'Parks 2' is a book of photos and essays focused on the National Parks
In NPR's Book of the Day episode focused on "Parks 2," Brian Kelley discusses his passion for preserving the unique visual history of America's national parks. The book stems from Kelley's growing collection of vintage memorabilia, maps, and brochures showcasing the evolving design aesthetics of various parks across decades. Initially drawn to these materials as personal mementos, Kelley's collection became a documentation of the parks' cultural identities over time.
Kelley shares how early romantic designs transitioned into bolder, more modern aesthetics by the 1960s. He highlights iconic elements like blocky fonts, crediting these artful park visuals with enhancing the overall visitor experience. "Parks 2" invites readers to appreciate the legacies of creativity and reverence for nature found within the parks' visual representations.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jan 28, 2025 episode of the NPR's Book of the Day
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1-Page Summary
The "Parks 2" Book and Its Origins
Brian Kelley's new book "Parks 2" stems from the surprise success of his previous "Parks" book, and aims to invite readers to appreciate national park memorabilia, according to Kelley.
The "Parks" Series Journey
Kelley's passion for collecting national park maps blossomed into the creation of the "Parks" book. Its popularity inspired him to expand the series with "Parks 2", featuring his ever-growing collection of maps and other memorabilia.
Kelley is driven to highlight the unique, striking designs found in vintage national park materials from the early 1900s to 1965. He hopes these visuals evoke nostalgia and inspire readers to explore the parks themselves.
The Value of National Park Memorabilia
Personal Connection and Memories
At first, Kelley kept individual maps as personal mementos connecting him to memorable park visits. But his collection grew into an archive documenting the evolving visual identities of different parks over decades.
Cultural Significance
Beyond personal meaning, Kelley's memorabilia unveils the parks' cultural histories. The transformation of designs reflects changing experiences and representations of national parks through time.
Design Evolution in Park Materials
From Traditional to Modern Aesthetics
Early national park designs featured romantic typefaces and photography. But technological advances in the 1960s ushered in a period of bolder, more experimental aesthetics, according to Kelley.
Iconic Park Design Elements
Blocky fonts have become iconic, shaping visitors' perceptions of the parks' visual branding. Kelley believes the artistry of maps and brochures enhances the overall park experience.
Kelley's National Park Passion
For Kelley, ancient trees at Olympic National Park sparked awe, forging his deep appreciation for nature preserves.
He hopes to recapture that sense of wonder photographing the massive pines of New York's Adirondack Park next. His experiences fuel an enduring reverence for America's national parks.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Actionables
- Create a personal travel journal to document your visits to national parks, using sketches, photographs, and your own descriptions to capture the essence of each park. This journal can serve as a unique record of your experiences and the park's visual identity during your visit, much like Kelley's collection of maps and memorabilia reflects the history of national parks.
- Start a creative project that involves designing your own maps or brochures of local parks or natural spaces, incorporating elements from vintage and modern aesthetics. This can be a fun way to explore graphic design and understand how visual elements influence perception, as well as to develop a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind park materials.
- Engage with a community of national park enthusiasts online by sharing your own experiences, photos, and designs related to national parks. This can be a platform to discuss the cultural histories of these spaces, the impact of design on visitor experience, and to plan future visits to parks that have inspired you, like Kelley was inspired by the ancient trees at Olympic National Park.
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The "Parks 2" Book Project and Its Origins
The creation of the "Parks 2" book stems from the unexpected success of its predecessor and is an effort by Brian Kelley to invite readers to explore the beauty and history of national parks through memorabilia.
Creation and Evolution of the "Parks" Series
Brian Kelley's National Park Memorabilia Book Idea
Back in 2017, Brian Kelley completed his first book project with Standards Manuals focused on New York City Transit Authority items, but his passion for collection didn’t stop there. He started traveling to national parks across the United States, where he cultivated an interest in collecting their maps.
"Parks" Book Success Led To "Parks 2" Expansion
The "Parks" book resonated with readers who share Kelley's appreciation for the national parks. Due to the book's success and considering the wealth of maps Brian had amassed, he decided to continue the adventure with the creation of "Parks 2."
The Motivations Behind the "Parks" Book Project
Kelley's Aim to Highlight Unique National Park Design Elements
One of the primary motivations of Brian Kelley is to highlight the unique national park design elements that have enchanted visitors over the years. Kelley focused on collecting maps that exhibit amazing designs dating from the early 1900s up to 1965. His purpose is not just to showcase these works of art but t ...
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The "Parks 2" Book Project and Its Origins
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can create a personal memory map of your visits to national parks by collecting postcards, tickets, and maps from each visit and arranging them in a creative display at home. This visual collection will serve as a reminder of your experiences and may inspire you to plan future trips.
- Start a digital scrapbook with photos and notes from your national park adventures, focusing on the unique design elements you encounter, like signages or visitor center architecture. Share your scrapbook online to connect with others who appreciate the aesthetic of national parks and to encourage more people to explore these natural treasures.
- Organize a small community group focused on explor ...
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Appeal and Value Of Collecting National Park Memorabilia
The collection of national park memorabilia is not just about acquiring souvenirs; it offers both a personal connection to these treasured places and a broader appreciation for their historical and cultural significance.
The Significance of Individual National Park Memorabilia Items
Kelley initially began collecting national park memorabilia by holding onto individual maps. These maps and brochures not only serve as personal keepsakes that evoke memories of experiences within the parks, but they also mark connections to these national treasures.
Maps or Brochures: Personal Memories and Park Connections
Over time, each piece of memorabilia—an individual map or brochure—has become part of a significant collection. It is a collection that captures the personal memories and adventures of visitors, encapsulating their bond with these natural landscapes.
Collection Creates Broader Archive and Appreciation For Designs
What started as a singular map has blossomed into a larger archive. Kelley's assemblage of memorabilia items enhances the respect and admiration for the intricate designs associated with different parks. It underscores the notion that each piece is not only a memento but also a fragment of a larger narrative.
Historical and Cultural Importance of National Park Memorabilia
Collecting national park memorabilia comes with a deep understanding of the parks' visual history and cultural stories.
Design Evolution in Nationa ...
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Appeal and Value Of Collecting National Park Memorabilia
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The significance of individual national park memorabilia items lies in their ability to serve as personal keepsakes that evoke memories of experiences within the parks and mark connections to these treasured places. Each piece, whether a map or brochure, becomes part of a larger collection that captures personal memories and adventures, enhancing the bond with the natural landscapes. This collection not only holds personal value but also contributes to a broader appreciation for the intricate designs associated with different parks, highlighting their historical and cultural significance.
- The act of collecting national park memorabilia can deepen one's understanding and respect for the historical and cultural significance of these natural treasures. By curating a collection of items like maps and brochures, individuals can develop a closer connection to the stories and heritage embedded in these parks, fostering a broader appreciation for their value beyond mere souvenirs.
- The evolution of visual styles within national parks from the early 1900s through the 1960s reflects changes in graphic design, illustration techniques, and artistic trends used in creating park-related materials like maps and brochures. During this period, there wa ...
Counterarguments
- Collecting memorabilia may contribute to environmental concerns, as the production and disposal of these items can have ecological impacts.
- The personal value of memorabilia is subjective, and not all visitors may feel a connection to these items or see them as essential to their experience.
- The focus on design and visual styles may overshadow the natural and ecological importance of the parks themselves.
- The historical and cultural significance attributed to memorabilia might be overstated, as these items may not always accurately reflect the broader historical context or cultural narratives.
- The collection of memorabilia could be seen as a commercialization of natural spaces, potentially detracting from the parks' primary purpose of preservation and conservation ...
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Design and Evolution of National Park Materials
The materials and visual designs associated with national parks have undergone significant changes, in part due to technological advancements in design.
Design and Technology Transitions in National Park Materials
From Traditional Typefaces and Photography to Experimental Designs
The design of national park materials began with traditional, romantic typefaces and black and white photography. However, in the 1960s, a period of experimentation started, influenced by new technologies in the design field.
Influence of Design Technology on National Park Materials
New advancements in design technology allowed for this shift in creative expression. As design tools evolved, so did the aesthetics of national park maps and brochures, reflecting a modern, experimental approach.
Design Elements of National Park Materials
Blocky Fonts and Layouts Synonymous With National Parks
One of the defining features of national park materials is the use of blocky fonts. These ...
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Design and Evolution of National Park Materials
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The technological advancements in design that influenced the evolution of national park materials include the development of new design tools and software, such as computer-aided design (CAD) programs and digital imaging software. These tools allowed for more intricate and experimental designs in national park materials. Additionally, advancements in printing technology, like offset printing and digital printing, enabled higher quality and more visually appealing printed materials for national parks. The integration of digital design processes and techniques, such as vector graphics and digital illustration, also played a significant role in shaping the modern aesthetic of national park materials.
- Design tools evolved in the 1960s with the introduction of new technologies like computer-aided design software. These tools allowed designers to create more intricate and experimental designs for national park materials. The shift to digital tools enabled greater flexibility in layout, color schemes, and graphic elements, leading to a modern and dynamic aesthetic in maps and brochures. This evolution in design technology played a significant role in shaping the visual identity of national parks and enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
- Blocky fonts in national park materials are significant for their association with the identity of national parks. These fonts convey a sense of ruggedness and nature, aligning with the outdoor themes of the parks. They are a key element of branding, helping to create a recognizable and cohesive visual identity for national park materials. The use of blocky fonts enhances the overall aesthetic and reinforces the connect ...
Counterarguments
- While technological advancements have certainly influenced the design of national park materials, it's important to recognize that design choices are also heavily influenced by cultural trends, environmental concerns, and the specific needs of park visitors, which may not be directly related to technology.
- The transition to experimental designs in the 1960s may not solely be attributed to new technologies; it could also be a reflection of broader social and artistic movements of the time that emphasized experimentation and breaking from tradition.
- The assertion that new design technologies have led to more creative expression could be challenged by the idea that creativity is not inherently dependent on technology, and that designers have always found ways to be creative with the tools available to them.
- The claim that advancements in design tools have led to modern aesthetics might overlook the role of individual designers' choices and the influence of historical design movements that predate these technologies.
- While blocky fonts are associated with the identity of National Parks, this design choice could be critiqued for potentially lacking in accessibility or not being the most effective for all types of communication within the parks.
- The idea that blocky fonts are a key element of branding might be challenged by suggesting that branding could also effectively incorporate other design elements or typefaces th ...
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Brian Kelly's Experiences and Connections to National Parks
Brian Kelly shares his profound connection with national parks and details his inspiring experiences and future plans for exploring these cherished American landscapes.
Kelley's Favorite Park and Experiences
Ancient Trees' Awe and Wonder In Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park holds a special place in Brian Kelley's heart as his favorite park. It's mainly due to his first encounter with the park’s ancient and towering trees, which left an indelible mark on him. Kelley talks about the sense of awe and wonder he felt standing next to monumental trees aged between 800 to 2000 years old. This profound experience has inspired a deep appreciation for the wonders of national parks.
Personal Connections Inspire Appreciation for National Parks
This personal connection to the ancient trees of Olympic National Park has galvanized Kelley's appreciation for the whole national park system.
Kelley's Future National Park Exploration and Photography Plans
Adirondack Park Trip to Photograph Oldest, Largest Trees
Though not technically a national park, Adirondack Park is the next destination on Brian Kelley’s exploration and photography itinerary. He is planning a trip to capture images of some of the oldest and largest ...
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Brian Kelly's Experiences and Connections to National Parks
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can deepen your connection to nature by starting a personal journal documenting your visits to local parks or natural landmarks. Write about the emotions and thoughts you experience when encountering old trees or serene landscapes, similar to how a photographer might capture these moments visually. This practice can enhance your appreciation for the natural world and encourage mindfulness during your outdoor adventures.
- Create a digital scrapbook or blog to share your nature experiences with friends and family. Use your smartphone to take photos of the flora and fauna you encounter, and write short stories or descriptions to accompany each image. This can be a way to spread awareness and appreciation for the natural beauty around us, much like sharing professional photography but more accessible and personal.
- Volun ...
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