BALANCING ACT

I have always been fascinated as much by what people have collected as how they have it displayed. In some cases the displays are almost clinical and sterile, some just have pots stacked everywhere (which I personally dislike) while others have their objects interspersed within the home to be lived with. Perhaps one of the most enduring images I have is from a visit with a potter while at Haystack, the display was arranged on a wonderful old and folky pie safe with a brilliant array of pots by Jeff Oestreich and Michael Simon, a display that continues to resonate to this day.

As soon as I saw this photo of a rather totemic balancing act I was reminded that not ever collector is a collector but rather people just living with "stuff" in an intimate and connected way, a structured and for some, a contemplative environment. In this case, a larger Michael Simon Persian box acts as a platform for a slightly smaller one with safe, rubber cushions added to the feet to protect the lid from any contact issues as well as adding a good degree of traction. I really like this Michael Simon totem that surely shows off the forms and decoration to great effect and since they are just adjacent to the window the light show must be truly inspired day in and day out.

Did I mention they are just off the countertop and well within reach of an adventurous and inquisitive cat?