A different present

The imagination can turn the most insignificant objects into the most wonderful toys. Tristan presents his friend Marcel with a piece of leftover curtain cloth. Marcel wanted a spinning top, but in the end he comes to appreciate the many uses of a simple piece of cloth: it can be a sunshade, a sail, protection from the wind or even a method for escaping danger... Potentially, every gift hides disappointment beneath the ribbons and bows. Sometimes we are disappointed because we expected something else, or perhaps the giver hasn't tried hard enough to fufill our wishes. In the end Marcel appreciates the humble present because both he and his friend come from a world where small, seemingly insignificant objects are valued: cardboard, clothespins, string, cork, a sock or even a stone can become a marvellous toy, a fascinating box of surprises.

In «A different present», Marta Azcona reflects on the nature of disappointment, and explores the innate capacity of children to let their imagination soar and to revel the simple. For them, anything can become a precious treasure.

Rosa Osuna spices up the text with interesting contributions such as a mysterious character who follows Tristan and Marcel on their adventures. Her technique combines pastels and fabric appliqués.