02-12-10

Hand Crafted Goods

I’ve always had a huge fascination with hand-crafted objects.

Phenomenal work from Benny Gold.

I remember seeing Benny talk at SCAD last fall to a small group of students about his creative journey. He showed a brief glimpse of this recent work and I haven’t been able to find it until recently on his website.

A quote from Benny’s website…
“Last year Gravis hired me to work on their Expedition Series. I created graphics inspired by vintage camp patches, but with a skateboard, surf and snow twist to fit their brand. The patches were designed for their bags shoes and apparel collections. Stay tuned because these products will be in store mid February.”

—

On another note, check out this recent video from Complex Mag inside the Redwing Shoes Factory.

—

I remember growing up not far from Red Wing, MN. We’d travel there ever so often to play the occasional hockey game or tournament. If you would’ve asked me when I was 12-13 years old if Red Wing Shoes would be a hit among hipsters, fashionistas, and general pop-culture, I would think you’re crazy. I wouldn’t even be able to comprehend the idea of “fashion trends” back then. The people in the work force have been wearing these boots for decades and I think it’s generally funny how you could spot a young person on the Sartorialist wearing these now. The workers of Southern Minnesota wear these because they’re one of the toughest, meanest, most badass boots around. They provide comfort and security, not to mention longevity. I wonder what the people from Red Wing think of this, or even if they know anything of it? They’ve been making these boots for decades because it’s in their heritage, a true red-white-and-blue American tradition for them. The rarities left in the world that improve as they are passed from generation to generation. People just don’t really make things like they used to.