Designer Archives

Olle Eksell Products

“Good design is not just aesthetic – it is also good economy. Good design is not just fun – it is bloody serious.” – Olle Eksell

There is an interesting story behind these products based on the life and design philosophies of Olle Eksell, the legendary Swedish designer.

Johan Andersson, the creator of these pieces, was 22 years old when he moved to Stockholm to study advertising at the Bergh’s School of Communication. In a move that would be soon prove to be a life-changing experience, Johan looked up his “great hero” Olle Eksell’s number in the telephone directory, and then called him up the same day. Eksell was gracious enough to invite the young student home, and over coffee and cake, they talked about advertising, design and life.

Johan says that Eksell became his mentor, friend and biggest inspiration, both professionally and as a human being. They both remained close friends, until Eksell’s passing away in 2007.

The small collection of products, launched with the blessings of Olle Eksell’s family, are all manufactured in Sweden.

Link to Olle Eksell’s official site, and online store. Link to Johan Andersson’s site [Flash only].

Hit the jump to see more images.

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The Art of Italian Artist Cristian Grossi

Cristian Grossi, an Italian artist based in Parma, Italy, sent in some images of his fantastic illustrations and mixed-media artworks.

Cristian says that his childhood was an interesting blend of “loneliness and mad and chaotic fantasies.” This led him to experiment with various illustration techniques, patterns, colors and abstract designs. His childhood feelings manifest themselves in his paintings and sketches, and he tries, as he says, “to walk the line between kitsch, minimalism, and pure white feelings.”

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1 | Enough – Clothing That Evolves

The average Dutch person supposedly owns over seventy pieces of clothing, and adds thirty new pieces to his or her closet every year. Designer Marijke Timmerman’s ‘1 | Enough’ is…