It goes without saying that we’re pretty passionate about socks here at Corgi. To us, socks are so much more than a humble fashion accessory or practical outfit necessity – and it’s clear that UWE graduate Oliver Gabe shares the same view given the subject of his recently completed book – Personal and Political Milestones Through the Form of Socks.
In the book Oliver sets out to highlight the role socks play in some of the big milestones we all come across in our lives. He says:
“Every single one of us experiences many significant milestones during our lifetime whether it is personal or historical. Many elements play an important part in these milestones, none more so than the humble sock.
“Our cotton family member is almost always there for us in times of importance. One of the first things you put on in the morning and one of the last things you take off before bed (unless you wear bed socks). They walk with you to your first day of school and they are the last-minute Christmas gift you can count on”.
Oliver approached Corgi to contribute to the book given that our own company history is dotted with milestones – from supporting the Royal family to travelling through time with Dr Who – and it features an interview with our MD Chris as well as a photo-tour of our factory.
Check out these stunning pictures of the finished product:
It’s a quirky, tongue-in-cheek account of an often forgotten about item of clothing. As Oliver says:
“The seriousness of the book is what I hope makes it entertaining. Taking something as simple as the sock and decorating it with the utmost extreme level of importance is meant to be seen as a humorous and harmless idea in the hope that it makes you think twice before you put your shoes on tomorrow morning”.
It was such a pleasure to play a part in this brilliant and unique project and we hope those that read the book come away from it as passionate about socks as we are!
Good luck Oliver!
Notes:
This book was written and designed by Oliver Gabe as part of the International Society of Typographical Designers, Student Awards Milestones brief. Oliver now works with fellow designer Ashley Kirby under the studio name One & A Half Studio. To see more of their work visit — www.oneandahalfstudio.co.uk
All images above were supplied by Oliver.
