A Consumer's Diary

A Unique Exploration of Consumerism and Identity

In today's society, our identities are often shaped by what we consume. Material possessions have become symbols of our values, attitudes, and beliefs. They give us a sense of belonging to a certain group and help us form impressions of others. Recognizing this phenomenon, designer Vyara Zlatilova embarked on a personal journey to explore her own consumer identity.

"A Consumer's Diary" is a thought-provoking book that presents a collection of Zlatilova's recent receipts. By showcasing the products she has consumed, she aims to recreate her individual qualities, group membership, and social standing. The book serves as a visual representation of how material objects can define who we are.

What sets "A Consumer's Diary" apart is its interactive nature. The meaning of the collection changes depending on the reader's assumptions and interpretations of the receipts. It challenges us to reflect on the process of constructing personal qualities solely based on our possessions.

The design of the book itself is sleek and compact. Measuring 150 x 105 x 10 mm, it is a perfect-bound A6 book. The first edition consists of 100 pages, but as Zlatilova's collection grows, a second edition is expected to be published soon.

Since its inception in October 2011, "A Consumer's Diary" has garnered recognition and acclaim. It was awarded the prestigious Silver A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category in 2012. This accolade acknowledges the design's outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill.

Through her research, Zlatilova drew inspiration from various sources, including psychoanalytic ideas used by advertisers, art movements such as Pop art and The Situationists, and publications by renowned authors like Naomi Klein and Noam Chomsky. She also explored the concept of cultural meaning constructed around cultural objects, as proposed by Roland Barthes in his theories of mythologies.

"A Consumer's Diary" invites us to contemplate the impact of consumerism on our identities. It challenges us to question the role of material possessions in shaping who we are and how we perceive others. Zlatilova's unique approach to exploring consumerism through her personal receipts offers a fresh perspective on the subject.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, "A Consumer's Diary" serves as a reminder of the power and influence of consumer culture. It encourages us to reflect on our own consumption habits and the messages we convey through the objects we choose to possess.