Look &/or listen as my guest Martie Mackay shares her pandemic story through her unique “nine things” photo design project.
To cope with the isolation and emotional toll, Martie turned to something familiar yet unexpected — personal stories of the ordinary Things around her home during “lockdown”. First inspired by a striking image of the coronavirus, she began a unique art project that revolved around finding and photographing nine household items that resembled the virus. It started with simple things like a cactus, a dog toy, and an orange golf ball. She shared these on her @ juniperstudio Instagram and Facebook, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. People loved the humor and creativity, and it helped build a sense of community during isolation.
Her daily posts quickly turned into something more. She started theming her posts, spicing up the pandemic with collections of spices or even showcasing tiara-worthy items, including a roll of toilet paper😂 It became a way for her to make people laugh and feel connected.
One standout moment was when Martie shared her grandmother’s measuring cups at one of Martie McNabb’s story-sharing gatherings. Those cups, though simple, hold deep sentimental value. They weren’t just kitchen tools; they were a connection to her past, to family history, and to memories of love and warmth. We both agreed that everyone has a story worth preserving, and these objects are tools to connect us to those stories.
As the pandemic pressed on, her “nine things” series grew into a collection of over 81 posts. Each post was a blend of creativity, humor, and personal reflection. It was Martie’s way of documenting this unique period in her life, and it resonated with many others. People found solace, laughter, and connection in those posts. It was more than just a project; it was a lifeline.
Looking back, this period, though fraught with loss and uncertainty, also became a testament to the power of personal stories and connections. We both agree that these firsthand accounts and artifacts hold historical value, not just for us but for future generations. In a world that had slowed down, we found significance in everyday Things, and that realization is something we carry with us, even as the world moves on.
To find out more about Martie’s creative work visit: https://www.juniperstudiophotography.com/
Fun Fact: I haven’t met another female Martie with the ie until her! AND we’re cooking up a fun collaboration coming soon to our mutual friend, Diana Place’s, 333 Collective & beyond!!! More info to come.
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Looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com
Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨
If you were asked “What Things would tell your life story?” What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself …. what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/
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