Back in 2015, the beloved mail-order catalog Skymall filed for bankruptcy. Today, the NYCxSKYMALL exhibition pays tribute to the once in-flight staple. A group of designers took its loss particularly hard and decided to ban together in order to relive its glory days in a playful way. The NYCxSKYMALL art show displays a range of "design solutions for problems that don't exist."
Conceived by Kristen Wentrecek and Andrew Zebulon Williams of the Wintercheck Factory (WCF), the NYCxSKYMALL exhibit showcases the work of 20 of their favorite design studios. Taking over an industrial loft in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn, NYCxSKYMALL launches just in time to be part of the New York Design Week.
As for how the idea for NYCxSKYMALL actually came about, Kristen shares, "Andrew and I were drinking beers one night with Emily Fischer from Haptic Lab, laughing about these companies like Free People that sell bundles of sticks for $28."
Unnecessary Product Designs
The NYCxSKYMALL Show Pays Tribute to the Bankrupt Mail-Order Catalog
Trend Themes
1. Experiential Exhibitions - Creating immersive and interactive art shows that offer unique experiences for visitors.
2. Playful Design Solutions - Developing whimsical and inventive designs that address imaginary problems in a light-hearted way.
3. Nostalgic Revivals - Reviving beloved brands or cultural icons from the past to evoke sentimentality and nostalgia.
Industry Implications
1. Art and Design - Art studios and design agencies can create experiential exhibitions that engage visitors and push creative boundaries.
2. Entertainment and Events - Event organizers and entertainment companies can incorporate playful design solutions to make events more engaging and memorable.
3. Consumer Goods and Retail - Consumer goods companies can tap into nostalgic revivals by bringing back discontinued products or reimagining vintage designs.