What we love – high quality contemporary art for all

For the last 5 years I’ve been lucky enough to have an office at 195 Chrystie Street, one of coolest (and friendliest) buildings in New York. And it’s not just me who thinks so, New York Magazine referred to the building as “The highest concentration of design genius in the city...”


So I thought I’d open up the doors and share a little of what my fabulously innovative neighbors are up to. I’d like to start with
Art Star and it’s little sister company, Little Collector.

Founded by Chrissy Crawford Malone, Art Star was borne of the desire to make high quality contemporary art accessible to everyone. They created a place where art lovers can buy limited-edition prints and original works by some of the most gifted artists working today—all that at pretty amazing prices.  



A truly global venture, they work with the brightest curators who seek out the special artists from around the world. They collaborate with the artist to create limited edition prints, which are produced and available exclusively through Art Star.

It didn’t seem fair that one had to be a grown-up before being able to join in the fun, so they started Little Collector – a kid-friendly version of Art Star. Held up to the same rigorous standards, Little Collector ensures that your rug rats can learn about art in a super-fun way (check out their free art events and website resources) and start their own collection.





To learn more check out Art Star and Little Collector on-line. They also have a couple of up-coming events you might want to check out:

What Works - An ArtStar Pop-Up Exhibition featuring the work of six artist couples exploring the influence they have on each other.
Opening Reception: July 14, 2011 6-9 pm at 195 Chrystie Street, Suite 801B

The Children’s Museum of the Arts and Abe’s Peanut summer art workshop just for kids on Governor’s Island. LittleCollector Educational Consultant Amanda Hendricks will lead a storytelling workshop and work with artist Yukie Yasui to help children create their own postcard artworks with Abe’s Peanut.
Govenor’s Island - Saturday August 6th from 11-3 p.m.
RSVP: rsvpabespeanut@littlecollector.com

More than just a pretty (type) face

A recent article in WWD from the Abstract Conference in Portland, Maine got me thinking. The gist was that the near death of the magazine industry (and subsequent focus on re-design and apps) has shifted the spotlight from the editors to the designers. And boy, are they basking in the glow!

In the publishing race to blaze trails in unknown territory, the designer’s role has evolved from making the content look good to being on the leading edge where content, imagery, technology and consumer habits meet. In a brave new world, (where there are no precedents) it’s the designers who are leading the charge - figuring out how people want to view and interact with the content and making it happen.

While this story references the publishing industry specifically, I think it speaks volumes about the design industry as a whole. Yes, designers make things look pretty, but if that’s all you’re using them for, you’re missing out. A good designer is a problem solver, a story-teller and ultimately, the conduit between your vision and your audience’s connection to your brand.

So the moral of the story – hire good talent and give them a place at the table early on. Involve them in your strategy, give them the resources and let them tell your story.
You might just get more than you bargained for!

Looking for up-and-coming fashion & accessories designers ? Head to Imilla Road

If you're anything like me, you need another fabulous place to shop on-line like a hole in the head, but Imilla Road is definitely one to add to your list of favorites.

Founded by Cassidy Brush, Imilla Road started life as a series of pop up shops in Texas and New York. One year (and one baby) later, Cassidy realized that her customers needed more....she had to take Imilla Road online.

You'll find a select group of up-and-coming fashion & accessories designers who will satiate your fashion appetite, have you feeling like the fashion insider you were always meant to be and won't break the bank.

Who better to tell the story of Imilla Road, but copywriter Courtney Saunders. we think she captured the spirit of Imilla Road perfectly, don't you?

Talent Spotlight: Guess where Carter & Cunningham are popping up next?

We realize that fabulous sculptures and ceramics are something of an investment, so we're excited to share that, come Summer, a gorgeous piece by Carter + Cunningham could be yours at a ridiculously reasonable price.

This beautiful owl, sculpted by James Saliaz, will be available at one of the nation's most affordable, yet chic furniture and home decor stores. Watch this space.....

It’s fun, it’s fresh and it’s orange. Check out the Hi5! Summer campaign for Joe Fresh

I’m sure you’ve all heard by now that Joe Fresh, Canada’s trendiest (and most affordable) brand, is hitting New York this Fall. Not only that but they’re turning 5!
To celebrate, Joe Fresh collaborated with Plum Creative’s Mark Welsh to develop an suitably fresh brand voice and Brynn Johnson to develop the visual direction and logo.
Check out the summer Hi5! Campaign on-line.(click on ‘see it now’)

Talent Spotlight: Courtney Saunders’ short film proves her talents don’t stop at copywriting

If you read my last post (and if you didn’t, simply scroll down), I think you’ll agree that the copywriters here at Plum refuse to be pigeon holed & continue to delight us with new creative endeavors. I’m happy to share writer and creative director, Courtney Saunders’ short film for designer Rachel Comey. The film, which was made in collaboration with renowned director Margaret Brown, was shot backstage at the Spring 2011 show. The film shows none of the usual frantic antics but rather, beautiful tranquil moments that showcase the clothes and communicate the essence of the brand perfectly.

RACHEL COMEY SPRING 2011 from Jennifer Lame on Vimeo.

Courtney’s copywriting client’s include Banana Republic, Kate Spade, Sigerson Morrisson, Harvey Faircloth, Tommy Hilfiger, Target and many more. For more information, or to see more of her work, please contact justine@plumrep.com

Talent Spotlight: Copywriter branches out to glorious results

Anyone who’s familiar with Plum is familiar with our copywriter,
Mark Welsh. Mark was the first person to come on board when I started Plum Creative and we’ve had a rollicking good time since creating brand language for clients that include West Elm, Bloomingdale’s, Joe Fresh, Cole Haan, Target and many more.

So you can imagine everyone’s collective delight when we learned that Mark’s talents went beyond the written word and he and his partner, artist James Saliaz launched Carter & Cunningham - a studio specializing in ceramics, sculpture & collage.

These heavenly pieces include resin lions, clay owls, orbs, driftwood picture frames and unique collages collectively referred to “Unnatural Curiosities” (admit it, you’re dying to find out what that means)!

You need wait no longer – check out their website, book and appointment and treat yourself and your home to something that’s anything but unnatural.