2015-08-26
Sarah Chen
Design Dispatch, New York
Scheffe Shields' designs blend traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities, often incorporating vintage materials and techniques into their work. Their approach to preserving historical artifacts has earned them a reputation as champion archivists of the analog age.
Unpacking the Ephemeral: Design Duo Scheffe Shields Redefines The Art of Archival Material
In an era where digital media dominates our lives, a select group of designers are making a concerted effort to champion the use of archival material and analogue techniques in their practice. At the forefront of this movement is Seattle-based design duo, Scheffe Shields, founded by Chloe Scheffe and Natalie Shields. With a shared passion for visual research across disciplines and a deep love for the design archive, this innovative duo has been pushing the boundaries of what it means to engage with physical materials in today's digital age.
The Founders' Perspective
For Clio & Co., the art of archival material is not merely about preserving the past, but about reinterpreting its significance in the present. As co-founders Chloe and Natalie explain, their body of work is rooted in a deep fascination with the design archive – "Our research spans across various disciplines, from graphic design to fashion, and we're constantly seeking new ways to engage with these materials." This dedication to understanding the historical context of each archival material has led to the development of unique, hand-crafted designs that blur the lines between past and present.
A Studio Built on Research
Scheffe Shields' practice is characterized by its meticulous research approach. The duo spends a considerable amount of time studying, experimenting with, and reinterpreting various materials – from antique prints to vintage textiles. This process-driven methodology allows them to tap into the inherent qualities of each material, often revealing novel applications for traditional techniques. By embracing this hands-on approach, Scheffe Shields creates designs that are not only visually striking but also imbued with a deep sense of history and context.
From Concept to Reality
The design process itself is an iterative journey for Scheffe Shields. From the initial stages of conceptualization to the final production stages, every step is informed by their research-driven approach. "Our design process is all about distilling the essence of each material," explains Natalie Shields. This means carefully selecting specific textures, patterns, and finishes that resonate with the original context in which they were created. By doing so, Scheffe Shields' designs are able to transcend the boundaries of time and space, speaking directly to the viewer on a deeper level.
Beyond Design: A Movement?
While Scheffe Shields' work is unmistakably rooted in design, their approach also resonates with a broader cultural zeitgeist. In an era where instant gratification and digital convenience dominate our lives, there is a growing sense of nostalgia for tangible experiences – from the tactile thrill of flipping through physical books to the satisfaction of working with real materials. Scheffe Shields' dedication to archival material and analogue techniques serves as a powerful reminder that even in the age of digital media, the value of human touch and the beauty of impermanence cannot be overstated.
A Future Defined by Research
As design continues to evolve, it's clear that Scheffe Shields is playing an important role in shaping its future. By championing archival material and analogue techniques, this visionary duo is not only preserving the past but also ensuring that the present remains informed by a deep respect for history. Their commitment to research-driven practice serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of human curiosity and the need to stay engaged with the world around us – even in the face of rapid technological change.
A Conversation Beyond Design
Scheffe Shields' story extends far beyond their individual talents or even their designs themselves. Rather, it speaks to a broader conversation about the nature of creativity, innovation, and progress. In an era marked by uncertainty and disruption, this design duo offers us a vision of resilience – one that acknowledges the value of tradition while embracing the possibilities of the future.
Conclusion
Scheffe Shields' work embodies a profound appreciation for the beauty of archival material and analogue techniques. By championing these traditional practices in their practice, Chloe and Natalie have created a body of work that not only engages with the physical world but also challenges our perceptions of time, space, and creativity. As we look to the future, it's clear that Scheffe Shields will continue to play an important role in shaping its design landscape – one that values human touch, research-driven practice, and the quiet majesty of the archival material.
