1201AM | design by Laurie Forehand

1201am represents the time, 12:01am. Also known as "the first minute of the day"; a notion of freshness, or an awakening of innovation and ideas. The name came about with the idea that most creative minds being are naturally nocturnal creatures... the name also reflects a familiar time of day, or night, when most ideas hit.

Laurie Forehand has been designing contemporary, creative solutions for digital media since the late 90's. Her unique outlook on modern graphic design techniques has been a launching pad for endeavors such as a paper goods line under the 1201AM brand, and more recently an extension of the brand into the interior product design and textile design market. This site represents the design projects of Laurie Forehand, as well as the happenings of the 1201AM brand and ongoing product line.

Laurie's digital design work has been featured in numerous publications including Create Online, Surface Magazine and many online zines and blogs. The 1201AM product line has had much success since it's start in late 2005, and has been sold in popular boutiques across the US and Europe.

Many of Laurie's illustrations and patterns come directly from nature and things around her, she also relies on her Scandinavian heritage to bring into the aesthetic of her designs.

FAQs

Where did you study design?
I attended the Art Institute of Atlanta for Visual Communication, although I feel most of my creative education has been self-taught. I've always been a "creative type", and have been producing artwork of some type since day one. At a very young age, I was making my own magazines and stationery, so it only makes sense that this is what I do today. I love making things that other people will use and enjoy.

How did you get started in graphic design?
I've always been fascinated with the design of objects and especially packaging and typographical treatments. Growing up in the 80s, when art deco made a comeback and graphics were everywhere on and on everything, I first began to see how they made sense and communicated a message. The whole science of this just fasciates me.

How did you first start your own product line?
I just decided to do it one day. The thoughts and sketches were always there, but finally went forward with everything and haven't looked back ever since.

What software do you use?
I primarily use Photoshop and Illustrator, but have found many other tools to be helpful with the execution of my designs.

Who is your favorite designer?
I enjoy the diversity that exists in design today, so it's hard to narrow it down to just one. My design inspirations include people that I know and love, plus people that are producing well designed products that I often find myself admiring: concourseE, serviceisgood, richielau, timothypedersen, laureldenise, habachydesigns, swandiamondrose, tomato, nicecollective, jessekamm, frankieloscavio, and some old favorites that will always inspire me: neville brody, tdr, burodestruct.