ABOUT
My name is Maria Jose Casazza, a visual artist, and curator. This Is Not A Postcard started as phrases in my journals (as most things do): I kept writing lines for me to use in cards when making presents (books, postcards, notebooks, vinyl, pots, mugs, you name it). These phrases negated the sole purpose of the objects and instead made you wonder about the power of thinking about a person and sending them something that stands for a much larger sentiment.
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Ranging from actions to concepts and imagined gestures, phrases like "This isn't a portrait of you but your hand holding mine" made me want to spread that feeling of immersion and thoughtfulness when we are faced with a phrase that makes us look around, imagine feelings, and think about the world, in a specific time and place.
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So, what better way than through the slow process of mail. Better yet, a postcard that says 'I'm all the way here and I thought of you'; an envelope full of objects that make a collection of memories from people all around the world. It is incredible how we can experience one thing, and then send a postcard so that another person can experience it, in their own way.
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This Is Not A Postcard is an envelope that contains a postcard with a phrase starting with 'This Is Not A Postcard But' and then a handwritten note from me. Each one is unique, as well as the objects that the envelopes will contain. On the back of the postcard, there is a log, where the five people of each chain mail should write the place, date, and time in which they opened their package. The package includes a card with instructions, if necessary, and will eventually include people's memories.
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When the envelopes return to me, after their long journey, I will make sure to share everything I've found, and have plans to make a book.
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I'm really excited to see what we can all make. Love, Maria.
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If you want to know how the project works, go to the instructions page.
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If you wish to participate, submit your address here.
You can share your feelings about the project, what you have received, or your general experience in the online forum, right here.
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If you wish to get a more visual idea on how this project looks, checkit out on Instagram: @this.is.not.a.postcard
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I will be constantly sharing pictures, updates, and content on the project's blog.
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If you have any questions, inquiries or proposals, please write to me at isnotapostcard@gmail.com or through the contact page.
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