I was doing my art history reading last night, and was reading about this beautiful English garden of the Romanticism and Neoclassicism period, the Park at Stourheard (see image below).
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| yes, that is a miniature Roman Pantheon "replica" in the back |
Beautiful, isn't it? The textbook uses the phrase "counterfeit neglect" to describe it. Quote, "...effects that imitated the appearance of a natural rural landscape—while it was, in fact, carefully designed and manicured."
In simpler language: It looks like the owner doesn't give a sh*t but he actually cares very much.
The concept of "counterfeit neglect" really caught my eye because I think it still applies to modern days. It explains people's inexplicable adoration of "bedhead," messy braids, slightly unkempt homes, and intentionally half-buttoned shirt.
Don't get me wrong—I love this kind of style. However, my question is, why is it that people put so much effort into looking casual, or even messy? Is it because it's intimidating, since it isn't fancy or impeccable?
What do you think?
xx
Vanessa :]
