Whether used as a designer’s records, quality control, marketing tools, forecasting, or color standardization, sample books are prized tools that help spread the powerful message of design.
“Multiple Choice: From Sample to Product” examines sampling formats from the collections of Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum and Smithsonian Institution Libraries, which illustrate a vast selection of available design options and make the connection between samples and final products.
The sample book and other formats that contain examples of a product and technique in available colors are uniquely tangible tools which link together design, technology, and marketing. They have been used for more than 300 years for the merchandizing and recording of design alternatives in many areas of the decorative arts, including wallcoverings, ceramics, and textiles.
Multipurpose, and often with an accidental beauty, sampling formats provide a detailed view into the manufacturing processes, technological innovations, design tastes, styles, and color sensibilities of other eras. Usually in pristine condition, protected in a book or other enclosure, the information contained in samples has been uncompromised by time. As highly prized sample books traveled with their creators, they spread technology and artistic ingenuity across regions and countries and helped raise the visibility of design via portable, visual, and tactile samples.
“Multiple Choice: From Sample to Product” is on view now until April 6, 2008 at the Cooper Hewitt Nation Design Museum.
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BLOWOUTS IN BABYLON
Friday, February 2nd- First Hangover on the First Friday. It’s the start of First Fridays at the Delancey. Party starts at 10pm. Music by The Bangers, DJ Elle, and IXL. Hosted by SHQ (Sugarhead Quarters) Giveawyas from BBPBX.
Also Friday- Don’t Know What You’ve Got Til It’s Bond. Oak Bond St. Grand Opening party starts at 9pm. Drinks, DJS Cameron Cooper, Michale Magnan and 24Court. RSVP required, see flyer for details.
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