Many of us look at design through idolizing wealth, youth, and perfection. However, the art of Kintsugi-(video) can inspire us to appreciate and cherish the imperfect, aged, weathered, and unpretentious.

Kintsugi is a Japanese method for fixing broken pottery with a special lacquer mixed with gold, silver, or platinum. The philosophy behind the technique is to acknowledge fixing broken things and finding beauty in age, and imperfections, instead of disguising them.

Below: An example of a non-perfect composition of vintage items with peeling paint in the background that creates a story of depth and history.

Below: A human spirit  can be acknowledged through Kintsugi. 

This is an  example of artist, Mickalene Thomas cherishing the hard earned years, beauty,  and wisdom through the vision of her mother.

by Mickalene Thomas: Happy Birthday to a Beautiful Woman: A Portrait of My Mother.

Another perfect study that starts from within; teaching us to respect and and admire imperfect design…starting with ourselves.