The Question of Perfection
Imperfections are not only beautiful, they represent the artistry made by human hands. They reveal a process and a connection to the maker. In a world obsessed with perfection and an expectation of uniformity, imperfections tell a more interesting story.
I've been very fortunate during the course of my career as a designer to see first-hand the multiple steps that turn raw materials into an object of beauty. It's easy to take for granted the complex and difficult processes involved in making handmade pieces. I have witnessed artisans forging red-hot metal, blowing molten glass, hand dying skews of wool, horse hair woven strand-by-strand on ancient looms, and massive terra cotta vessels turned on a wheel. It has given me an immense appreciation for the work, patience and skill that has taken years to perfect. It's made me appreciate the time, physical energy and often dangerous procedures involved in creating pieces to add beauty to our homes. Handmade products are genuinely special and unique. No two products will ever be exactly the same - uniqueness is part of their inherent identity and beauty.
Every piece is a result of a time-consuming development of an original idea - failure after failure; reworking proportions; experimenting with materials; going back to the drawing board countless times to make minor adjustments; an obsession with details and quality. A commitment to make something by hand is important in this age of mass production and fixation on perfection. And yes, it has made me accept and honour imperfections. I see their beauty and embrace the signature of its maker.
I'm advocating that the question of perfection needs to adopt a broader philosophy of acceptance - allowing us to see the beauty of a rough surface, the not-so-perfect symmetry of a vase, the uneven weave of a silk wall covering. Time honoured crafts are the result of multiple complex processes, countless hours of labour, training and knowledge passed down through generations. These pieces have a story, an energy, a soul. Next time you look at an item that has been handmade, embrace its perfect imperfections and honour the story it tells.