Two brothers - Terry and Renny Russell - set out to discover the rugged wilds and themselves during another fraught time in United States history when the Vietnam War was raging, and free spirits and hippiedom were rampant.  In 1967, their experiences and photographs became a wonderful jewel of a Sierra Club book titled On the Loose.   The statement "after the first Artist Only the Copyist" was basically a photo caption.  I was unable to find an attribution for that profound, semi-religious statement, but it has stuck with me since I first read it.  Being a photographer, my skill is as a copyist.  Which leads me to this week's blog - appreciation of the original designer.  

I have always been interested in design, regardless of medium.  And good design is truly timeless.  Every single object - whether it is industrial or art for art's sake - usually begins with a single line or squiggly.  On a rock wall, a piece of papyrus and later paper, or computer, design is one of those sometimes amorphous things that also frequently defies description.  Then there is the concept of form or function.  I suspect that function generally comes first in industrial design, followed by form after the functionally of an object becomes settled and the designer can add artistic elements.  There are extraordinary designers who can come up with the entire package simultaneously, and I stand in awe of those who are able to visualize an object or function or art at the beginning of the process.  Photography provides context and shows the object.  

Ever since I viewed photographs of SMEG products, I was enamored with them.  Whether it is due to their mid-century modern qualities or the clear and crisp design elements, each product has its function obscured by stunning lines.  From the choice of colors and shape, and use of chrome to ease of the functionality, just looking at them enhances my appreciation.  After that lengthy explanation, it is time to show you what I mean.

I present the humble hot water kettle.  Elegant lines, with high gloss enameled steel comprising the bulk of the container, with just enough chrome utilized as necessary to complete the design.  Shooting in isolated light, both inside and outside, the kettle, inadvertently, became a vehicle for self-portraiture.  

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SMEG was founded in 1948 by Vittorio Bertazoni as an enameling and metalworking company in Italy.  SMEG stands for Smalterie Metallurgiche Emiliane Guastalla, and the company is known for everything from large home appliances to multiple lines of small kitchen appliances such as hot water kettles and toasters.   The creators and workers at SMEG have my appreciation for their sublime designs.

Thanks to Jean & Sam, TTT, Barbara F. R., Terry T., Marilyn G., Brenda, Ingrid, Catherine, Steve, and Sara for commenting on last week's blog!  

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image©