[Image: Art Institute of Chicago]

Featuring works produced since 2000, Now in Production explores some of the most lively divisions and categories of graphic design today. Featuring everything from design-driven magazines, newspapers, posters, and apparel to the development of branding programs for corporation, this exhibit shows us the great potential of graphic design to create an interactive link between people and products.

One of the most exciting pieces for us was LUST'S "Posterwall for the 21st Century." Combining personalized messages and automated designs, LUST is a projected screen of ever-changing posters. Not only does the LUST wall respond to movements of passersby, viewers can also tweet messages that are incorporated into the advertisements. While typical posters aim to stop the viewer's gaze, this futuristic version detects and responds to your presence.

If you find yourself wanting a change of scenery, definitely stop by the Cooper-Hewitt Museum on Governor's Island to see the Character Approved Graphic Design: Now in Production.

[Image: Walker Art]

Smith's hand-blown, stained-glass stars are sprinkled throughout the lot, a contrast to the gritty urban environment. The rainbow color is a tribute to Josephine Baker, the first African American female to star in a major motion picture and a supporter of the civil rights movement who had adopted children from around the world. Baker was also a burlesque dancer, singer, and actress.

The Character Approved Chorus is on view until September 4th. Visit if you're in the area, and of course, you can see the lights of Time Square while you're there.

[Image: James Ewing, Art Production Fund]