Gilbert Lesser did a lot more with very little.

Tonight, my wife and I watched 3 Days of the Condor. This movie has been held quite high over the years, but didn't do much for me. And this isn't a movie review, just an introduction. In one of the later scenes in the movie, Robert Redford takes leave of Faye Dunaway, and as he jogs away across the darkened street, an amazing poster comes into focus. So I began researching who designed it, and discovered a designer I've never heard of. And shame on me for it, because Gilbert Lesser's work is incredible! And now, of course, I know who designed the Studio 54 logo! I've tried to assemble my favorite pieces of his work here — from different spots online as well as the AIGA archive (which was a major source). His letterhead! I'm amazed!

The General

Recently, I had the great experience of connecting with John Kealey (an old friend from college days) when I was on a business trip in Ottawa. While we've been in periodic contact for the past few years, we hadn't REALLY spent time together in a long while. John has always been a talented photographer, but hearing about how he has made his talent a reality in his life was profound.

The best surprise of all came after dinner when John brought me to The General, the photo studio and creative center he shares with his business partner, Chris. It's an old market that they have taken over, and completely overhauled and it's beautiful. The spare warmth of the elegant lighting and carefully curated series of objects gives the space a sense of wonder and great feeling of creative potential. I happen to also love the custom drawn logo, courtesy of DressCode in New York.