Optimism Is the New Black

A colleague at 160over90—Adam Garcia—is participating in the Design Within Reach Paulistano Uncovered contest. DWR asked Philadelphia designers to create a new cover for the Paulo Mendes de Rocha classic Brazilian sling chair (originally designed in 1957.)

The concept for Adam's design:
A contemporary take on Paulo Mendes da Rocha’s iconic Paulistano, the Optimism Script chair is a testament to happiness. A whimsical contrast to the strict and functional modernism of the late-1950s International Style, this hand-drawn pattern consists of motivational sayings, meditative words and overall positivity to literally surround you with joy. The illustration is a hybrid of calligraphy and graffiti, “calligraffiti” if you will. If Optimism is the New Black, it’s good, because happiness transcends trend.

Adam's design has been selected as a finalist and will be on display at the Paulistano Uncovered 2009 event on Thursday, August 27. Stop by the Walnut Street DWR between 7 and 9 pm to see his, as well as other Philadelphia designers', creations.