WINDSOR! yea

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It’s a micro-documentary coming out soon about Windsor (by Eric Boucher) and how everyone’s doing these days after the automotive market exploded…

Having grown up there, I can certainly attest to the moral as of late. Most of my closest friends that I grew up with have left the city, and I think everyone’s waiting to see what’s going to happen next. Looking forward to seeing the full film, it’ll be interesting to hear some more opinions on the matter.

Antony Hare

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Classic style from our very own London, Ontario. He explains his work as, “at the meeting point between portraiture and caricature” (pretty accurate in my opinion). Super smooth line-work, definitely worth a look.

Arcade

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They recently launched their new website.

“Arcade is a boutique creative agency with strong connections to art, fashion and youth culture. Arcade believes in innovative solutions to communicate your brand message across any medium.”

Some solid work up on their site, be sure to have a look.

Omar Argel

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An incredibly smart reinvention of wall outlets by this Vancouver industrial designer and architect. He’s streamlined these outlets in such a way that makes you wonder why on earth we ever used the old ones. Have a look at his website here. Also, an interesting interview with Ego Design here.

Smile On Your Brother

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All the illustrators aren’t Canadian, but the money raised will be going to our underprivileged kids (in the form of free skateboards). The tour started in Van and finishes in Quebec. It’s in Toronto at Livestock on the 25-27th. More images after the jump…

stock illustrations by Leonardo Côrtes

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My favourite illustrations on the stock “photo” site www.istockphoto.com are by Leonardo Côrtes of Montreal. He creates lovely childlike seamless (repeatable) vector illustrations – that are available for purchase for approx. $20.00 each. If you are looking for a fun idea for a kid’s room, buy some of Leonardo’s illustrations and bring them into a print shop – ask them to make poster size prints for you. You can join his Facebook group to share photos of what you have done with his illustrations.

ABSOLUT – Justin Broadbent

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ABSOLUT vodka is hosting a party as part of its summer promotions. Though the brand has collaborated with more than 300 artists around the world, this is the first time it has commissioned an artist in Canada.  Justin Broadbent, a Toronto-based artist, is conceptualizing the event. Broadbent, a multi-disciplinary artist has been commissioned by Absolut to transform a secret “unconventional” space into an all-day art exhibit that turns into a party at night. To do this, Broadbent can use any form of art, so long as it embodies the idea that, “In an Absolut world, opportunities pop up,” the tag line the brand is using in its summer marketing. Follow updates on Justin’s blog, and pencil in August 13, 2009 on your calendar!

Handbags by Simon Trudeau

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I just came back from a quick lunchtime walk through the TO Outdoor Art Exhibition. It’s amazing to see a wide variety of artists/designers – along with their work in an outdoor venue. There was a lot of predictable work, but also some rare innovative pieces that really struck me – such as these handbags by Simon Trudeau. Simon has a a background in Visual Arts and Industrial Design. His website is currently under construction, however you can learn more about his work here.

Doublenaut

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They’re a local design and screen print shop that focuses on concert posters and such. Check out the site and all their work here.

swallowed words

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Stamps. Linen. Embroidery. Dolls. And a handful of dirty thoughts.

Exhibition by Samantha Lamb, at Le Gallery in Toronto. Opening May 8, 7-10 pm