Design/UX· · 2 min

Mascots Make a Comeback.

Today’s tech scene is buzzing with creative innovations and a few surprises. From the return of brand mascots to the latest in e-ink technology, there’s a lot to unpack. Let’s dive into the highlights.

In brief
  1. Mascots Make a Comeback
  2. Crafting’s New Essentials
  3. AI in Art and Film
01 · Design/UX

Mascots Make a Comeback

Quaker Oats Man: The OG brand mascot making a strong return.
Quaker Oats Man: The OG brand mascot making a strong return.

Remember when mascots were just goofy characters? They're evolving into powerful brand icons again, with companies realizing their potential for emotional engagement. From Quaker Oats Man to Duolingo's Owl, it's all about connecting with audiences in a crowded digital landscape.

The shift back to mascots reflects a broader trend where brands want to stand out and resonate more deeply. This is especially true as the market becomes more saturated and consumers crave authenticity.

02 · Design/UX

Crafting’s New Essentials

Cricut Joy 2: Small size, big impact for your crafting needs.
Cricut Joy 2: Small size, big impact for your crafting needs.

Cricut and InkWon are making waves in the crafting world. The Cricut Joy 2 is not just tiny; it’s a powerhouse for DIY projects, perfect for both newbies and seasoned crafters. Meanwhile, the InkWon Tag is revolutionizing on-the-go creativity with its tattoo and sticker printing capabilities.

These tools are designed to enhance creativity without the usual hassle. Expect more portable and user-friendly devices to flood the market as crafting continues to trend.

03 · Design/UX

AI in Art and Film

AI-generated Monet? It fooled millions!
AI-generated Monet? It fooled millions!

AI is reshaping creativity, with some surprising results. A recent incident saw a Monet painting mistaken for AI-generated art, highlighting our evolving relationship with technology and authenticity in art. Not to mention, the first AI-generated movie made headlines, showcasing the future of filmmaking.

While some celebrate these advancements, others question the implications for creative professions. As we navigate this new landscape, the conversation around AI continues to grow.

04 · Design/UX

The Fidget Toy Revival

Fidget toys: Small investments for big productivity boosts.
Fidget toys: Small investments for big productivity boosts.

Fidget toys are back and they're not just for kids anymore. These tiny tools are gaining traction among adults looking for stress relief in the workplace. From stress balls to fidget spinners, there's a variety of options designed to keep your hands busy and your mind focused.

At prices starting around $7, they’re an easy and fun addition to any desk. Who knew a simple toy could make such a big difference in productivity?

Key numbers
573 awards

The D&AD Pencils 2026 awarded this many for excellence in creativity across various categories.

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$500,000

The estimated cost to produce 'Hell Grind', a fully AI-generated film.

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30%

The discount on Cricut's new products, enticing crafters to upgrade their tools.

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Top stories
Creative Bloq

How an 'AI' Monet painting fooled 7M people

A real Monet painting was mistaken for an AI creation, sparking debate about what defines art in the digital age. This incident reveals our perceptions of authenticity as technology evolves.

Creative Bloq

Bold, optimistic, empathetic: How a retirement company perfected its look for Gen Z

Standard Life revamped its branding to attract younger audiences, focusing on vibrant visuals and relatable storytelling. This strategy marks a significant shift for traditional financial institutions.

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