Spots never seem to go out of fashion – their graphic timelessness and infinite permutations ensure a long shelf life across all genres of work and play. Here is a little celebration of the humble dot.
In 1951 Emery Jernquist painted his Rhode Island house black, but then decided it was a little somber. So he added some polka dots. His neighbours were initially skeptical so he conducted a survey in the neighbourhood, with 72% of people liking his approach. The house was featured in Life Magazine, April 1952.
Emery Jernquist's Rhode Island HouseLife Magazine, April 14, 1952
Emery Jernquist's Rhode Island HouseLife Magazine, April 14, 1952
Artists like spots, Riley, Lichtenstein, Hirst, Downing and Kusama, to name but a few. Two lesser known spot enthusiasts are Julie Cockburn, who embroiders spots onto old postcards. And also Marianne Viero, who uses regular office stickers to maximum effect.
Food photographer Richard Haughton has a penchant for polka, making a salad or soup into a work of art. If you want to create your own spotty sustenance, then why not make a polka dot cake as per Deborah Stauch's instructions?
