The Hobby of Collecting: respect your grandpa’s stamps

The hobby of collecting is often misinterpreted as tacky, outdated, or materialistic. However, collecting can serve a multitude of functions, whether it be representative of a larger journey, or simply, one of life’s small joys. 

Many people collect things to expand upon their knowledge in a given field, or out of an appreciation for history; a carefully selected assortment of items can serve as a visual reminder of one’s thoughts or ideas at a given period of time. Take, for instance, those interested in fashion design, who might study the craft of a designer whose style they resonate most with. The collection of a designer’s garments then can be a representation of knowledge as well as a tribute to an artist, while still serving as a reflection of personal taste.

Another example is one of a dear friend–a lifelong bookworm who freakishly keeps a copy of every book she’s read since the seventh grade. But she loves her makeshift library because there is a sense of accomplishment in the physical proof of her “finished projects,” which also motivates her to start a new book once she has finished one. It is quite an effective cycle. 

However, our collections don’t need to be as thoughtful or important as this. Sometimes when they lack depth, that’s what makes them all the more beautiful. My personal collection–a small but mighty huddle of eclectic dining cups–most definitely lacks the degree of sentiment that might accompany a personal collection of novels or the works of a studied designer. However, it serves as a lighthearted–and slightly hilarious–way of channeling my fascination for small detail, beauty, and interior design into a peripheral hobby. Plus, it can make for a great dinner party conversation starter. The hell are you pouring my wine into?

Graphic by Grace Livecchi

You will always meet really interesting people who collect things. Just as you have a story for every item in your collection, so will the people you meet. Whenever I get the opportunity, I love to go to flea markets. The Grand Bazaar in the Upper West Side of Manhattan and Mongers Market in Bridgeport, Connecticut are two great ones to check out. If you find yourself in search of a new hobby, explore your interests by kicking off a niche collection of your own.