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One Person’s Obsessive Archive of Postal Activity
More than a century ago, an Ohio woman began meticulously logging every piece of mail she sent and received.
3 hrs ago
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Paul Lukas
13
3
Pole Tacks
Wooden utility poles are often pockmarked with nails, tacks, and staples, turning the poles into canvases for a unique form of abstract art.
Apr 16
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Paul Lukas
24
5
1
A Very Special Factory Tour
Seeing the last remaining American manufacturer of a highly specialized product — artificial fabric flowers — was a rare treat.
Apr 8
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Paul Lukas
29
10
2
And Now Some Words About Mathematics From ... Werner Herzog?
I recently saw the famous film director give a math-themed speech. The experience was, as he might put it, subliiiiiiime.
Apr 2
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Paul Lukas
30
9
3
March 2026
A Return Visit to the Ephemera Fair
Just like last year, there were tons of beautiful vintage collectibles — and a very strange pricing format.
Mar 31
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Paul Lukas
31
6
1
Collection Agency: A Lifetime of Creative Collecting
So you think you’re a serious collector? Michael Horvich has taken things to the next level, and has some thoughts about what it all means.
Mar 27
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Paul Lukas
46
13
6
The Oddly Compelling Pleasures of Obsessive Artwork
Certain artists pursue a specific niche with near-fanatical precision and drive, producing extremely satisfying results.
Mar 24
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Paul Lukas
38
28
2
Follow-Up Roundup!
Some new developments involving a bunch of recent Inconspicuous Consumption posts.
Mar 19
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Paul Lukas
25
4
1
There’s an Epidemic of Upside-Down Letters!
And it goes way beyond Frank Lloyd Wright. Plus more butter color-coding and a new Inconspicuous News Roundup.
Mar 17
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Paul Lukas
25
9
1
The Pleasures of Poor Product Design
A brilliant project cleverly sabotages everyday objects to reveal how much we take for granted about them — and about the design process.
Mar 12
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Paul Lukas
64
11
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An Epic Exhibition of Ashtrays!
It’s the latest exhibit at the Museum of Dinnerware Design — where you can also try to pull a tablecloth from under a bunch of dishes!
Mar 5
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Paul Lukas
38
5
1
A Very Dairy Mystery: The Colors of Butter
An epic deep-dive investigation into the confusing color-coded package designs of this familiar grocery staple.
Mar 3
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Paul Lukas
54
29
4
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