A Spoonful of Sugar

Photos for Haiti

2010-01-29T16:09:00.008Z

The coverage of the disaster in Haiti seems to have raised alot of interesting questions and debates about the way photojournalism is practiced, but in the aftermath of the earthquake, photographers around the world have been finding ways to raise money for various charities working in Haiti. There are a number of print auctions that I have noticed around the net & around the world. There are so many different prints for sale that there should be something there for everyone's taste & budget. I'm listing the one's that I know about but if you know of any that I've missed leave a comment below and I'll add it.

It's a Love Haiti Relationship by oncemany

Flickr Charity Print Auctions

At The Forty Foot by Covey
Pix.ie Print Auction

Sarah Sudhoff
Haiti Relief Benefit Print Sale

Max with Towel by Susan Worsham
Wallspace Gallery Life Support

Nadirah Zakariya Benefit Print Sale for Haiti

Not a print auction but s everal photographers, including the iconic photojournalist Mary Ellen Mark, have donated photographs to help create this special fund-raising collection of captivating images in a MagCloud Magazine Oné Respe,to benefit the people of Haiti. The title Haiti: Onè Respe comes from a traditional Haitian greeting meaning "honor and respect." It costs $12 with all proceeds going to the American Red Cross International Response Fund for Haiti Relief.

Out of Africa

2010-01-19T13:24:00.023Z

Hope you are all well and had a good Christmas! Once again I've been neglecting the blog. Apologising starts to get a bit old but those of you who blog will know that bloggers guilt! So today I'm catching up on a post that I started to write over Christmas. One of the best things about Christmas is all those good old films they have on. One day I sat down and watched Out of Africa, with Meryl Streep and Robert Redford. (Most of you will have seen it but if not click on the link for a plot summary.) Its a beautifully shot film, a wonderful story and well worth watching if you haven't already seen it. But what really struck me this time was the way Meryl Streep's costumes changed over the course of the film.

From the initial fur & almost military styled outfits with elaborate hats as an independent and determined woman in Denmark, as her character changes and grows so do her clothes. Her costumes are used to express the deeper feelings and motives in each scene. She wears a "school teacher outfit" when she goes to talk to the villagers, she begins to wear classic safari clothes as she becomes more adventurous and goes on safari. Then her clothes become softer and more flowing and feminine towards the end of the movie as she herself becomes more vulnerable. The costumes are all very beautiful and were designed by Milena Canonero, who was nominated for an Academy Award for the costumes.

Happy New Year Everyone!

2010-01-02T12:31:00.003Z

Tod Papageorge - New Year's Eve at Studio 54

My Act of Random Kindness

2009-12-31T21:21:00.001Z

I couldn't put out the ARK Challenge to all of you without taking the time to do an Act of Random Kindness myself. I decided to do it on a day that I was travelling to Dublin to visit my doctor. I told myself that morning that today would be the day, no excuses! Usually I stay in my own little bubble when I'm travelling, just reading and listening to music, not talking to anyone. But this time from the moment I got to the train station I was looking around thinking to myself what can I do? I thought through some of the Acts of Random Kindness I had read about...maybe if someone was sat opposite me on the train I could buy them a cup of tea when the trolley came around. But no-one sat opposite me. I got to Dublin still wondering what act of kindness I would do. I went to my appointment, had my lunch and finished reading my magazines. Then it came to me, I could give my magazines to someone else in the clinic. So I looked around the lobby looking for someone who might like them, but all of a sudden it seemed to be only men who were sitting waiting! Then I thought of the receptionist. I approached her desk and said "Hi!". Without looking up from her computer screen she said tiredly " How can I help you?". I explained that I had finished reading my magazines and I was wondering if she's like to have them. She looked up quickly and smiled and said "Thank you so much, you're really kind!". I went away with a warm feeling knowing I'd made someone smile with my little act of kindness.

This is the last post in the Act of Random Kindness series. If you've done any little Acts of Random Kindness ( no matter how small they seem!) over the Christmas holidays I'd love to hear about them in the comments section below. Thanks for all your help and support with this project, thanks to everyone who entered The Challenge and a huge thanks to ARK HQ for the inspiration and the t-shirt!

Act of Random Kindness on a German Motorway

2009-12-31T18:19:00.001Z

As part of the ARK Challenge Sabine from the blog Psynopsis wanted to share an Act of Random Kindness that happened to her and has stuck with her over the years.

"I remember a great act of random kindness happening to me: As a teenager my friend and I hitchhiked through Europe and somehow we got stranded on a German motorway. It was freezing cold and everybody just raced by with a 100 miles/hour, some people honking or showing us with hand signs that they thought we were absolute idiots standing there. We were utterly exhausted, my friend was crying and throwing herself on the floor, wailing ‘I’ll die here!’ (melodramatic, I know). Anyway, suddenly this old, battered car stopped (which was rather dangerous because you weren’t allowed to stop there). The guy in the car said: I saw you 2 standing there and couldn’t just pass by. He gave us a lift to the next bigger stop, where we could continue our travels. To us he was like an angel."

-Sabine

Act of Random Kindness #6

2009-12-31T15:00:00.000Z

The next Act of Random Kindness from the the ARK Challenge was by Fiona from the blog SOS! Save our Shoes. Fiona recently moved to London but she already knows her way around, so her act of Kindness was "giving an Irish family help on the tube in Liverpool Street." She goes on to say "then I took a Belgian couple with me on the tube as they were also lost". Two acts of kindness in the one day - Thanks Fiona!

Act of Random Kindness #5

2009-12-31T12:53:00.003Z

Time for another Act of Kindness from the ARK Challenge.This one was done by the stylish Cathy from The Style Strutter blog while she was grocery shopping.

"I was about to go in to do some food shopping and as I was walking past the bank link I spotted a very bewildered looking elderly lady staring at the machine as it beeped repeatedly... I then noticed her wad of cash dangling from the slot it comes out of, which she was obviously unaware of. I just thought that anyone could go up and easily snatch that poor ladies money and she'd be helpless, so I walked up to her and showed her the money and politely informed her that she had to remove her card to stop the beeping!"

-Cathy

Act of Random Kindness #4

2009-12-29T13:13:00.005Z

Hope you're all enjoying the Christmas holidays. I've broken out of my lazy haze to bring you another Act of Random Kindness from the ARK Challenge. I love this story from Claire who writes the always entertaining blog Lola is Beauty.

"I was on the lookout for acts of random kindness to bestow last weekend, when I visited Stockholm. At our hotel, I saw an elderly lady struggling down the stairs (no lift) with a large suitcase and walking sticks, so I seized the chance to give her a hand. It was the last flight of stairs down to the lobby, but I struggled to carry her case that far. When I reached the bottom I gave her a big smug smile, whereupon she pointed to a small door that led down another two flights of steep stairs into the baggage area in the basement. She then instructed me to place her extremely heavy suitcase on a high shelf! It was so funny, I think she thought I was a member of staff, though I spoke to her in English.When I didn't take her husband's suitcase as well she looked fairly put out and he glowered at me. I was too knackered! It just goes to show that you can't do random acts of kindness just for the gratitude and sometimes, you have to go beyond the call of duty!"

- Claire

Happy Christmas!

2009-12-25T11:46:00.003Z

Whitetail in Snow, originally uploaded by Hard-Rain.

Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, with lots of lovely food, presents, friends & family.

Act of Random Kindness #3 and a winner!

2009-12-23T13:27:00.004Z

I'm a little late in doing the draw for the ARK t-shirt, but here we are finally! I want to thank everyone who entered The Challenge for adding a little kindness to the world. And I want to thank Sáileóg & the guys at ARK HQ for helping me run my first ever giveaway.

And the winner is A Chick Named Hermia! Her Act of Random Kindness is below. I'll continue to post the rest of the Acts over the Christmas Holidays, and if any of you are inspired to do your own Acts of Kindness do leave a comment, I'd love to hear about it.

"I find out yesterday that it was one of my co-worker's birthday today and I ran out to the shop this morning to get a huge chocolate muffin and candles and presented it to him! It's pretty crazy in my job cos everyone kinda keeps to themselves and we never know about birthdays!"

- A Chick Named Hermia

Act of Random Kindness #2

2009-12-18T16:02:00.003Z

The second Act of Random Kindness in our challenge comes from Jazz Lau from the blog Jazz Loves You More, who actually tries to do an act of random kindness most days.

"After a rather drunken night at a club , I was on my way home. Also rather hungry , I decided to pop into McDonald's (this only ever happens when I've had too much to drink) even so , I brought a coffee and some fries , but on my way to the bus stop there was a homeless guy selling the Big Issue. It was such a cold cold that night , I felt bad , so I gave him my coffee and food , and all the change left in my pocket left over from the night. I ended up just waiting for the night bus and eating when I got home. I mean I have a home to go to, and a fridge with food in it. This man has nothing I could definitely wait 45 minutes to eat. But for that man, when the next meal is for him is a bit uncertain. "

You can still enter The Challenge until 9am Monday 21st December, when I will put all entries into a draw for an ARK t-shirt. Have a great weekend ARKing!

Act of Random Kindness #1

2009-12-16T11:32:00.002Z

I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has entered the Act of Random Kindness Challenge so far. There are some great stories coming in, which I will begin to post now in the run up to Christmas. However I've been a little disappointed with the low number of entries and I know that a few people who had wanted to enter didn't get around to it yet, so I'm going to continue to accept entries until 9am Monday 21st when the draw for the t-shirt will take place. Maybe the stories posted will help inspire you to come up with your own Acts of Random Kindness.

First Act of Random Kindness is from Ciara in Galway:

"My Ark found me, I was travelling on the bus from the GMIT side of Galway over towards the NUIG side. To do this you have to get off in town and wait for another bus to bring you the rest of the way. When I got on the first bus there was a blind man with a lovely guidedog by his side. He got off at the same stop as me in town. We got talking and realised we were both going in the same direction, I was going to college and he was going to the Hospital. He asked me to let him know when our bus came. I did, I then stayed on the bus past my stop until we got to his stop. I walked him to the Hospital and he thanked me for the company and my eyes. Such a small thing to do but the feeling of appreciation you get is priceless!"

Ciara B.

Feeling Christmassey!

2009-12-14T12:33:00.006Z

Its starting to feel Christmassey. The first few cards have arrived and the cake has been iced. The parcel for my brother in New Zealand has been posted, and my Dad is starting to look a bit stressed if you mention Christmas. So this weekend I made a snowflake with my little brother...

...It looks really good but its easy to make. You can get the instructions from Instructables.

But I didn't feel like stopping there so I decided to give my Bonsai tree a little Christmas cheer.

The reindeer escaped from an exhibition invite and I think that they're much happier here.

So how are your Christmas plans going? And more importantly how are the Acts of Random Kindness coming along? There have been some really great stories come in but I've been disappointed by the very low number of entries. Come on guys, spread some Christmas cheer! There's one day left to enter the Challenge. Please, don't let me down!

Here's a Christmas song to get you in the Christmas spirit, by Dublin band Funzo, who just won Christmas FMs Song Contest.

Feeling Christmassey? Now off you go and do an Act of Random Kindness!

Proust Questionnaire

2009-12-11T15:11:00.004Z

I was tagged to do this questionnaire by Rosemary MacCabe. I love reading these kind of questionnaires and blog entries. Its really fun to find out more about the bloggers you read every day. But I don't like filling them out at all and this one was particularly hard. Military history is just not my area of expertise! Still I hope you feel like you know me a little better after reading this.

Your most marked characteristic? My height (or lack of it!) I’m 5 foot nothing.

The quality you most like in a man? Hmm, difficult one…Kindness I think

The quality you most like in a woman? Kindness, thoughtfulness

What do you value most in your friends? Sticking with me through the hard times, staying in contact with me even when I’m to sick to get in contact or meet up for weeks or months at a time.

What is your principle defect? My illness, M.E./CFS & Fibromyalgia. So complete lack of energy, exhaustion & pain. My body tends to let me down when I want to do things!

What is your favourite occupation? Photography, art, making things.

What is your dream of happiness? Being healthy, being in love & having someone to love me, and having a job/career that I love & enjoy.

What to your mind would be the greatest misfortunes? Being alone. Not having my family to love & support me.

What would you like to be? Healthy & happy.

In what country would you like to live? I think I’ll always come back to Ireland & consider it my real home but I’d love to live in London for a while.

What is your favourite colour? Purple

What is your favourite flower? I don’t think I have one, a rose maybe

What is your favourite bird? A Hummingbird

Who are your favourite writers? I tend to have favourite books more easily than favourite writers so I’ll tell you both. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath, Heidi by Johann Spyri, Anne of Green Gables ( the whole series) by L.M. Montgomery, The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks and its hard to pick one specific book but I like a lot of books by Paul Auster & Nick Hornby. I also love finding new favourite authors and new favourite books.

Who are your favourite poets? Rives and my sister.

Who is your favourite hero of fiction? Eh that’s a really hard one I want to say Constantine Levin from Anna Karenina but he’s not really a hero just a very flawed very human character. Does Superman count?

Who are your favourite heroines of fiction? Anne Shirley of Anne of Green Gables & Heidi, both little orphan girls.

Who are your favourite composers? No idea! Its pretty bad when I tell you I spent about 8 years learning piano and a few more on flute, you’ll probably guess I wasn’t much good!

Who are your favourite painters? That’s a pretty old-fashioned question. Why painter & not artist? Is the medium important? But I’ll play along! If I was sticking strictly with painters I would say Louis Le Brocquy, Jack B. Yeats, Ed Ruscha, Rothko, Edward Hopper, Conor Harrington, Heather Smith Jones. It’s a pretty random selection and it changes constantly depending on what I’m looking at or reading or thinking about.

Who are your heroes in real life? I suppose people like Aimee Mullins or Joni Eareckson Tada who overcome disabilities or serious illness to lead a meaningful life.

Who are your favourite heroines of history? Mother Theresa, Amy Carmichael.

What are your favourite names? Lila, Leyla,Lola. I don’t know anyone of those names but I just like the sound of them when you say it.

What is it you most dislike? Cruelty

What historical figures do you most despise? The baddies. Can you tell I don’t think about history that much?

What event in military history do you most admire?...And I know absolutely nothing about military history! But I guess it has to be a good thing that we aren’t all speaking German now.

What reform do you most admire? Abolishing slavery. The end of child labour and the provision of free schooling (in the first world anyway, wouldn’t it be great if it was worldwide?)

What natural gift would you most like to possess? Confidence

How would you like to die? Peacefully, without pain and without a long drawn out illness, with my family around me.

What is your present state of mind? Tired – this was a hard questionnaire!

To what faults do you feel most indulgent? Overspending, having too much ‘stuff’.

What is your motto? “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

-Howard Thurman

I know its a tough one but I'm still going to tag a few people because I'm curious, and want to know a bit more about you. Little Monarch, A Chick Named Hermia, Diamond Canopy, 2 or 3 Things I Know & Jazz Loves You More.

I'd also like to remind you that there's a few days left to enter the Act of Random Kindness Challenge and Giveaway. So go on, do lots of kind things over the weekend and email me about them!

Acts of Random Kindness - A Challenge and a Giveaway

2009-12-05T15:45:00.042Z

Did you see the article about kindness in The Sunday Times Style Magazine last weekend? Apparently "it’s suddenly rather sexy to be kind." Which is great news for the Irish clothing company ARK, a company founded on the idea of kindness. ARK stands for Acts of Random Kindness Ltd and they are dedicated to making the world a nicer place to live with one simple yet powerful idea; every time you wear their t-shirts you perform one act of random kindness. Buy a stranger an icecream, give up your seat on the bus, make your Mum a cup of tea. Its a small thing to do but it could really make someone's day. And as they said so well in the Sunday Times "Kindness has an almost explosive quality: tiny acts swell far beyond their original size and scope." So ultimately one small act of random kindness is a step towards making the world a better place.

I started looking around and saw that people weren't just buying clothing, they were buying an identity to adopt a way of life. Instead of putting on a t-shirt to be someone great, why couldn't you wear one to do something great?

- Cameron Stewart, Director.

There is a range of ethically produced, 100% cotton ladies and lads t-shirts, polo shirts and long sleeved tops. On the front is the opening line of the ARK story "So I have this idea..." while the story continues on the back shoulder. The shirt acts as a powerful reminder, giving the wearer a unique awareness for the world around them and the power they have to make someone's day. ARK is an opportunity to link positive social action with fashion...or make the world a better place while looking stylish.

'When you're wearing Ark, you're on the look out. What can I do? Who could I help? It's not like wearing any old t-shirt. There's this tingle of anticipation when you throw it on in the morning, not knowing where it will lead you'

-Cameron Stewart, Founder.

When I first heard about ARK I got really excited. It’s such a simple but wonderful idea. And the Christmas Season is the perfect time for kindness. These T-shirts would make great Christmas presents. (I have at least one person in mind for one already!) However its also a really good time for all of us to step away from the computer for a while and go and do something kind. So I've got a Challenge for you...

Do one Act of Random Kindness this week then email me (made.by.miss.milki@gmail.com) to tell me what your ARK was, what happened and how you got on. I'll share these stories on the blog in the run up to Christmas, hopefully giving us all more ideas and inspiration for acts of kindness over the Christmas Season. In addition to the sense of satisfaction you'll get from making the world a nicer place for someone, you'll also be entered in a draw for the ARK t-shirt of your choice, thanks to the kind people at ARK HQ.

If you need any ideas or inspiration for your Acts of Random Kindness check out the ARK Facebook Page where they are suggesting a different ARK every day in the run up to Christmas, and you can also read about some of the ARKs they've done in the past. (Everything from giving out Rice Krispie buns to bringing in the turf, the photos are great!) Or read this inspiring interview by Blaubushka with Cameron Stewart, Director and Sáileog O Halloran, the ARK fashion expert. Your ARK doesn't have to be a big dramatic thing (although obviously it can be if you want!). It can be something small like buying a chocolate bar and leaving it in a vending machine for the next person to find or making a cup of tea for someone in your office. So don't procrastinate... step away from the computer and find someone to ARK!

Hand out Rice Krispie Buns

Give free guitar lessons

...or high-fives!

So to summarise:

Do one Act of Kindness between now and next Monday 14th December.
Email me at made.by.miss.milki@gmail.com about your ARK before midnight Monday 14th December (Irish time!) with "ARK Challenge" in the subject line.
I will post some of the stories on the blog in the run up to Christmas so if you don't want me to publish your name or story for any reason let me know.
I will put the names of anyone who emails me into a hat and pull out one name to win the ARK t-shirt of their choice.

*EDIT*

THE DEADLINE IS EXTENDED TO 9AM MONDAY 21ST DECEMBER

ARK HQ & Online Shop
ARK on Facebook

ARK on Twitter

Inspirational Art

2009-12-03T14:02:00.014Z

I've been thinking recently about how I need more positivity in my life, particularly in the blank space on the wall above my desk. I've always found 'inspirational' posters kinda depressing, you know the ones that hang in schools everywhere with a photo of nature and a motivational saying underneath. I'm entirely sure why, maybe its the association with school. So instead I've found some wonderful inspirational artwork that I'd love to have hanging above my desk. Prints that don't take the clichés too seriously, that have fun and would make you smile every time you looked at them.

'When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemonade!' from the Keep Calm Gallery are hand letterpressed by Douglas Wilson using antique wooden type so every one is unique. The yellow paper is so cheerful and happy. This is the poster in top position for the space above my desk.

'Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining' is a hand pulled screen print and is also available in silver on grey paper.

'Tea Revives You', so true! Another handpulled screenprint inspired by a 1930's advertising slogan.
'Keep Calm & Carry On' The now famous poster that was designed at the outbreak of World War 2 to help keep the public calm. It works just as well for most everyday situations.'Make Your Own Path' These posters are hand letterpressed by Douglas Wilson onto vintage maps. Each one is unique. All the posters above are available from the Keep Calm Gallery.

'Always Remember' a digital illustration from Studio Mela on Etsy.

'Fly Away' a digital print from Studio Mela on Etsy

'So Very Happy' digital print from Studio Mela on Etsy

'Today is Awesome' digital print from Small Object on Etsy. Edition of 500.

I featured 'Looking Forward' by Heather Smith Jones in my Christmas Wishlist last week but I like it so much I'm putting it in here as well. Its a 2 colour lithography print with handpainted watercolour on paper in an edition of 15.

What hangs over your desk? Any inspirational artwork in your house? Let me know & I'll keep you posted on what eventually ends up in the blank space.

Topshop Opens in Cork

2009-11-27T13:15:00.006Z

Finally this day has come, after many long years of waiting. Topshop is opening in Cork tomorrow the 28th of November at 14 Academy Street. There are rumours of gift vouchers, O'Connaill's hot chocolate and a chance to win the entire window display.

Also the Christmas Lights are being switched on this evening at 5pm from Bishop Lucey Park. The Christmas market on Grand Parade also starts this evening and runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Christmas. There will be choirs and bands playing and food from local artisans. And the Christmas Illuminations in the Park are designed by Peter Kelly from Weddings by Franc so I'm sure the whole thing will put you in the Christmas mood.

Cork is the place to be this weekend!

All I want for Christmas is...

2009-11-25T16:41:00.017Z

Its ok my 2 front teeth are still intact, its just Christmas wishlist time! I know most blogs are doing Chirstmas "Gift Guides" around now, but to be honest I have enough trouble choosing presents for the people I know, nevermind trying to guide you all with your decisions! So instead I'm going to share my wishlist with you. It might inspire you if you know someone who's a bit like me...a girl in her 20s that likes pretty things, clothes, art and photography. My Mum asks us every year for a few ideas of things we'd like for Christmas, and this year she'll be pleasantly surprised with the level of information...photos, prices & websites. Its all in a days work when you're researching a blog post! So these are just a few of the things I'd be delighted to find under the tree on Christmas morning...

Looking Forward
A Handpulled Print by Heather Smith Jones
$40 - Etsy

The Pembroke Cowl in Cranberry
$115 - Yokoo on Etsy
Cowls/Snugglers/Scarfs start from a more affordable
$50 for the also very lovely Vermont Snuggler

Little Toyboat Necklace
$92 - yellowgoat on Etsy

Here Comes the Sun Necklace
$30 -Mixco on Etsy

Pixie's Peacock Mini
€110 - Nadinoo

Vintage Ivory Fascinator
$25 - itsthelittlethisut on Etsy

A Handmade Leather Satchel
15" Satchels are £64.99 - The Cambridge Satchel Company
I couldn't find a good photo on their website so photo is of Amy Little
photographed by Vanessa Jackman

Moleskine Volant Daily Diary 2010
£20.75 at Amazon.co.uk
€28.70 at the Bookdepository.co.uk
A little bit big for throwing in your bag but they look very beautiful!

Any kind of pretty Japanese Masking Tape.
Available from in packs of 3 from $7.50 at Ginko Papers
Available individually and in packs from $5 at Happy Tape

Tokyo and my Daughter by Takashi Homma
£11.94 on Amazon.co.uk
€10.80 0n The BookDepository.co.uk
Just one of the many photography books in my Amazon Wishlist!

Paris Fashion Week Streetstyle

2009-11-23T14:26:00.008Z

I found these photos lying in a folder and realised I had never finished my Fashion Weeks Streetstyle Quartet. How could I forget Paris?! Its a long time ago now but I decided to pick my top 5 outfits. Hope those bare legs don't make you feel cold!

Café Mode

Facehunter

The Sartorialist

The Sartorialist

Stylesightings

And just cos I like it, I'm adding this happy sunny photo of some of the lovely photographers who were out taking photos during Paris Fashion Week...

Sorrys and Thank Yous

2009-11-22T14:13:00.004Z

Dear Blog,

I'm so sorry for neglecting you again. I haven't been too well the last couple of weeks. But fingers crossed this week will be better and I'll make it up to you with all the wonderful posts I've planned!

I want to say a huge Thank You to the Little Monarch for the wonderful surprise parcel she sent me. I won it a few weeks ago on her blog and but it arrived just in time to cheer me up when I was sick. The parcel was full of exciting things; a mix CD, a bookmark, a pirate lollipop and some fabulous jewellery from her own line - domino earrings, a key necklace and my very favourite, a little lego explorer man brooch!

If you want to get some of your own Little Monarch jewellery check out her Etsy store, and her blog is always worth a read.

Blaubushka's Blogging for Boobs

2009-11-09T14:48:00.004Z

Scarf - Topshop
Jumper - Mango
Dress - Kookai
Dress (underneath) - A\Wear
Tights - Topshop
Shoes - New Look

Thanks to the girls from Blaubushka for inviting me to be part of their Blogging for Boobs campaign, where the invited bloggers to send in pink photos for breast cancer awareness. You can see all the photos over on their blog.

I have to say this was a little bit of a challenge for me. At first I thought, I wouldn't be able to put together a pink outfit as its not a colour I wear very often. But as I rummaged around in my wardrobe I found I had alot more pink than I had thought I owned. It was actually fun pulling out clothes I would never usually put together and creating an outfit, it was like playing at "dressing-up", and it was good to rediscover clothes I'd forgotten. Please excuse the terrible photo - its a while since I've done outfit photos and I'd forgotten how hard all that posing is!

Nadinoo - Autumn/Winter 2009

2009-11-04T16:48:00.009Z

Here's a few of my favourites from the Nadinoo A/W 09 collection. Nadinoo is an independent clothing label from the British designer Nadia Izruna. I love the ladylike prettiness of the collection. My favourite look is the first one - "Pixies Peacock Blouse" and the "Limited Edition Gold Skirt" but I also really want the "Pixie's Peacock Mini" dress (...actually I kind of want them all!) Nadinoo is available to buy in the Online Boutique or in the Etsy shop.

Nadinoo Website
Nadinoo Boutique
Nadinoo Etsy Shop
Nadinoo Blog

Streetstyle Favourites Milan Fashion Week

2009-10-26T08:18:00.011Z

I wanted to take my time about posting my Streetstyle favourites from Milan & Paris Fashion Weeks because after I posted my London favourites more amazing photos kept trickling in that I wished I had included! But it seems that there weren't so many streetstyle photographers in Milan... or at least all my favourites are from the same few photographers.

Tamu from All the Pretty Birds did
a feature for Refinery 29

Stylesightings

The Sartorialist

The overall look in Milan was pared down, simple sophistication. I was really drawn to the boyish style of the girls who wore trousers and simple sometimes slouchy tops but managed never to look too casual. They kept up the glamour and fashion with amazing heels and clutch bags. At the same time the girls who wore skirts and dresses often kept it from becoming too girlie by wearing lace up boots instead of "pretty" shoes. Its all about balance.

Brew Cafe shows Cork Analogue Photographers work

2009-10-24T14:53:00.004+01:00

Rory O'Toole

If you're in Cork for the Jazz Festival this weekend you should call into Brew Café on Paul Street to see an exhibition of work by Cork Analogue Photographers. I have four little photos hanging up which I'd love you to see, and there are some fabulous photos from the other members too. There's a huge range from portraits to landscapes to still life and everything has been photographed the old-fashioned way on film and hand printed. The exhibition continues for the next two weeks . Brew Café is open on Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday from 12 noon to 5pm and from Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm.

Justin Waldron - Meanings of Moments

2009-10-18T17:11:00.009+01:00

Justin Waldron is a film photographer living and working between NYC and Japan. I don't know where I first read about him but he's been one of my contacts on Flickr for a while. His photos are incredibly beautiful, soft and warm. And sometimes he makes them into zines. I love his photos, I love handmade things, I love zines and I love getting nice things in the post so as a little treat (you have to treat yourself every so often!) I bought myself meanings of moments zine 002.

It was really exciting to get a letter from Japan but even better to open it and see the zine. Its such a lovely little collection of photos, that speak to me of innocence & happiness, of childhood and fleeting moments. And its nice to know that I have number 36 of 50 so there's a few left if anyone else wants to buy one.

Justin Waldron website
Justin Waldron on Flickr

Thoughts on Sanders, Small Trades and Streetstyle

2009-10-12T16:39:00.025+01:00

If you follow me on Twitter you'll already know that I'm doing a night class in photography. Actually I'm doing two different classes, in case you're confused. One is History of Photography in the Glucksman Art Gallery and the other is practical Photography (mostly black and white film) in the Crawford College of Art. Last Thursday was the first of those classes and it started with a really great lecture about Photography within Contemporary Art by Trish Brennan, which got me really excited about what the course is going to be like! Our first project is to make a set of photos using an objective approach. I've decided to do portraits so I've been looking at photos by August Sanders.

Bricklayer, 1928

Pastry Cook, 1928

Circus Workers, 1926-1932

Village Schoolteacher, 1921

Varnisher, Ca. 1930

Sanders worked in Germany in the 1920s and set out to document society at the time through a portrait series. He used to cycle out into the country and photograph the people he met. He said "[w]e know that people are formed by the light and air, by their inherited traits, and their actions. We can tell from appearance the work someone does or does not do; we can read in his face whether he is happy or troubled,". When the Nazis came to power in the 1930s they banned his portraits, probably because his photographs showed a varied population which did not adhere to their Aryan ideals.

Because alot of Sanders portraits show people in their working clothes or environment and are captioned by their occupation, they reminded me of Irving Penn's series Small Trades which I read about recently in Septembers issue of American Vogue. (thanks Sinéad!) The Getty Centre is currently showing all 252 portraits Irving Penn shot in three cities, Paris, London and New York around 1950/51. He was doing a lot of fashion photography at the time and he photographed the tradespeople in the same studios, with the same attention to lighting and with the same beauty and elegance that he used to shoot couture gowns.

"Seamstress Fitter," London, 1950.

"Milkman," New York, 1951.

"Fireman," New York, 1951

"Commis-Larue," Paris, 1950.

"Coal Man," London, 1950.

There is something very current about the Small Trades series. I think it because the photos are so 'human'. They look beyond the stereotype and show you the people. You can imagine a seamstress or fireman today posing exactly the same way. The jobs may have changed, the clothes may have changed but people are the same now and fifty years ago.

A lot of today's streetstyle photography reminds me of these series of photos. In fact the Sartorialist mentioned Sanders as one of his inspirations. There is a similar objective style of photography. On the surface it may seem that the subject is slightly different, style versus occupation, but really it is all about portraiture and people. And about how people's identity is expressed by what they wear, whether that is a uniform for a job, a well cut suit, a student wearing a quirky outfit or a fashion editor wearing a beautiful dress.

Its interesting to note the last two photos which the Sartorialist took recently at Paris Fashion Week, as they are in black and white, and relate them back to the photos taken by Sanders and Penn. It is easy to see the similarities.

So that's the overflow of thoughts floating around in my head and the background to my first project for my photography class. I might (just might) show the results of my project when its done... depending on how it turns out!

Edit: Rory is writing great reviews of the History of Photography classes on the Cork Analogue Photographers website.

Irving Penn dies at 92

2009-10-08T15:05:00.003+01:00

You may have heard by now of the death of Irving Penn on Wednesday morning at his home in Manhattan. He was 92 years old. He was a great photographer in so many areas, fashion, portraiture, still life. It was difficult to choose just one image for this post because there are so many beautiful photos but I was drawn to this one from the gallery at Photography Now. Its well worth a look through the whole gallery. Also read a wonderful obituary here.

Its Official - the Sartorialist is coming to Dublin!

2009-10-06T12:45:00.011+01:00

Unfortunately while he's sitting in the Gallery of Photography signing books with Garance by his side (I'm just guessing!) I'll be here in Cork, just 3 little hours away. Ever since I heard he was coming I've been plotting and scheming and bargaining with myself to find a way to be there but alas its not to be. Ah well they do say you should never meet your heros.

The Book Signing at Barneys New York and the After Party , Photos by Joe Ferrucci

Is it strange that I am actually more disappointed by the fact that I might be missing meeting Garance than Scott. (I mean I have no idea whether she will be there or not, I just like to imagine she will be... So don't sue me if she's not!) While I admire Scott Schuman for his beautiful photos and his amazing blog I have no idea what he's actually like as a person but I feel like I know Garance through her blog. She's beautiful and talented and artistic and funny and she doesn't take herself too seriously. Its funny how you can feel you know someone so well through their writing, especially blogging, without ever meeting them. I feel like we're the best of friends and we would have spent the evening in Harvey Nichols sipping cocktails, chatting about shoes and giggling about girly stuff. But if I ever met her in real life I know I would be nervous and shy and tounge-tied. So it is true what they say about never meeting your heros, this way I can keep the fantasy alive! Well that's enough of my rambling on about my girl crush, its supposed to be about the Sartorialist!

The Book Signing at Colette, Photos by Karl Hab

I am really truly looking forward to getting my hands on the book. If you've been reading this blog for any length of time you'll know I love his photos. I've really enjoyed some of his recent blog posts about photographers and photography books that inspire him, which puts his work in the wider context of photography. He was one of the first streetstyle photographers to use blogging to share his photos back in 2005. It seems like a lifetime ago, and such a simple idea now that there are hundreds of streetstyle blogs around. (What did we do without them?!) Yet the Sartorialist is still one of the best. His photography is consistently beautiful, his subjects consistently stylish. Every day there is some more inspiration to be found on his blog. I think it will be really nice to be able to hold is photos in the hard copy form of a book.

The Sartorialist Flick Through from Susie Bubble on Vimeo.

So for any of you who will be in Dublin on Friday October 9th there will be both a book signing and a reception. Details are below. I heard that you should ring the Gallery of Photography to put your name on the list. So dress fabulously, have fun, take loads of photos and say "Hi!" to Scott and Garance for me!

Dublin Signing
Friday October 9th
1:50-3:30pm
at The Gallery of Photography
Meeting House Square
Temple Bar, Dublin 2

Reception after the Signing
Friday October 9th
6:30-9pm
at Harvey Nichols
Dundrum Town Centre, Dublin 16
in the First Floor Bar

dublinevents@harveynichols.com

PS. If there's anyone going who wants to volunteer to get a book signed for me I probably wouldn't say no!

Thousand Portraits

2009-10-05T16:54:00.011+01:00

two photographers · one camera · one weekend · a thousand people

Our project is a true portrait of Britain created by photographing 1,000 people. We stopped everyone who crossed our path on the streets of London, excluding nobody, asking the same question more than fifteen hundred times. In a moment where recession is the main subject of every discussion, it was striking to come across such positive attitude. This is the true face of Britain.

This great project is by Fabulous Muscles and Carlo Nicora. You can see all the photos on the Thousand Portraits website, in the Thousand Portraits video slideshow or the Thousand Portraits Flickr photoset. Its well worth having a look, there are so many wonderful portraits. The diversity of people is great, the expressions are fantastic and you find yourself wondering about the people. Who are they, what were they on their way to do when the photo was taken. So go have a look and see if you find anyone you know !

New camera - the Lubitel 2

2009-10-02T14:31:00.005+01:00

Yesterday my new camera finally arrived! Its a Lubitel 2 and it came all the way from the Ukraine. These are a few quick snaps I took when I was unpacking it. I love parcels anyway but its even more exciting when there's a lovely new camera inside! I'm really excited about taking it out and playing with it this weekend. I'll post any photos I take when I get them developed. Do any of you have a favourite camera?

What I Wore Today - Drawings Only

2009-09-28T12:04:00.012+01:00

Have you seen the group "What I Wore Today (Drawings Only)" on Flickr yet? If not go over there now and have a look. Its the latest (and coolest) way to post your daily outfits online. There are some lovely drawings in there. Here are just a few I liked. I love to see the different styles of drawings.

Its a great idea, especially for someone who broke their tripod last summer and hasn't posted a single outfit photo since! Its been very neglectful of me especially since one or two people requested outfit photos come back. But somehow in the last year I've become very camera shy so until I work myself up to taking some photos here's my first contribution to the "What I Wore Today (Drawings Only)" group.

Cream Cardigan - A-Wear
Purple Tank Top - Penny's
Jeans - A-Wear
Runners - Babycham
Bag - A-Wear
Socks - Topshop
Teal Flower Hairclip - from a Friend
Bracelet - a present from my Grandparents

As you can see I only drew the clothes because drawing myself is a little daunting, but I think next time I'd attempt a body! The outfit is from last Wednesday which was a fabulously sunny warm day, hence no coat. And I've listed the clothes below in case you can't read my writing. If you try a What I wore Today drawing let me know, I'd love to see them! :)

LFW Streetstyle Favourites

2009-09-26T16:12:00.013+01:00

Its getting more and more difficult to edit my choice of streetstyle photos down to just a few favourites. Over the last couple of years the number of streetstyle websites has grown and grown and there's so much out there. But here are my "few" favourites from London Fashion Week. The names of the photographer is under each group of photos.

Is the Safety Pin the New Stud?

2009-09-22T15:27:00.010+01:00

I have a theory that the humble safety pin is where it is at right now. If magazines can make crazy statements like that then so can I, in fact I could even declare it a "micro trend". But stick with me on this one, I have the proof. There is a long history of the safety pin as embellishment in fashion, from punks wearing them as earrings to Scots wearing them on their kilts. But this current rise of the safety pin seems to have begun with Giles Deacon's Autumn/Winter 09 collection. The safety pins were subtle, delicate, even pretty, as decoration along necklines, cuffs and seams. They almost look like jewellery.

This season saw the safety pin feature in Vena Cava's Spring/Summer 2010 show. The safety pin crop top is totally fabulous and had many bloggers excited at the DIY potential!

Then finally we see the safety pin move to the street and wonderfully showcased by this guy who was snapped by both the Sartorialist and the Facehunter, which is about the compliment your outfit can get.

All these safety pin sightings combined have me inspired to see what I can make with a bunch of safety pins. I'll keep you posted. So who's with me? Is the safety pin the new stud?

Catwalk photos from Style.com

NYFW Streetstyle Favourites

2009-09-19T17:06:00.008+01:00

The Sartorialist

Altamira NYC

Garance Doré

The Facehunter

Miss me?!

2009-09-18T14:32:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone! Hope you all had a good summer (if anyone out there is still reading this!) I'm sorry my little blogging break was alot longer than intended but I'm finally back. My time off gave me the space to think about the future of the blog and as a result there are lots of changes coming (including a much needed blog makeover!) My migraines have eased off and I'm really looking forward to blogging regularly again.

My first little addition to the blog is a Tumblr account which I'm calling "Another Spoonful of Sugar". Its going to be like a scrapbook of little things that I like and that inspire me but that don't make it to a full blog post.

Also remember that I'm now Tweeting (Twittering?) and despite my initial reservations I now love it and may even be a little bit addicted to it!

So I look forward to a new season of blogging and of hearing from you via Twitter or by leaving a comment here for me. Let me know that you're still out there, tell me what you got up to for the summer...or what you bought from the Christopher Kane for Topshop Collection. Anything really, just say hi!

We're all going on our Summer Holidays...

2009-07-26T11:44:00.003+01:00

Unfortunately I'm going to have to take a little break from blogging - not that I've been very prolific recently anyway - but a recent spate of migraines is forcing me to take a little computer break. So I'm going to take a little blogging holiday til September. Thanks for reading A Spoonful of Sugar and enjoy the rest of the summer!

Photography Exhibitions

2009-07-16T15:31:00.003+01:00

Sorry for the complete lack of blogging recently. it mostly has to do with the fact that I have to fight my siblings for a turn on the family computer, but a few migraines are also to blame! So while I get a moment on the computer I want to alert you to two photographic exhibitions running at the moment, both by Cork Analogue Photographers.

The first is in Lismore Gallery and is running until July 26th and features 15 prints by the 7 photographers that make up the group.

The second exhibition is running in Cork in Galerie Nautique on Victoria Road and is running to the 24th of July. Both are worth calling into, but if you aren't in the area I do suggest taking a look at the Cork Analogue Photographers website to see some of their fabulous work.

Cycling Chic through June

2009-07-03T16:44:00.011+01:00

Looking back at my favourite streetstyle photos for June it seems that the accessory of the month is a bicycle. This trend for fashionable biking has been gathering momentum for a while. There are blogs such as Copenhagen Cycle Chic , the original chic cycling website and now the many other blogs it has spawned such as Moscow Cycle Chic, Bristol Cycling Chic and LA Cycle Chic to name just a few. There have been newspaper articles such as this one from the Sunday Times about fashionable women who cycle to work. But this is the first time that I have looked through my streetstyle picks and noticed that most of my favourite photos included a bicycle. Maybe its the recession, but its probably just the good weather. Either way I think its safe to say that all the trendy people are cycling these days. Maybe its time for me to dig my dusty (and possibly rusty) bike out from the bottom of the shed.

Facehunter

NAST

The Sartorialist

There were a few of my favourites not travelling by bike, but maybe theirs was parked just around the corner.

I love the way this girl from The Sartorialist casually pairs a lace skirt and chiffon top with runners, and it looks just right.

I would definitely bet on Marie Sofie from The Streethearts having a bicycle. She has such a happy, summery, carefree, climbing-trees-and-picking-flowers outfit. (And the laugh to match it) It could easily have looked a mess but she makes it look classic.

And finally my favourite. Zippora, the hottest Kiwi model of the moment, was captured by Stylesightings in this festival fabulous outfit. Amazing!

Site 46

2009-07-01T16:57:00.016+01:00

Last week I had the chance to call in to the Crawford College of Art & Design Degree Show - Site 46. Its always an interesting show to see and this year's exhibition seemed to have a particularly high standard of work, and was well produced with a lovely glossy catalogue and a great website. So I decided to share just a few of the highlights of the show. Please follow the links to read what the artists themselves say about their work and to see some better photos than my quick snaps!

Michelle O'Shea

Marion Gilroy

Sinéad Hehir

Aoife O'Brien

Elizabeth O'Callaghan

Mary Galvin

Tom Doig

Show Studio Interviews Tim Walker

2009-06-28T14:34:00.002+01:00

ShowStudio has posted a wonderful interview with Tim Walker by Penny Martin. It is the first in a series of interviews with some of the most influential people in the fashion industry today. Edited from over an hour of footage the interview covers everything from the first moment Walker picked up a camera to what he hopes his photography will inspire in others.

Click on the picture above or go here to watch the film.

“In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary” - Aaron Rose

2009-06-25T15:42:00.009+01:00

Untitled, from The Counterpane Series, 2009

Last week I promised I'd show you some of my work from the group exhibition 6 Perspectives on Light. The show opened last Thursday night and runs until the 2nd of July so today is the halfway point. So far its been a wonderful experience seeing my work up on the wall and hearing peoples reactions to it. The show was opened by Cork artist Harry Moore, and it was great to see everyone who came. Of course it wouldn't have been half as wonderful without my fellow artists and their wonderful work. I must apologise that I was so organised that I framed my photos before I scanned them so I don't have many to show you here! I exhibited 12 black and white silver gelatin prints (Limited Edition of 12) called 'The Counterpane Series'.

When I became ill a few years ago my life suddenly became very small and time slowed down. The movement of light throughout the house began to mark time for me. The constantly changing shapes of the highlights and shadows separated one hour from another. After months of looking at the same rooms I began to notice light transforming the ordinary, dull, mundane objects and spaces of my life…a shaft of light falling on a bookcase, the shapes formed by the wrinkles in my bedclothes, the shadow of a plant on my window ledge. These moments didn’t last nor were they ever the same two days in a row. They moved and changed with the light and seasons, adding variety and interest to my days. Photography gave me a way to record these precious fleeting moments and award them the importance they have had in my life. My photography is about ordinary everyday objects transformed by light into objects of extraordinary beauty.

The title of the series is inspired by a childhood poem called “The Land of Counterpane” by Robert Louis Stevenson, about a little boy who is sick in bed imagining the dips and folds of his quilt are a land for his toy soldiers. It has stuck with me as a story of imagination distracting and overcoming the isolation, boredom and pain of illness.

The Land of Counterpane

By Robert Louis Stevenson

When I was sick and lay a-bed,
I had two pillows at my head,
And all my toys beside me lay,
To keep me happy all the day.

And sometimes for an hour or so
I watched my leaden soldiers go,
With different uniforms and drills,
Among the bed-clothes, through the hills;

And sometimes sent my ships in fleets
All up and down among the sheets;
Or brought my trees and houses out,
And planted cities all about.

I was the giant great and still
That sits upon the pillow-hill,
And sees before him, dale and plain,
The pleasant land of counterpane.

6 Perspectives on Light continues in The Greenroom Gallery, Cork Arts Theatre, Camden Court, Carroll's Quay, Cork until 2nd July 2009.

6 Perspectives on Light Facebook Event
The Greenroom Gallery
Padraig Spillane's Blog
Lucy Clarke's Blog
My Flickr

6 Perspectives on Light

2009-06-15T13:45:00.005+01:00

Envelope - by Padraig Spillane

If you've been following my Twitter you'll have heard that I'm getting excited about an upcoming exhibition showing some of my photos. Its called 6 Perspectives on Light and is exactly what it says on the tin. Six artists are showing work exploring the imagery of light and shade. The artists are Roseanne Lynch, Padraig Spillane, Ciara O'Flynn, Lucey Clarke, Eimear Tunney and Miriam King (I'm going to blow my cover and tell you that's me! Miriam is my real life name.) And its curated by the artist Gráinne Galvin. For any of you that might be in Cork, its on in the Greenroom Gallery, Cork Arts Theatre from Thursay 18th June to Thursday 2nd July 2009. And you're all invited to the opening at 7pm on Thursday 18th, I'd love to see you there.

Now about the exhibition itself - its an exhibition of photography, drawing and painting. Traditionally light has been conceived of as an agent that penetrates, illuminates and purges. The artists use subtle interpretations, geometric representations and organic imagery to convey large and obscure areas of light and shade. They seek to examine the edges upon which light runs, the surfaces on which it falls and the materials it pierces.

Later in the week I'll give you a sneak peek of some of my work and tell you the story behind it. But for now put 7pm Thursday 18th June into your diary and I'll see you there!

6 Perspectives on Light on Facebook

The Greenroom Gallery

Padraig Spillane's Blog
Lucy Clarke's Blog

Flickr Favs

2009-06-12T17:42:00.004+01:00

Its funny how the afternoon just disappeared! Its seems like 2 minutes ago I put on the kettle for a cup of tea and told myself I'd have a little catch up on Flickr while I waited for it to boil. That was 2 hours ago and I never got my cup of tea! Damn Flickr! There are so many beautiful photographs on there. These are my most recent favourites. Please go here see who made them and explore Flickr for yourself!

May's Streetstyle Favourites.

2009-06-05T11:58:00.008+01:00

This month I limited my favourites to my Top 5 Streetstyle outfits from May. Enjoy!

The Facehunter

May is a changeable month with unpredictable weather - sun one minute, spring showers the next. This girl covers all bases by pairing a pretty floral summer dress with opaque black tights and finishing the outfit with black patent shoes.

Stil in Berlin
Leonore from London. I love pink and red together. She's kept the outfit simple with the white t-shirt and the flats, giving the outfit a casual feel. Its the perfect outfit for a warm sunny day.

Stylesightings
Sighted in Sydney. I love the casual prettiness of this look. It looks summery with all the florals yet she's keeping warm with the cardigan and tights.

The Sartorialist
Again this is a sighting from Sydney. I'm not a fan of harem pants but she does pull it off here. The whole outfit is casual and relaxed.The more summery basis of her outfit (the pants and t-shirt) is 'warmed up' with the jacket and scarf. And the casual look of the outfit is dressed-up and contrasted with a more serious pair of shoes.

The Sartorialist
I very nearly didn't include this shot because there's nothing particularly exceptional about her outfit - jeans and check shirts are everywhere. Yet there's something so beautiful about this shot. She's the cool girl we all want to be...like a young Natalie Portman. The look is simple, casual and effortless. I really like the juxtaposition of the frill on the check shirt and the rolled up sleeves. The grey knitted hat and the yellow watch just finish it all off perfectly. I know that as much as I tried I could never get this look right but this young girl looks beautiful without even trying.

Getting to know them

2009-06-03T11:46:00.002+01:00

Today I want to introduce you two of my favourite artist/bloggers. I've been reading both of their blogs for a while now but recently both of them posted videos which made me feel like I got to know them a little better.

You've all probably hear of Fred Butler, the art director, props stylist and accessories deigner from London. And if you haven't heard of her you've probably seen her work in magazines, ads or seen some fabulous person wearing her accessories. I've been following her work and reading her blog for a while now but I was delighted when she posted this interview that Sophie George did with her because it gave a little more insight into her world and her design process.

Read Fred Butler's blog
Buy her accessories at Kabiri
Browse her website

The second video is a mini documentary about photographer, streetartist and blogger Color Me Katie from Brooklyn. Katie's blog always makes me smile. She says she likes to "keep life fun and exciting by seeing, doing, and creating new things every day", and she really does! Again the video really gave an insight into Katie's life and her projects. Unfortunately I can't embed this video so please click here to watch it.

Read Color Me Katie's blog

Browse her website

Award Time

2009-05-25T12:18:00.003+01:00

I want to say a huge thank you to the Chick Named Hermia for giving me this lovely blog award...a whole 10 days ago. I'm really bad at remembering to do these sort of things so sorry for the delay! I know someone gave me a blog award a few months ago and I never passed it on, of course now I can't find it so I'm terribly sorry to whoever that was! Its really nice to get an award, it does brighten the day so I'm going to pass this lovely blog award on to

PositivelyMelancholy
FashionFilosofy
Style Sphere
and
Indigo Alison.

Don't point the gun at him, he's an unpaid intern

2009-05-21T18:32:00.014+01:00

...but he's soon to be a well paid designer if this college project is anything to go by. Alex Cornell designed the promotional material for a hypothetical Wes Anderson Film Festival. (How cool would that be in real life?!) He created the posters, dvds, catalogue, soundtrack, schedule, tickets and a really cool presentation box to contain them all.

I saved the best bit til last though, he even filmed a trailer!

Wes Anderson Trailer from Alex Cornell on Vimeo.

I'm still in love with the fairytale

2009-05-17T11:50:00.017+01:00

I watched the Eurovision last night for the first time in a few years. Growing up in the early nineties when the Eurovision was a whole different competition and Ireland was on their winning streak, Eurovision night was a big night. I would be allowed to stay up late and watch it in the neighbours house, eating Taytos and Kimberley Mikados, drinking red lemonade and watching the beautiful girls in their fantastic dresses. I think for me Eurovision was always as much about the dresses as the songs, and in that sense last night didn't disappoint. There were feathers and sequins and national costumes everywhere. Here are a few of the highlights!

We'll start with the winners - Norway. Their costumes were nothing sensational, white shirts and waistcoats for the guys and pretty pink Monsoon-like dresses for the beautiful backing singers - butI actually quite liked these conservative costumes and the song was really good.

It seems there was a bit of a fairytale theme going on because the Icelandic dress reminds me of Sleeping Beauty's ball gown in the Disney film.

Azerbyjan came in 3rd place. Who even knew they were in Europe?! Their song was pretty dire and their costumes were pure Eurovision tack - gold pvc boots, skimpy skirts but they were right on fashion with the military style jacket.

Bosnia Herzogovina also wore military costumes, in fact they looked like they had stepped straight out of a performance of Les Miserable. Still, I find myself wondering if I could pull off one of those jackets in real life.

Estonia was definitely one of my favourites in the style category - her midnight blue sparkly dress was fabulous, I love her hair and I always think its a winning move for the singer to whip out a violin.

Dita Von Teese performed on stage with the German singer, which was slightly odd but you can't get more glamourous than Dita Von Teese. I loved the subtle sparkle of crystals down the back of her tights. And the backing singers/dancers were wearing 'burlesque' style costumes but I really wasn't gone on those silver sparkly trousers on the singer.

The Swedish singer wore an amazing feathered ballgown.

There were lots of white dresses. This pretty empire line gown was revealed when the Croatian singer whipped off a black cloak.

I really liked the simple sophisticated white dress the UK singer, Jade wore, designed by Amanda Wakely.

Moldova, Portugal and Armenia went for a twist on the national costume, which always makes things a bit more interesting!

Yes, I think the fairytale that is the Eurovision is still as entertaining as ever. It may not be quiet as great as I remember in those glory days of my childhood but its still a great show. And the costumes are as fantastic as ever. I'll definitely be watching again next year, waving my flag at the telly and hoping for "Irland - Douze Point"!

Better late than never

2009-05-12T17:38:00.005+01:00

Yesterday was International M.E. Awareness day, but I'm a little bit slow as usual! However M.E. Awareness week runs until the 17th May so I think this post is still allowed! If you've been following the blog for a while you might know that I suffer from M.E./CFS and Fibromyalgia. I don't like talk about it much but I think its important for people to become aware of this illness and the extent of its affect on people's lives, so today I'm going to overcome my shyness and I'll attempt to answer some of the questions I'm often asked about my illness.

What is M.E./CFS and Fibromyalgia?

M.E. stands for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis , CFS stands for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Fibromyalgia is widespread muscle pain.

Does that mean you just feel tired all the time?

No its alot more than that! The mix of symptoms vary from person to person but include the following:

Overwhelming persistent fatigue - Its not just normal tiredness, its a complete lack of energy which isn't helped by resting.
Chronic pain in muscles and joints
Post exertional malaise - which means the illness gets worse after activity or exercise
Unrefreshing sleep or difficulty sleeping
Cognitive impairment - problems with memory, thinking and difficulty finding words
Headaches
Problems with the nervous system such as poor temperture control, sensitivity to light and noise and dizzyness

But you don't look sick.

I only go out and about and meet people when I'm feeling better than normal. I don't use a wheelchair or walking stick so there's nothing to alert you to the fact that I'm ill. And I'm pretty good at hiding how I feel from other people! But what you don't see is the other 90% of the time when I'm at home in pain and exhaustion recovering from my ocassional trips out into the world.

So how are you now?

I'm really lucky in that I have a really good doctor and my health has improved significantly in the past year and I hope that in time I will recover. Many other people aren't as lucky and live their lives housebound or even bedbound.

What can I do to help?

If you know someone with M.E./CFS make the effort to stay in touch with them, it is very easy to become isolated if you have a chronic illness.
If M.E./CFS comes up in conversation (especially if there is anything about it in the media this week) and some one makes light of it - putting it down to tiredness or laziness, don't let it pass. Tell them what you've just read that M.E. is a lot more than just tiredness it also involves chronic pain and many other sypthoms that have a major impact on peoples lives.
And finally if you see anyone selling blue ribbons in your part of the world this week please buy one.

Thanks! :)

ME/CFS Awareness Blog
Irish M.E. Trust
Action for M.E. (UK)
The M.E. Association (UK)

Keeping up with the Joneses

2009-05-11T13:36:00.003+01:00

This is just boring housekeeping stuff but I've decided to move along with the times and start Twittering. Well, there was an article in the Sunday Times Magazine about it so it must be the thing to do - and I wouldn't want my little blog to fall behind the waves of progress! To be honest I had mixed feelings about Twittering - I don't like everyone to know what's going on in my life - I don't even update my Facebook status these days. But I've been following some other Twitterers (is that even a word? are they just Twits?) and I've started to realise that it might be a useful way to alert readers to interesting things I wouldn't actually write a whole blog post about. So don't expect me to start Twittering about my breakfast but hopefully I will have something interesting to say now and again! You can follow me by clicking on the link to the right.

I've also added my blog to Bloglovin'. I don't use it myself but I realise that some of you might like it so now A Spoonful of Sugar is on there. Again the link to follow is on the right.

Alexander McQueen - Spring Flowers

2009-05-09T14:54:00.011+01:00

I saw this dress in an editorial a few weeks ago - I can't remember the magazine - but it struck me how beautiful and perfect it was for spring with yellow flowers blossoming all over. It made me come back and have a look at the whole Alexander McQueen Spring Summer 09 collection and pick out these floral blossom pieces. The whole collection was based on the natural world and Darwin's survival of the fittest, with lots of animal prints, but my favourite piece were these blossom dresses. The pretty lace and the blossoming flowers make these the perfect dresses for a fantastical spring picnic with fairy folk in a pretty woodland glade.... or I could just dream of wearing one to a real life party this spring.

April's Streetstyle Inspiration

2009-05-02T11:22:00.016+01:00

So I forgot to do a streetstyle post for March - I'm not the most organised - but here are the looks I loved from streetstyle blogs in April. April is a month for layering, the weather is changeable and over the month looks moved from wrapped up and warm to light and summery.

From The Sartorialist -
I love the little layer of purple peaking out from beneath the black.

The Sartorialist -
Her look is simple but strong and graphic, everything from her hair to her ballet shoes works perfectly together.

The Fashionist -
Its a long time since I've worn a dress over jeans but this girl carries it off so well. I just love the velvet jacket and the bag.

The Sartorialist -

I don't usually feature men's styles but these purple pants are just fabulous!

The Fashionist -
I love this purple lace coat/dress and her handbag perfects the look.

The Styleclicker -
I really like they way both of these looks bring bright happy spring colours into outfits that are layered up and warm.

The Sartorialist -
This girl makes me want to wear simple outfits and cover up with boyish blazers.

The Sartorialist -
This outfit really feels like spring.

Garance Doré -
This is the perfect relaxed look for a warm spring day and the shoes are fabulous.

The Sartorialist -
This little cutie shows us exactly how spring style is done.

The Model Agent

2009-04-29T15:48:00.008+01:00

Has anybody watched RTÉ 2's new programme - The Model Agent? What do you think? If you're from Ireland you can't have missed the ads for it but I'll just fill the rest of you in. Its a reality tv programme with the tag - '12 girls, 6 weeks, 1 contract'. Model agent Ellis, comes to Ireland to scout the next (the first?) Irish supermodel. Erin O'Connor acts as mentor to the 12 girls who are scouted and over the 6 weeks they go through a variety of challenges as the group is narrowed down to the final girl who will win a contract with Independent Models London (Ellis' agency) and a cover of Image magazine.

I wasn't expecting anything of this programme from the ads. I really thought it was going to be a cringeworthy cheap Irish version of America/Britain's Next Top Model. I wasn't even going to watch it except that my Mum vaguely knew one of the girls on it. So last night we sat down to watch it on RTÉ Player - I was expecting the worst but was pleasantly surprised. I was expecting the cliché's - fake tan and layers of make -up, the bitching and backbiting, the tears and drama. There was none of that - well maybe a few tears when they chose the first few girls to go home, but by that time we were so in love with these real, happy, friendly, relatively down-to-earth young girls that I even think my Mum secretly shed a little tear at their departure.

I was never an avid follower of America or Britain's NTM (I think I only followed one series) but always used to enjoy watching the odd programme, however in recent years I've grown tired of the fake drama. This is where The Model Agent is refreshing. There is no 'house' for the girls where the most minor incident becomes a major drama, in direct contrast they have their families nearby to support them. They are given advice and coaching by Erin O'Connor and even Ellis the Model Agent, who I expected was going to criticise the girls harshly is kind and supportive. You don't love to hate any of the girls, instead any of them could be your little sister or next door neighbour and you wish them all well. It remains to be seen how the series progresses but after the first two episodes I'm hooked... and I already have a favourite!

Its on RTÉ 2 , Monday 10:25pm
or watch it on RTÉ Player here

The Wolf Loves Pork

2009-04-26T11:34:00.003+01:00

This made me happy!
A stop motion video by dokugyunyu.

( Via Dear Ada)

Sarah Seven's Beautiful World

2009-04-17T13:28:00.014+01:00

Its been a while since I've written about an Etsy seller, so today I'm featuring Sarah Seven's beautiful dresses. I've had them on her on my favourites list for a long time but recently I was reminded of her when she was Etsy's Featured Seller. She makes the most beautiful dresses skirts and gowns which have pretty names like Lemon Drop Dress and Crumpets Skirt. She shows off her collection with gorgeous photos...the kind that seduce you make you feel as if one of her dresses will transport you to a fairytale world where the sun always shines, and you can skip through meadows and dance to a gramophone, while eating lemon drops and sipping afternoon tea without a care in the world. I'm not sure if the dresses can do all that but they are extremely pretty. And besides making life more beautiful for anyone who wears her dresses Sarah is doing something good for the world because 5% of all purchases go to charity.

Sarah Seven's Etsy Shop
Sarah Seven's Blog

Flat Out

2009-04-13T17:03:00.008+01:00

I'm not always a huge fan of the fashion editorials in Wallpaper Magazine, I see it as more of an architecture/design magazine with the fashion thrown in as a nice bonus. However April's edition was a completely different matter, the fashion shoot Flat Out was outstandingly beautiful. The artist and photographer Harry Bowers was commissioned to produce a fashion shoot in the flat style he uses to photograph clothes in his Lost and Found Project. He places the clothes under a pane of glass allowing him to shape them to a painterly effect. Please excuse my quick snaps (you can click them to enlarge) - his photos are actually extremely high quality - he built his own camera especially for the shoot to achieve unusually high resolution images. I love the way you can see every wrinkle and fold, and even the texture of each fabric. The empty clothes dance together in couples, showing off their beauty independently of any wearer.

Wallpaper Q&A with Harry Bowers
Harry Bowers Website

Apologies and Affection

2009-04-05T12:20:00.007+01:00

So sorry I've been such a bad blogger lately, real life took over for a while there and I've been neglecting the blog, which means I'm terribly late telling you about Affection, an fabulous exhibition by Padraig Spillane. Unfortunately its finished now, so you won't be able to go see it, but you can still visit his blog to see some of his work and hear about any future exhibitions. The exhibition Affection focused on the intimacy between a photographer and the subject, and how a persons identity is expressed in the smallest gesture or body language. The photos are even more beautiful in real life so I'll make a huge effort to tell you of any upcoming exhibitions in plenty of time!

Padraig Spillane Photography
Padraig is also a founding member of Cork Analogue Photographers

PS I love my new masking tape

2009-03-16T13:27:00.006Z

It took a little internet detective work, but I eventually found a shop that would ship that pretty Japanese Masking Tape to Ireland. Ginko Papers sells cute stationary and other pretty little things and is now selling THE Japanese Masking Tape in pretty little packets of three. It took me a while to decide which colour to choose ( I really wanted them all) but I finally decided on red. My parcel arrived last week and I was delighted to finally have my very own pretty Japanese masking tape. A very happy ending!

( Ginko Papers)

Tim Walker - Pictures

2009-03-05T12:36:00.010Z

I was so excited last week when the biggest Amazon box I've ever seen arrived on my doorstep. I knew straight away what it was - my birthday present- the book "Tim Walker - Pictures". My birthday was almost a month ago so it was a nice surprise on a very normal week. I didn't even mind that it was late - it eventually found its way into my hands and I love it! Thanks Mum & Dad!

Its a huge book with lovely glossy pages. It even comes in its own box. There's a sense of occasion reading this book, it requires a bit of effort to take it down from the shelf and open it up which, makes you stop and consider each page carefully. It is as big and lavish as on of Tim Walkers fashion shoots. Full page photos are interspersed with scrapbook pages with the inspiration behind his shoots, and the captions to each photo tell a little story. This is a book that I'll be looking at for years and each time I read it I'll see something new.

My quick snaps don't do the book justice. Take a look at more of Tim Walkers work here to get a better idea of the magic of his photos.

Februaury's Streetstyle Inspiration

2009-02-28T12:03:00.015Z

Its time for some more Streetstyle Inspiration. Its been a great month for it with New York and London Fashion Weeks (more to come on those eventually!) I've noticed a few trends in my favourites so I've posted more than usual but grouped them together by trend.

First of all GREY...I once thought of it as a dull dreary colour but now I'm seeing it as a beautiful soft neutral.

Then we have what I'm going to call the LADY-LIKE LOOK, like the girl above, with a nice coat and a pretty handbag.

Garance Dore

Garance Dore

Fashion Filosofy

And finally to brighten things up a splash of YELLOW.

Garance Dore

Once upon a time...

2009-02-25T12:46:00.015Z

...when I was about 5 years old I had a very pretty fuschia pink, polka dot, halter neck swimsuit with a little ruffle on the hips. When I wore it I felt like the prettiest little princess in the swimming pool. I wish I had a photo to show you (because I'm sure I was very cute of course) but no-one knows where the family albums might be...

I started on my old lady reminiscing about my beautiful togs when I saw the Orla Kiely Spring\Summer Collection.

I sighed a happy little sigh when I saw these swimsuits. They embody the pretty, carefree happiness of summer perfectly. However the old lady crazy doesn't go as far as thinking I could actually wear a ruffley swimsuit at my age (and size) - these are strictly for tall, slim fresh skinned teenagers. But thats ok - for once I will accept my limitations and turn my eyes to the rest of the collection. I could totally wear any of these fully clothed outfits and still feel the carefree joy that comes with summer (and owning an Orla Kiely wardrobe.)

And I'm dreaming of this bag for short weekends away....

And this pretty red one for every day use...

I can almost smell the summer....

(Visit the Orla Kiely Lookbook)

Necklace Hanger from Hommin

2009-02-18T13:01:00.003Z

Swedish Design Studio Hommin recently displayed this new idea for a clothes rail at the Stockhom Furniture Fair. Instead of a tradition clothes rail, this one is a wire strung with balls so that your clothes can be hung from different heights. It looks like a necklace and would be great for someone with a huge dressing room or bedroom to display their prettiest dresses. Its more likely to be used in shop display though. I like that it is pretty empty as well as with clothes hanging from it.

Le Ballon Rouge

2009-02-12T17:55:00.007Z

I watched Le Ballon Rouge for the first time yesterday after Pia Jane Bijkerk wrote about it. Its absolutely gorgeous - even when its a bad quality upload (but thats ok its free!) - I can't wait to see it on dvd.

Its a short film (32 minutes) set in postwar Paris (1956). It follows a young boy - Pascal - who one day finds a big red balloon on his way to school. Gradually he begins to realise that the balloon has a mind of its own...you'll have to watch it to find out the rest, but it involves lots of beautifully portrayed little adventures as they go through the streets of Paris.

Masking Tape Envy

2009-02-11T14:57:00.004Z

This beautiful Japanese coloured masking tape has been doing the rounds on a couple of blogs and I'm actually in love. Its so beautiful! Its wonderful, why has nobody ever though of it before? The downright practical usefulness of masking tape made pretty! I keep thinking of how good it would look sitting on my desk - and of all the thing I could do with it. I've been doing a bit of internet detective work but my Japanese isn't so good and I can't seem to find anywhere that sells it that would ship to Ireland. Have any of you seen it anywhere in Europe (or even better Ireland)? If you do - let me know because I actually think this is what I've always needed in my life but never known it existed!

(Via Oh Happy Day
...and Simplesong
...and Little Glowing Lights
...and Kimata's Flickr)

Do Something Different this Weekend...

2009-02-06T16:25:00.006Z

...with David Horvitz.

New suggestions are posted regularly on the blog. You can also have them emailed or posted to you.

(Via Vic)

Her Morning Elegance

2009-02-04T12:20:00.004Z

Have you seen this beautiful stop motion video " Her Morning Elegance" from Oren Lavie? I know its tempting to skip over videos when you're scanning blogs (I'll admit I do it all the time!) but you won't regret watching this one - its really beautiful.

If you are as enchanted as I am and you want to know more, check out Oren's MySpace page for the background behind the making of the video.

Streetstyle Inspiration

2009-02-01T13:56:00.009Z

I'm amazed at how long its been since I've posted any Streetstyle photos, so its about time I show you some of the outfits that have been inspiring me recently.

Wonderful frothy tutus like this one worn by katpotato seen in wardroberemix on Flickr.

Full, circular ladylike skirts, like this one worn by Daphne Burki photographed by Garance for French Vogue.com .

Beautiful, bright colour combinations with a background of black tights and accessories - and warm cosy soft mohair cardigans with pretty buttons - as seen on this girl from the Facehunter.

Susie Bubble in lovely soft layers of grey jersey.

This strangely beautiful girl dressed in a way that shouldn't work, and would look ridiculous on most of us but looks fabulously avant garde on her. She is one of the beautiful kids of tomorrow photographed by Garance in Stockholm.

And one last one from Garance - I can't help the fact that my inspiration folder is full of her images, she takes such beautiful photos of the most beautiful and stylish people! This one looks like it belongs in a magazine. I love the contrast between the practical boyish jacket, the feminine petticoat and the fun striped tights. It also helps that she's got fabulous cropped hair and huge mesmerising eyes.

The Yellow Treehouse

2009-01-28T12:16:00.008Z

The New Zealand Yellow Pages has come up with a unique way of advertising to show that no matter how unusual your project the Yellow Pages can help you achieve it. They built this amazing Yellow Treehouse Restaurant 10m up in a redwood tree, videoing and blogging the process. Its interesting as a new marketing concept - 'reality advertising' - but I'm more interested in the treehouse itself. The architects, Pacific Environments Architects, say "It’s the treehouse we all dreamed of as children but could only do as an adult fantasy". Its on a beautiful 'enchanted' site on the edge of a woods, with a meandering stream and an open meadow. Its shines out like a lantern at night, and in the day it looks like a cocoon or chrysalis hanging from the tree. To get to it you have to walk up a 60m walkway which winds up through the woods. My only disappointment, that shatters the fairytale illusion is that the kitchen and tiolets are on the ground, only the seating area is in the treehouse. It would be great if those services wer contained in another treehouse....but maybe I'm just taking the dream too far.

(Via The Contemporis t)

Phonebook Fashion

2009-01-24T15:24:00.007Z

Jolis Paons has a new use for her old phonebooks, she made them into a dress. She pleated, folded, stuck, glued and sewed everything by hand. Its an amazing piece of work - I think its the bodice that really makes it. The way that shoulder strap/collar sticks up at just the right angle then curves down the back, and all that beautiful ruching that shapes the waist. If it wasn't for the Irish weather I would be seriously tempted to tear into the phonebook and see if I could come up with something half as good myself, but I just know the result would look more like a Junior Infants art project than a gown worthy of Cinderella's night at the ball.

Go look and admire more photos here.

(Via Stylealchemy)

The Yokoo Jar

2009-01-21T13:54:00.013Z

Every so often I have a new object of desire. Something I get obsessed with, until in the end I buy it or more often I don't, and the dress/shoes/notebook is eventually no longer available and my affection moves on to the next thing. Currently I'm lusting after one of Yokoo's giant cowls (or scarves, or headbands, or snugglers). I have been watching Yokoo's etsy shop for months, but was saved by the fact that she didn't ship internationally anyway. Then recently I discovered her beautiful photography on Flickr and the obsession deepened. Then today I read that she does now ship internationally! My heart fluttered a little... there's a chance I could own one of those beautiful ginormous, warm, comfy, chunky pieces of knitting! So I've decided its time to start a Yokoo jar, where I will save my pennies until I can afford to buy one. They look so warm and snug and cozy! Until then, lets all gaze at the lovely photos and hope that I manage to save enough pennies before the weather gets too warm to wrap up in giant scarves!

Yokoo's Etsy Shop
Yokoo on Flickr
Yokoo on Lookbook.nu
Etsy Featured Seller Interview with Yokoo

My Beautiful Backside

2009-01-19T15:29:00.012Z

Thank you all for your lovely blog-birthday wishes! Hope your slice of cake was yummy! Now I want to show you something that has been sitting in my "To Blog" folder for a long time, but just last week I had a nice reminder to post it when I read that it had won a well deserved Wallpaper Design Award. Doshi Levien's - My Beautiful Backside furniture would sit perfectly in my dream house. The beautiful collection was inspired by a miniature painting of a Maharani sitting on the floor in her palace, surrounded by dozens of pebble shaped cushions.

"The divans, available in four sizes, have a composition of floating back cushions with celebratory colours and shapes. We used a combination of wool fabric and felt, reminiscent of fine tailored English suits while the use of gold and silver foiling introduces a layer of Indian opulence."

The photo above shows My Beautiful Backside in the Myth and Material Installation in New York in Oct 2008, the Principessa Daybed can be see in the background, another one of their designs that I love.

As you might guess, it refrences Hans Christian Anderson's fairytale of the Princess and the Pea. The top mattress is a bespoke weave showing a graphic composition of objects as if the princess was getting ready for a night out, such as a hairdryer, a necklace, an umbrella and a cocktail glass.

I love the beauty and the poetry of Doshi Levien's designs. Their website is well worth a browse.

(See more photos at Dezeen)

One Year Old!

2009-01-11T16:11:00.004Z

One year, one hundred posts...Thank you all so much for reading A Spoonful of Sugar and leaving comments. Its been a really fun year. Sorry blogging has been rather patchy of late...I will try to be a better blogger this year! Leave a comment and tell me if there's any post you particularly liked from the year or anything you would like to see more of on the blog in the second year. And have a slice of cake from me!

Love, Miss Milki.

Life.Documented

2009-01-04T14:15:00.014Z

Life.Documented is a project by Stephanie from Positively Melancholy. Its all in the title... she documents her life daily with a photo and a short description. It would be an interesting project for anyone to do but I find it particularly interesting because Stephanie has M.E. - the same illness I have.

I have always been reluctant to talk about my illness. Blogging is an escape for me, a chance to forget about being ill and distract myself with beautiful, interesting, pretty things. I don't like to talk about myself much, and if I do its about the good, happy things in my life. I don't want to share the difficulties or the reality of life. This blog is just about the good times! (I've even been too shy to tell you that my absence from the blog in December was because I had such severe pain in my arms that I couldn't lift them to type - Sorry!)

But the problem is that in real life I find it really hard to explain to people what its like to live with M.E. Maybe its because I'm afraid people will think I'm moaning or feeling sorry for myself, or because I don't want my illness to define me... whatever the reason, I find it almost embaressing to talk about having M.E. I automatically play down my illness and put on a brave face, even for friends.

So I see what Stephanie is doing with the Life.Documented project as extremely brave. She is opening up her life for everyone to see the reality of living with M.E. She does it without self pity, presenting it as just one aspect of her life, alongside her fashion blog, her photography and the design business she runs with her partner Stuart. Yet she is not afraid to show the pain of life with M.E. or to let us see the tears that go with it. Sometimes I even find it upsetting to see her pain and to watch an echo of my own life knowing that sometimes I can be distracted but I can never really escape from life with M.E.

I have been following Life.Documented from the start (she's now on day 57 of 365) and its definitely worth following as Stephanie reveals what its like to live with M.E. 365 days of the year. She presents it beautifully and does it without lecturing or moaning, just by being open about her life. (You can click on each photo to go directly to that diary entry)

Happy New Year!

2009-01-04T13:04:00.007Z

Happy New Year! I hope you've all had a lovely Christmas.

I've been tagged by Claire from Young Shields and even though I'm usually terrible at remembering to do these, I thought this was a fun way to start off blogging in the New Year.
(I'll use this opportunity to say, I'm sorry if you've tagged me before and I've skipped over it!)

1. Go to the 4th folder in your computer where you store your pictures.
2. Pick the 4th picture in that folder.
3. Explain the picture.
4. Tag 4 people to do the same!

This is a close up photo of the facade of the Lanvin Boutique in Tokyo designed by Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP. The little circles are acrylic windows in steel plate to give the impression of a diamond encrusted party dress. The construction process is really interesting, because they didn't want to use any sealant they froze the acrylic cylinders to -40 C , transported them to site and inserted them into the steel plate. As the acrylic warmed to room temperature the cylinders expanded and became fixed in the wall.

I don't know if the Tag allows me to use other photos in the explanation but I couldn't leave you without showing the full effect.

The shop at night

The interior during the day

And finally I Tag - Stephanie of Postively Melancholy, Annie Rhiannon from The Little Pinch of Salt, Lyndsay at Lovely Disco and The Clothes Horse.

A Room of One's Own

2008-12-27T13:45:00.003Z

When I was a child I used to hide in a wardrobe to read in peace and quiet. In my special hiding place there was no little brother to annoy me or mother to send me out "to play in the fresh air". It was where the extra quilts and winter coats were stored so it was very comfortable, and it had louvred doors which let in enough light to read by, and allowed me to peep out but no-one could see in. It was the perfect hiding place to devour the latest Famous Five or Nancy Drew adventure. I could spend hours in there without anyone finding me. Since then I've always dreamed of having a library, a room lined with books from floor to ceiling, where I could escape comfortably into the pages of a book. This beautiful reading room by Andrew Berman Architect provides all that I'd dreamed of and more.

It was designed as a library and writing studio for a historian. It sits at the threshold of an open field and wood and there's even a stream visible through the trees at the bottom of the site. As you approach it is just a doorway at the edge of the woods. You enter it and climb the stairs and it opens up into a beautiful light filled tree house. The interior is lined with douglas fir, books and light. The exterior is clad in copper which will change colour and appearance over time.

This short film conveys the tranquillity of the building by simply inviting you to enter and experience the pace of the writer's world inside. Enjoy!

Private Library from A Space In Time on Vimeo.

(Via The Post Family)

T'was the night before Christmas...

2008-12-24T20:43:00.008Z

...and all through the house people were wrapping presents.

I have heard that there are organised people in the world, people that have had their presents bought (even made) for weeks at this stage. Those people do not live in this house. I, of course, am one of the most disorganised, buying my last few presents this morning and not having started the wrapping yet. But before I head off to struggle with Sellotape and ribbon I will leave you with some wrapping genius from the people behind Something's Hiding in Here.

They said "we used color copies of old portraits as our gift wrapping. (we let them do the talking)".

I hope you all have a really lovely Christmas and maybe even get some beautifully wrapped presents tomorrow!

Something's Hiding in Here - Shop
Something's Hiding in Here - Blog
Something's Hiding in Here on Flickr

30 Contemporary Collection - Apologies for the Absence

2008-12-21T19:21:00.013Z

So you might have noticed I've been away for a while and neglected my blog terribly. Sorry to anyone who's been checking in here only to see the same old post over and over! However my absence does mean that I've loads to tell you about. During my little blogging break I got to spend a few days visiting friends in Dublin, and between all the tea drinking and mince pie eating I managed to squeeze in a quick visit to the Gallery of Photography.

They are current celebrating their 30 year anniversary with the 30 Contemporary Collection and Print Draw. An exhibition of photographs from 50 different photographers and a chance to win a print. Here are a few of my favourites. (Click on each photo to see more information. You can see all 50 photographs here.)

Ciarán Óg Arnold

David Farrell

Deirdre O'Callaghan

Anthony Haughey

Kevin O'Farrell

Eve Arnold

Inbar Spector SS09

2008-11-25T12:32:00.008Z

I Love Tulle.

When I was about 4 or 5 I started a ballet class and I was bitterly disappointed when I realised we didn't actually get to wear tutus. Our uniform was scratchy black leotards that were impossible to wiggle into, white tights that were equally difficult to wiggle into and shoes that were held on by elastic instead of the pretty ribbons I had hoped for. The torture was finished off by our mothers scraping our hair painfully back into a bun and securing it with an ugly white headband. It wasn't the glamour I had hoped for in ballet and in the end I didn't persevere long enough to ever get to wear a tutu. I think since then I have always wanted one, so when I began to see lots of tutu-like skirts on the high street this Christmas I've been seriously tempted to buy one. But then I begin to doubt...I'm not 6 anymore, a tutu won't look cute on me, it won't even look ironic...it'll probably just look ridiculous. I kind of know deep down that if I buy a tutu it will just sit in my wardrobe looking pretty...not exactly recessionary spending!

Then I saw Inbar Spector's SS09 collection over on The Coveted...and now I totally covet it. Its grown up and gauzy and textural and fabulous. Forget ballerinas and high street tutus... This is exactly how I want to wear my tulle.

(Via The Coveted and Danny Daily)

P-p-p-pick Up a Penguin...

2008-11-20T17:13:00.012Z

When I was little I often got books from my Grandparents for Christmas, beautifully inscribed with their well wishes. I still have most of them. Enid Blyton features heavily in my library! I love getting books as presents. Especially nice hardbacks that will live on my bookshelves for years to come. But I have to admit my bookshelf doesn't hold many of the 'classics' - and the few that I do have tend to be cheap paperbacks picked up for a few euro, often second hand - almost all a bit ratty at the edges. And I must go further and admit that alot of them haven't even been read - I've given up on many of them half way through. But then I saw this beautiful new Penguin Classics collection designed by Coralie Bickford-Smith, and I found myself wishing my Grandparents still gave me books for Christmas. And I found myself thinking that if this collection of Classics sat on my bookshelves I would read them all, cover to cover, then start again. Or maybe they'd sit on the shelves half read. But it wouldn't matter because they would look beautiful. And I would just look at them every day and admire the gorgeous covers. And that would make me happy.

If just looking at these beautiful books makes you feel happy you should go over to the Penguin blog where you can read an interview with the designer Coralie Bickford-Smith and see some of her other work. (The Penguin blog is a new discovery but I think it may become one of my regular reads.) You can see the books in more detail on Flickr and you can buy them exclusively in Waterstones.

(Via Design Sponge)

Portraits of a City and its Orchestra

2008-11-15T20:31:00.012Z

I saw these amazing photos over on Pia Jane Bijkerk's wonderful blog. They are are a series of portraits of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra taken by photographer Anthony Geernaert and placed into the landscape photographs of David Knight. The photos were 'merged' in photoshop but they are so amazingly realistic that at first I thought they were actually really pasted up around Sydney. (Thanks Pia for letting me know how it was done!) I love the juxtaposition of these larger-than-life musicians and the everyday life passing by. The places he has captured are also beautiful architectural moments that make me want to go to Sydney tomorrow. (I also heard a rumour that its warm and sunny there right now, but of course that has nothing to do with it!)

(Via Pia Jane Bijkerk)

Swop Shop Envy

2008-11-14T16:46:00.007Z

Once again I'm jealous of all you lucky people living in Dublin. There are many ways in which Cork is the real capital but come Thursday next I won't care about any of them, I'll be wishing I was back in the more conventional capital swopping my clothes with the rest of the cool people.

The image says it all...Rough Gem presents the first Swop Shop on Thursday November 20th in The Loft (Powerscourt Townhouse Shopping Centre) from 5pm -8pm. Basically you bring up to 5 pieces of clean wearable clothing with you to swop and in exchange you receive tokens with which you can buy everyone else's more covetable things. In addition there will be a pop-up vintage shop where nothing will cost more than €10, handmade clothing and accessories, a photobooth, a DJ, dancing and cake. Its going to be great! I saw one episode of Twiggy's Frock Exchange last month and its convinced me that swopshops are the best things ever. And of course the people in The Loft Thursday night will be way cooler than Twiggy or Lauren...so what are you waiting for?

Tickets are only €5 and not surprisingly they are in short supply at this stage, so e-mail roughgempresents@gmail.com to reserve yours as quickly as possible. Have fun... and send me a postcard. (If you need any more info or extra details on the rules check the Rough Gem website)

UPDATE: All tickets are now sold out! but there are plans for another one some time in the future and I'll try post about it a little earlier in advance next time!

Optimism

2008-11-08T18:02:00.009Z

Project Optimism is a project run by artist and graphic designer, Reed Seifer. The project began when he wrote and illustrated a poem called Optimism, based on a childhood memory of his father, for his university thesis.

Optimism

An optimist tell you to cheer up when things are going his way.
A middle-aged executive sits outside
the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When the museum’s fountains have been
depleted of pennies, bums rummage through
the trash bins, picking up aluminum.
The executive finishes a soda,
and unlike one who goes to the barrel
farthest from the fountain,
he walks over to a bum, hands him his can
and says, “Here you go, sir.”
The bum says he’s no sir,
but the executive, he doesn’t have
the patience to argue.

He printed the poem onto drinking cans as an illustration and also printed badges with the word OPTIMISM on them and handed them out around the university to build anticipation in the run up to the exhibition. The badges were a huge hit and grew a life of their own, later being sold in various design shops around New York. Now they are available for sale online at the Reed Seifer Store at Supermarket along with some of his other artwork. You can buy a very cool jar of optimism, optimism stickers and some almost-free printable downloads of some optimistic sayings. My favourites are some of his other works, including limited edition $2 bills gold foil stamped with the words "New York is a lot of work" and Wish Piece - 6 selfish and unselfish wishes for sale by the artist.

Footlight

2008-10-31T18:53:00.003Z

This is my first print from my photography class! I'm sure it will all become pretty routine but developing that first roll of film, making my first contact sheet and the first print was all very exciting. Its so much slower and more laborious than taking digital photos or handing a film into a one-hour place to get them developed but somehow that makes each photo more valuable and I find myself thinking more carefully about each photo I'm taking. If I was using my digital camera I could take 36 photos in a few minutes but now that I know the cost in both time and money of shooting a roll of film I take my time over it and make it last. Its a completely different experience. But I guess some things never change and its no surprise that my shoes feature in my first ever print - a habit acquired from outfit posts!