Help, I'm Alive

Emily Haines from Metric opens up about her creative vulnerability and becoming artistically paralyzed (something I can relate to) in this honest and genuine video clip. I am excited to hear the sounds of Metric's new record. Here is a sound bite to preview. (via Stereogum)

When I am feeling blue, or need some fresh inspiration and upliftment, along with my camera and sketchbook I take some alone time and get back into nature, or explore someplace I've never been. I take photographs of the details around me and write thoughts and feelings in my book. This exercise helps refresh me, as a creative person as well as a mother. It is fascinating to go back and read previous entries. Do you ever feel paralyzed creatively or even as a parent? What helps you feel alive?

Jesse Kirsch

I like the simplicity and smart design of Jesse Kirsch's work, the gubble bum cracks me up. (via graphic-exchange)

Bird & Banner

Erin and Nicole, graphic designers and girls after my own heart have an amazing little custom invitation boutique called Bird and Banner, which hopefully you have heard about from the buzz in various wedding publications and design blogs.

All of their work is delightful and well-designed, and as stated on their website, they are sensitive to formal aspects, but also hand print most of their pieces. I just love that, the best of both worlds. Be sure to check out the rest of their work here.

This card you can also pick up at their etsy shop.

We heart Paris

Here are a few glimpses into our first Parisian adventure:

#1 : We are coming back again and hopefully soon.

#2: We never met one rude Parisian, in fact they were very nice. Maybe it was because we always began speaking in French and followed their customs? (We actually had about ten random Parisians ask us questions and directions -- which was surprising.)

#3: The pastries, crossaints, baguettes, macarons, chocolates, etc. are truly out of sight.

#4: It is fun to get lost and walk everywhere. We probably walked ten + miles a day.

#5: I love the diverse typographic signs, impeccably styled and sophisticated people, and beautiful packaging. Mac loves the luxurious and tiny cars.

What do you love about Paris?

Emmanuel Polanco

Parisian ad illustrator Emmanuel Polanco's work is marvelous. (via here)

Vote

I love the cleverness behind this Op-Art from the NYT by Chris Harris and Stephanie Chen. (click image to enlarge) Remember to Vote.

Loving Living Etc.

Bonjour, Guten Tag.... Wherever I am at the moment, I thought it would be cool to leave you some posts while I am away. Stay tuned.

Here are some fun spaces I dig from Living Etc.