Tangram Tattler

We Get an A++ for Adidas!

2011-10-06T14:36:00.012-04:00

New Client Alert and we're pretty pumped to have them on board!

We had the opportunity to design, build and install Adidas Originals' most recent trade show booth at Project Las Vegas. Let's just say that we aced the task with flying colors and successfully created an all Adidas branded environment that tells their stories the way they're meant to be told.

Make Your Own Havaianas at Bloomies

2011-10-06T14:28:00.002-04:00

Havaianas opened a new shop at Bloomingdale's in New York City, equipped with a interactive Make York Own Havaianas touchscreen counter, first in the US!

Designed, fabricated and managed by Tangram

Pop-Up Perfection

2011-05-18T10:40:00.002-04:00

Thrilled to be featured in a recent issue of Event Design in the "Best Practices" section.

Bendel on 5th for Havaianas

2011-04-21T16:24:00.016-04:00

We helped our friends at Havaianas unveil their newest additon the "Soul Collection" line by executing/installing a shop in shop/store window for at Henri Bendel on 5th ave. Always fun to work with these guys, the overnight install was even a blast! Check the photos and check the shoes, they are so comfortable and perfectly hip for summer!

March Madness 2011 at Nike Town

2011-04-12T10:54:00.006-04:00

Yes, we know its April and this post is a little late, but hey... we were busy the end of March... Pleased to have had the opportunity to work on the 2011 march madness presence at NTNY again this year. This time, there were custom designed neon lights involved...take a look!

Tangram: Best in Show

2011-04-11T16:45:00.002-04:00

http://www.exhibitoronline.com/exhibitorshow/2011/awardwinners.asp

Jordan Brand Experience @ All Star Weekend 2011

2011-02-22T11:21:00.009-05:00

TANGRAM was honored for the second year in a row to help make the JORDAN BRAND EXPERIENCE during ALL STAR WEEKEND one to remember! TANGRAM helped take over Footaction at Westfield Culver City Mall in Los Angeles, where loyal Jordan fans were welcomed to some exclusive releases and gear that wasn't found anywhere else. All tar Footaction was the FIRST in the country to release Air Jordan 2011 on February 17th. While the rest of LA didn't get access to the AJ's until the next day. AND the rest of north America had to patiently wait until Feb 19th to choose their flight. Special guests appearances included, Dwayne Wade, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul and some celebrity hosts. Check out the work we did for this years Jordan brand Experience and let us know what you think! Thanks again for the opportunity Jordan peeps!

Tangram never forgets Valentines Day! 143

2011-02-03T10:53:00.001-05:00

NIKE at CES 2011

2011-01-25T14:46:00.011-05:00

Loungy yet professional with all of the right lighting and displays, we helped Nike premiere its new Nike+ SportWatch GPS at CES 2011

Museum of Moving Image Re-Opens in Queens

2011-01-19T11:46:00.009-05:00

This is really the rekindling of a Romance. In 1995 Tangram was the general contractor who built out the the then new American Museum of the Moving Images Core Exhibition, "Behind The Screen". Designed and built as the vision of Rochelle Slovin the founding director of the museum, "Behind the Screen" immerses visitors in the creative process of making moving images. From nineteenth-century optical toys to video games, it features over 1,400 artifacts, as well as an array of interactive experiences, audio-visual material, and artworks. For the Museum’s grand reopening, Behind the Screen has been dramatically reconceived and upgraded.

Tangram was selected to renew and refresh the presentation of the exhibits, reuniting with the original architect Ali C. Hocek.

Over the past four months we have worked diligently to work in concert with Museum staff to complete the renovation. Along with the new expansion wing, designed by Thomas Leeser, the Museum is a fantastic destination and should not be missed.

These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things...

2010-12-10T09:36:00.028-05:00

Decor Inspiration

Elf the Musical - It's on our Must See list

Design

YUM

Hunter Boots

If you like our little green and blue world check this site out

Gidgets, Gadgets, Goods

Light it up!

The Shake Weight - This makes us laugh!

Frank's Red Hot - "We Put that S*&% on Everything!"

Manifold Clock (Full Rotation)

If you like shoes you will like To Boot New York Adam Derrick Rocks the foot!

Computer Game Fun

We love Etsy

We Can't Contain Ourselves!

2010-12-08T16:05:00.008-05:00

We are so proud of the outcome on a recent Nike project, we just had to share some photos! We produced 2 custom interactive shipping containers that traveled to college football game tailgates. These containers, acted as a pop-up retail structure to promote Nike Rivalry -"Gear for Fans". On game day fans were able to customize their selected Nike team wear, by placing their order for a sweatshirt, tee shirt, and or long sleeve - into an interactive touch screen and their item was completed and ready to wear "their way" at check out time. The container came equipped with video screens, color changing LED lights, storage, 2 clothing presses on each end cap, graphics, vinyl on exterior. It was super busy and fans were pumped!!

8.17.10 Flip Floppin' Fun at MAGIC

2010-09-10T13:59:00.015-04:00

Our new buddies at Havaianas won the Best in Show trophy at MAGIC-PLATFORM Show! It was well deserved as their design team collaborated with us to execute custom furniture/displays/couches and bright colored graphics for their booth space. The booth was crawling with folks and they really stood out amongst the other show exhibitors. Well done Havaianas and Tangram!

8.12.10 Air Jordan Brand x Atmos Pop-Up Shop - Harlem

2010-08-30T16:57:00.013-04:00

We designed, fabricated and installed this little number for Jordan Brand at Atmos in NYC... we're pretty happy with the outcome, are you?

BEFORE

AFTER

Boom Boom Dynamite Down at Niketown NY!

2010-08-06T11:01:00.005-04:00

Fun little summer job for us, fabricated and installed these HUGE "BOOM" letters & graphics for a Niketown NY promo display

Freaks and Geeks and Tangramers OH MY!

2010-08-06T09:40:00.006-04:00

Another successful interactive Sony booth for Comic Con 2010. Our crew rocked it! On display were large 3D screens for viewing and the booth featured movies like, "the Green Hornet" - attendees were able to get a photo of themselves inserted into a scene from the movie, a nice souvenir! The film "Priest" was also featured - with a motorcycle prop from the film. The booth was jammed packed at all times and our client was thrilled with our work!

More WBF!

2010-07-21T17:15:00.011-04:00

Check out the latest pop-up install we did for Nike's World Basketball Festival, Blvd 134... Let us know your thoughts!

Come Celebrate the World Basketball Festival with Nike & Tangram!

2010-07-21T17:02:00.015-04:00

Tangram was proud to participate in Nike's World Basketball Festival.. Even though the WBF is just a few weeks away, "The Ballroom" is creating a lot of buzz in Harlem, NY. Go check it out: 2490 Frederick Douglass Blvd. NYC

Viva Las Licensing!

2010-06-25T10:12:00.029-04:00

Another successful Vegas Licensing Show just past and we have the photos to prove it!

It's pretty hard not to have fun in this town, especially when you're with the Tangram crew! Our hot dance moves will leave you speechless!

At the install - Tangram Designer - CuongGeorge and Pat working it

...and here's some of our magic from the show!

Cartoon Network

NBC Booth at NCTA

2010-05-14T12:15:00.005-04:00

This week we were in Los Angeles for our NBC booth for NCTA- The Cable Show! Give us your thoughts!

Niketown World Cup Soccer 2010

2010-04-30T12:19:00.015-04:00

Tangram was up late and workin hard Wednesday night down at the Niketown in NYC. We did an installation for the World Cup Soccer 2010 Nike edition! If your in the neighborhood go and check it out in person! 6 East 57th St. New York, NY- Enjoy!

Baby BOY "Nooch"!

2010-03-22T18:44:00.005-04:00

TANGRAM welcomes baby boy nooch to the fam! Dean Reichert Antonucci was born on March 15, 2010 weighing in at 7lbs, 80z Congrats Anna and family!

Niketown Installation in NYC

2010-03-12T13:07:00.012-05:00

Last night we headed down to Niketown in New York City on 6 East 57th Street to do an installation for the celebration of March Madness!! If your down in the citayyy go check it out!

The Stars at Night - are Big and Bright...

2010-03-04T10:44:00.012-05:00

Jordan Brand 23/25 Experience JB has created an all out hands-on exhibition emphasizing MJ's importance to sports culture - we were there to help make it all happen! http://http://www.nike.com/jumpman23/index.html#/blog/415?idx=23

We helped Jordan Brand mark it's 25th Anniversary at NBA's All Star Weekend this past February. The event went down in Dallas - and like everything in Texas it was a BIG SUCCESS! Check out some shots from the installation and event itself - all that you see was fabricated and installed by yours truly!

Ahoy There Maties!

2010-01-21T11:08:00.009-05:00

The outcome - Looks like fun - we had a blast with this project!

We were given the job, by our friends at the Maritime Aquarium in South Norwalk, CT to fabricate and install this "play boat" for a children's interactive exhibit that will be featured at the aquarium in the near future! Visit their site for more details, a great place for all ages! http://maritimeaquarium.org/

Building the boat in Tangram's Pleasantville shop

Happy Christmas! Love, Tangram

2009-12-23T16:35:00.006-05:00

Take a Peek at our Shop in Pleasantville

2009-12-23T16:24:00.012-05:00

Currently the boys are working on putting finishing touches on the Irish Dairy Board booth for the Fancy Food Show - Shipping in January 2010 to San Francisco. I took some early morning shots of them in action... check out our beautiful work space and those smiling faces!

Huh? We Won an Award?

2009-12-01T15:45:00.001-05:00

We won a Merit Award for our fabrication and installation work at the Children's Museum of the East End in Bridgehampton, NY... and we didn't even know it! Go us!!

Tangram featured in Event Design Magazine - Gallery Section

2009-11-19T16:21:00.001-05:00

Tangram's HBO Mip booth was picked to be featured for the gallery section in Event Design Magazine.

Livestrong Collection Install

2009-11-13T12:01:00.006-05:00

Here are some photos from a Tangram install at Niketown - NYC (back in mid October)

We spy a lot of "lance yellow"!

Pimpin' Suites at AFM 09

2009-11-13T11:33:00.005-05:00

The American Film Market ran from November 4 - 11, our clients were thrilled with the suite decor that we delivered, not to mention sunny LA for the week?

Not too shabby! LAKE SHORE ENTERTAINMENT

E1 ENTERTAINMENT

IM GLOBAL

Tangram Gets the Job Done - MIPCOM

2009-11-09T12:03:00.018-05:00

New Booth for AETN!
Thanks to EU and US Tangram Teams, we successfully produced several booths again at Mipcom in Cannes. Some of those clients are: HBO, Televisa, AETN, E1 Entertainment, MGM and Sesame. We had a blast as always! Thanks to everyone that made the show a success!

A Day at the Office - Tangram Cannes

2009-11-05T14:53:00.017-05:00

Tangram's Sweet Side

2009-10-06T17:13:00.004-04:00

Tangram branded cupcakes - lots of fun and they taste delicious! Sending them to a few potential clients that don't have the time to meet with us, along with our presentation on flash drive. What's not to love?

Just Did It! Tangram named Nike preferred vendor!

2009-09-30T18:05:00.003-04:00

Mipcom 2009 - Tangram EU at your Service!

2009-09-30T17:49:00.008-04:00

Mipcom 2009 begins next week, a few from Tangram US will be heading to France for the event. Team TangramEU, situated just a few miles from the Palais, have been working around the clock for this year's exciting show. See the campaign we came up with for the show (below) Just so we're clear, this is our mission for every event we handle, not just for Mipcom. If you're there, look for the "Tangram Says Relax" tshirts! A bientôt mon ami!

Tangram Chill's in Las Vegas

2009-09-16T12:39:00.009-04:00

Ooops, we forgot to share these with you. Back in June, Team Tangram at the Licensing Show 2009 went out to Minus 5 Ice Lounge and had a chill of a good time - LITERALLY! It was freezing in there... Thanks Tangram for the fun and we got to keep the hats too! Everything within the ice lounge is made entirely from ice; the walls that enclose you, the seats that you sit on, the sculptures that surround you and even the glasses that you sip our famous vodka-based cocktails from. Good times!

Steel Swift, Tricia Swift and Aidan Corish
Rob, Pat, George, Justin, Steel and Aidan

The group!

Tangram Summer BBQ Days

2009-08-12T10:46:00.009-04:00

Horse shoes and soccer and burgers/dogs OH MY! Of course, veggie burgers for Richard - what more could you ask for on a Thursday afternoon lunch break at Tangram! We had a blast, thanks to all that organized it and made it happen!! Us Tangramer's sure know how to have fun at work

Thanks "J Dog" for "manning" that grill! Those "hockey pucks" errr burgers were delish!

Watch out for Pat - the Potato Chip Monster!!

Check out Sony at Comic Con 2009

2009-08-07T11:49:00.008-04:00

We succesfully made the Sony booth happen again this year at Comic Con. The interactive booth was constantly surrounded by a ton of show attendees, there was a lot to do and see! Whether they were checking out the many celebrities that were signing autographs, or lined up around the booth to get their free Zombie makeovers from a team of professional makeup artists. Zombieland In Theaters October 9th. or they were checking out the Black Beauty car that Seth Rogan unveiled at the show (promoting his new movie due out next summer "the Green Hornet") There were new video games to be played, give away flash drives that spectators stood on line to load with Sony movies and new trailers coming out soon... all and all it was a great success! Thank you Tangram team and Sony!!

Tangram Produces Michael Jordan exhibit at Basketball Hall of Fame

2009-08-07T10:40:00.008-04:00

Check out below video, see our Tangram Team hard at work!

New Michael Jordan Exhibit

Mouse Roars with Tangram

2009-06-10T15:29:00.002-04:00

Hot Off the Press - Mouse Roars with Tangram at Licensing

Beyond the Beyond for Jordon

2009-06-10T15:16:00.003-04:00

Since the release of the AIR JORDAN XX3 in January 2008, the sneaker world debated the greatest question ever asked of a basketball shoe: will there be an AIR JORDAN XX4?

Meanwhile, Jordan Brand, a division of NIKE, Inc. and creator of the legendary franchise, fueled the fire by admitting nothing…until now. At a press event in New York City, produced by Tangram, Michael Jordan himself unveiled the AIR JORDAN 2009 shoe. Its sophisticated design carries on the tradition of the world’s most respected basketball shoe while presenting a new naming scheme, retiring the labels “AIR JORDAN I through XX3” to keep Michael Jordan’s legacy special. "Throughout the first 23 years of the AIR JORDAN franchise, we challenged ourselves and the industry by producing athletic footwear beyond the limits of what was possible," said Michael Jordan. "The AIR JORDAN 2009 ushers in a new chapter for the Brand – it is the embodiment of what we can do and sets the course for the next 23 years for the franchise." Michael Jordan collaborated with Jason Mayden, Jordan Brand’s Senior Footwear Designer, to create the AIR JORDAN 2009. The shoe combines new cutting-edge performance technology with innovative style, adhering to the Nike Considered Design ethos of environmentally-preferred shoe development and construction. Providing the most elite experience in basketball performance and style, the AIR JORDAN 2009 stays in line with the franchise’s history, yet the design clearly exhibits a forward-thinking approach. “When designing the AIR JORDAN 2009, I wanted to take the shoe beyond expected limits of what consumers know from the franchise and create something ahead of its time,” said Jason Mayden. "Its futuristic technology and design elements will help propel Jordan Brand towards even greater levels of innovation and style as it delivers the best performance shoe available today." The AIR JORDAN 2009 incorporates a new, innovative technology in basketball footwear called Articulated Propulsion Technology, or APT. The carbon fiber prosthetic running technology used by Paralympians such as April Holmes, a Team Jordan track and field athlete and the world record holder in the 100, 200 and 400-meter races, inspired designers to incorporate those elements into the shoe and results in its futuristic look. Following the same basic form as the prosthesis Holmes wore during her gold medal 100-meter race for the 2008 Paralympic Games, the AIR JORDAN 2009’s APT allows the athlete to explosively and quickly propel forward on the court.In addition to its performance technology platform, the AIR JORDAN 2009’s modern design elements offer a bold style statement by incorporating satin pleats and polishable dress-shoe-like panache leather, the first AIR JORDAN to utilize these luxurious design elements. A diamond-shaped hologram references the authenticity of the AIR JORDAN franchise while another distinguishing factor is the midsole’s thermo plastic urethane chassis. Created with a special injection process, the chassis features a blown-glass-inspired pattern that is unique to every shoe, making each pair a unique, one-of-one limited edition collection. “Last year was an important year for Jordan Brand as we celebrated the 23rd anniversary of the AIR JORDAN franchise,” said Keith Houlemard, Jordan Brand President. “The AIR JORDAN 2009 represents the first of the next 23 years, and we are excited about the future of both the franchise and the Brand.” The first AIR JORDAN released in 1985 to great acclaim during Michael Jordan’s rookie basketball season and despite the league initially banning the shoe for violating uniform rules, the shoe immediately became the industry’s best selling basketball sneaker and an instant classic. Over the next 23 years, the AIR JORDAN collection continued to push the envelope in footwear design, solidifying itself as one of the world’s most recognizable franchises. Consumers recognize AIR JORDAN for the signature Jumpman logo, pioneering technology in basketball footwear and forward-thinking fashion—characteristics that the AIR JORDAN 2009 embodies as it moves the franchise into the future. Tangram incorporated product attributes in the overall design of the production elements used in the event such as pleated backdrop reflecting the pleating on the shoe designed by Jason Mayden, Jordon Senior Footwear Designer. Lighting details were reminiscent of the embedded jewel in the show, and the use of Panton Chairs mirrored the essential shape of the performance technology in the new Air Jordon 2009, inspired by athlete April Holmes. Congratulations to Tangram's designer Cuong Nguyen, and the production team led by Project Manager Justin Emerson. for a fine execution. Thanks to Brand Jordan's Jayson Mayden, Sean Butterly, Sam Middal, and Dinusha Gooneratne. Thanks also to BNC (Bragman Nyman Cafarelli) PR. The event was featured on BizBash. To learn more about Brand Jordon and the Air Jordan 2009 visit http://www.nike.com/jumpman23/home/index.html video from Stacker

"Just Tangram It" at Niketown - NYC

2009-05-19T14:18:00.018-04:00

To promote their fabulous tees and for merchandise change over, our good friends at Nike asked us to fabricate and install another job for them at one of their many stores in New York City - Niketown. We have had the pleasure of executing a lot of Nike's retail environments in the past and at this particular location. Tangram was involved with everything you see here from the paint, graphics, lighting, metal work, custom fixtures with tilted shelving, wood build outs - walls and tables which were made out of recycled gym bleachers and the walling out of engineered basketball court wood. Pretty shhweeet huh?

BEFORE the merchandise was displayed - see that Tangram craft?

AFTER - Shizzow!!

Go Small or Go Home!

2009-05-01T11:46:00.017-04:00

Starwood is our new client! We won the job of designing and building a 10X10 interactive booth for them for the AAHOA Show in Maryland - which took place at the end of April. The design was clean, clever and utilized the small space quite well. We had less than a month to execute it, we delivered a gorgeous outcome and the client was very pleased with it all. Tangram Project Manager, Caroline Morton said that she received a ton of positive feedback, both from the client, show attendees and other show exhibitors. We enjoyed this project very much, both the challenging and creative aspects!

Light and airy, interactive with the touch screen in front, projected images on plexiglass and don't forget that built in seating area - what a great use of space!

"Tweeting" at 2009 Cable Show in Washington, DC

2009-04-24T12:04:00.048-04:00

This year, The 2009 Cable Show was moved to our nation's capital, April 1-3, which is ideal timing to see those gorgeous cherry blossoms, what a beautiful site! The show was very busy and we helped our friends at NBC Universal again with their 6,300 Square Foot Interactive booth. It looked great and the team did a wonderful job! There was a lot of buzz at the booth as always, MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow dropped by, CNBC's "Street Signs" Live Broadcast, MSNBC Press Luncheon, USA Network's Character Project Event and Cable Positive Efforts Among Attractions. The Cable Show took advantage of a web marketing/social tool, called Twitter. Take a look! http://twitter.com/CableShow it was great for those who "tweet" they were able to check updates on their phones/computers about show events, things to see, and updates pertaining to the industry.

whoops! How did this get in?

Our own, Justin Emerson -Tangram Project Manager - taking a 3 min "siesta"...

don't be fooled by this shot of him, he was on the go the entire time!

Whatever Happens in Cannes...(doesn't always stay in Cannes)

2009-04-24T11:49:00.028-04:00

HBO

Eyeworks

Despite the pouring rain Cannes received the entire week during Miptv 2009, the show was a huge success! The Palais Des Festivals was a packed house, no eating or display outside as you can imagine. As always, our clients were very pleased with our work. We won bids on 2 new clients this year, Entertainment 1 and Artear! Our other clients at the show are:HBO, FOX, Telefe, MGM, Eyeworks, Fireworks, Sesame, Televisa, Caracol and Rive G!

side note: MGM hosted a Pink Panther theme party at their location, served "Pink Panther" branded rosé which was bottled in the South of France.

Entertainment 1 (new client this year)

Artear (new client this year)

Tangram Wins Silver in Event Design Magazine 2008 Awards for Misaki

2008-11-25T10:49:00.002-05:00

Tangram's design and execution for Misaki at Baselworld in Basel, Switzerland has garnered a silver medal in Event Design Magazine's 2008 Awards Campaign. Congratulations to Tangram's creative team headed by Aidan Corish, and the team in Cannes France for the high quality of the execution. Congratulations to the team at Misaki in Monaco - it takes a great client to make a great project!

The Sporting Life in Monte Carlo at Sportel

2008-11-13T15:29:00.002-05:00

Tangram executed two jobs at Sportel in Monte Carlo this past October. Based on the heels of MIPCOM, Tangram's presentations for NBA International and HBO Sports were clean and mean. Despite the impression of glamour, a show in Monte Carlo is not withjout its grueling moments - particularly on the roulette wheel!

Tangram Cannes Do! French Team Rocks MIPCOM 08

2008-11-13T09:53:00.003-05:00

The Tangram Cannes Team Rocked MIPCOM, the international television program market, in October delivering fifteen trade exhibits for industry leaders at the Palais des Fesdtivals.

Led by sarl Tangram's GM, Peter Ritchie, and veteran Project Manager Glenville Williams, and augmented by Justin Emerson, Kim Hobby and Caroline Morton from the New York office, Tangram's delivery results were the best ever. Clients included AETN, Fox, HBO, MGM, Seasame Workshop and Televisa Estudios.

Tangram Booth Best in Show

2008-10-10T12:44:00.005-04:00

Tangram exhibited at the TS2 Show in Philly this summer. Here's a picture of our little jewel. One cool thing - the video presentation was run entirely off of an ipod!

Tangram Now on Malakye.com

2008-09-23T17:16:00.002-04:00

Tangram is now listed on Malakye.com. Check out our listing!

No Business Like Shvo Business

2008-09-23T16:50:00.006-04:00

We hadn't worked with Scott Guerin at SHVO Marketing since our involvement as the fabricator of the The W New York Downtown Hotel & Residences sales office last summer. We were delighted he called to ask for help at Cityscape, the New York iteration of the big real estate show in Dubai. We were happy to help out under short notice help SHVO make a splash at this most important real estate trade show. Thanks to Scott and Michael Shvo, the Czar of Real Estate Marketing, for the business!

212: A Lifestyle, A Destination, A Scene - Nike Mercer Street Block Party Launches Sportswear Line

2008-09-19T12:14:00.020-04:00

Nike threw a party on Mercer Street to celebrate the launch of their new Sportswear Store in Soho. Tangram produced the event which was designed by Hunter Tura and his team at 2x4. A hair raising installation on a perfect day in Manhattan caught the attention of seemingly everyone in New York City.

VIDEO: http://video.google.com/videosearch?hl=en&safe=off&q=Nike%20212%20Mercer%20street%20block%20party&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wv#

We built up a stadium-like feel to the blocks between Grand and Canal Street to help capture the essence, the kernal, of sports - the heart of the Nike Sportswear line. The buildup was intense, and the entire Tangram team was on hand to help.

Tangram's Aidan Corish and Steel Swift on the streets

Ernesto Llano and Teddy Astahova Lay in the Wild Postings with Soo-in Yang from The Living New York

It was a star studded opening with lots celebrities crowding the central "playing field". The Gig was kicked off by The Soul Tigers marching band!

Plenty of Crazy Mascots too, like the Mighty Fordham Ram

Roger Federer opened up the store with Spike Lee

Tennis Greats Maria Sharipova and Serena Williams were on hand

Mark Ronson was working the platters!

Content was King with two 90 foot video screens

A Mad Crazy Scene

Tangram's Gina Cooney, Anna Antonucci, Cuong Nguyen

Steel Swift, Gina, Anna, Teddy, Aidan in the back

Never Underestimate the Power of A Large Group of Uninformed People to Cause Irrevocable Damage

2008-09-14T13:26:00.002-04:00

SNL Returns! Features the former small town mayor of Alaska's crystal meth capitol!

http://cs8d.clearspring.com/u/4727a250e66f9723/48cd49f78c43e898

Take Me to Your Leader: Tangram at Comic Con for Sci-Fi Channel and Sony Pictures

2008-09-09T10:38:00.007-04:00

Once again Tangram was at ComicCon in San Diego, the annual Geek & Freak Fest celebrating all things Sci Fi, Fantasy, and Imagination. The Con has become a huge branding exercise for the Hollywood Bigs, and this year we had a new build for Sony Pictures. Like a diamond, it was multi-facetted, and shone brightly! Thanks to Mike Freeman for reigning it all in.

Perennially the Sci Fi Channel is the show stopper having won myriad design awards for designer collaborator Graft and stud man Stefan Beese. No shortage of brand hungry crowds, we have been able for the past three years to become the sign post at the show, the veritable marker by which all things are measured. The Con is a force. people save up their whole year to dress like Wonder Woman and party down in the Gas Light District of San Diego. Cudos to the Scifi Team: Blake Callaway, Dana Ortiz, Mo Setoodah, and RJ Cupelli.

VIDEO: Crazy C0micon: http://video.google.com/videosearch?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rls=GGLG,GGLG:2005-40,GGLG:en&q=scifi%20booth%20at%20comicon&um=1&sa=N&tab=wv#

ComiCon 2008 - Half Trade Show/Half Halloween

attendees line up for admission

May the Farce be with you!

Laura Vandervoort at SciFi's annual party!

Tangram Makes "The Commitment" for Nike

2008-09-08T11:39:00.009-04:00

"The Commitment" is the story of the dedication of incredible athletes to their team and the game. It examines the heart and soul of a basketball legacy by showcasing the brilliance of the past and the dominance that will define the future.

In honor of that commitment, Nike created a gallery dedicated to Team USA, chronicling their journey from the Dream Team of 1992 to the present-day squad. The exhibit, entitled "The Commitment", opened in New York City on July 10, giving the public a look at the history and future of USA Basketball.

Located in a refurbished branch of Harlem’s famous Training Camp sneaker boutique, the gallery space houses the legendary artifacts and apparel behind each Olympic team. On one wall, photos of the 1986 players. On another, the initial letter sent by Coach K to each member of the current team. And in the center, the kicks worn by Jordan and Barkley on the court in ’92. Artists’ tributes can be found throughout, paying homage to the greatest teams and players in Team USA history.

The gallery also chronicles today’s U.S. Olympic basketball movement, documenting past hardships and detailing the challenges ahead. Watching over the exhibit are two larger-than-life portraits, one of Kobe, the other of LeBron; a symbol of the two greatest players of a generation, overlooking the legacy they stand to inherit. This summer, as Team USA takes the international stage, they’ll be joining the ranks of the most elite players the game has ever seen. They have the skills, the strength, and the dedication to win. But it’s only with true commitment to the game that they’ll bring home the gold."

Tangram created the Commitment for Nike Basketball in sixteen days from concept to completion on the opening night gala attended by the "Redeem Team" on their tour of New York City. Sometimes a plan completely comes together. In order to execute on such a tight timeframe, everything needed to go just right - and it was a commentary on the dedication and "Commitment" of the Tangram Team - that the project went off with such success.

Check out the Video at: http://inside.nike.com/blogs/nikebasketball/2008/07/28/the-commitment-exhibition-tour

Hyper Dunk Flag Wall

Showcases of Orginal Jordan worn kicks

The Jersey Case

Entrance

Space Overview

The Crowd Awaits the Players!

Coach K Checks it Out

LeBron Checks In!

Kobe Checks Out Flywire Technology of Hyperdunks

LeBron in Front of The Hyperdunk Flag

Licensing Show - New York - its Toon Time!

2008-09-03T17:43:00.012-04:00

Tangram had a great outing at the Licensing Show in New York in June at the wonderful Javits Center. http://www.licensingexpo.com/.

The biggest excitement surrounded the Cartoon Network stand, which was a debut winner for Tangram. http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/

We had a lot of work including Sesame Workshop, HIT Entertainment, The Beanstalk Group and Televisa, the whole Tangram team was down on site - and as ususal it was the hottest few days of the year.

Next stop Vegas, as the Javits loses another show......

BIG & EASY - Tangram and NBC Universal Cable at NCTA - New Orleans

2008-09-03T16:29:00.012-04:00

In May, Tangram was back in the Big Easy to help out our friends at NBC Universal Cable Networks put on their big show! We had a gasser in Nawlin's putting up the booth - BUT had a better time rediscovering one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

First night we had dinner at Stella! Chef Scott Boswell creates exciting New American Cuisine influenced jointly by world flavors and his Louisiana Roots. The food was delicious but rich, and the wine list did not disappoint. the decor was cool too could have been like an old bordello at one time.check out http://www.stellarestaurant.com/.

After a long day in the "Booth Buildin' Bidness", the whole crew went to Cochon for Dinner! Cochon is everything porky, and the menu was insane. We started with fried oysters as an appetiser, they were so hauntingly delicious, we ordered more during dinner! The food at Cochon was insanely good. It has big bawdy open room which was fairly boisterous on a Saturday night.

Pork!

Here is a link from the website:

"....Chef Link and co-owner Chef Stephen Stryjewski, embracing the old style traditions receive whole pigs and oversee an in-house Boucherie, creating boudin, andouille, smoked bacon, and head cheese. The menu also features handmade crawfish pies, rabbit & dumplings, and spoon bread with okra & tomatoes. Cochon offers specialties from the wood-burning oven such as roasted oysters, suckling pig, and beef brisket. Seafood from local waters round out the offerings with Chef Link’s signature roasted gulf fish “fishermen” style.

The bar at Cochon boasts an interesting variety of bourbons and local beers. Traditional southern cocktails like the Mint Julep are available as well as updated versions of classics like Cochon’s Lemonade. Several brands of moonshine are available for guests desiring a true "Southern experience". ...."

Moonshine! It was crazy nutmeg moonshine! After several shots of "interesting bourbon" and rye sazeracs, nothing finishes a meal of pig fat better than moonshine! It was no wonder we went to the French Quarter to stroll off our fantastic meal!

Don't miss this great restaurant check it at http://www.cochonrestaurant.com/

The French Quarter has revived since Katrina, but there was a lot of changes. Thank God Some Things Do Not Change:

My favorite is Jean Lafitte's Blacksmith Bar (on Bourbon street but waaaay down on the residential side, just keep walking and its on the left). Lafitte's is said to be the hangout of the Pirates Jean and Pierre Lafitte (and others say its haunted) Andrew "Stonewall" Jackson liked to hang here too. One of the oldest continuously operating bars in America, the bar itself is very small and dark (the only lights are above the cash register at the bar and again at the piano, everything else is candles). The piano section of the bar is always fun - go there and hang out and make requests while singing along with the featured player - Johnny Gordon. Check Youtube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-nUz-YnPIk&feature=related.

Also Check Fritzel's German Jazz Bar and Pub on Bourbon Street at Orleans. Fritzels has seriously tasty Jazz, I once saw an ensemble of 18 clarinet players layin' it down. They also have friendly folks, and Jaggermeister on tap!

Do a Jagger till you Stagger!

Aside from all the freak shows up and down the street, no trip to the Quarter is complete with out a trip to:

In 1808, Prince Suleyman of the Turkish Royal family arrived in New Orleans with his retinue of eunuchs and servants. Six months later, all were brutally murdered in their living quarters. Officially, it is recorded as a robbery. The truth is far more sinister and interesting…

Retribution!!!

Yes, retribution for the young women of New Orleans who were lured into the prince’s nearby Dungeon and prepared for the harems of Istanbul by psychological indoctrination, opium-induced submission and torture.

Can I have a Bud, Please?

The Dungeon seems an innocuous little place. You squirrel down a very thin alley entrance into a courtyard, and very regular looking bar. Push open the faux bookshelfs, and up you go to a small tight intense mirrored dance floor with cages, the ultimate skull bar (pictured above), and a head banging cacophony of heavy metal. The crowd is an, ahhhhh, interesting mix of goth posers and preppy tourists. Don't go before midnight - it ain't open.

Always obey Steel's credo - never stay in any one place for more than 20 minutes in the French Quarter. It is a tried and true survival tactic.

End the night at an OLDE FAVORITE from back in the NATPE days when tradeshows were tradeshows, and men were men:

At the corner of Bourbon Street and Bienville, sits the stuff that legends are made of -- The Old Absinthe House. Many celebrities have been welcomed through our doors in the nearly two centuries since its opening -- including Oscar Wilde, P.T. Barnum, Mark Twain, Jenny Lind, Enrico Caruso, General Robert E Lee, Franklin Roosevelt, Liza Minelli and Frank Sinatra. Indeed, the walls throughout this incredible building are covered in the framed photographs of several of our famous patrons. The building endures the name of Jean Lafitte's because of the rumored meeting of the Pirate Jean Lafitte and Andrew Jackson as they planned the victory of the battle of New Orleans on the second floor (now the newly-renovated Jean Lafitte's Bistro). In fact, many of those who work here will be happy to share their Jean Lafitte Ghost Stories with you!

All of this and we did some work too! NBC Had a great show - broadcasting CNBC's"The Squawk" live from the Morial Convention Center and the NBC booth below!

Rushing around like a blue arse fly, I had to go up Magazine Street to get some supplies for the exhibit. It was a beautiful May day in New Orleans, and all the cafes were in full bustle, and the Magnolias were in bloom. There is no place like New Orleans!

Out of Nowhere!

2008-05-09T12:44:00.006-04:00

Geoff Hollister, one of the "Men of Oregon" that helped found Nike, has a new book tha is just great. I was visiting the spectacular Nike Campus in Beaverton, OR to talk about some projects with Geoff's wife Wendy, and was graciously invuited to a book signing in Prefontaine Hall, and a brief reception after.

Geoff's book is a great iluminator of "if you do what you love, you will be successful". The funny and poigniant stories in the book belie all of the amazing hard and creative work that has been done.

Check it out! http://http//www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/184126234X/ref=dp_image_0/103-4323728-3499031?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

Sorry, The Duke Can't Make It Tonight....

2008-05-09T12:37:00.004-04:00

Duke and the Drivers, Boston's Legendary Party Band have new showings on Youtube.

Growing up, my brother Tom Swift http://www.tomswift.com/, was always on stage crooning to the ladies. Now you can see why the ladies loved him! http://http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfJNHdAKlJA.

Catch The Drivers New Album "Harder Than Before" at CD Baby or iTunes..

Check your Bucket!

MIP TV Opens in Cannes, France

2008-04-08T08:51:00.005-04:00

Tangram's Peter Ritchie and Steel Swift hang in front of the Carlton Hotel !

Tangram table for 11 at Vegaluna

Billecart Salmon Magnum!
Salmon Cru Marinee

I am in Cannes for MIP-TV, where the opening was very smooth. As a result of the writers strike, the show seems very slow, with lots of empty space in the Palais. Tangram executed 14 trade show projects, and then we enjoyed our traditional 'first day of the show' lunch! Look at the sky - that's why they call it the Cote d'Azur!

Vegaluna has the most superb food - their presentation is second to none! and friendly service - it is located just opposite the Carlton Hotel. In attendance were old friends and colleagues, Richard Scattergood, John Manning, and Chris Symes (the Graphic Czar), as well as Tangram Cannes office staffers, Glenville Williams and Peter Ritchie, New York team members Kim Hobby and Justin Emerson, LA's Claire O'Farrell and my old mate and partner Aidan Corish.

Later in the show we had a great meal with Isabelle Hen-Wollmacher from AETN International at a restaurant called Chez Louis, also in Cannes near the Marche Forville. They serve market cusinine - what ever is fresh that day - fantastic, like home cooking - very fresh food and nice provencal wine which is really good and fresh. You are served an avalanche of appetisers from marinated herring to chicken liver pate to marinated curried vegetables and vinegered cherries, fresh salads, then pick a plat du jour - I had a vegetable farcie which was way bon! Dessert is a bonus, fromage blanc (like a fattier version of yogurt) and several delicious compotes! All this combined with a tart and not too flowery viognier from provence!

On the other hand we had a miserable dinner in the Old Town of Cannes at Le Cosi on the rue St. Antoine. Their kitchen must have had a mutiny - it took us over an hour to just get a glass of water - let alone a cocktail. The staff could not have been ruder. Although the food was delicious, when it came two hours after we sat down, I will never go there again. Unforgivable transgression of the fine French Tradition of gracious dining service.

Speaking of cocktails, I have a favorite bar in Cannes - Bar Lalu which has been hipified in the past couple of years. Bar Lalu is so small you could put it in your pocket, but the proprietor is so nice and the view is of the Rue du Commandant André, a busy night time street in Cannes - a fine place ot have a Pastis to start the night, or a petite cognac to end it!

We had a fun dinner at Chez Vincent et Nicolas at the base of the old town on 92 Rue Meynadier.

This is a hip, upbeat, modern restaurant with an eclectic menu - the "Veritable Hamburger" made of fois gras goes very well with a bottle of crisp Chablis!

But then again, what doesn't?

We had another great meal at Le Riad, a Morrocan Restaurant on the impasse Florian. The chicken tajine was delicious with preserved lemons and olives, and the spices were a welcome change to the heavier french fare. They also have a beautiful belly dancer!

After dinner we went to the Grand Hotel for a nightcap, but it was grossly packed and loud, so we wandered down to the Gray D'Albion whose lovely bar was like a quiet oasis.

What is the secret of the great Gin and Tonics in Cannes, particularly at the Caffe Roma? Schweppes Indian Tonic of course! This is considered to be a controlled substance in the US because of the high quinine content!

We recommend a rondele du citron jaune, the genesis of our favorite waiter's name, Citron Jean!

Caffe Roma also does a great omelet for breakfast, and is the main crossroads of Cannes due to its proximity to the Palais des Festival.

Shopping on the Rue d'Antibes was severely restricted by the poor value of the dollar, but one place of note is Bottier Jeff. We came across this amazing little shoestore on a sidestreet to the rue d'Antibes, 4 rue Tony Allard. The Store is just as great as it is small. The owners have made the most careful collection of super high end, handmade shoes to sell. On the wall you'll find a large photo inside of the store of the owner and Sylvester Stallone (who is one of their customers).

My only purchase was at Arthur, a swimwear store. My Ville Brequin bathing suit has lost its stretch in the waist (duh!), and Arthur had very nice bathing suits at a lower price....

As always, a trip to Cannes is incomplete without a dis to Delta Airlines who have flown the 82/83 direct route NCE-JFK for years- since Pan Am went out of business. The planes are crowded and smelly, and the crew are the most veteran in the fleet - a group of mean battle axes that brook no bad behavior! The flights are always, always, PACKED!

So - stop at Pattiserie PAUL on your way to the Delta check in desk at Terminal 2 and buy a Sandwich Chicken and a Sandwich Mixte - ask for a packette de moutarde, and avoid the disgusting airline food - a bottle of Vitel and you are on your way!

As ever many thanks to all of our clients at MIP-TV who make all of this musing and dining a possibility!

Every Day's The 14th!

2008-03-17T17:33:00.005-04:00

Tangram celebrated a Happy Valentines Day executing 22 doors for Bulgari around the USA including flagship Fifth Avenue Store!

Wishing we could have traded for bling - would have made the ladies very happy!

Revved up For Success!

2008-03-17T17:07:00.009-04:00

Tangram designs and installs Northern Westchester Hospital Gala for Fourth Year!

Revelers enjoy the dance floor!

Crazy Custom Chandeliers!

Tangram's Steel Swift, Tricia Swift and Ernesto Llano greet NWH President Joel Seligman.

Larry Haggerty finishes off a decorative vinyl applique on Tangram's custom bar!

Hot babes at the NWH Party!

After the gig, Tangram project manager Gina Cooney led the pack in an all crew race!

Tangram's party planning team was at the post when the Northern Westchester Hospital Annual Fundraising Gala took place last week at Grand Prix NY in Mount Kisco. A Monte Carlo inspired theme was in order in classic "Black + White" ball style. Conceived by Tricia Swift the gala featured racing and lounge time in an elegant, european styled environment. Once again NWH broke all records for fundraising.

Get Yer Irish Up!

2008-03-17T17:02:00.004-04:00

Tangram was selected as the contractor for the Irish pavilion at the 3 GSM show in Barcelona Spain. 3G is the world's largest cell phone tecnology show. The exhibit was built and managed from Tangram's office in Cannes.

Christina's World

2008-01-21T00:35:00.000-05:00

Why this image keeps pooping into my head I have no idea. It is significant. It is foreboding, it is anticipatory. More later.

Are You Linked In?

2008-01-05T12:32:00.000-05:00

I joined Linked IN this week and that has been a sweet little obsession! I was amazed at how many people I knew who were already "Linked"! How come I only heard of this so far.

Immediate benefit: I linked up with my old friend Danny Pullman - we're meeting for coffee next week at the "Y"! Haven't seen each other in a decade - Pully - I hope I recognise you!

http://www.linkedin.com/in/steelswift

Merry PDX Mas!

2007-12-21T12:33:00.001-05:00

Tangram's Claire O'Farrell with Andee Hess from Osmose Design

Aidan Corish Jeff Kovel, Skylab Design

Brendan Finlayson (Refunktion) Steel Swift Jeff Kovel Scott Denton Cardew (D-C D)

We had a great night in Portland with some of our friends up there from Nike and the surrounding community! Lots of red wine and freat food at 10-01

Plenty of Holiday Cheer and a wicked early flight the next morning.....

The Spice of Life....

2007-12-10T17:10:00.000-05:00

Tangram wins Variety Pavilion at Cannes Film Festival! Claire, Aidan reel in a big one!

Congratulations to all the crew in Cannes on this prestigious new client!

Craft to Service Exemplified in Nike House of Hoops Mosaic

2007-12-03T21:30:00.000-05:00

Tangram artist Tim Main installing Ewing Mosaic at Nike House of Hoops by Footlocker in Harlem.

Tangram realized the Patrick Ewing tile mosiaic at Nike's House of Hoops in Harlem!

Tim Main, old school Tangram shop carpenter back in the Brooklyn days, perhaps best known for his guerilla tile installations in the NYC subway stystem: most notabley "New England Begins in the Bronx" and the controversial depiction of the Bernhard Getz incident, reconnected to help Tangram realize the vision of Michal Spoljaric Nike Brand Design.

Tim's artisanry was the driving force behind the execution of this project - learn more at www.maintim.com.

At Tangram, the adage of "make new friends and keep the old" still rings true, how nice to connect after all these years and do a new collaboration! Thanks, Tim!

Where the hell is Andre Kerr? Sculpted flying nursing sow and piglets anyone?????

Tangram Wins Cartoon Network at LIMA

2007-12-01T14:13:00.000-05:00

We found out last night that we had won the Cartoon Network account to build a stand for the Licensing Show in New York. Congratulations to Aidan, Claire and Lucy for their fine design work! THAT's what I'm talkin about!

Tangram builds for NikeiD Studio in New York

2007-11-30T12:27:00.000-05:00

As seen on the design news letter dexigner http://www.dexigner.com/product/news-g12454.html, Tangram worked with Nike Brand Design to realize some custom furniture options and details for the NikeiD Studio in New York's Niketown. This was a challenging and extremely detail oriented project with Tangram's renouned custom fit and finish adding the final details to a painstakingly thought out strategy.

The NIKEiD Studio is a consumer destination for designing, personalizing and customizing Nike performance and sport culture footwear, apparel and equipment, and marks the beginning of a design community, both virtual and hands-on, for consumers to share ideas, concepts and a passion for NIKEiD.

Tangram was the fabricator for the original NikeiD Studio in NOLITA, New York City.

Our thanks to Nike Brand Design Team.

Virgin Post

2007-11-28T18:57:00.000-05:00

I am excited to start this post, as I have had quite a bit of trepidation at beginning to blog. What if you threw a party and no one came? Frankly I think that that may well be the whole point of a successful blog. Care what you post, but don't care if anyone is reading. I'll do my best to blog about things that are peripheral, but may catch the fancy of specialists everywhere. So Good Luck to us all!