An Old Tshirt Blog

The Hammer and Popsicle T-shirt uses a funny and simple flip on the soviet symbol from which it’s derived. It was designed by Nbrosas for 6DollarShirts…that means you can buy it for just $6.

T-shirt by Max Kisman, in his signature style, celebrating the 10th anniversary of Typotheque. It’s limited edition and available for €30.

This Roller and Hammer print is a reinterpretation of the Hammer and Sickle symbol of Communism. In both cases, tools are used…but the latter has morphed into something sinister in the eyes of those unfamiliar with its political and philosophical roots. The former — designed by Ben Woodward for Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction — communicates something slightly different. One might consider it as just an update; instead of appealing to farmers as it once did, it now appeals to artists. But I doubt Mr. Woodward’s intentions were simply to update the symbol for Communism [although, to be fair, I haven't spoken with him on the matter]. An industry hero of mine once said he was “a communist, with a lowercase ‘c’.” I’d like to think that’s what the Roller and Hammer symbol represent: communism with a lowercase “c.” Many artists work together in collectives… sharing their space, supplies, and expertise. This kind of environment nurtures creativity and fosters goodwill; essentially, it’s communism. Once you try forcing it on others, though, it becomes oppressive. The application of such ideals isn’t one that’s seen success on a large scale (i.e. Communism with a capital “C”), though I suppose that’s debatable. So where does that leave us? I have no idea. I’m no political expert. I’m just a dude who digs well-designed tees like this Roller and Hammer T-shirt.