The article profiles Miami-born, New York-based illustrator Derek Abella, whose career took off after being laid off on Valentine's Day 2020. It explores how his Art Deco-inspired, emotionally resonant illustrations gained traction during the pandemic, leading to collaborations with major media outlets and brands. Abella reflects on resilience, creative growth, and his evolving artistic direction as he approaches a new decade in his career.
London-based studio OMSE created a vibrant, culturally blended identity for Indo-Japanese gin brand DOJA. The design merges Japanese, English, and Devanagari typography with playful illustrations and holographic foil packaging to express the brand’s fusion of traditions. The result balances premium elegance with expressive, maximalist energy.
