Hitch Hiker
I have a soft spot for Korea that has grown considerably over the years. I often daydream of what life would be like had I decided to move there rather than having YoungDoo move here to the U.S. when we got married. Being in Korea used to feel like more of a curiosity, I love feeling out of place in an environment and felt as though I may be happier in a more active environment where I would not feel as bogged down by memories and complacency. That feeling has changed a lot over the years and at this point Korea feels like home as much as the U.S. feels like home and I can’t wait for another opportunity to go back.
Among the things I love about the country are the seemingly endless places to explore and discover. It is in constant motion as small independent shops can pop up just about anywhere. The place photographed in the photo above is the sign for a tiny little pub called Hitch Hiker (another view here). It looked like it had been there for quite some time, full of personality and casual attention to kitschy details and was nestled among a number of other small creative independent businesses in a space above a larger shopping district in Jeonju. Other businesses in the same complex included a little vintage toy store, a craft shop, clothing boutique, a fried chicken place and more. Many of them were quite small, only big enough for a few people at a time inside and offered one specific idea or kind of product.
Seeing small, focused shops like these I can’t help but imagine that they were born of passion. A spark of inspiration and acting on that intention is all it takes to bring an idea into the world. I have a bad habit of hoarding ideas because they often feel bigger than they really are and I forget how easy it is to jump in and make something happen. Seeing this old photo reminded me of these feelings and even this waning memory of that inspiration sparks my imagination and the desire to create. Speaking of which, I need to get going, excuse me.
Love this shot. One of my absolute favs from you. Adding to all devices now!
Love this article.