Other People’s Things
A collection of other people and their favorite things accumulated and captured by
Cassidy L. Day
CONTENTS 07
Adolescence
31
Art & Home
59
Lifestyle
89
Inherited
127
Wearable
W H AT I S
Other People’s Things? Other People’s Things is a collection of other people and their favorite things.
WHY DID I DO THIS? Sometimes—okay, a lot of the time—I find myself
their own identities they do so through materialism.
looking around my house and at my belongings and
This continues into adulthood and only deepens as
wondering, what is all of this shit? Where did I go wrong?
the individual develops a more meaningful identity,
How did I become a borderline hoarder? I feel cluttered
experiences, and set of relationships. The attachment
and claustrophobic in my own home, so lately I’ve
to personal belongings deepens with age as they
begun to more closely examine the things I have and
become more infused with a sense of identity.
why I have them. Am I crazy? Probably. After researching the psychology of people and their attachment to objects, however, it seems that I am not the only one who clings to their possessions. An article published by The British Physiological Society suggests that the attachment we feel towards objects begins from a very young age. Children often experience the “endowment effect,”
“I hold on to objects tied to memories because I want to remember what I’ve done and where I’ve been.”
when they place extra value on an object simply because it belongs to them. We can observe this effect
So I’m not that crazy? Maybe not. I’ve always felt
easily, when child goes into a blind rage when another
attached to my possessions, but then I’ve always had an
child attempts to take their favorite toy. Children
extremely sentimental personality. I hold on to objects
also usually have a particularly intense relationship
tied to memories because I want to remember what
with one object which is called a “transitional object.”
I’ve done and where I’ve been. I never moved around
This object comforts and relieves stress for infants
much as a child or as a young adult so I tend to create
experiencing the natural process of separation from
a nest in my space in a very physical way. I accumulate
its mother.
things I like to look at but also things that define me as a person. I like to decorate my spaces with little
As we grow into adolescence the objects we find
hints of who I am as a person. As I’ve grown older, I’ve
important become an extension of ourselves and our
tried to detach from the physical and create the same
personality. We collect things that reflect who we think
sense of belonging without the clutter—but I’ve never
we are and how we hope to appear to others. This is
managed to kick the hoarding habit. These objects, my
demonstrated in the way teenagers decide to dress or
belongings, will always feel like an extension of myself.
decorate their first vehicle. As teens mature and seek
introduction
Other People’s Things
001
This project began because I wanted to rationalize the
sentimental. To maintain the authenticity of the
insanity of my sentimental heart. My first idea was to
project, I tried not to prime my subjects when asking
catalogue all the bits and pieces that I had accumulated
them their favorite thing. The most pointed advice I
over the years, but I decided that I wanted this project
ever gave was “If you knew your house was going to
to reflect the sentimentalities and the small insanities
flood tomorrow, what would you definitely throw in
of others instead of just myself. I wanted to know
your car beyond clothes and toiletries?”
whether the people around me interact in the same way with their own objects.
It was for this reason that I also didn’t want to tell people when I interviewed them that I was making a book, because I knew that the prospect of publication
HOW DID I DO THIS?
would encourage people to choose the most interesting or aesthetically pleasing object they owned.
I discovered that the best way to conduct my
Despite my silence on the matter of the book, I still got
investigation into other people’s things was to begin
responses from subjects telling me that their favorite
with a simple question and hope for a complex
object “wasn’t cool” and that I probably wouldn’t want
answer.
to use it in my project.
What is your favorite thing?
After assembling a group of willing participants and their answers to a survey asking them to explain
When I asked people this question, their initial
in greater detail their favorite things I began
response was often uneasy. Most people were confused
photographing people’s objects. It was a very low tech
why I wanted to know. This was not a question they
set up; I mostly used natural light and white foam
were familiar with answering about themselves.
board. If I needed to shoot at night, I kept a set of lights
The most trusting or self-assured of my subjects
in the back of my car.
immediately attempted to think of their objects but more often people had to consider the question. When I asked the question, many people responded “what do you mean by my favorite thing?” They were confused about whether I meant an object they used every day, couldn’t live without, or something more
Other People’s Things
introduction
AGE 18-34
84% 35-54
11% 55+
4% “TOO OLD”
1%
GENDER FEMALE
66% MALE
34%
002
WHO ARE THESE
Other People? “Other People” are my friends, family, coworkers,
questions. The people listed below are the reason my
peers, and basically anybody who let me pester them
project was completed, and for that I thank them.
into taking pictures of their objects and answer my
OTHER PEOPLE: Abigayle Cole Brewer
Dason Sebastian Pettit
Mendrix Punzalan
Allie Appel
Devonte Raheem Lewis
Molly Elizabeth Rainer
Amanda Terrell
Don Mark Roxas
Molly Katz
Amy Blacketter
Douglas Joseph Babin
Nhi Nguyen
Amy Difulco
Elizabeth Briggs
Nicholas Miner
Annalynne Talbert
Elizabeth Martin
Peggy Day
Ashley O’neill Monaghan
Ellie Young
Riley Katz
Ashlyn Mullins
Emily Roemer
Ryan Fox
Bridgette Hogan
Gabe Hilliard
Sabrina L Mazer
Brooke Babin
Hayden Nagin
Sophia Acuna
Brooke M. Hathaway
Hye Jung
Sophie Goodgion
Camden Hilliard
Jacqueline Foreman
Stephen Knight
Carlin Mumphrey
Jennifer Stringer
Stephen Marshall Dodson
Cassidy Gwaltney
Jessie Chappuis
Susan Taylor
Charles Champagne
Johnston Burkhardt
Suzannah Burke
Chase Whitney
Kelley Campbell
Thomas Wimberly
Christina Persaud
Laura Devalcourt
Thomas Wisecarver
Claire Carr
Laura Groh
Tori Robichaux
Charlie Carr
Lisa Deragon
Tory Cunningham
Corinne Richter
Marcelle Moskau
Tristan Francis
Danny Sherman
Meghan Saas
Victoria Murphy
Other People’s Things
introduction
005
OTHER PEOPLE’S
Words
I asked the people who participated in the project to
the theory that people are more attached to objects
pick from a list of words that described their favorite
that are associated with their identities, and to the
thing. The participants were allowed to select multiple
people and places that shaped who they are.
words. The top word, sentimental, is consistent with
S E N T I M E N TA L
V I N TA G E
79.8%
28.6%
USEFUL
NEW
38.1%
13.1%
WEARABLE
TECHNOLOGY
VA LUA B L E
OTHER*
35.7% 33.3%
13.1%
11.9%
CHILDHOOD
29.8%
* Other words included: Bae, Encouraging, Interactive,Artistic, Challenging, Sacred, Spiritual, Badass, Comforting, Amazing
adolescence
1 Other People’s Things
Adolescence Things from the time between birth and perceived adulthood
007
NAME
Tori Robichaux
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Stuffed Animal W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was given to me as a gift from a group of friends I had in high school.
It was easy. As embarrassing as it is to admit it I’d probably be pretty devastated if I lost it. Sure, there are lots of things that would upset me if lost them (like my laptop or a piece of jewelry) - but I could eventually replace those things. This silly stuffed animal means so much to me because I would not be able to recreate the memories I associate with it.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I want to say I was most likely 14 or 15 when they gave it to me. It also may have been a Christmas gift but I don’t remember.
WHY THIS THING?
It holds a lot of sentimental value. The group of friends who gifted it to me had a lot of influence over the type of person I would end up becoming. I owe some of my biggest accomplishments to the support I received from those girls.
adolescence
Other People’s Things
009
adolescence
Other People’s Things
010
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Baseball Glove W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
WHY THIS THING?
I started playing baseball at the age of 4, always coached by my dad. Once I started playing live pitch ball, I needed a good quality baseball glove. My dad bought me a really nice Mizuno glove. He always said, “Treat your glove like your best friend.” Never throw it, never leave it in the rain, and ultimately, never lose it. That lasted about 1 year. I ended up leaving it at the ball park, in the rain. I was in so much trouble. But being the awesome dad he is, he bought me another one, exactly like it. I’ve had Mizuno Vol.2 ever since and have always had it with me. I’ll never lose it again, and I’ll never need another glove.
This glove has countless childhood memories, as well as current ones. I love the smell of the leather, the memory of when my teammate threw me a ball and ripped right through the pocket and had to re-lace it with a different color leather, and my name written by my dad on the “pinky” of the glove. I still use it to play ball leagues today.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
13
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes at first, but then thought about how badly I would feel if I ever lost this glove.
NAME
Ryan Fox
GENDER
Male
AGE
26
NAME
Jennifer Stringer
GENDER
Female
AGE
36
adolescence
Other People’s Things
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Stuffed Giraffe W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Mom and dad
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
About 2 years old
WHY THIS THING?
I remember having it all the time and it making me feel safe and cozy when I would nap with it.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
No only because I have fond memories with multiple things from my childhood.
013
adolescence
Other People’s Things
014
NAME
Ashlyn Mullins
GENDER
Female
AGE
22
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Baby Blanket W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
WHY THIS THING?
My Parents
Because I’m 22 and I still have the damn thing in a drawer by my bed just in case I need it.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I was a baby.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, it’s always been my favorite.
adolescence
Other People’s Things
016
NAME
Ellie Young
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Stuffed Cat W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My aunt gave it to me when my family visited her in California years ago when I was a little girl
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I believe I was about 3 or 4 years old.
WHY THIS THING?
It chose me. I don’t like to attach myself to material possessions in general, but I am very sentimental about Kitty and connected to her (Yes, I gave it a gender too). I still sleep with her in my bed (no shame) and it’s literally the only thing I would save from my house in case of a fire.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, because she’s always on my bed and I have taken her with me to all of my homes and apartments. Like I said, I don’t care for material possessions much but I feel very comforted by Kitty and I would have an extremely hard time letting her go or losing her.
adolescence
Other People’s Things
018
NAME
Stephen Knight
GENDER
Male
AGE
24
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Life-Size Spiderman W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
A Blockbuster giveaway
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Fall 2002 at age 10.
WHY THIS THING?
He’s been there through thick and thin
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Not at first, because I’ve grown to take him for granted.
adolescence
Other People’s Things
020
NAME
Tristan Francis
GENDER
Male
AGE
23
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Pokemon Binder W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I’ve collected 200+ cards over many childhood years by trading with friends and buying card packs from stores.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My parents probably first bought me the binder and a pack of cards when I was 8.
WHY THIS THING?
Playing Pokemon, collecting cards, and hanging out with friends was a huge part of my childhood. The Pokemon branded binder is like a time capsule for me where I can always go back and remember those childhood moments.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was difficult to think of my favorite thing mostly because I don’t have many items of sentimental value.
adolescence
Other People’s Things
022
NAME
Abigayle Cole Brewer
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Black Stuffed Animal Dog W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got her for Christmas when I was five from Santa Claus. My family and I were in the living room opening gifts and I got Beauty and three other stuffed animals.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I was five and it was Christmas morning
WHY THIS THING?
I have had Beauty for a long time and she has come on many vacations with me. She is just something I always have around. I still sleep with her every night. All my friends no about her and love to make fun of me but I don’t plan on getting rid of her anytime soon.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, absolutely. She may not have much meaning but I bring her with me every time I go home and every time I travel.
NAME
Danny Sherman
GENDER
Male
AGE
25
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Vlad the Viking W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My dad brought him back from Denmark.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
2000. I was 8.
WHY THIS THING?
I hold on to little, and Vlad is the oldest object I own. He’s a nice keepsake from my past. I really like the simplicity and cartoonish nature of him, and he also strongly invokes a country I admire and aim to travel to one day.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes. I’ve moved around a lot over the last five years. Few physical objects have made it through that time period, so the ones that are left are important to me.
adolescence
Other People’s Things
025
NAME
Riley Katz
GENDER
Male
AGE
22
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Nintendo 64 W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My parents
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
When I was 6-years-old.
WHY THIS THING?
It reminds me of childhood and when friends would spend the night. We would stay up for hours and hours playing games and trying not to get caught awake after bedtime.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Not at all. There’s so many things that mean a lot to me and choosing one was very hard.
adolescence
Other People’s Things
027
NAME
Sophia Acuna
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Stuffed Animal W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My parents gave it to me
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
When I was born it was my first present I received in the hospital.
WHY THIS THING?
It has sentimental value.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, It’s been with me for my entire life and it reminds me of home.
adolescence
Other People’s Things
029
art and home
2 Other People’s Things
Art & Home
Things that decorate, personalize, and add comfort to living spaces.
031
NAME
Elizabeth Martin
GENDER
Female
AGE
63
“[They] have so little and could create beauty from recycled telephone wire.”
Other People’s Things
art & home
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My South African Bowl W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Off of Etsy
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got it about two months ago
WHY THIS THING?
I loved that something so beautiful was made by South African women who have so little and could create beauty from recycled telephone wire.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Not really because there are quite a few things I like but this one stood out since it was a recent purchase, I suppose
033
art & home
Other People’s Things
034
NAME
Annalynne Talbert
GENDER
Female
AGE
24
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Lamp W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
An antique shop in Florida
It’s actually the very first thing that came to my mind but then I thought I should choose something more meaningful but it’s awesomeness and rarity just consumed my thoughts when choosing a favorite thing. If I could choose a favorite desert it would be a no brainer....a cold piece of key lime pie (just saying, it’s the Florida in me).
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
An antique shop in Florida
WHY THIS THING?
Even though it is just a lamp it is filled with character. It’s not like any other lamp I’ve seen. It is in the shape of a tree and has a tree trunk and a branch with a little bird perched on it. The shade of the lamp looks like the top of a tree but is made of metal accordion green layers. It took me a while to figure out how to turn it on and off so I would just plug and unplug it from the wall until I discovered a circular lever that goes around the tree trunk that you simply push up and down. Everything about it so quirky and unique. Which are two qualities I highly admire in people, things, places, and anything really. I aspire to be the qualities that this lamp has.
“Everything about it is so quirky and unique. Which are two qualities I highly admire in people, things, places, and anything really. I aspire to be the qualities that this lamp has.�
art & home
Other People’s Things
037
art & home
Other People’s Things
038
NAME
Emily Roemer
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Jack Johnson Record W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My dad
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My senior year of high school (18 years-old)
WHY THIS THING?
The lyrics in the record define my life. It’s more about the music and the lyrics than the physical record for me. “Don’t let dreams be dreams” is a mantra that I live by.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Not at all. It just took a lot of thought.
NAME
Allie Appel
GENDER
Female
AGE
24
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Painting of my Late Dog Quinn W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I had it commissioned after her passing.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got it when I was 23.
WHY THIS THING?
It is a daily comfort to me and the artist captured her spirit so well it’s like she’s still around in a way.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was difficult because I am a Katrina flood survivor- we lost everything and it made me way less sentimental toward objects.
art & home
Other People’s Things
041
NAME
Stephens Marshall Dodson
GENDER
Male
AGE
28
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Large American Flag W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Buffalo Exchange thrift store
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Summer 2015. I was 27 at the time.
WHY THIS THING?
It’s huge and beautiful to look at it.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes. It was easy because I see it every day. I have it hanging over my bed.
art & home
Other People’s Things
043
NAME
Molly Elizabeth Rainer
GENDER
Female
AGE
22
Other People’s Things
art & home
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Acceptance Letter W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
LSU
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I was 18
WHY THIS THING?
It has a lot of importance beside just being a piece of paper. Coming from out of state and being dyslexic It was a little harder for me to get into college than most people I went to high school with.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Not really. I don’t have a lot of sentimental things. If I could picked an thing that was alive I would have said my parents or my dog. I’m not attached to many inanimate things that I own.
045
NAME
Meghan Saas
GENDER
Female
AGE
29
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Orange Chair W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I bought it at my favorite vintage clothing store, the Rag & Bone, in Pennsylvania. It wasn’t for sale – I just really loved it and convinced the owner Shelly to sell it to me one day.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I bought it in 2012. I was 25 years old and had landed my first salaried job, and had just moved into a tiny apartment, living without roommates for the first time.
WHY THIS THING?
This was the first object I ever owned that couldn’t be easily packed up in the car and moved. It symbolizes my readiness to settle down in one place. I’ve lived in 7 states, and I do love moving, so up until this chair, everything I owned was collapsible or unsentimental; when the time came to move, everything could fit in my car or be left behind. But I loved this chair and I
was ready to stay put for a while, for the first time in my life. I still bounced around and traveled, but with a home base that was steady. And that chair was the first thing that marked that place as a long term home base, a place I could settle in.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
No. I’m not a sentimental person, so I don’t tend to hang on to things that I don’t use. I love The Orange Chair because it’s both sentimental in theory and useful in practice. I love what it symbolizes, and I also love to snuggle up in the chair and read. I sit in it every day!
art & home
Other People’s Things
047
NAME
Kelley Campbell
GENDER
Female
AGE
48
art & home
Other People’s Things
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Embroidered Photo W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Cassidy made it for me
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
The picture was taken when I was 28 but artwork and embroidery was my Christmas gift last year.
WHY THIS THING?
Because the picture used in the artwork is from one of the best days of my life.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
I had a few things in mind at first and it was harder for me to decide on just one.
049
art & home
Other People’s Things
050
NAME
Sophie Goodgion
GENDER
Female
AGE
22
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Stump W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Blood Mountain, the highest peak on the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Junior year of college, age 21, while on a trip with classmates to attend an advertising competition. We squished 7 of us into my mom’s mini van, stayed two nights in a cabin on the way, won the competition and drove home...the stump rode with us under my feet the whole way.
WHY THIS THING?
It definitely has sentimental value. Not only did I find it with a group of friends who I deeply respect and became very close with, but it was during a time period that I grew a lot as a person. I was working really hard toward very specific goals alongside peers who were doing the same, we were dirt-tired but happy.
“Seemingly purposeless objects that bring me joy and peace of mind just by knowing they exist and are nearby.”
Although it now serves a more aesthetic and utilitarian purpose as a side table – a little slice of nature setting the stage for drinks, drugs, late-night writings, etc. I’m not someone who settles into places quickly or comfortably. I’ve moved around a lot as a young adult. My stump, along with a few other contenders for “my favorite things,” is something that will hopefully come with me everywhere I go from here on out, and help make my future habitats feel like home. I think the main reason I picked it is because I can very vividly recall memories of some of my favorite people, from different times and friend groups, all at one point sitting around my little stump...and that makes me happy.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Nope. I’m a collector of knick-knacks and doo-dads. Seemingly purposeless objects that bring me joy and peace of mind just by knowing they exist and are nearby. Narrowing down my top five was easy, picking just one was hard.
NAME
Gabe Hilliard
GENDER
Male
AGE
22
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Blanket W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
When I was in High School, I battled cancer twice. Around the time I was rediagnosed, a friend of mine also was diagnosed but with a different kind of cancer. Her family and some friends from their church made this blanket and prayed over it and gave it to me and also gave one to her. I kept it with me in the hospital every time I went to get chemo because the rooms were always so cold. Sadly she lost her battle with cancer a few months later. We weren’t very close but experiencing those experiences and being able to relate was a big thing.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
When I was 16.
WHY THIS THING?
Though it is a memory of Camille, it is also a reminder of my journeys through having cancer. I almost lost my battle too at one point, but God miraculously saved me. Its a reminder of the value of life, that its fleeting and important not to waste.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
At first no, but when I realized if I lost the blanket or it got destroyed how heartbreaking that would be to me. Then it was easy to see that it was my favorite thing.
art & home
Other People’s Things
“Its a reminder of the value of life, that its fleeting and important not to waste.”
053
art & home
Other People’s Things
054
NAME
Laura Groh
GENDER
Female
AGE
22
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Picasso Style Painting W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I painted it for a school art project in 8th grade.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I suppose I was about 13.
WHY THIS THING?
I chose it this painting as my favorite thing because it represents the things I love and it makes me happy looking at it. It’s hanging in the foyer of my parents house. Toby was my most loyal dog growing up. We had the same birthday. My rabbit, Fluffy, and Toby would chase each other in our front yard and play for hours together. It was adorable. And Picasso is one of my most favorite artists. It’s just fun and brings back some great memories.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
I had gone back and fourth between a couple of things but when I went to my parents house and saw that painting again, it was obvious. Plus, it’s the closest thing I can get to making my late-dog my favorite thing.
NAME
Jessie Chappuis
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Bed W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
It’s a hand-me-down from my sister.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
When my sister went to college in 2005. I was 10. Minus the two lost years when I lived in a dorm and a furnished apartment.
WHY THIS THING?
My bed is my ultimate place of comfort. I never want to leave it and miss it when I spend time away. It feels protective, indulgent, and instinctual, like a bird’s nest.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Somewhat. It came to mind immediately because I have recently have taken more notice of my attachment to my bed and bedroom.
art & home
Other People’s Things
057
lifestyle
3 Other People’s Things
Lifestyle
Things that are functional and can be used for leisure or have an everyday use
059
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
061
NAME
Dason Sebastian Pettit
GENDER
Male
AGE
42
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Camera W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My Partner
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
42
WHY THIS THING?
My camera functions as a way for me to interpret the world artistically.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes. It’s something that I is important to me and plays a pretty significant role in my life.
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
063
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
064
NAME
Charlie Carr
GENDER
Male
AGE
62
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My F-Style Mandolin W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Private sale from a professional recording musician. I can put on his CD and hear how it sounds when it’s being played by somebody with real talent.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
WHY THIS THING?
54
It gives me great joy to play because it’s fun, and there’s a sense of accomplishment, as well. The instrument itself is a beautifully constructed work of art, with wonderful tone and clarity.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
There were a few things at the top of my list; a bicycle, and a dog were way up there, too. You cannot list family as “things” so I excluded them. The mandolin was a pretty easy choice, though the bike was close.
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
067
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
068
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Old Copy of Pride & Prejudice W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
WHY THIS THING?
Barnes and Noble
This copy of Pride and Prejudice introduced me to the genius that is Jane Austen. It has comforted me and entertained me more times than I can count. It has traveled with me on every vacation, road trip, and extended waiting room stay. It has taught me about the bonds of sisterhood, the power of irony in literature, the beautiful complexities of family and friendship, the many forms of feminism, and, yes, even love. Though I I’ve read it countless times, I discover something new every time I open it.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I bought this copy of Pride and Prejudice when I was about 13 years old. I had just discovered the concept of reading for pleasure and I was pretty convinced that I was ready to venture out of the young adult section.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes
NAME
Brooke M Hathaway
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
NAME
Tory Cunningham
GENDER
Male
AGE
25
“Physical items deteriorate in life so I’d rather be attached to my friends and confidantes.”
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Nintendo 3DS W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I bought it for myself at a Wal-mart
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
21
WHY THIS THING?
I chose my 3DS because I don’t have a lot of free time but when I do occasionally, I love playing games to free my mind. My thoughts are constantly rambling in my head with regards to my day, things I need to do, and work I need to accomplish. When I play my 3DS though, I can take a breather for just a few minutes to crush Mario or Pikachu in a match and not be bogged down by stress.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
No it wasn’t easy because I don’t have a lot of possessions that I’m truly attached to. I don’t tend to find a lot of physical items important to me because I hate spending money, am not looking to impress anyone but myself, and am not a sentimental person in regards to physical possessions. Passing down family heirlooms is also not something anyone in my family really has an affinity for either so I have very few of those. Physical items deteriorate in life so I’d rather be attached to my friends and confidantes.
071
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
072
NAME
Elizabeth Briggs
GENDER
Female
AGE
24
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Water Bottle from Studying Abroad W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Studying abroad
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Spring 2014 (20 years old)
WHY THIS THING?
I bought a sticker and put it on this water bottle in every country that I visited when I spent a semester abroad, so each sticker has a different memory and experience associated with it. That semester was a transformative time in my life that I spent with some amazing people, and these stickers always remind me of it.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, it was easy. I just thought, “What’s one of the first things I would grab if there was a fire in my house?”
NAME
Douglas Joseph Babin
GENDER
Male
AGE
5
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Bowl W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My mom made it for me when she took a ceramics class at LSU.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got my favorite thing a year and a half ago. I was 4 at the time.
WHY THIS THING?
I chose this as my favorite object because my mom put a lot of time and effort into making it. I use it every day when my mom puts my food into it. Mom painted balls on the front of it, because if I were to pick a second favorite object it would most certainly be balls. My bowl is higher off of the ground so that it helps with my digestion when I’m eating. Also, it’s just pretty fucking cool and no one else in the world has one.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, because I like that it gets filled up twice a day with yummy food.
075
NAME
Amy Blacketter
GENDER
Female
AGE
24
Other People’s Things
lifestyle
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Personal Branded Yeti cup W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My Boyfriend
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Last year at age 23
WHY THIS THING?
It can be such an ordinary object to most, but it’s much more to me. It enhances my want and need for implementing wanting to drink more water because it holds the perfect temperature for my taste. Besides health reasons, it was given to me as a surprise by someone special and is completely unique to me with my personal branding I developed for myself. It plays a major part in my everyday life and I did not even realize until I was asked this question!
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
NOT AT ALL. I had to focus on things throughout my daily routine to realize what it was.
077
NAME
Hye Jung
GENDER
Female
AGE
22
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
079
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Film Camera W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
WHY THIS THING?
I bought it from ebay
Film photography has been something I loved for a while, and this was the first film camera I purchased so I could actually get down to doing it myself
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
When I was a senior in high school - so probably 17 D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was pretty easy. I just looked around my room once and this was what came to my mind.
NAME
Mendrix Punzalan
GENDER
Male
AGE
22
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Ukulele W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My mom
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
On my 13th birthday
WHY THIS THING?
Because music is my passion and it’ reflects my personality. It’s very happy and laid back.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
No, because it’s something I have with me everyday, it’s a part of me I cannot forget.
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
081
NAME
Christina Persaud
GENDER
Female
AGE
27
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Planner W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
BlueSky - an online store
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Though I purchased this particular planner last year, I’ve had a planner since I started 5th grade.
WHY THIS THING?
Since I can remember, I’ve always loved to plan and chart out what needs to be done in order to get to my end goal (whether it’s completing a simple daily task or something like a larger life milestone). My planner is an integral part of my daily life, both professionally and personally.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, because it’s something that I use and value every day.
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
083
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
084
NAME
Victoria Murphy
GENDER
Female
AGE
22
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Saddle W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
WHY THIS THING?
My parents and I found it through a tack shop on the north shore. I rode in several saddles, but kept coming back to this one.
Because the best time of my life was when I was going to the barn and riding horses. My saddle reminds me of the good times I’ve had at the barn and that the lack of horses in my life currently is only temporary.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got this saddle when I was 17 years old. It was a gift from my parents after I had been riding for years.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was and it wasn’t. The first thing that actually came to mind was this old stuffed animal that my brother gave me many years ago. Thinking about that stuffed animal, however, reminded me of the saddle still sitting in my closet. As soon as I thought about it, I knew immediately that it was my favorite object.
lifestyle
Other People’s Things
086
NAME
Hayden Nagin
GENDER
Male
AGE
22
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Canon 35mm Film W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My favorite thing is a camera that belonged to my paternal great grandfather.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My dad gave it to me when I started pursuing photography in school. I was 19.
WHY THIS THING?
I chose his because it’s one of the only connections I have to my great grandfather, who died when I was young.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, it was one of the first things that came to mind. It’s one of very few tangible things I have that connect me to by grandparents.
inherited
4 Other People’s Things
Inherited
Things that were a gift from or previous belonged to a family member
089
NAME
Cassidy Gwaltney
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
inherited
Other People’s Things
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Photo Block W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
From my grandmother’s house in Texas.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got it in October 2016 when I was 21-years-old while visiting my grandmother for her 80th birthday.
WHY THIS THING?
It’s one of the only pictures I have personally of my grandparents together with my aunt. I think it’s so cool that it’s an old newspaper printing block.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, because it’s not a common thing for someone to have, and because it’s basically family history.
091
NAME
Peggy Day
GENDER
Female
AGE
73
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Grandfather’s Kilt Pin W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My mother gave it to me, she believes it was from after he came to America.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Around 1986. I was 42.
WHY THIS THING?
I treasure it because it reminds me of my grandfather. He died when I was 7 years old, but when I look at the pin, I remember his Scottish brogue and the smell of the smoke from the pipe that seemed to be part of him. The pin is missing a stone and the closure on the back is broken, but it brings back wonderful memories.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes because I treasure those memories, and it is the only thing I have that was his.
inherited
Other People’s Things
093
“...I remember his Scottish brogue and the smell of the smoke from the pipe that seemed to be part of him.”
inherited
Other People’s Things
094
NAME
Brooke Babin
GENDER
Female
AGE
29
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Mom’s necklace W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My mom
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
When my mom passed away and I inherited her jewelry.
WHY THIS THING?
Because it’s one of the only things I feel sentimental about and I would be really upset if I lost it. It reminds me of her when I put it on.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes. Because it’s the only item I feel attached to.
inherited
Other People’s Things
096
NAME
Nhi Nguyen
GENDER
Female
AGE
25
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Dad’s Patches W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My dad
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
22
WHY THIS THING?
My dad passed away a few years ago and one of the quirks I love about him was that he had worn these patches on a vest, and then tried to wear the vest to any and every single occasion (even weddings).
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was pretty easy to think of my favorite thing because of the sentimental value.
inherited
Other People’s Things
098
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Gold Necklace W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
WHY THIS THING?
My grandmother
My grandmother passed before I was born and she loved jewelry and fashion. Each of the grand daughters having a few beads of my late grandmothers favorite necklace is something so special to me.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I’ve have it as long as I can remember. D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, I love having a piece of her close to me as well as sharing it with those I love.
NAME
Jacqueline Foreman
GENDER
Female
AGE
23
“...Having a few beads of my late grandmothers favorite necklace is something so special to me.�
inherited
Other People’s Things
100
NAME
Claire Carr
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Jewelry Box W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My Father
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I was five
WHY THIS THING?
Because I take it with me whenever I move for school and it’s probably the object I’ve had longest
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
No, because there are lots of things I own that I use a lot more but that aren’t my favorites
NAME
Devonté Raheem Lewis
GENDER
Male
AGE
21
“My grandmother said that I “would be the only one at college with this pen.” She was right.”
inherited
Other People’s Things
103
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Green Bird Pen W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My grandmother gave me this pen as a gift.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I received this pen as a gift from my grandmother the summer between my high school graduation and before my first semester of college. She gave me the pen so that I had something to remember my family by since I was leaving for college four hours away. Everyone in my family thought that it was a strange gift, but my grandmother said that I “would be the only one at college with this pen”. She was right. I’ve only seen one other pen like this in 7 semesters, and it was red. I have had this pen on the desk or night stand at every dorm or apartment that I’ve lived in all four years here at LSU.
WHY THIS THING?
I chose this object because it holds very special value to me. It connects me to my family very far away. Being so far from them has been difficult at times, but this physical object has allowed me to keep them in mind.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
This object has been with me for a long time and holds such special meaning that it was honestly very easy to pick it as my favorite. It has been one of the few consistent things during my time at LSU.
inherited
Other People’s Things
104
NAME
Thomas Wisecarver
GENDER
Male
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Gold Arrow Head Necklace W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My pawpaw
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
It was given to me on my 21st birthday.
WHY THIS THING?
It was a necklace that my pawpaw used to always wear all the time. Wearing it makes me think of him.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, because it is very important to me because I love my pawpaw.
NAME
Amy DiFulco
GENDER
Female
AGE
26
inherited
Other People’s Things
107
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Round Tuit W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
My Paw Paw
Yes. At first I thought “there’s no way I could find my round Tuit, so I’ll just chose my wedding ring” well just yesterday, I couldn’t get my ring off and was looking for Vaseline to get it off and sure enough my round Tuit was sitting next to the Vaseline.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got this item as a kid when I was around 7 or 9.
WHY THIS THING?
It’s one of the only items I have from my paw paw who died when I was a one-year-old.
NAME
Camden Hilliard
GENDER
Male
AGE
18
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Tomahawk W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My Papa Jack
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
8th grade, 13 years old
WHY THIS THING?
It’s extremely sentimental
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes, because it is one of my most prized possessions
inherited
Other People’s Things
109
inherited
Other People’s Things
110
NAME
Molly Katz
GENDER
Female
AGE
20
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Grandmother’s Ring W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Mema (Grandma)
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
This summer; age 19.
WHY THIS THING?
My grandma meant everything to me, and she gave me the ring on her death bed.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
The story behind this is incredible so yes
inherited
Other People’s Things
113
NAME
Johnston Burkhardt
GENDER
Male
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Great Grandfather Flag W H AT I S Y O U R T H I N G ?
The Japanese flag my great grandfather brought back from World War II.
W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My great grandfather gave it to my grandmother, who then gave it to me.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
It was a high school graduation gift from my grandparents when I was 18.
WHY THIS THING?
The flag is literally a piece of history. It is signed with the names, addresses, and phone numbers of every member of my great grandfather’s platoon, which had a 95% death rate. It has bullet holes and blood stains on it. On a superficial level, I love how it looks visually with the bold, red circle against white.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was very easy for me to think of my favorite thing. I actually had three ideas, the two others being gifts from my mom and dad. My favorite gifts and belongings are those with a story, those that I wouldn’t be able to put a price on or purchase in a store.
inherited
“It has bullet holes and blood stains on it.”
Other People’s Things
115
NAME
Suzannah Burke
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Vintage Bolo Tie W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My grandmothers closet, who got it from an ex boyfriend.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
2 years ago when I was 19
WHY THIS THING?
I chose this object because I like the story that comes along with it. It’s exciting when people compliment me on it because I get to share the story of how it belonged to my a grandmother’s ex-boyfriend. And also makes me feel closer to my grandmother.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was not. I feel like my favorite thing should not be an article of clothing, I was hoping for something a little deeper and sentimental like a favorite book.
inherited
Other People’s Things
“It’s exciting when people compliment me on it because I get to share the story of how it belonged to my a grandmother’s ex-boyfriend. ”
117
inherited
Other People’s Things
119
“It’s a constant reminder to work hard for what I want.”
inherited
Other People’s Things
120
NAME
Nicholas Miner
GENDER
Male
AGE
25
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Hard Hat W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My Grandfather
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got it when my grandfather passed away. I was 22.
WHY THIS THING?
It’s a constant reminder to work hard for what I want.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was easy to think of, because I don’t have many items since the 2016 flood.
NAME
Susan Taylor
GENDER
Female
AGE
“Too old�
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Dolphin Bracelet W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I bought it in Athens, Greece
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
1984
WHY THIS THING?
I was on the trip to Greece with my mom. On that trip, we became friends, not just mother-daughter. She recently died but she always knew how I felt about her because I always worn that bracelet. I was studying for the medical school entrance exam at the time and I became a doctor. That bracelet is a reminder to me of love and respect. As my mother loved me, I love my own children. And I strive to respect and support them.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Easy
inherited
Other People’s Things
“That bracelet is a reminder to me of love and respect.”
123
NAME
Thomas Whimberly
GENDER
Male
AGE
25
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Father’s Bandana W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My Father
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got the bandana along with a few other of my father’s items after he suffered multiple brain aneurysms on his way to work when I was 20 years old.
WHY THIS THING?
The bandana represents my father before his accident, and it also serves as a reminder that although he’s not completely the same as before, he’s still my dad.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was, but I don’t tell a lot of people about it, so at first I thought of using something else.
inherited
Other People’s Things
125
wearable
5 Other People’s Things
Wearable
Things that are worn for utilitarian purposes or embellishment
127
wearable
Other People’s Things
128
NAME
Chase Whitney
GENDER
Male
AGE
24
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Wife’s Wedding Ring W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I worked with a jewelry-maker in Bellingham, Washington named Frank Goss to create it.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got it in the summer of 2013. I was 20.
WHY THIS THING?
It is a symbol of Jess’ and my relationship, which fills my life with joy; and the covenant we have made with each other in Christ to have our marriage be a living picture of Jesus’ never-ending love for His people. This is the most important reality in our lives.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes because Jess’ ring is something that symbolically encompasses many of the most wonderful truths of life in one simple object.
NAME
Ashley Monaghan
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Coat W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My aunt brought it back from Paris.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I was 12, but I thought it was ugly and stuffed it in the back of my closet.
WHY THIS THING?
It is beautiful! I wear it all the time. I hope it becomes an heirloom piece if I ever have children. When asked about my favorite thing, I thought, “If there were a fire in my house...what would I save?” Besides my laptop, that coat was the first thing I thought of. I’m not sentimental, but for some reason, the coat means a lot to me. I found it in the back of my closet right before I moved away to go to college, and I wore it that entire fall and winter season. I think it holds a lot of my personal identity. It’s a statement piece that says a lot about who I am when you look at it.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes! I think the “what object would I save in fire” question helped me visualize it.
wearable
Other People’s Things
131
NAME
Charles Champagne
GENDER
Male
AGE
24
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Copper Crown Ring W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Etsy. I bought it for myself
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I was 21 when I got the ring and I bought it because at the time I needed something that reminded me that one day I will meet my Prince Charming. I had yet to have my first boyfriend. I was losing hope and this ring provided that hope.
WHY THIS THING?
This is my favorite things because it reminds me of how important love was to me and now important self love has become for me since maturing from 21 to my now current mind set of being 24 and in my first relationship.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It wasn’t as easy, only because I have been so distracted lately building on other aspects of my life that when I stumbled upon the ring in the bathroom where I currently keep it sent a shock through my body reminding me of how special it is.
wearable
Other People’s Things
“...I bought it because at the time I needed something that reminded me that one day I will meet my Prince Charming.”
133
wearable
Other People’s Things
134
NAME
Laura Devalcourt
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Apple Watch W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Myself from apple
had this one and now I never take it off. I love the look of it and the fact that it’s wearable technology.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I got it in 2015 when they released. I was 19.
WHY THIS THING?
I use it everyday and feel like something is missing when I don’t have it on. I never wore a Watch until I
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes kind of. I had this in my mind along with other things.
NAME
Bridgette Hogan
GENDER
Female
AGE
22
“This ring is a memento of my accomplishments. It’s a symbol of hard work, determination, and survival.”
wearable
Other People’s Things
137
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My High School Class Ring W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
St. Mary’s Dominican High School
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I was 17. Maybe September of 2011? But I graduated in May 2012.
WHY THIS THING?
I was very proud of myself the day I received my ring. High school was very hard for me and there was a time that I didn’t think I would graduate. I started to suffer from depression my sophomore year and I was failing a few classes. I remember feeling like a zombie. I’d wake up and just go through the motions, sometimes never talking to anyone even. I didn’t think I would survive high school. I thought I’d die first or I’d fail miserably and not get into college. But then I turned everything around. My life got better and my grades improved. I ended up graduating with a 3.0 GPA. The day I received my ring, I remember looking down and seeing it on my finger and thinking, “I did it!” This ring is a memento of my accomplishments. It’s a symbol of hard work, determination, and survival.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes and no. My ring is definitely one of my favorite possessions. When I heard about your senior thesis and how you were searching for people’s favorite things, my initial thoughts were my sister, my partner, and my dog. They are beings though, not “things”. There’s just a lot of stress going on and I could never get my mind to settle long enough to think about my favorite thing until one day it hit me and I was like, “Oh! Duh!”
NAME
Don Mark Roxas
GENDER
Male
AGE
23
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Glasses W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I bought it at Krewe du Optics
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
2016
WHY THIS THING?
Because it has a distinct style from all the eye wear that I have seen.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes
wearable
Other People’s Things
139
wearable
Other People’s Things
140
NAME
Corrine Richter
GENDER
Female
AGE
24
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Heart Ring W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
A flea market
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I was sixteen
WHY THIS THING?
I know there are a lot more sentiment things I could tell you here like my favorite book or something my grandma gave me.. but there’s something’s about this ring - I’d be really upset if I lost it. I bought it for 5 dollars and I’ve worn it everyday since. I feel naked without it and I never take it off. I like to tell people it’s the best $5 I ever spent because it’s true. I don’t think a lot of people own something they bought for $5, that
“ ...I like to tell people it’s the best $5 I ever spent because it’s true.”
they’ve worn everyday for 7 years. I bought it at a flea market with my best friends Taylor and Emily on a day they dragged me out of bed early on a Saturday. It’s a knock off Tiffany and Co ring. I don’t think I’m very materialistic, I don’t spend a lot of money on clothes or jewelry, I don’t get my hair done or get my nails painted. I’d rather spend my money on a trip - really a memory. So, to me it represents not being wasteful buying a bunch of crap you’ll wear a few times.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Yes - if I have to think about the most valuable thing it’s something that’s something I use (wear) all the time. Like I said before best 5 bucks I’ve ever spent passes many of the most wonderful truths of life in one simple object.
NAME
Sabrina L Mazer
GENDER
Female
AGE
46
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Fabulous Wig W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Fifi Mahoney’s- French Quarter New Orleans, LA
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
January 2017 - 46
WHY THIS THING?
To me, it represents my move back home to New Orleans. The beginning of a new chapter.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was difficult. There were several choices I could have made.
wearable
Other People’s Things
143
wearable
Other People’s Things
144
NAME
Marcelle Moskau
GENDER
Female
AGE
20
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My New Orleans necklace W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
From my very good friend, Val.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
She gave it to me as a high school graduation gift. It was May 2014 and I had just turned 18 in April.
WHY THIS THING?
Its something that I always have with me. Without I feel naked. I wear it for all my tests at school. I wear it for big events. It’s almost like it’s my good luck charm. It’s just a part of me. Everyone who knows me, knows that it’s like “Marcelle’s statement necklace.”
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It was not easy! I changed my favorite item three times before finally picking my necklace! I honestly forgot about my necklace completely until I looked down and thought to myself...”WAIT A SECOND!”
NAME
Carlin Mumphrey
GENDER
Female
AGE
24
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My 1980’s LSU Shirt W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My Dad
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
I stole it from his closet
WHY THIS THING?
I suffered from EXTREME anxiety through out my childhood and for whatever reason this shirt always calmed me down. It was soft, oversized, and smelled like my dad - it made me feel safe. As college years approached, it had always been my childhood goal to go to LSU and follow in my dad’s footsteps, but I hadn’t
“It was soft, oversized, and smelled like my dad - it made me feel safe.” conquered my anxiety and it absolutely petrified me. So, I stole this shirt out of his closet and wore it on my first day. Over my college career, I have finally been able to manage my anxiety and not many people know I actually suffer from it now. However, even five years later, I still wear this shirt when I’m feeling overly nervous, upset, or just need a confidence booster. And to this day, my dad doesn’t know I stole his shirt.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
It wasn’t easy simply because I am not overly attached to physical objects. Memories and people are more important to me.
wearable
Other People’s Things
147
wearable
Other People’s Things
148
NAME
Lisa Daragon
GENDER
Female
AGE
51
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Engagment Ring W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My girlfriend
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
15 years ago on Christmas Eve
WHY THIS THING?
For its sentimental value
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
No, it wasn’t. I’m very indecisive and take a long time to make a final decision. It’s a simple yet big question.
NAME
Amanda Terrell
GENDER
Female
AGE
23
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Krewe Sunglasses W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
Bought them myself on a day trip to New Orleans.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
22, shortly before my 23 birthday on July 5th
WHY THIS THING?
I love the brand, the glasses have character and fit great which is rare for me. I enjoy being out in the sun so I carry them around everywhere incase i need them. The style makes me feel more energized and fun, plus they function as a headband which is why I’m always wearing them on top of my head.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
Somewhat. I wasnt sure what to pick, but I like having them with me so I figured they must be a favorite.
wearable
Other People’s Things
151
NAME
Cassidy Lynn Day
GENDER
Female
AGE
21
FAVO R I T E T H I N G
My Class Ring W H E R E D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
My mother, but I was given it at the ring ceremony at my school.
W H E N D I D YO U G E T YO U R T H I N G?
April 2012, I was 16-years-old
WHY THIS THING?
At first I felt like this was an odd choice for me. I love collecting weird objects and feel that I have A LOT of favorite things but since I got my ring when I was 16 I’ve worn it almost everyday, it reminds me of my alma mater which is a dear place to me, and it makes me look classy as hell. I get so many compliments on it, I don’t foresee taking it off any time soon.
D I D Y O U I N S TA N T LY K N O W Y O U R T H I N G ?
When I first started this project, after telling somebody thinking of your favorite thing shouldn’t be hard, they retorted “Well, what’s your thing?” and without hesitation I said my ring. After the initial gut reaction I went back and forth thinking.. “Is that really my favorite?” but as I put it on each morning it becomes more obvious.
wearable
Other People’s Things
153
acknowledgment
Other People’s Things
155
Acknowledgments I’D LIKE TO THANK THE ACADEMY AND...
Lynne Bagget
Tory Cunningham
Before this semester I had never had Lynne as a
The absolute meanest person I’ve ever met but also the most motivating. Thanks for never letting me settle.
teacher. On the first day I forced her to let me into her section and I don’t think she realized what she was signing up for. Thanks for putting up with my constant sass, cursing, and stress. You helped me develop this project from the beginning and pushed me to not make something boring.
All the Other People Who Listen to Me Constantly Bitch About Things Brooke Babin, Molly Rainer, Brooke Hathaway,
Studio Gray
Hayden Nagin, Claire Carr, Tory Cunningham, Carlin Mumphrey, Luisa Restrepo, Aunt Kelley, Lel, Mom...
Matt and Ariade, you are quite literally the most
You guys are the reason I am able to keep the small
generous and cool people I know. Thanks for support
amount of sanity I have left. This semester kind of
my dreams and my printing costs!
sucked and you all know why... Because you had to hear me complain about it the whole time. You win
Claire Carr The official editor of Other People’s Things and official
this award because you’re still speaking to me after the drama of this project, my college career, and for some of you my life.
best friend.
Brooke Hathaway
The Graphic Design Class of 2017 Thanks for not killing me during the process of
The real creative mastermind behind this project.
assembling this exhibition. I know a couple of you
Without her my project would have been something
thought about it... a few times.
really stupid like try to create a line of ceramics, without ever having taken a ceramics class. She’s my wall to bounce off of, often my shoulder to cry on, and my full time roommate.
Other People’s Things
person’s name
157
Index Abigayle Cole Brewer
022
Jacqueline Foreman
098
Allie Appel
041
Jennifer Stringer
011
Amanda Terrell
151
Jessie Chappuis
057
Amy Blacketter
077
Johnston Burkhardt
115
Amy Difulco
107
Kelley Campbell
048
Annalynne Talbert
034
Laura Devalcourt
134
Ashley O’Neill Monaghan
131
Laura Groh
054
Ashlyn Mullins
014
Lisa Deragon
148
Bridgette Hogan
137
Marcelle Moskau
144
Brooke Babin
094
Meghan Saas
046
Brooke M. Hathaway
068
Mendrix Punzalan
081
Camden Hilliard
109
Molly Elizabeth Rainer
045
Carlin Mumphrey
147
Molly Katz
110
Cassidy Gwaltney
091
Nhi Nguyen
096
Charles Champagne
133
Nicholas Miner
120
Chase Whitney
128
Peggy Day
093
Christina Persaud
083
Riley Katz
027
Claire Carr
100
Ryan Fox
012
Charlie Carr
064
Sabrina L Mazer
143
Corinne Richter
140
Sophia Acuna
029
Danny Sherman
025
Sophie Goodgion
050
Dason Sebastian Pettit
063
Stephen Knight
018
Devonte Raheem Lewis
103
Stephen Marshall Dodson
043
Don Mark Roxas
139
Susan Taylor
123
Douglas Joseph Babin Elizabeth 075
Suzannah Burke
117
Briggs
072
Thomas Wimberly
125
Elizabeth Martin
033
Thomas Wisecarver
104
Ellie Young
016
Tori Robichaux
009
Emily Roemer
038
Tory Cunningham
071
Gabe Hilliard
052
Tristan Francis
020
Hayden Nagin
086
Victoria Murphy
084
Hye Jung
078
for information about the artist visit
CASSIDYLDAY.COM