Meet Martin Azambuja, a senior designer at Porto Rocha, who is known for his captivating work. This Uruguayan graphic artist is making waves in New York, but his heart remains in Uruguay’s artistic heritage. Notable projects under his belt include major brands like Coca-Cola, Adidas, and Starbucks. Plus, he’s taken on a project of love, ‘Cosas Primitas,’ a collective dedicated to studying Uruguay’s rich illustration history.
One collection that stands out is “Unfolding,” a series of accordion-style prints co-founded with Leandro Castelao. This unique art form, praised as visual poetry and a reinvention of cinema in print, showcases Azambuja’s ability to push traditional aesthetics. The prints represent a seamless blend of surprise and continual reinvention.
Uruguayan art influence permeating New York
It’s a collection that carries Azambuja’s distinctive aesthetic and love for innovation.
The “Unfolding” collection features handmade, silk-based prints with five different colors. They are incredibly versatile, serving as library archives, shelf displays, and ornamental wall art while adding a dynamic touch to any room. Their geometric shapes and styles convey an abstract complexity, transforming ordinary spaces into artistic expressions.
Azambuja and his team are working on more than just art prints. They’re currently developing an ephemera book about bookstore labels in Buenos Aires and recording a significant speech by designer Milton Glaser given there in 1987. These upcoming publications symbolize their dedication to deepening understanding and appreciation of Buenos Aires’ cultural heritage.
When we discuss influential figures in the design world, we can’t ignore Steven Heller. With over 200 books on design and mainstream culture, this renowned designer has shaped the industry, contributing significantly to the future of design. His most recent project, “The Ephemera Universe,” is set to hit shelves later this year, showcasing his unique blend of design and storytelling.
