In a few pages or so you’re going to be reading a column from our Art Director Iris Johnson about some very distinct changes we’re making in 20/20’s Upfront Street Seen page. How amazingly lucky are we that 20/20 has an art director with writing chops able to deftly handle an “editor’s” type column AND now (drum roll please) the ongoing monthly edition of Street Seen’s take on eyewear and sunwear as seen on “the street,” and how that eyewear is impacting the overall trends of eyewear.

And beyond that incredible feat, our Iris has also timed this September Expo issue with the debut of a completely redesigned Upfront section.

Having a past career as an art director, I’m well aware how tricky redesigns can be. Perceived “current” trends are usually already dated. Both Time and Newsweek got swept away thinking they had to get all jiggly and hip when in fact what they really needed was a broader media focus and an assessment of purpose. On the other hand, an institution like The New Yorker venerates its design heritage, focusing a current “revamp” on its dedication to timely commentary and more pointed feature stories in print AND online.

And then there’s the modern (and already dated) trend toward busy sidebars and talking heads and jigsaw graphics superficially engaging readers before sending them to multiple doses of pain relief.

Iris took a refreshed look with a sense of clarity and confidence literally defining 20/20’s mission of perfect vision. Needless to say, we love that. And… there’s more to come as next year roundabout Expo East we complete a full revamp of 20/20’s look: Trendsetting evolution rather than predictable formulaic revolution.

Care to hear more about what it means to be a trendsetter rather than a trend follower? Then be sure to see the 20/20 edit team in action at our Vision Council interactive “pop-up” chat-fest in the Galleria Lounge (Booth G25052) at Expo West on Friday, Sept. 16 at 11:00 AM when myself, Executive Editor Christine Yeh, Associate Editor Victoria Garcia and Assistant Editor Jillian Urcelay might have some trending surprises sure to please your opti-pleasures. And head there as well on Thursday, Sept. 15 at the same time when Vision Monday guides you through the challenges and benefits of store-fronting Optical on Main Street.


James J. Spina
Editor-in-Chief
[email protected]























Save
Save
Save
Save
Save
Save
Save
Save
Save
Save
Save