I created this post a while back, but I only just now got around to completing it.
The other day, I decided to photograph a series of tchotchkes that inhabit my room. I think you can tell a lot about someone from their room/house, especially by what kind of items are just sitting around collecting dust.
For those unfamiliar with the word “tchotchkes”…
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a “tchotchke” is a knickknack, trinket, bauble, doodad, curiosity, etc. The word is Yiddish and, according to Wikipedia, “…has long been used by Jewish-Americans and in the regional speech of New York City and elsewhere.” Furthermore, according to Wikipedia, “Depending on context, the term has a connotation of worthlessness or disposability, as well as tackiness…”
I don’t really consider these things “worthless” or “disposable,” because each object comes with its own memory and nostalgia. But, as you may observe, these objects definitely err on the side of “tacky.”
(Click on images to enlarge.)
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Copyright 2012 by G. E. Gallas
September 20th, 2012 at 9:36 am
I love me some tchotchkes! I have a studio full of curiosities and often times it weasels its way into my work. Your artwork and writing projects look really interesting. Thanks for sharing your work and I hope you can make it to the UK for more inspiration.
September 20th, 2012 at 10:19 am
Ah, a like-minded soul! I can just imagine your studio — your work is so full of delightful whimsy. Thanks for your interest and support!