EDGED IN BLACK!
‘EDGED IN BLACK!’ is a project inspired by the theatrics of the silent movie Phantom of the Opera (1925). While sitting with a fellow artist during the centenary anniversary screening, I felt a real loss for penned messages and the fingerprints they leave behind. There is a creeping absence of intentional notes, individual handwriting, and the childlike excitement of a letter arriving in the post. As a trained Oral History graduate, it felt like the perfect opportunity to bring this practice back into the spotlight.
The term ‘Edged in Black’ originated during the Victorian era to symbolise caution, sorrow, or grief within a message. The use of a literal black outline indicated the depth of emotion from the sender- where both formal and dramatised tones are well documented. It almost felt like a secondary language: when the writer was confined to a few pages or less, another shorthand came into play. It all sounded rather fabulously camp to me.
So, a new idea emerged: a handcrafted letter would be created and posted to anonymous recipients, awaiting their response. Once received, they would be prompted to answer the enclosed question however they wish:
Our correspondence will be photographed and documented here, within the ‘EDGED IN BLACK!’ diary- perhaps one day it will be published or exhibited as an anonymous printed collection. It’s an opportunity to learn about an individual: at best, collected unheard stories can bridge the gap in understanding one another. At worst, it’s a bit of self-indulgent fun. Storytelling, vulnerability, and a little drama are always worth sharing.
If you feel drawn to the project, here are some practical notes:
A return envelope will be included with your letter. There’s no cost.
Responses will be shared anonymously- handwriting may be included with permission.
Your identity and story are safe with me; my background in Oral History involved extensive ethics training.
Your letter can be any length, tone, fictional or nonfictional.
If you’re interested in taking part in ‘EDGED IN BLACK!’, please fill out the form below- and feel free to include any questions!
