Providence, RI is popular for many reasons these days. Beyond the glitz and glamor of the student bodies, anyone who’s walked down Thayer, Wickendon or South Main St. can attest to the vibrant poster culture that’s organically grown from within the local creative community. Leslie Friedman, a Providence native and emerging artist, has been printmaking since her early days at Brown University. Friedman’s most recent collection, titled, Fossil Fools, embodies all that Providence printmaking represents: an appreciation of industrial craft, the belief in DIY/punk ethos and the acknowledgment of political and historical significance in promoting civil liberties. Through humor, bold color and collage, her serigraphs are funny, honest, expressive compositions that awaken the democratic spirit. “The Fossil Fools Project is all about America’s dependence on gasoline and cars. Each piece addresses one part of the problem. [...]

It’s always a pleasure to jump beyond the coastal design scene to inspect what’s going on in the midwest.  While casually scrolling through design*sponge’s highlights a few months back, I nearly flipped when I stumbled upon Amy Soczka’s paper cut out displays for Urban Outfitters.  Paper has become a popular retail material as of late, as it’s affordability and versatility is incomparable. Soczka’s creations tap this trend while setting new creative standards. Her intricate handwork and artistic eye crosses multiple mediums and platforms, ranging from printed greeting cards and homegoods to commercial collaborative ventures.  Check out our Q+A for a glimpse into Amy’s daily routine.

*            *            *

PP:  What websites do you generally start your day with- do you have a daily routine for news/blog/information consumption?

AS: A few of my favorites right now are:

[...]