Dine. Travel. Design.

Tonight I went to Boston Public Library to listen to Suzanne Thorin, University Librarian and Dean of Libraries of Syracuse University (my alma mater!), speak about SU’s treasured artifacts and special collections. And what an incredible collection it is! Of course, as always, I wish I knew about it sooner- when I was a student less than 2 years ago. Although there were only a handful of items presented, all had an impact that I wish I had known about- particularly during freshman art history class. I had no idea that SU had nearly 80% of Marcel Breuer’s original architectural design sketches or Margaret Burke-White’s original camera equipment and photography prints and negatives. It truly brings history to life to be able to see first hand the thought process of writers and artists or to appreciate artwork close up!

I was able to snap a few photographs of some artifacts:

It’s not just the sound of “Thomas Edison’s Blue Amber Record,” but the packaging that is significant. Package on right LEFT uses less material and 1 less color- saves on cost, production, and materials! A genius Edison was.

“Illuminated Manuscript,” significant in its use of vellum paper and Gutenberg’s Printing Press over woodblock typography setting. Gorgeous.

The Special Collection (6th floor, Bird Library) is constantly in search of ways to better itself for the use of Syracuse University’s faculty and students. I can’t wait to hear more about the Plastics Collection of the 1940’s-50’s that came from Leominster, MA! This will certainly be a great resource for ID students in Smith Hall

Thanks for the educational evening! Learn more about Syracuse University’s Library here.

• Activity #1: Ice-cream (and dinner) at Cabot’s Ice Cream + Restaurant in Newton, MA. A classic diner-style experience with quality comfort foods and great desserts. From their website:

Cabot’s is a family owned and operated old-fashioned ice cream parlor and restaurant. We are especially known for our generous portions of unique premium ice cream and frozen yogurt creations. We serve breakfast (all day), lunch, dinner and late night treats featuring deli style sandwiches, wraps, flame-broiled burgers, salads, and traditional home-style dinners.

What more could one ask for? Especially in an environment that brings you back to the ’70s. I remember going to Cabot’s as a kid and loving it! (not that I was alive in the 70’s, but you get the point.) That nostalgic feeling and environment is certainly working to their benefit. A definite classic spot for locals and tourists alike.

• Activity #2: The Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, MA.
  This weekend there was a European bike show which I attended with a couple of friends. A great opportunity to take the camera out for some interesting photos. (Wish I could have stayed longer.) Not to mention the bikes on display were so interesting to look at from a pure product perspective. I may not know too much about them, but I could certainly appreciate the attention to design details that were addressed in the variety of bikes shown.
  Photos after the jump.

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One of the many great photos I took. It’s like my very own postcard!

Labor day weekend I became a bit of a tourist in Boston- the city I grew up in. As a local or a tourist, I would definitely recommend taking a PhotoWalks tour to get a different perspective of the city (both the story of the city and through the camera lens). Not only did I learn a bit of Boston history, but I learned some great reinforcing tips on composition and camera angles. It really is fun and interesting for beginners or photo-hobbyists. The 1-1/2 hour tour really went quick and I’m sure I’ll be back for another. Thanks Saba for the tour of Beacon Hill!

Read the whole article at BusinessWeek.

Lots of good arguments for and against the stock photo sites like GettyImages and Design/Photography firms. Basically these are 2 different target markets. Cheap photos from websites target those who would not generally pay for professional work and allows amateurs to gain exposure on the web. Design firms need to continue to focus on clients that will pay for their professional services.

An interesting debate…What do you think?

via Dexigner