The Tree of Life

Today I watched this movie for the second time since it came out in theaters. I sincerely believe that it is the most beautiful movie ever made in the history of mankind. It deals with the relationship between man and his creator with reverence and delicacy. The entire movie uses natural lighting and some of the most breathtaking scenes you will ever see. The music, the scenery, the cinematography, the characters, the nostalgia, the intimacy—are all what makes it so magnificent. You will get goosebumps!!

But don't expect lightheartedness or fast pace or even explanation. This is a somber movie, meant to speak to the very core of each person's individuality and humanity. What makes us question our existence and purpose more than suffering and great loss? This is not God as the burning bush or the storm, but rather God as the whisper of the wind. It is both symbolic and intimate.

We are so caught up in our technological society that we forget how still and quiet things used to be. How kids played outside and learned about the world through nature itself. How neighbors depended on each other. How authoritative most fathers were, and how submissive yet brave were the women. I recommend this movie only if you are prepared to accept the contemplative nature of it—because you cannot watch it and remain unaltered.

[Edit - June 13, 2012]

I saw today this comment on the Facebook page for Tree of Life. It was so perfectly and beautifully put, I thought I would add it to my post:

"There are not enough superlatives in my vocabulary to express how much I love this film. It is not something you watch. It is something you live through. It has left me an emotionally open wound, but I wouldn't have it any other way. It is, perhaps, the most important movie made in the sound era. It is not easy. It is not always nice. It is, however, always magnificent." (-Matt Pinkerton)

Diner Table

My brother came to visit yesterday and brought with him my kitchen diner table that a friend was holding on to for me. Awhile back, we bought this at a huge antique mall called Angel's Antiques. We went there several times over the course of a month and each time I had to impulsively check if it was still there. In the end, I had to buy it. And I pretty much ended up designing my house around it! It was the first piece of furniture I ever bought, and is the cause for my aqua obsession. ;)

Because of how old it is though, it's got some rusty spots in certain areas. Does anyone know any tricks to clean that up a little bit? I don't mind adding a little of my own elbow grease. :P

Mister Retro

My plan is to eventually have a housewarming party and I would love for it to have a retro theme. Of course as a graphic designer, this is the perfect opportunity to design something adorable for my invitations! Some of my favorite illustrations come from Mister Retro. He still has a very characteristic 60's look, and I love the way that he uses color fields and outlines. The perspective is usually insanely inaccurate, which makes everything look so funky and playful too. After looking at a lot of his work, I was able to come up with this design for the front of the invite. I used a sharpie to create all the outlines, and then went back and added the colors in the computer. I wasn't sure how it was going to all come together, but I think it turned out pretty cute! :)

Also, I'm still coming up with ideas for games to play / food to serve at the party. Does anyone have any suggestions??

The Classic Makeover

This is an absolutely fantastic animation created for Penguin Books' new collection of classics. I love the play of positive and negative space—especially when the penguin disappears/appears at the beginning and end. The engraving images and limited color palette are very traditional, but the style of animation and the colors give it a modern feel too. Basically, I would classify it as "Vintage Modern" which is really trendy in the design world right now. Anyway, watch this video—it's totally brilliant!