Joy is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been the subject of philosophical inquiry for centuries. At its core, joy is an emotional state characterized by a sense of elation, pleasure, and contentment. But it is more than just a fleeting feeling. Born in the year 1962 in the bustling city ofDaqing, China, Yue Minjun’s fascination with art had been a constant in his life following him through the turbulent waters of revolutionary China. It was the human rights violations and political repressions he faced during his upbringing that truly shaped his relationship with the medium and its power to truly, and comically, convey his lived experience.
“We currently live in a world that is slowly, but surely, changing and becoming more aware of the fact that every single action of ours has a direct consequence on the environment. Although this is definitely a great step towards somehow ‘alleviating’ some of climate change's effects, we can't pretend to be ‘eco-friendly’ every step of the way – not because it is draining but it is almost impossible to do so. We talk to co-founder Saeed Al-Rubeyi (who works alongside his partner Katy) about slow clothing and how the British nature-led fashion brand Story Mfg is authentically and unpretentiously carrying this way of living out, with real and achievable goals through collaborating with craftspeople.”