Thursday, July 30, 2009
Why Handmade
I was doing a little thinking last night and a conversation came up between my wife and I about why "handmade" or the "DIY" look has become such a big thing. You may not realize it, but everything from clothing and jewelry designs at Anthropologie to the new lines of furniture at Pottery Barn has the feel of reclaimed or "I did it myself" to it. Personally I think it's awesome because this comes from a real movement that has finally hit the main stream. It is the "DIY" movement that has created websites like Etsy and ArtFire with artists and craftsmen selling their own handmade and crafted wares.
In the graphic design industry it has prompted a complete revival of letterpress artists across the US. 5 years ago you would've been hard pressed (no pun intended) to find more then 5-6 decent letterpress operators across the states. Now almost every town has one. I dig it.
So here is the question. Why has this movement become so big? Especially when you think about all the people that love to be in constant contact by keeping their Iphone in front of them 24/7 and making sure they have all the lastest apps. Especially when you think how everyone sits in front of a computer all day. Hasn't technology just made our lives so wonderful? Isn't it great that you don't have to (if you don't want to) ever devote your attention to anything that is perceived as "real".
I think we can all learn something from the Buddhist's ability to "live in the moment". To appreciate our time with our loved ones and to devote our full attention to something other then these little bits of technology that control our lives. Maybe that's why this "DIY" movement is so important. Maybe everyone getting out there and using their hands to create something is the escape from this control of technology. Maybe we all need that time to think and meditate about our goals and aspirations in life. Who knew "handmade" could be so profound. The irony is once we make all this stuff what do we do with it? We sell it online.
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2 comments:
Handmade products feel so special... because they are unique. I agree with you. Maybe because everyone has become a tech drone, making or owning something that someone actually put some sweat into makes you feel real. I don't care what people say, technology can be a real downer. Interacting on the net is not the same as interacting with someone face to face.
1. I'm tired of being squeezed by the technology mold. That's why I love DIY/handmade. I can't deny the importance of the computer/cellphone/gps in my life. I do use those things.
2. But some of the most memorable moments in my life have been learning to read a map, journeying down unknown roads, getting a handwritten letter in the mail, watching slide shows and projector driven movies----they are indelibly written in my past and they are special. Emails.... i chuck even the best of those after a few days.
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