Fossil Group Inc. has unveiled an exhibition at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library in downtown Dallas, that highlights the evolution of the design work from the Richardson-based watch, jewelry, and accessories company. 

The exhibition, “(Un)Common Objects: A Curious Collection of Fossil Illustrations,” takes visitors on a journey through Fossil’s history through iconic images that it has developed over time. 

“The Fossil team was able to take a familiar object and translate its color palette or function into design and illustration.”
Rae Pleasant

The exhibited work was created by Fossil’s team of in-house designers that focused on vintage objects such as light bulbs, radios, pencils, telephones, and cars to inspire their illustrations. These designs highlight the company’s core brand values since 1992 and how they have changed over time. 

The project was the idea of Rae Pleasant, the arts specialist at the Fine Arts Division at the Central Library, and Fossil’s librarian and archivist, Laura Pike-Seeley. 

“The Fossil team was able to take a familiar object and translate its color palette or function into design and illustration,” Pleasant said. “The whole display feels like a three-dimensional mood board.”

Pleasant and Pike-Seeley were successful in creating a connection between art and literature. 

“Laura selected several books from the library’s collection so that people can browse our holdings,” Pleasant said. “A simple stack of books on our shelves can come to life through an exhibition like this.”

The Central Library is in the heart of downtown near City Hall and just south of Neiman Marcus’ flagship store, and the collection provides the visitors with a look at Fossil’s unique style of design that invites curiosity and creativity. 

“We hope to expose the ways commercial art can surprise, challenge, or delight.” 
Laura Pike-Seeley

“It brings a corporate, private collection into an accessible space for the general public,” Pleasant said. “It proves that even a major company is not out of reach for those who aspire to be in fashion or design.”

The exhibition is intended to celebrate Fossil’s designers and their work that represents the company’s unique brand experience. 

Fossil’s brands include Fossil, Relic, Abacus, Michele Watch & Now Coach NY, Skagen Denmark, and Zodiac Watches.

“We hope to expose the ways commercial art can surprise, challenge, or delight,” Pike-Seeley said.

The exhibit runs until April 30. 

The exhibit (Un)Common Objects, a Curious Collection of Fossil Illustrations at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library in downtown Dallas shows some of Fossil’s most-iconic illustrations. [Photo by Lance Murray]

The exhibit (Un)Common Objects, a Curious Collection of Fossil Illustrations is on the display at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library in downtown Dallas. [Photo by Lance Murray]

The exhibit (Un)Common Objects, a Curious Collection of Fossil Illustrations features displays showing the evolution of Fossil’s illustrations and branding. [Photo by Lance Murray]

The exhibit (Un)Common Objects, a Curious Collection of Fossil Illustrations is on the display at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library in downtown Dallas. [Photo by Lance Murray]

Fossil is showcasing the history of their design through their iconic illustrations. [Photo courtesy of Fossil]

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