Ian Miller
Artist
Hand Crafted: I never found a bag that had a simple enough style for me—I like a single flap—so I made this one myself about four years ago. It’s hand-stitched and made out of leather.
Helping Hand: Most of the artifacts I gather are utilized in my work. The icon of a hand has been part of a long-standing project. Right now, I have mannequin hands all over the house; they can serve as a prop and showcase the utility of things.
Book It: I always carry a book for intellectual fodder. I’ve been studying mythology lately and read Joseph Campbell’s “Flight of the Wild Gander” before this one. I shop at Beaverdale Books.
In the Cards: I recently returned to the tarot deck to divine insight. Each card tells a story and has its own meaning. Today, I drew the moon card, which has to do with how you incorporate your personal fantasies into your life.
Tea Time: I buy all my tea at Gong Fu. This is a vial of milk oolong tea.
Something Scented: Oil just helps me stay fresh. This is my personally blended oil of patchouli, Texas cedarwood and bergamot.
Creative Calling Card: I carry “The Nitch” (the leather-bound book at the top of the photo) so I can show people what it is and what I do; otherwise, the project can be hard to explain. Currently we’re working on the e-reader and audio versions of the project. These versions will be released this year. (To read more about “The Nitch,” click here and scroll down a bit.)
Take Note: I carry a notepad so I can jot down ideas as they come into my head. I get my notebooks at Domestica.
Rock Solid: The stone helps me stay grounded—and can be useful for particularly nasty bullies.
20/20: I found these reading glasses and case in Galena, Illinois, although I typically shop local.
