Monday, March 7, 2011

Thrilla in Manilla

I got my hands on a copy of the first issue of Thrilla in Manilla this past weekend. The words copy and issue do not really do this project justice though. Tom Pennington and Versus Gallery put out an open call for artists and all types of creators to make an edition of 50 items that measure 8.5" x 11" or smaller to be included in issue one. The work is varied and includes handmade stickers, original art, CDs, photographs, etc. The digital issue is quite impressive and worth a look if you can't get your hands on the real thing. I really dig the cover art by Overstreet Ducasse screen printed directly on Manilla envelope in red and signed by the artist. We all know the devil is in the details and my man Tom P. rarely misses. Especially noteworthy was the red wax seal on the back envelope flap with the initials VS stamped into it. The only thing this project left me wanting was issue two.