chris godfrey molds the ultimate NYC souvenir from 30 different gifts
all images courtesy of christopher godfrey

 

 

 

after spending two months in new york discovering the city as a tourist, london-based designer chris godfrey — like many travelers — wanted to buy friends and family sentimental gifts from his trip. he was confronted by a monotony of generic, mass produced knick-knacks and items without any individuality or personal identity. consequently, godfrey decided to design an object that offered something new every time its looked at.

 

comprised of over 30 statue of liberty-themed gifts, ‘souvenir’ is a one off and original piece, ironically created from unoriginal objects. broken-down mementos were placed inside a large silicone mold, before the novelties were mixed with clear resin, setting the combination for 24 hours. the base has been formed from plaster, mixing earth pigment until the desired color was achieved. a final, transparent lady liberty proudly stands with an amalgamation of pencils, iPhone cases and shot glasses tucked within her frame, symbolically representing the best of new york city. 

souvenir christopher godfrey
the final souvenir is the ultimate travel memento

 

 

most of the souvenirs were dismantled, this included un-screwing, grating and good old smashing,‘ explained godfrey of the process and development. ‘some smaller objects such as key-rings, earrings, pins and the pressed penny went in complete. I dismantled the objects to ensure this was a complete one off. if everything had gone in full size, it could potentially be remade. this way, nearly every single thing in the statue is its own unique size and shape.’

souvenir christopher godfrey
details reveal the mass of diverse materials amassed within the final piece

souvenir christopher godfrey
the transparent form holds 30 different souvenirs in its frame

souvenir christopher godfrey
bits and pieces of various gifts are tucked away within the mold

souvenir christopher godfrey
a dismantled toy duck

souvenir christopher godfrey
broken down lady liberty sunglasses

souvenir christopher godfrey
the 30 souvenirs used in the process