The word 'kitsch' has a bad connotation, and when Milan Kundera defined it in The Unbearable Lightness of Being, he explained that it was the "absolute denial of [bad things]". He wrote that it was the desire to create a version of the world that is purely pleasant, uncomplicated, and sentimentally satisfying. He meant it as a criticism because he did not agree with art and design that tried to exclude human suffering. The world is dark enough, buddy. Let the people make a crocheted Richard Nixon and call it a day.
The hyperrealistic cake is the 21st century's proud contribution to this genre. Artists like Natalie Sideserf have spent years perfecting the ability to make edible objects that are visually indistinguishable from household items, cleaning products, shoes, and raw meat, all of which can be sliced open to reveal sponge and buttercream inside. The skill involved is extraordinary but the product is something that makes your eyes go cross and your brain feel scrambled. It is just when the results turn into grotesque swamp creatures of a toe with a fungal infection that we stop celebrating the craft altogether.
But we still get pleasure in watching someone do something unnecessary extremely well, and it has nothing to do with agreeing with their choices. The brain responds to technical competence with something close to admiration, regardless of what it is applied to. So keep spreading joy, you weirdos! Our midnight scroll sessions will remain eternally unhinged and unapologetic thanks to your dedication.
#34 Hotel In Berlin Had The Carpets Designed To Look Like They Had Bare Footprints
