Memento Mori by Callum Campbell

Ones age is often viewed as a negative part of existence.
Individuals tend to focus on the fleeting aspects of life rather than celebrating the time that has passed or yet to be lived. The Latin phrase “Memento Mori” directly translates to “remember that you have to die”. If we have to die, then why not live the best life we can. This device counts the number of days lived by an individual user. The ancient origins of its name informing the somewhat artifactual nature of it’s aesthetic. With the passing of each day, numerical discs are physically rotated
to adjust the whole number defined by the two parallel grooves located at each end.
It’s complexity demands the individuals attention, purposefully focusing their mind on the ritual found in changing the number each day. This frequent and consistent acknowledgment of age aims to prevent the mind from becoming complacent, forgetting life’s goals and accomplishments. The physical act of changing the numbers is intended to bring the user into the present moment, focusing their mind on the day at hand and hopefully, celebrate the day that was. It is at times difficult to understand, articulate and express our true emotions. Feelings of confusion and misunderstanding regularly clouds our interactions with others, often resulting in conflict or withdrawn dispositions. Honne acts to address this by embodying the emotional state of an individual user through the manipulation of it’s light output. The top piece is rotated up or down to adjust the strength of light radiating into the environment, symbolising the user’s emotional energy at that point in time. Honne’s minimalist form is key in defining its purpose. The negative space between the inward curving base and diffuser symbolise how withdrawn or social the user may currently be feeling. Through the very act of it’s function, Honne performs as a tool for emotional understanding.
Conscious thought regarding the user’s emotional state needs to be made for it to function correctly. The piece also serves as a social marker, aiming to promote emotional transparency and encourage purposeful conversations with others during times of hardship or conflict.

Concerned with the concept of self awareness, Objects for Self is a response to the growing conversation in Australia acknowledging the importance in understanding mental health issues. Inspired and motivated by Callum’s own mental turmoil, the collection confronts three common yet profoundly burdening concerns faced by most individuals. Fluctuating physical self esteem; articulating emotional expression; and
regret or anxiety associated with age. Through considered ritualistic daily self reflection, Objects for Self encourages the individual to unpack and acknowledge
their mental state. Separated into three objects, each piece is designed to focus on the causality of emotions resulting from these issues, aid in their acceptance and
proactively encourages positive mental life changes. expression understanding acknowledgement.

Based in Perth Western Australia, Callum has been working professionally since
the creation of his studio in 2016. Best described as a reflection of his mind expressed through thoughtfully designed objects, his work is motivated by emotional drivers relating to abstract concepts concerning the physical and sentimental materiality of possessions. Great importance is placed on the inherent value of unique materials and processes. Complex minimalist sensibilities from the cornerstone of his design principals, informing his aesthetic with honest and original expressions.
All Callum’s work is designed and prototyped in Perth, Western Australia using
established relationships with local manufacturing industries. He studied 3D
design at the Central Institute of Technology, graduating in 2013.
The Objects For Self collection won the “Best in State” category award at the
Design Institute of Australia WA awards 2018.