It’s an addiction I had ever since I was a child. I cannot stop myself from finding something to do or make. At most times, I baffle some of my friends who are shocked when I tell them my idea of relaxation is keeping my hands and mind preoccupied with the things I could make or do instead of sitting in front of the television.
I love to collect interesting objects as well and last summer while going for a walk along the shores of the River Thames in London, I picked up some broken fragments of porcelain. I noticed how intricate they were and within a few minutes, had a handful of porcelain fragments.
I was excited at the bits that I have found although my friends weren’t too happy about it. They immediately ushered me to the toilet and told me to wash my hands and whatever I’ve found. Curious at their attitude, I asked them why to which one replied “Didn’t you see what else was lying on the ground? Bits of things that looks like Asbestos, rubbish and probably fecal matter!” Oh dear! I was too engrossed in picking up these pieces that I didn’t notice it! So I gave my hands and the bits that I have found a good wash and also slathered anti bacterial gel on it.
With everything else I have collected, the fragments was stored away and laid forgotten. A hoarder? Perhaps.
It was a very quiet day with nothing on my ‘to do’ list and while I was cleaning my room I found the fragments I picked up in summer. That is when I thought, wouldn’t it be nice if I could make this into a brooch so that it can be worn and shown to the world. After all, the fragments might have been from a Ming Dynasty vase or a Delft dinner plate.
With that idea set in my mind, I ordered some brooch fixings and when they arrived, I filed one of the fragments to fit the brooch.
The outcome of this experiment was pleasantly surprising. It did take a lot of effort to file the fragment into shape but the result is this brooch that highlights the handiwork and effort someone has spent in drawing the motif for whatever this fragment used to be.
This got me thinking. In this modern age, everything is too readily available. Things ranging from clothes to furniture seems to be made in their masses by machines or an army of workers but in the midst of it all, have lost their character. We never appreciate or love the things that we have bought because it was cheap and it is readily disposable.
A reminiscent of the Arts and Craft movement championed by William Morris, I strongly believe that anything that is made nowadays should show some consideration toward the handi-craft/techniques involved in making an item, the high quality material used and of course, the attention to detail that went into the production of the item. After all, if you enjoyed making something, you will enjoy using it more!
Stephen Yong 