In light of the continuing controversy surrounding the 2012 Olympic Logo, and since we are moving right along through the current Games, I thought it appropriate to post a couple items from Otl Aicher. Otl Aicher was the lead designer of the 1972 Munich Olympics, and introduced the first Olympic mascot and the graphic symbols that we have derived much of our current day signage from. The second image shows a few pieces I ran across today that I was unfamiliar with. From the simplest pamphlets to the medals themselves, the minimal design is truly refreshing.

Greenville’s the bounce agency was recently featured on Communication Arts’ website for their promotional work for the Greenville Literacy Association’s “Really Good, Really Big, Really Cheap Book Sale.” The promotions reminded people of the need to donate books by asking them the question, Have any books lying around? The bounce agency looked at everyday things like parking garage stairs and windows, and graphically turned them into large stacks of books, and bookshelves. Congratulations to the bounce agency for a well executed and highly creative solution, and to the Greenville Literacy Association for a successful event. The 7th annual book sale raised $115,000 for literacy programs from the nearly 100,000 donated books.

Koelle Art is the product of two amazing artists and friends of ours, Annie & Chris Koelle. Annie & Chris each have their own site to showcase their work, but come together under Koelle Art to sell their work. I’ve known Chris and Annie both for about seven years, and in that time I have seen some truly incredible work; keep your eye on these two, because I know we are going to see even more amazing work moving forward.

Annie & Chris live in Greenville, SC with their awesome son Marshall.

As a designer and illustrator I am always looking for elements to use in my work. If you are like me, textures are invaluable; that being said, I love it when they’re free. This site offers just that: high-quality, free, wood-grain textures. Enjoy.