Hi Everyone! Today we launch a new series called New Retro Weekender, which will round up some fun activities that celebrate ’70s, ’80s and ’90s style. This weekly feature will also keep you up to date on the latest happenings at Mirror80, in case there’s anything you’ve missed! What are you up to this weekend? We hope you’ll write in and let us know about the New Retro happenings in your neck of the woods…
The Art of Sonnenzimmer
I’ve spent the past week enjoying film at the South by Southwest Music, Film and Interactive Conferences and Festivals (SXSW) in Austin, Texas. While I didn’t have nearly as much time off work as I have in years past, I still managed to head to some great movies, as well as the Flatstock gig poster show, which is held each year during the festival. Today we spotlight the work of Sonnenzimmer, the artistic team of Nick Butcher and Nadine Nakanishi. One of the main reasons we love their work: it looked like nothing else at Flatstock.
An Ice Sculpture Extravaganza!
Why do ice sculptures always look so ’80s? Perhaps it’s the Art Deco style of the carving, intended to catch the light and play up the crystalline effect. With Art Deco experiencing a resurgence in the decade of decadence, it’s no wonder these fancy creations take on a 1980s vibe. On this winter day, we revel in the magic of the ornate ice sculpture. Hearts, roses, swans, dolphins, vases… It doesn’t get any better!
The ’80s Connection: An Interview with Jason Cawood
There’s no denying that a recent influx of ’80s-themed Tumblrs has showcased the decade’s fashion, interiors, pop culture and art in vivid detail. And no Tumblr offers a more comprehensive and well-sourced collection of 1980s artwork than “80s art,” created by Jason Cawood. Vibrant geometry, abstract forms and bold designs reign on Cawood’s Tumblr, which is a clear fan favorite. This past week, I had the honor of corresponding with Jason Cawood, who shared his thoughts on a range of topics, from ’80s art trends to Tumblr’s role in the decade’s unfolding revival…
5 ’80s Art Motifs
So you’re looking for ’80s art and you don’t know where to start?! Today we feature 5 1980s art motifs that are making a comeback. Whether you’re digging through the bins at Goodwill or browsing Etsy for the latest vintage finds, here are some unforgettable styles you’re sure to come across. And yes, it’s cool to cringe from time to time…
Pic Fix: An ’80s Tumblr Roundup
One of the biggest surprises of the ’80s style revival has been the birth of the ’80s Tumblr. When I started this blog two years ago, I never could have foreseen the extent to which Tumblr would fuel a love of ’80s design. Yet it has been one of my greatest joys, as ’80s art and design images are now abundant and accessible to the masses. In the spirit of celebrating the 1980s Tumblr phenomenon, we’ll be reveling in Tumblr pics from time to time, bringing you the best that enthusiasts of our favorite decade have to offer. Today is no exception…
Go Back-to-School Shopping at Il Giardino Luxor
Hey, kids! Back-to-school season is officially here! What’s an attractive ’80s gal (or guy) to do? Stock up on school supplies! Mirror80 has been a fan of Etsy shop Il Giardino Luxor for quite some time now, and today we feature an assortment of their ’80s-fabulous school supplies in honor of the fall semester. The shop offers a range of vintage finds, from pencils and erasers to binders and postcards. The best part: the ’80s graphic design motifs!
An ’80s-Style Ripped Paper DIY Project
Looking for an easy ’80s DIY project? Try a little art piece that can be completed in 30 minutes with the help of ripped paper and glue. This weekend I found myself in need of a modern minimalist piece to anchor a living room display of framed art. Desiring a picture that channeled ’80s modern design (think “office building chic”), I decided to begin a 3-color DIY project based on a large piece I’d briefly spotted in the 1991 film Regarding Henry starring Harrison Ford. Could my last-minute endeavor be more random? Read on for the details…
Check out the Mirror80 Tumblr!
Happy 2nd Birthday, Mirror80! Yes, today is the big 2! For our first birthday we threw a party. This year we celebrate by launching the Mirror80 tumblr! That’s right–we’ll be featuring our favorite ’80s art, fashion and interior design pics. From screen shots to modern takes on 1980s style we’ve got your favorite decade covered.
The Art of John Noestheden
Mirror80 recently featured the work of artist John Noestheden in a post on today’s renewed interest in 1980s art. From works on paper to public art commissions and public performance pieces, Noestheden has been creating renowned large-scale artwork since the 1970s, including a geometric 8′ x 20′ lobby mural for Houston, Texas’ Cineplex Odeon (featured in the above-mentioned post). Today we celebrate the artist’s new works, many of which represent the universe using materials including acrylic, ink and Swarovski diamond crystals!
