why sweat?



Warning: Lots of links in this post!

It's been some months since James' graphic design studio ampulets started a modest product label Neighbourgoods to make objects that we've always wanted to and to be preachy while we're at it! With Neighbourgoods, we also have another premise or excuse to make new friends and collaborate with the folks we've always admired.

And Good Sweat #2-6 was a perfect project for all of these reasons!

Neighbourgoods worked with the following inspiring individuals who shared with us the phrases that reflect their values or attitudes in work or life:

(1)  Bob Lee (aka the Fat Farmer or Jiuhukia), a photographer whose work and words have moved us with their honesty, down-to-earth goodness and solid values. His images, whether from his days in the press, or now as an independent photographer, reflect a vision that is empathetic and generous.

(2) Rebecca Toh, founder of Casual Poet Culture. We first learnt of Rebecca's work when we visited a cafe in Chinatown she had started during one of our domestic tourism jaunts, and was impressed by its spirit of independence and freedom. Since then, her writing and work, including the magazine Casual Days, have continued this admirable spirit.

(3) Jackson Tan, co-founder of BLACK Design and member of phunk probably needs no introduction. Besides his amazing art and design work, we've always loved how friendly and easy-going he is, and his 江湖 spirit of 意氣... plus the common love we have for Taiwanese music.

(4) Yah-Leng Yu, co-founder of Foreign Policy Design Group, also needs little introduction. We respect her work and attitude towards it - the impeccable taste, the dedication to good work and craftsmanship, but also the humility. Fierce!

Of course, we couldn't resist taking part in this ourselves.

Friends, go to www.neighbourgoods.sg to check out the 5 designs as they are unveiled. We think they make great Christmas gifts!

This year, we will be selling Good Sweat #2-6 for S$30 each, or S$28 if you pre-order and collect it at the launch party on 29 November (Thursday).  They are in a limited edition of 100 each only, so order soon! To order, write to James at info@ampulets.com.

All the folks involved agreed that profit from the sales will go to a charitable cause. So in good faith, we made an "advance" donation to the Chen Su Lan Methodist Children's Home to support arts enrichment programmes for their kids next year.  And we will continue to donate any profit above this sum to this Home or another charity.

p/s Remember the first Good Sweat project? Read about it here.

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