Adobe’s Expressive A!: A Study in Illustration and Design

Explore the fusion of illustration and craft design in Adobe’s Expressive A project, a vivid embodiment of creativity and post-modern aesthetics.

Adobe's Expressive A: A Tangible Fusion of Art and Design. 

​​​​​​In the realm of digital design, the tactile sensation often remains unexplored. However, the recent project by Leta Sobierajski and Wade Jeffree for Adobe challenges this norm by offering a tangible approach to illustration and craft design. Tasked with remixing the iconic Expressive A, Sobierajski and Jeffree chose to craft something palpable that resonates with energetic creativity.

Adobe, the client for this endeavor, allowed the duo to navigate through their interpretation of the expressive A, and the result is a physical representation of the burst of creativity one feels when ideas begin to flow. Their use of the letter A as a vessel encapsulates the explosive nature of the creative process. This puzzle piece design, inspired by the post-modern era, serves not only as a nod to the dynamic era of the '90s but also stands out for its vibrant aesthetic.

The choice of materials is a thoughtful reflection of the design's essence. Plywood provides a sturdy base, while acrylic paint adds vivacious colors that leap out, engaging the viewer's eye. The crafting process's meticulous nature—cutting, painting, and assembling—mirrors the precision required in digital design, thus bridging the gap between the digital and the physical realms of creativity.

Sobierajski and Jeffree’s expertise in photography and retouching further elevates the piece, presenting the design in its best light, making it a stunning visual experience. The sharp angles and interlocking shapes of the composition, combined with the selection of colors, evoke a sense of nostalgia for the '90s, yet the execution is thoroughly modern.

This project, completed in 2023, is more than a simple illustration—it's a testament to the power of design when blended with craftsmanship. It showcases the designers’ ability to step beyond the screen and craft an experience that is as tactile as it is visual, proving that even in a digital-first world, the touch and feel of design can create a profound impact.

Illustration and design process

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For more information make sure to check out Leta Sobierajski and Wade Jeffree website.

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