They say that necessity is the mother of invention, but sometimes it’s curiosity that really fuels innovation. Recently we discovered a project called The Newspaper Wood, created by several designers from the Netherlands, which involved “upcycling” newspapers into wood. Mieke Meijer collaborated with Vij5 to offer products constructed from the wood they created using recycled newspapers.

The idea of paper finding its way back to wood form gives reduce, reuse and recycle new meaning.

When the American Rivers Annual Report came through the Finch Paper sample department it was an instant hit. The colors leap vibrantly from the pages, which is why we reached out to the creative team at Levine & Associates to find out more.

The designer for the American Rivers Annual Report, Lena Markley, chose to have it printed on Finch Casa Opaque, Smooth, 80 lb. text and 80 lb. cover.

Finch Paper: You noted that you selected Finch paper for how it “would enhance the vibrant color and sharpness of UV printing.” Had you printed on Finch paper before this project?

Lena Markley:  Yes. A while back, a Finch representative showed us the CASA recycled paper and it fit the bill for our environmentally conscious clients. We have been using it on many of their publications and like it a lot.

Finch Paper: Does the FSC® endorsement sway you toward a paper on all projects or is that client driven?

Markley: It is kind of the exception nowadays not to worry about having an environmental conscious paper! We think about the FSC® endorsement on all projects, and weigh it against what the client is looking for and what the project needs to convey overall.

Finch Paper: Your firm works assiduously to ensure accuracy and impact for each project, considering the client and their audience. Do you assign certain characteristics to papers? For example, Finch produces uncoated and affordable papers, does that make it a brand you go to for smaller budgets or are there other factors in pairing a paper with a project?

Markley: These days, affordable is key with almost any project. As more clients turn to web and digital, we always try to get the most bang for the buck. Quantities are down as well, so it is nice that Finch does so well on the digital press.

Finch Paper: Your profile said you are a painter and illustrator. When working with paint, what are you drawn to in color and texture?

Markley: YES. I started as a painter in college and am always drawn to artwork that shows the hand of the artist, whether it is the texture of the brushstroke or the uneven human quality of the line. Vibrant saturated color also draws me in. Whenever I build colors on the computer, I try to keep them clear and simple builds, not muddied with small percentages of black or blue. That’s why the UV printing is so attractive to me, all the colors POP. My family calls the build 0C+45M+100Y+0K = Lena Orange!

Thanks again to everyone at Levine & Associates who participated in this conversation and the project.

A University as Great as Its City

“In 2031, New York University will mark its 200th anniversary. To provide the academic infrastructure necessary for the University to fulfill its mission in that milestone year, and to coincide with New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s bold planning efforts for the city, the University has—for the first time in its history—developed a long-term strategy, NYU 2031, to guide its future growth. What will NYU look like in another generation?” an excerpt from the President’s letter.

NYU’s NYU 2031 Strategy for Future Growth was printed on Finch Casa Opaque Smooth Paper.

“In keeping with NYU’s commitment to sustainability, this publication is printed on FSC-certified paper.”

Here’s to sustainability and design for a better future.

We’re lucky to be where we are, just like you are lucky to be wherever it is you call “here.” Distinct, unique, evocative— these are all things that a place can have.

We love what has been accomplished at the High Line. From where we sit it looks to be a harmonious combination of design, place and passion. Even from up here in the High Peaks, it looks high!

Have you ever based a design on a location?