Netflix has just released a new series titled Abstract: The Art of Design featuring industry leaders in design.

Each of the eight episodes in the docuseries contains valuable interviews and points of view from established designers from different parts of the United States.

The first season was launched on Friday, February 10. The following designers were featured in the first season: Christoph Niemann, Tinker Hatfield, Es Devlin, Bjarke Ingels, Ralph Gilles, Paula Scher, Platon and Ilse Crawford.

When I first heard about Abstract: The Art of Design I was interested in the designers that Netflix selected. The first two episodes of the series were screened during the 2017 Sundance Film Festival.

The first episode in Abstract: The Art of Design that caught my attention was the ‘Illustration’ episode featuring Christoph Niemann. If you have not already watched the show, and want to avoid spoilers, just scroll down to the trailers and social media below.

Christoph Niemann

The ‘Illustration’ episode was premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, as well as the ‘Footwear Design’ episode. This documentary style look into the life of Niemann was a compelling way to show his workflow and modes of inspiration.

Both Niemann and Paula Scher brought up working in New York City as a form of inspiration. Scher’s episode covered graphic design. They each brought up unique ways to produce creative works of art. For those that enjoy to sketch, and want to find out more on how to develop skills in modern art, Niemann’s insight will be very helpful. He adds a layer of comedy to his intelligent form of visual communication.

Platon

The photographer known as Platon is featured for design within photography. He shared this quote on the show:

“To get to that point where someone is just open, you got to earn it. Like a flower opens to the light, thats what it is.” – Platon

His insight on building connections between architecture and subjects within photography was interesting. Platon’s trademark is getting his subjects to a level of trust to where they open up emotionally on camera. He is a director that also works as a photographer. It is impressive to see him work with natural light in the outdoors, as well as capture the inner beauty of someone within a studio.

Paula Scher

Topography and graphic design was brought out by the charm and wisdom from Paula Scher. She works with Pentagram, commercial clients, local initiatives, and personal projects. It is informative to hear her point of view of creating advertising-based design.

New Yorkers will enjoy finding out more behind the artist that has influenced the area, as well as on an international level.

Ralph Gilles

Automotive design in the United States has been heavily influenced by Ralph Gilles. Car enthusiasts will dive deeper into the attention to detail that designers focus on when producing automotive products.

The ‘Automotive’ episode connected technology and design in a smart way. Gilles displayed heart and passion in his work.

Each of the designers work consistently, they work daily, and take their work very serious. As a designer myself, I found inspiration, wisdom and smarter ways to work by watching several episodes of Abstract: The Art of Design on Netflix. 

In contrast to the designers the show selected for season one, it would be compelling to see Banksy in the next season. The British street artist tends to avoid having his identity compromised, but also is one of the most influential artists of our generation.

Browse over trailers, and connect to Netflix social media for updates.