Marianne Bernstein asked us to develop an identity for her "Shelter" show at the Painted Bride in Philadelphia. The show asked the question - What does shelter mean to you? 17 Philadelphia artists collaborated with ten Philadelphia households, whose homes were restored by volunteers from Rebuilding Together Philadelphia. Shelter raises questions about what we really need, and what we discover when we reach through our own comfort zone into the lives of others.

About a month ago, I filled out a survey from the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia tempted by their raffle for a Flip HD camera. (Incentives do work.) I actually won! Well, someone else won first, but didn't claim the prize so my name was second on the list.

The Flip HD has changed my life. That's a bit overdramatic (I know), but this pocket-sized camcorder is pretty cool. It captures 120 minutes of HD footage including sound. There is a built in USB arm that plugs right into your computer. It even has its own application...

Last night at the Ethical Society Building, about 50 people joined for a stimulating discussion around the topic Chit Chat Change organized by AIGA Philadelipha. Design and social responsibility are inextricably linked and this topic is becoming a stronger focus of today's designers. Marianne Bernstein spoke about a few of her recent projects: Welcome House, Shelter and her latest book, TATTED. One of our Principals here at BAJ Design, Alan Jacobson, spoke about his work with BAJ Design, ex;it and ex;it foundation. Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts Program educated the...

Email marketing campaigns are an easy, budget-friendly and efficient method of communication. We recommend that every business and organization utilitize this way to connect with your community. That being said; there are a few things to consider when strategizing your campaign:

1. Be personal. "Dear Stephanie," is a good start. If you don't have your recipient's name; then, please don't send an empty field in your email. Don't make this faux pas (see image).

2. Target your list. Take personal to the next level. Speak to your audience and find out what their needs are. Show them that you are paying attention.

3....

Harvest Local Foods had to change the name of their business and used the opportunity to create a new identity. We worked with them to define who they are and want to be perceived as in the community. Their business delivers fresh, locally-grown food and artisan food products. Also, they have a brick and mortar store front just outside of Philly. They wanted something earthy, yet classy. We went with an illustrated truck with an eggplant, tomato and corn in the same treatment. The simplicity of the color palette and font...

The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA) has revealed conceptual designs for the development of Lenfest Plaza (Cherry Street and Broad), which were approved at a recent Board of Trustees meeting. Landscape architecture firm Olin is behind the design of the plaza and pedestrian walk, which will boast artwork from a “renowned sculptor,” as and rotating installations from emerging and established artists. The public plaza will be open 24/7 and will also include an upscale restaurant.

On Tuesday, I attended the Fifth Annual Small Business Summit in New York City. Over 500 people attended the full day conference eager to learn tactics to grow their businesses. All of the presenters and conference organizers shared knowledge on important facets of business such as technology, email marketing, social media, community and networking as well as how not to design a business card (contact BAJ Design if you need help in this department).

The main event was Seth Godin's talk which, deservedly so, received a double standing ovation. Godin's use of power...

Designer Elisa Strozyk is rethinking the way we perceive wood as flooring. Strozyk has created a series of textiles made out of laser or hand cut geometric wood pieces, which are then attached to a textile base by hand.

Strozyk came up with the idea when working with pieces of scrap in her school’s wood shop. The use of wood in the product creates a new tactile experience, and forces designers and consumers to rethink the materials traditionally used.

The wooden carpet can lie flat on the floor and walked upon, or be manipulated into various 3D shapes.

image via...