signal to noise pt. II

"The Bathing Ape Has No Clothes (and other notes on the distinction between style and design)" Adam Greenfield takes an in depth look at contemporary design - or the lack there of....

While exploring the world of design, Greenfield begins by tearing into the self-proclaimed designers of the online world. He goes on to relate the creator of BAPE, Nigo, to a stylist rather than a designer. His argument is that modern design - or what most people consider to be mod-des is a half-assed method which leaves out the most important aspect - functionality.

According to the laws that Greenfield lives by, a design must suit the needs of humanity, and be a perfect blend of function and form. His old-school approach separates artists from designers - not definitively, that is to say it's not that an artist cannot cross the line and put out a legit design, or that a beautiful design is anything less than art, BUT self-expression is not enough when it comes to putting together something for the masses. It becomes somewhat of a science to fulfill all needs and still make it look good.

Generally speaking, this article was well written. In fact it was the best article I've come across on A List Apart thus far. Greenfield's combination of wit and articulate style made the piece enjoyable AND informative, two lines that -unfortunately - do not intersect very often, or for very long. His ability to combine humour with educated deconstruction and criticism using a very static form of discourse was commendable. Bravo.

To be honest, I was surprised when I saw his photo at the base of the article. I had envisioned a young urban gangsta type. Okay, maybe not that last part, but lets just say I was definitely more than a little thrown off when I saw his face. Just goes to show that you can never judge a dude by his mug, and that insight can come from a hobo on a bus. That was kind of obscure, but we all get the message - kid is dope, despite his appearance. Maybe I've just never been a fan of the bald head with beard vibe - its too Mandel-esque (puke! ohhhh gross!).