Cabbage dresses and balloon lips

I love the work of Berlin-based artist Sarah Illenberger.  She creates the most wonderful sculptures and visuals from any items that she can get her hands on, or so it seems.  From a burger created with the materials of a tree to a Nike boot made out of odds and bods, Illenberger transforms the everyday and miscellaneous into beautiful pieces of art, full of character.  A multi-talented artist, she seems to be able to turn her hand to anything she pleases with a portfolio bursting full of work, including set design, illustration, both commercial and editorial work too.  There’s so much there I found it impossible to choose my favourite! So instead I chose quite a few favourites:

She manages to create unique three-dimensional pieces of art with a humorous and whimsical flair.  I love the bright colours and playful aspect of her work, and her ability to visualise such imaginative outcomes.  To view more of her work visit www.sarahillenberger.com.

High speed typography

I came across this typography whilst browsing the creative review website and found it quite refreshing and extremely inventive.  Ad agency ‘Happiness Brussels’ have come up with a unique idea to promote the new Toyota iQ.  With a little help from some friends – namely professional photographers/designers Pierre and Damien from ‘Please let me design’, and interactive expert Zachary Lieberman – cue the creation of the iQ font. 

As car advertisements have progressively moved forward in sophistication and creativity over the recent years (from Ford Focus’ ‘beautifully arranged’ orchestra of car parts to Skoda’s ‘full of lovely stuff’ model cake of the Fabia) it seems only fitting that the creative boundaries are further pushed.  And Toyota has risen to the challenge by concocting some fresh and unique typography formulated by the new compact iQ. 

As pro racing driver Stef Van Campenhoudt was strapped into place and let loose behind the wheel of the miniature iQ, a clever tracking programme monitored by Lieberman recorded the motion of the car’s skids, translating them into ABC’s and 123’s.  Despite it’s obvious purpose as an eye catcher and talking point, the making of the font does illustrate the impressive steering on the iQ.  For a more detailed insight into the making of the iQ font, take a look at the video from Vimeo posted below, “When driving becomes writing”: 

iQ font - When driving becomes writing / Full making of from wireless on Vimeo.

Peace Love & Ice cream

Created by Ogilvy & Mather (Singapore) these fascinating and quirky adverts for Ben & Jerry’s are entirely hand-made.  Upon close inspection you can see that everything is composed of day-to-day materials and objects, creating a bright and colourful treat for the eyes! 

Upon first observing these ads, the extra dimension that the hand-crafted visuals delivered immediately struck me.  Not just in terms of the literal third dimension, but this palpable, touchable dimension that you can imagine and really relate to.  Being interested in crafts myself, for me these ads highlight the idea that people may turn away from technology in search for more tactile solutions to creative challenges for a more tangible feel; an increasingly ‘real’ outcome which the audience can successfully connect with and be interested in.  I think that this is certainly the case here. 

Despite Ben & Jerry's ice cream having no need to attempt to entice more than it already does, this set of 4 ads certainly fits the bill, appealing to the viewer by capturing a fun and playful essence, reflective of the brand.  The psychedelic hand-made visuals and retro typography project the idea that your B & J's experience will be full of fun, colour, and just as well crafted.  Which indeed we know, it will!