It has been a rush lately, running the Studio and helping with Degree Show preparation at NUA, so it’s been good for my own head to attend the launch event of the new monograph by Spin. Entitled Spin: 360º, this mighty book is a worthy addition to your Studio library and a valuable record of Spin’s creative output.
There is more to Spin than just cool typography and an inspiring empathy with clients – their partnership with designer and writer Adrian Shaughnessy created Unit Editions, publishing essential books on design heroes such as FHK Henrion and Total Design. Each new title is a gift to the creative industries and will inspire many generations of designers to come.
What I enjoyed most about this evening, was the presence of another important partnership – Tony Brook and his wife Trish. Together they founded Spin in 1992 and both possess the complimentary skills base to build a sustainable business. Trish has managed finance, client relationships and new business – those factors are rarely celebrated but are fundamental to success and symbiotic with creative work.
Spin: 360º also features a poignant contribution from Andy Campbell, former Graphics Course Leader at Norwich University of the Arts and my pal. His memoriam of Nic Hughes is a touching remembrance of Nic’s skills as a designer and educator. Nic had worked at Spin and loved it, but he needed to follow a different path. Andy and I worked with Nic at NUA on the BA Graphic Communication course and he was always stimulating company.
The secret to progress and success is to be of shared purpose – whether it be design education or business, a simpatico partnership creates lasting work and a happy way of life.
