I don't flatter myself to think that I'm regarded as much more than that queer aunt every family has. You know...the one who sits in the corner mumbling to herself while doing something like crocheting toilet-roll covers. But I do admire them so much and although I'm a bit older than them I find them so inspirational. I also envy them. The opportunities they have...the talent they have...
First I came across Graham Wiles. A surfer-type guy who makes the most extraordinary paper toys under the name Urb-Ski. He has a B-Tech Honours degree, he's sweet, funny and - I suspect, a big softy.
This guy has just taken part in the Design Indaba as an Emerging Creative. Read and see all about his experience here. While you're there, check out his radically cute, funny, original, FABULOUS paper toys. (I love the word fabulous). Also see him on Behance here.
Secondly you have to take a look at Graham's girl, Lavanya Naidoo here. This little girl (I've never met her, but I'm sure she's just a tiny little thing - you know what they say about small packages) is hands down THE best quiller (paper filigree) I've ever seen.
See her Behance portfolio here.
Now, understand me on this, I did quilling a long time ago, before anybody in South Africa ever heard of it. I read about it in a book I found in the library my mother worked in. So I know a little bit about quilling. When I say this girl is amazing, you can take my word for it. Not only does she have perfect technique, but her designs are breathtaking.
Also, she's funny, intelligent and very pretty too. Which is actually very irritating if you think about it. All that, and nice too? *sigh* Some girls have all the luck (I am joking, BTW)
Thirdly I ran across this guy: Lucas Adams (Sorry Lucas R. Adams) also known as Kraftisan.
He's also been to the Design Indaba along with Graham, as an Emerging Creative. While there, Lucas launched this:
It's a light that comes in a flat pack (edit: I use the term "flat-pack" incorrectly here - the cute light is fully assembled, sorry, Lucas)...go look at the slideshow on the website. And while you're there, place an order for one of his Puzzle Pinups too!
Lucas is currently busy with his B-Tech (edit: no, he's not. He is, however third year student in 3D Design - sorry again, Lucas!), and you can see him on Behance as well here.
What do these young people have in common? Well, except for sharing the same strange aunt, these three are people to keep your eye on. They are the future of design and art.
They are the future.
All pictures in this post comes from the artists' websites and blogs.
Like a strange aunt, I copied it without permission.
I'm pretty sure they'll forgive me, as I am the strange aunt.
Seeing that you actually ARE my Aunt, of course the YOUNGEST of my Mother's four siblings, I just have to mention here that I have never seen you as "the strange aunt who crochets".
ReplyDeleteYou have always been the funky/hip aunt 'in the know', you know? You can always make me laugh with that amazing, sharp humour of yours.
And if it wasn't for you my posture would be bad! I don't know if you will remember this, but I will never forget it: I was about 4/5 and you were checking up on me in the tub (like the sweet aunt you are) and then you proceeded to show me how to keep my shoulders back, my chest out, my ribs and tummy and bum tucked in. And voila! Today my posture is as graceful as that of a ballet dancer! And because of you I have shaved my entire head of hair (twice) for cancer and I like reading Terry Pratchett.
For all of these I thank you!
I love my funky, funny, creative, intelligent, caring and wise Aunt that crochets!
xox
That is the sweetest comment I've ever had. On anything.
DeleteI've always thought you had a very graceful posture - no, I don't remember, but I must have been what? 17/18? So either still dancing or studying movement.
I'm so very proud of you, you are so intelligent, funny, and exceptionally beautiful - and no, I'm not prejudiced. You've accomplished so much in spite of the hard things you've had to go through!
I love you too and you will always have an extra-special place in my heart, thoughts and prayers.
XX