Bottle Art Case Study: Art and Function

By Dean Schwartz (SWAG Master): Artistic quality and functionality do not have to be mutually exclusive. However, it can be a challenge to get these attributes to intersect. At SOBO Concepts, we pride ourselves on tackling this challenge and finding the perfect blend of art and function. We will stop at nothing to make sure that you get the perfect solution. Nothing embodies this duality of art and function more than bottle art.

Bottle art has become increasingly popular. Beverage manufacturers have become increasingly creative with their bottling using the bottle itself, not just the label, to reinforce their brand. And it is not just big beverage companies riding the trend. New franchise business, which combines an art class with wine sipping, allow individuals to create their own artistic bottles. In fact, Painting with a Twist is one of the fastest growing franchises, according to Entrepreneur magazine. And this trend shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Let’s take a closer look at how SOBO can help bring you to the crossroads of art and function with bottle art.

Bottle Art Case Study

A designer approached us as he was gearing up to host an art exhibit in New York City. He had an idea for some SWAG that was a swell type bottle with his artwork imprinted on it. Printing custom artwork on custom surfaces has its challenges, as we discussed in a previous blog. But after a little research, we were able to work with our Chinese factories to create a unique piece of bottle art. We even improved on the initial ask by adding in a copper lining.

But here is the twist. Each bottle was handmade. The art was digitally printed, cut and wrapped around the bottle as a paper product, then pressed with a hot machine to meld it onto the bottle surface. Paper tends to crinkle under heat which could lead to the artwork becoming distorted or cut off. An imperfect image on the bottle was not an option. This is an artist’s work, and we understand how important it is that the visual is undisturbed. But because each bottle was handmade, ensuring each one came out perfect was going to be tricky. On top of all this, we were on a very tight timeline.

The SOBO team stepped up to the challenge, and we ensured that each unit of the 1000 bottle order would be free of error. We enlisted the help of an agency to check each and every bottle at the factory. They found a few errors (they are handmade after all) but our top-notch factory team was able to fix all imperfections. Ultimately, all 1000 units came out perfectly and they were a huge hit at the art exhibit. Art and function living together in perfect harmony.

Ready to create your own piece of bottle art? Give SOBO a call at 888.752.0432 or send us a note and we will do whatever it takes to make your idea come to life. SWAG with style!