DPJ’s Wire series delivers news and information straight from the source without translation.

Introducing Design RePublic Studio’s new local greeting card line,  A Wink and an Odd, made on Grand Avenue in Downtown Phoenix

Design RePublic, a boutique design studio in Downtown Phoenix, launches its first line of holiday greeting cards under the brand A Wink and an Odd. Inspired by bike culture and Phoenix pride, A Wink and an Odd’s holiday cards represent Design RePublic’s mission to inspire collaboration and community awareness.

“These cards capture the flavor and whimsy that distinguishes our voice in the dialogue about Phoenix,” said Lindsay Kinkade, Founder and Creative Director of Design RePublic. “We love Phoenix and we love to ride bikes–we’re optimistic about our future here.”

A Wink and an Odd launches with a line of six cards with options for everyone. With just a little tongue-in-cheek, there are cards for those “in the know” about Phoenix winters, and are perfect to send to friends and family members suffering through a tough winter season. For those who love bikes, A Wink and an Odd has also designed bike-themed holiday cards that can be sent to anyone.

Designed by Design RePublic, the cards were printed by letterpress by Nancy Hill at Hazel & Violet. These cards were conceived and manufactured completely locally on Grand Avenue, an important objective for Design RePublic’s Creative Director, Lindsay Kinkade.

“Our practice at Design Republic is rooted in our local community, which is centered on Grand Avenue in Phoenix,” said Kinkade. “These cards represent our values of working with local artists and artisans to support a commitment to making things beautifully and locally.”

Kinkade refocused her established practice in 2013 as Design RePublic, an R&D design laboratory that works locally and nationally to build design strategies and tools for public dialogue on the future of cities. In Phoenix, Kinkade is focused in particular on creative placemaking and transportation in Downtown Phoenix. A Wink and an Odd was started to provide a hands-on way for people to get involved in the studio’s mission.

“These cards offer another way for Phoenicians to support their local arts community while also giving the gift of a handmade treasure to a loved one. The proceeds from these cards support local business on Grand Avenue. Buyers’ support will continue to build our lively and joyful community of makers, creating a vibrant downtown we can all enjoy.”