Nick Massarelli, a Brooklyn-based graphic designer, unveils his latest project titled “CenterFold.” Through a unique creative process, Massarelli transforms disassembled 1970s saddle-stitched magazines into small compositions, each measuring three by four inches.

Creative Process and Inspiration

At the heart of “CenterFold” lies Massarelli’s innovative approach to composition. By cropping around the intersection between two mismatched pages and centering each piece around the holes left behind by staples, he creates visually captivating artworks. Massarelli’s process involves an element of chance, as he relies on an algorithm of sorts to guide his editing and sequencing decisions. He draws inspiration from artistic techniques such as the cut-up method employed by Dadaists in the 1920s and later adopted by William S. Burroughs, as well as Hans-Peter Feldmann’s concept of removing text from images.

Multifaceted Creative Practice

In addition to his work on “CenterFold,” Massarelli wears many hats within the creative industry. He serves as the senior designer at Actual Source and teaches part-time in the Communication Design program at Parsons School of Design. Furthermore, he co-founded the publishing company First Last alongside his friend Sean Murray.

Publication and Future Endeavors

A selection of images from “CenterFold” has been published as an artist booklet through First Last, offering audiences a glimpse into Massarelli’s unique artistic vision. Currently, Massarelli is working towards the creation of a more comprehensive book that will feature the full series, allowing viewers to delve deeper into the intricacies of his work.

Conclusion

“CenterFold” by Nick Massarelli is a testament to the power of creativity and experimentation within the realm of graphic design. Through his innovative approach to composition and his exploration of artistic techniques, Massarelli invites viewers to reconsider the potential of everyday materials. As he continues to push the boundaries of his practice, Massarelli’s work serves as a source of inspiration for artists and designers alike.