January 12, 2004

By: Jenny Post
Website: http://www.1st-in-cosmetics.com

Potions & Lotions: The design of contemporary beauty

This display in the V&A's Design Now Galleries looks at the use of packaging design and graphics to promote beauty products. It will be bringing together some of the most exciting examples of contemporary design to demonstrate the wide spectrum of promotion ideas as well as the functional aspect of packaging. It will include ranges by fashion designers and make-up artists. It will include classics such as Shu Uemura's origami boxes and clear plastic lipsticks as well as fun loving graphics by Benefit. It will look at 'holistic' products, such as Tony & Tina, and those for the street-wise such as HEAVY DUTY. It will also have a large section on beauty packaging designed to look like something else, such as food, jewelery, or car maintenance. Innovation is rife!

This display complements the two major exhibitions. 'Imperfect Beauty: the making of contemporary fashion photographs' (28 September - 18 March 2001), which examines the contribution of art directors, stylsts, make-up artists and hair dressers as well as the photographers themselves. While 'Brand New' (19 October - 14 January 2001) looks at the history and impact of branding on contemporary society.

The Independent Cosmetic Manufacturers & Distributors Association recently honored Alexandra Volkmann, President of Heavy Duty Co., Carmel, CA, with the Cosmetic Entrepreneur Award for Leadership for her outstanding business and personal contributions to the cosmetics industry.

The awards were presented by InStyle Magazine beauty director Kim Van Dang, along with ICMAD President Robert Barash, at the 27th Annual Meeting on June 20, 2000, at the Manhattan Penthouse in New York City, NY.

"I congratulate Alexandra on receiving this prestigious award," said President Barasch. "Its is the commitment and passion of our members that makes ICMAD and the cosmetics industry as dynamic as it is today."

Ms. Volkmann started Heavy Duty Co., a manufacturer of quality personal care products for men and women, in 1998 with one employee. She now has four employees and a cult following of consumers across the country. Heavy Duty Co. is unique in its concept of unisex products that compare the care of one's body to the care of one's car.

Using humor, hipness and nostalgia in branding, marketing and advertising, Heavy Duty Co. has established distribution through Henri Bendel, Fred Segal, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom and Sephora, to name a few.

Volkmann's vision for the company is to continue to provide quality products that deliver results and a smile, and to pave the way for other innovative companies.

About The Author:

Jenny Post is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cosmetics.com.  Tips on skin care, hair care and beauty products to bring out natural beauty.