I tend to read several books all at the same time, which I hear isn't all that unusual. One of my recent acquisitions is The Guerilla Art Kit by author and illustrator, Keri Smith.
After looking through her book, it made me realize that these simple acts of defiance could change more than just my day, but the world around me. Everyday, I pass this convenience store/ deli that has a huge cardboard cut out of a guy holding a blank sign over his face. Instead of announcing how much you could win if you played the lottery that day ("a dollar and a dream"), there's a huge penis drawn over the area that would be his mouth. For some reason, it irks me. I can't help but think, "Eww, you ruined my day." I wonder if anyone else thinks this.
With this kit, I can have a similar effect, but in a positive way. I can send out messages that are really meaningful to me ("Recycling is fun!") or just try to make someone smile. It's the ultimate pay it forward book. Mail out random postcards to friends or strangers. Toss a handful of flower seeds into an empty lot and watch them grow. Use chalk to write random thoughts or to draw little cartoons on the sidewalk. Who knows whose day you've just made a little better?
This whole idea reminds me of Daniel Powter's song, Bad Day, and its music video (featuring one of my favorite actresses, Samaire Armstrong).
If only I could draw...
and didn't have a boyfriend.
To get a taste of Keri Smith's work and some of her quirky ideas, check out her blog. She includes a bunch of cool activities to try at home. A mini-purse anyone?
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