Welcome to Dracula Vs. Eisenstein.
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That which we call a rose blog.
By any other name would smell as sweet make more sense.

So what is Dracula Vs. Eisenstein? It’s not a 1969, ‘71, or even ‘72 horror picture. DvsE is a discussion about design and the graphic arts. The tools of graphic design have changed so much in the last few decades, but the process of design should never change. We may see more computer-generated designs today than hand-crafted designs simply because it’s easier and quicker, but the computer is still just a tool that needs a mind, eyes and hand to guide it. A lot of graphic art today ignores the techniques and process of the past. Some work may be inspired by previous art, but many times does not represent or embody its true spirit.

Each day I make decisions that will determine a successful design from a flawed design. I certainly do not make the right decisions all of the time. Whether it be in print, web or interactive design, motion graphics or even film, I learn a great deal by studying art of the past as well as discovering the art of today. Just as in politics, we need to learn from history and act upon that which we have learned. I will share what I have learned from art history as well as the designs, techniques, literature and film that I am still discovering. I hope to learn the same from you.

If you are interested in film history (nice segue!), I recommend researching Eisenstein and reading his essays. Eisenstein was a Soviet film director whose innovative use of montage and subversive messages in his films has influenced me greatly, and not just in my video/film work. A few other artists that I’m fond of are Wassily Kandinsky, Adolphe Mouron Cassandre, Saul Bass, Bill Viola and Charles and Ray Eames.