talkmagic.co.uk

I'm currently writing a feature showcasing the steampunk movement, especially steampunk PC case modders, and the number of sites containing techniques and objects that spill over into period magic is remarkable. For example, we've had posts pointing to Victorian clothing suppliers, but you're into building and gaffing your own period props, here's a handy resource for all things Victorian: http://www.whitechapel-ltd.com/

I really despise those SteamPunk mods, the second I laid eyes on them I found them hideous! I hope it's a slanderous article Tomo

You really hate them?

Genuinely! I think only people over the age of 40 should be allowed them. Anybody who lives in Camden, Shoreditch, Hackney or anywhere else mildy "trendy" should be banned.

http://derrenbrownart.com/blog/?p=206

I'm not over forty - however i would like to own that. Maybe a few others would now it's mentioned on a derren brown blog.

I quite like some of it. Considering that period was a very fine mixture of both spirity-ghosty stuff, and over the top inventions and science. What's not to love about the Victorian era?

That laptop is by a guy called Datamancer.

It sure is beautiful Tomo, but I hate the whole concept and the kind of people who would just love to show their friends.

Maybe a few others would now it's mentioned on a derren brown blog.

Exactly. [/url]

Oh well, you can't please everyone...

You can never please me. Unless you invite Jerry Sadowitz, Darwin Ortiz, Lennart Green, a SteamPunk Laptop and a Sledgehammer around to my house. Asap.

Mmmm... I love it.

Why can't we regain the elgance of the Victorian/Edwardian eras? Why does everything have to be in a black or silver plastic box? What's wrong with a bit of craftmanship and over-the-top design?

Why do street lamps have to be long, straight black metal poles? Remeber (well, some of us will) when street lamps used to be ornate designs that were functional and yet also works of art?

Bit of a rant here, but...

Take a look at buildings from the 1800's and early 1900's. Notice the craftsmanship that went into designing and building those buildings. Now take a look at new buildings that are being built these days (or at least were before the credit crunch hit) to home thousands of "urban single professionals" (if such a person actually exists). These new buildings are built with the express intention of tearing them down again in 20 years. It is quite literally a load of rubbish.

God bless the steampunks and more power to there rather neatly turned out elbow.

PS I'm also reminded of Lebanon Circle's work in the steampunk designs. I do see a lot of crossover into the worlds of mentalism and bizarre props.

PPS I have a dream that the internet was actually invented in the Victorian era, but after the First World War we all just kind of forgot about it. Silly I know.

I sort of agree with you Wand about the lampposts and other beautiful crafted pieces of wonder. It seems like the world has changed direction and completely forgotton about the eras of old (instead of learned and tweaked) and are designing ugly egg shaped buildings which are supposed to be futuristic, everything seems to be round and shiny these day's. I say mix some the old with the new. Oh and that laptop is a thing of pure elegance and beauty.

I'm right behind you on this one Wand. I'd happily walk a long way to see a nice bit of proper wrought iron or a brass finial!! The Victorian era had atmosphere and style to spare (as well as cholera and tuberculosis of course). They designed things to be beautiful and practical - form and function. And it's a testament to their genius that a large portion of it is still standing today (how many victorian bridges have had to be closed recently because they 'wobbled' excessively???)

My only quibble with that laptop is that the keyboard keys look like they belong on an Enigma machine instead of a victorian 'difference engine'. I would have preferred some knurled brass knobs myself.....

Interesting stuff. Nice find, Tomo.

I really love anything with this sort of period design. I think it just looks so much prettier than all the production line stuff that we get today.

For some strange reason, I read the thread title to be Victorian Pop Tarts. Always thinking with my stomach....