CD Packaging, LoAF15, Vincent Oliver / Ivan Zouravliov, 2007

In 2006, Lo Recordings established LoAF (Lo Alternative Frequencies), a new arm of their recording label intended to support emerging artists in the field of electronic music through limited edition releases linked by a strong visual identity. Non-Format’s brief was to create a series of CDs that would sit easily in racks intended for vinyl. The result was a design that paired a 3- or 5-inch CD with a poster designed by a visual artist. The CD and poster were sealed in a plastic envelope attached to a 12-inch gray board, which was then overprinted with a single-color screenprint featuring the name of the recording and the artist who created the enclosed poster. Non-Format’s innovative design recalls the tradition of vinyl music packaging in its scale and material, while also providing secure and streamlined CD packaging. In Non-Format’s design for LoAF, the protective plastic wrapping normally discarded in standard CD packaging becomes the permanent housing for the CD; the plastic is also an integral part of the aesthetic appearance of the package design, allowing a glimpse of its contents.

CD Packaging, LoAF15, Vincent Oliver / Ivan Zouravliov, 2007; Ivan Zouravliov; Designed by Non-Format; Published by Lo Recordings; screenprint on cardboard and plastic, offset printed poster on glossy paper, and plastic cd; 30.3 x 30.5 x 0.2 cm (11 15/16 in. x 12 in. x 1/16 in.); Gift of Non-Format; 2012-12-9