Thirst design director Rick Valicenti says of the concept, “The real human presence is a unique means to forge relationships between both the maker and the recipient of a message. The alphabet is a simple device that allowed for the revealing self-portrait to be simultaneously obvious and obscure.” He continues, “My intent was to infuse the commercial practice of design with a personal presence.” This glossy book’s illustrations, type studies and photographs are unexpected … yet somehow familiar. The use of the alphabet works to join a selection of disparate yet wonder-inspiring images. Real Eyes is a division of one of Chicago’s premiere printers, Classic Color, and the piece has unparalleled print production exhibited on every page. In addition to this book, the A to Z Visual Rattle appears on the company’s website, www.realeyesfx.com. by Terry Lee Stone