For my thesis work I created memory boxes for the treasured, everyday objects of three individuals. To create these boxes, I interviewed each person one-on-one in a cozy and safe environment. I listened to their stories about their memory objects, and asked each person to generate a mood board of imagery that represented their memories and how they feel about their collection. I was also inspired by the messages and illustrations of children’s books, that teach us that we matter just the way we are. Through this process, I centered values of vulnerability, care, home, and boundary creation. Each box is based on the person’s answers to the following questions, as well as their objects and personal stories.
1) What kind of feelings do you get when you look through your memory items?
2) How would you like to display the box that I am making for you?
3) What qualities of this box are the most important?
4) What purpose do you want a memory box to serve in your life?
5) What values do you live by?
6) What is a favorite memory you have?
7) What are your favorite plants and why?