Hunie (pronounced huhn-ee) is a new social platform that helps creatives to learn and improve their artistry through constructive peer critiques. It’s the brainchild of Guyanese designer and innovator Damian Madray, our friend who previously founded TheGlint and is always thinking about ways that talented artists can bring their work to the forefront.

Like most great ideas, Hunie seems so obvious that one would think it already exists, but Damian saw the opportunity to fill an important need for those with creative pursuits. The beauty of the age is that people can live and work anywhere and utilize the web to be discovered, but that doesn’t mean that they have access to mentors or even peers who can help them develop their craft. Existing sites in the space, such as Dribble and Behance are focused on simply showcasing portfolios, and while they offer a nice display to show off talent, there is a lack of constructive dialogue that truly inspires improvement and growth. Hunie aims to change the game and empower creatives. Here’s how it works:

First, you upload a piece of work and give some context about its purpose and your goal. Then, it is categorized and put on display. When other creatives see the piece, they offer constructive critiques that can be upvoted by annotating (with this function one can add notes to a specific area of the image). Hunie is not about fluffy feedback or compliments though you get that at times – comments are meant to challenge you to be mindful of your choices.

To be considered an expert on Hunie, you must have good “karma”, which is collected when you give sound advice. The more karma you have, the more respected you are in the community. Community is a key word. As with any social platform, Hunie will evolve as its members interact with each other and the space. Though it aims to attract professional and committed creatives, Hunie is not meant to be exclusive. The team hopes to make the site functional not only for designers but for artists of all mediums.

Right now, Hunie is in invite-only beta with about 200 creatives. Anyone can request an invite. So, pay it forward.

A collection of breathtaking photography that captures the beauty and people of Afghanistan through art.  The Streets of Afghanistan exhibit will feature 40 life-size photographic images.

GOOD’s got to have some of the best infographics around. This one, which allows you to calculate your daily water usage, is not only informative but also beautifully designed.

A new boutique consulting agency for us artists. Howe Indie.

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Rest in peace. Your voice will inspire us forever.

If only we all lived by Gandhi’s words in 2012…

Ashley posted this piece in celebration of a 2011 filled with successes for our friends at Just Be Cool. Cheers!

Sokapp Inc. Co-founder Joey Kotkins recently gave us a the following statement in response to his early read of Haiti: Sun Dried and Illuminated. Lovely:

For those of us who were horrified by the tragedy in Haiti, but felt helpless to do anything about it, the team behind Haiti: Sun Dried and Illuminated reassures us that there are people who are willing to step up to the plate. This account of their experience documenting the people – not the earthquake – makes the country, its citizens and the mood accessible, heartbreaking and encouraging all at the same time. The images and words are transportive. These brave filmmakers are heroes even when they themselves felt so vulnerable throughout their journey.