paper clips

Yes, paper clips. The rather inconspicuous, mundane, but essential piece of stationery are given their moment of glory because they are little pieces that stick your life(or your hair)together. Temporarily and when you need it the most.

Why have i decided to elaborate on this uncelebrated article? Why not its Son the Stapler, or Mr. Punch. For one, Son the Stapler, got itself into a sticky, jello situation at the office, and well if you ask me, it is sort of overweight and capitalist. Getting back to the point, I think that the paper clip offers its user endless options and opportunities to express creativity. Apart from clasping sheets of bleached white paper together, they have been known to open locks, poke balloons, as a tiny screw driver, earrings, hair clips... the list goes on.

But, I think this little fella, conceived in the early 1900s has stood the test of time. It has survived the stapler. Apart from serving its modest function, it can also be an expression of art or creativity. Its endless combinations, twisted in groups or alone can create startling effects, almost like snowflakes. http://paperclipart.com/

For those of you who might wonder, I don't sell paperclips, but I am fascinated by its versatility and in a way it reminds me of an individual. Twisted inside, functional in the larger sense of the word, and more importantly, waiting to unwind and unleash its creativity and uniqueness. We ultimately are all paperclips, each one trying to invent a new purpose in our twisted little lives, or simply to unwind, and reach our full potential.

For more paperclip inspiration, please watch the next season of The Office. I'm sure you will be satisfied.

Similarly, getting away from an overdrawn metaphor, I am trying to unwind from this intricately layered and twisted life. I am venturing on the possibilities and they seem exciting.

Store design and merchandising gels together my favorite disciplines; design, marketing and advertising. Simply put, it is a form of spatial advertising that inculcates a brands identity subtly, and most permanently. To get into the details of designing stores would be sacrilegious (cos then I wouldn't have a job!) When my brains have more matter and motivation, I will be posting reviews and perspectives on stores and shops in Singapore. Please visit www.insee.blogspot.com to be in the loop.

Before I bugger off, the paperclips put my hair together, and effectively put me back in perspective of life and the challenges it offers us to grow and learn. What have they done for you?