Chapter 1
Charlie Davidson
Christel Mansson
Crispin Jones
Daniel Rohr
Dejana Kabiljo
Designers Are Wankers
DIY Kyoto
Gerard der Kinderen
Hawaii Design
Hommm Design
Hulger
Jenny Nordberg
Jim Rokos
Josefin Kvist
Matthew Plummer Fernandez
Miguel Cunha
Peter Ibruegger
Pinch
PYG
Rona Meyuchas
Steve Watson
Suelzkotlett
Suzanne Martin,Bute Fabrics,C.A.T.
Timorous Beasties
Toby Summerskill Photography
Tuukka Halonen
Whitecross Gallery
WMD
ZZZZZZZ8ZZZZZZZ8

Designersblock Milan 07 Sponsors:

POKE
U.K.T.I.
Chivas
Guinness
Azioni Privilegiate

Shantell Martin on da old web...

Posted by Shantell Martin at 9.23am - 14. April 07

Shantell Martin on da old web... Finally people can stop saying ‘Shantell Martin’s website is coming soon’ It has finally arrived. Complete with sketchbooks, media links, downloadable profile (English/Japanese), blog and heaps more!

I have to say that this is one site you most defiantly should take some time to explore!

http://shantellmartin.com/

Break dancing underground!

Posted by Shantell Martin at 12.32pm - 25. March 07

Break dancing underground! There are a lot of kids that practice all types of dancing out on the street of Tokyo; where ever they can find a flat clean spot ideally with a good reflective window near by.

Its well nice to see them all out practicing hard n having fun. I went down to Chiba, to hang out with a mate n watch him practice with some local guys. They didn't break on the street, but actually underground!

DesignTide in Tokyo 2007

Posted by Shantell Martin at 1.27am - 17. March 07

DesignTide in Tokyo 2007 Thursday night was the kick off party for Design Tide in Tokyo 2007!
Just like any other creative/fun/popular event in Tokyo it was held at Super Deluxe! Sooo many people showed up… All good, but it meant that there was no room for me to order and eat my usual fish n chips (Japanese style).
One part of the event was looking back over last year's Design Tide projects; another was talking about this year’s theme “PLAY”!

http://www.designtide.jp/06/en/news/

March 13th - 16th.

Posted by Shantell Martin at 2.19am - 06. March 07

March 13th - 16th. If your in Tokyo next week come and say hello!! Ill be at the 3144 Omotesando Gallery for four days (March 13th - 16th). You will be able to check out the "Encadreurs & Shantell Martin Collection".

Enjoy...

http://www.tokyoartbeat.com/event/2007/D2E8.en

Gelman closing party

Posted by Shantell Martin at 2.54am - 03. March 07

Gelman closing party The closing party for Little Black, by Gelman took place tonight in the new fresh and tidy gallery called Nanzuka Underground in shibuya. It was a small and cozy affair unlike the opening party a few weeks back..... Where everyone had to maneuver their way carefully around the massive floating black object hanging from the celling of one of the rooms.

The work, a pleasure to see for the second time. All seeming very subtle but, yet having many layers and depths to it at the same time! I look forward to seeing some more of this in Tokyo in the future!

Ahhh also this gallery had a super small club attached to it with one very deep and dark sound system, lovely! On the decks... Gelman himself, DJ Lyoma from Berlin and Minimal Tokyo resident DJ Kuzbass!