Living design
One of the more classical visual representations of Zen is the bonsai. All unique, symbolizing a balance of nature and symmetry. Maintaining one is quite difficult and requires patience, knowledge and an environment conducive to proper growth.
There must be a spiritual bond that allows for the most successful bonsai to live decades and longer. What makes this bonsai care so reminiscent of Zen practice is the ability to focus on something outside of one’s self while ultimately becoming better at appreciating all of earth’s amazing gifts. Also it can be said that the one that cares for the bonsai becomes the bonsai and the bonsai becomes the gardener - both becoming one representation of a single life.
I think as you view these examples — (2) — (3) — (4) and articles you will see what I mean. The heart and soul of the Bonsai continues to beat soundly after hundreds of years.
tasty design 4 (literally)
A few years back a friend at work gave me a chocolate truffle from Vosges. I had never seen or heard of chocolate being combined with exotic flowers and hot spices. Right before I take my first bite, she says, “Do you know how to eat a truffle?” Up until that moment I had never given it much thought. Apparently when you are about to bite into heavenly goodness, you need to take your time. (Read this).
In my mind it would be like going on a date with Eva Mendes. I would probably want to enjoy every minute. She’s velvet cacao and spice wrapped up in a curvy little package. Where was I? Oh yeah, Vosges. You will be amazed with their passion for chocolate and exciting flavor combinations. The designer in you will love the gorgeous packaging and attached literature, so you may want to consider Vosges for this year’s gift idea.
tasty design 3
Don’t you just love the calm evenings at home with your laptop and cup of tea? That’s when you get to discover more sites like Toxel.com that tickle the design funnybone. Creative inspiration, nice products and structures, remind me that I hooked on all things design related. So as I sip on my tea, I dream of my cozy perfectly designed get- a-way in the woods.
