Signs of the times: Blue Banana Insights

Blue Banana in Toronto's Kensington Market is an artisan's fair filled with boutique kiosks, booths, selling funky bath salts, candles, t-shirts, posters, bed linens, toys, housewares; nifty artifacts not typically available for purchase in big-box stores presented for purchase. The holiday season evident at every turn. Interesting gift ideas beyond the 'normal', geared for those with an eclectic bent. A fascinating experience when looking through the eyes of a creativity specialist.

New ideas, interesting twists on common themes were everywhere. And underneath it all, evidence of the times we are living in. Like this first photo - recessionary swine flu times advice - available in posters, fridge magnets and mugs - Keep Calm and Carry on - a phrase used often in the UK during the last World War.

Here's another, juxtaposed. Not really sure what this is - perhaps a large fridge magnet. Imagine seeing this message everyday, or the one above. Think it would make a difference on your attitude toward your day ahead? Personally, if given a choice, my preference would be the keep calm one. Wonder what attitudes the masses are carrying more of and how that inspires them to work all our emerging changes.

Another juxtaposition - ready for this - Angel's and Devils. You can choose either of these magnets, or both, to affix to fridge, filing cabinet, whatever. FYI there were other ones too, of Spinoza, Jesus, Eleanor Roosevelt, etc. How we choose our influences, eh?

And what about Jesus and love? Are we so needy, driven for acceptance, recognition, affirmation that we put ourselves above others so we are blind to our humanness and the contributions others make? If you could give only one of these two t-shirts to others, or to yourself, as a gift, which one would it be?