Back to Basics; for better or for worse?...

This scene look familiar?

Colour Nativity, by Sebastian Bergne

Described as being for a minimalistic home, the colour-coded character blocks can be stored neatly with the "stable block". Quite a humorous product; it's interesting to consider the greatly varied ways that people narrate the classic religious Christmas story, or even the different approaches people have towards the commercial aspect of this holiday. Materialistic/ unnecessary/ OTT contrasts to stark/ frugal and unfestive. Two extremes, both of which I've been fortunate enough not to have to experience. Everyone has their little ways, their odd habits, a routine for the day. But however you celebrate it, or even if you don't, I hope you have a happy holiday time and festive season.

Personal Narratives - Frederik Roijé

Storylines

The concept description for this shelving product on Roijé's website reads; "storytelling translated into a storage function". On first observation, I imagine the title relates to the visual up and down journey the ribbon of powdered metal takes the viewer's eyes on. Or even the tactile recording of that journey that the hand would take if you were the draw your fingertips along it. It's interesting to think of translating such a broad concept as "storytelling", or narrating, into a 3D form. Narration in a sense is like an audio illustration, it gives the deliverer of the tale the opportunity to personalise and integrate their perspectives onto something factual or objective. In the style of Chinese whispers, the original key elements can be completely lost or changed in the process. So in an alternative view, perhaps the form of this piece makes a comment on the abstraction that storytelling allows, rather than being a physical representation of the storyline itself.

The Daunting First Post...

Photograph by Csilla Klenyánszki

This is how I've felt about blog posts I've done in the past. But I'm determined this one will be different, and will hopefully live a long and happy life. I'm going to post about interesting things; as much about the stuff I find as the stuff that finds me. If that makes any sense. Not that everything will, but I'll learn over time. The one thing I've learnt from past blogs is this; when you can't find the words to describe something, save yourself the embarrasing waffling-on and find an interesting image on the internet to do the job for you.