Animals of Iraq

Since we’re all celebrating Independence Day today, it’s time we took a moment to remember the men, women…and animals in Iraq. Bust out your crayons and markers kids, Williamsburg illustrator Nick Manske recently published his Animals of Iraq coloring book. The book juxtaposes the innocence of a children’s coloring book, destructive scenes of war and cute indigenous Iraqi animals in their natural habitats. Who knew hedgehogs even lived in Iraq.

Buy it for your coffee table, which is where I have my copy (yeah there’s beer spilled all over it). When I have a copy of this book laying around, nothing screams ‘OMG, Nghia I never knew you were on such a sensitive tip with cute furry animals and were so knowledgeable and cared so much about the War, politics, the environment and all that stuff. You’re so deep can I sleep with you?’. Then I put on some Usher then I’m like ‘Yeah, I like to be on top the world’s issues and stuff, that’s like one of my interest in life. Take off your bra, I’ll show you my Purple Heart later’. I once showed this book to Crystal Castles and they went ga-ga wild over it, they were really impressed and even smiled.

You too can impress people, get your copy now.

[MP3]: Lissy Trullie “Self Taught Learner”

NY DESIGN WEEK

Tonight kicks off NY Design Week and there are tons of events happening all over the City. The celebration centers around the 20th annual International Contemporary Furniture Fair at the Javits Center (May 17-19). Over 50 design firms, magazines, and retailers — including Vitra, ID, Surface, and Kartell — host parties around Manhattan and Brooklyn. Events are open to the public unless otherwise noted. Core 77 has put together an easy to use list of exhibits and parties. Bring on the free drinks!

77 Design Gifts for Under $77

As a followup to my Holiday gift post, here is a nice list of fairly inexpensive design gifts. Some of it quite ridiculous, some of it quite useful; like the reusable bags from baggu.

Get Crafty

The Holiday season is upon us and for me, this means getting crafty. I’m big on handmade gifts, not only to save money, but to give something from the heart. Most people really appreciate the effort despite if it was on their “list”.

Last year I did custom framed photos, some shirts with original artwork, and a skateboard deck with a my own graphics. If I could knit, I would love to make some beard caps like the one above…just awesome.

Keep an eye on design blogs (some very girly), like Craftster , Supernaturale, Get Crafty, and magazines like Ready Made and Make for good Holiday DIY gift ideas. If you want to buy handmade, I suggest checking out the local Designer’s Market every weekend on Mulberry. You’ll find some very unique and very New York gifts there.

Have a great Turkey Day!

Indie Rock T-Shirts That Would Never Sell

These ironic t-shirt designs made me laugh. Almost so much so that I would actually wear one.

Also, I’m not a big fan of Busted Tees and I’m sure this is already on its way for mass Urban Outfitters’ production, but you can’t deny how good it is. I can see strangers coming up behind you to rock the Guitar Hero. Gives a whole new meaning to the term “reach around”.

video of the week | theo jansen

Being an engineer and having a love for art, I’ve always been inspired by the kinetic sculptor, Theo Jansen. Working on the beaches of the Netherlands, Jensen constructs large sculptures that resemble skeletons of animals which are able to walk using the power of the wind. My favorite piece, Animaris Rhinoceros, is at the end of the video. Simply amazing.

Ready for Peace

I’m not the protesting type, but I do voice my opinion in my own way about the war. Expression through art is one way to make your statement heard. I love this stop sign modification found in Bloomington, Indiana by counterclockwise.

You can also wear your message through these nifty T-shirts. I have the peace gear one from those creative folks down in Philly.

People, people, why are we fighting? | Ready for peace. | Peace Gear