I often feel ashamed by my attraction to styles that are so obviously the result of colonialism. East meets west or industrialized meets island, the aesthetics so beautiful; the histories of how they came to be, so horrific. Would be nice to see an AT post about this topic.

Thorndale. Imagine my shame in being originally from one of the former colonies and still being in love with that style. But then again, I love "mashup" type styles. But history the world over (not to mention the present) is wrought with horror. Even innocent little nursery rhymes are not immune (ring around the rosey, London Bridge anyone?)

My mother I know hates that I love decorating in French colonial styles. She is from the Ivory Coast (a former French colony where there is currently tension between the two countries). However she herself is in love with British colonial fashion and styles as well. No matter when I start listing the countries they've colonized!

I think I've since conquered my guilt though. I play plenty of homage in my home to the history, including the grim parts. It's a different thing when you understand the history behind the items and tell a story of their journey with supporting memorabilia and items.

pay* not play.

Oh, and I agree, it would be a very interesting topic to discuss!!

ION, AT I think I would probably make the most use of an edit button than anyone else on this site! hint, hint.

I believe that the evolution of design across the world is often linked to violent history. For example, it's the reason why there is a lot of Greek/Macedonian influence in South Asia (textile patterns, jewelry styles, and even music and dance) from Alexander The Great's movement further into current day Inda. But I think this sort of thing is very natural and it's how aspects of one particular culture move to other parts of the world. The problem today is the mass commercialization of other 'important' features of a particular culture, i.e. mehndi/henna art kits that can be bought at malls and referred to as 'temporary tattoos', t-shirts and jewelry with the Om symbol or particular religious figures, and everything Jean Paul Gauthier 'designs' but in fact steals from other cultures (most recently, the turban). I think that sort of commercialization of such important cultural and religious touchstones devalue them.

I agree Jasmine. I find those cheapo imported (often not even from the country of influence) more heavy on my heart that colonial and colonial-inspired design.

Whatever my favorite item in the photo is, I know that will turn out to be the most expensive when I click through. I do love that chair . . . I'll fantasize about it in cobalt rather than pink, though.

Alas, my day trip to Pondicherry consisted mostly of sitting around in tiny shops while our hosts shopped for bootleg DVDs. :(