Cheap and Cheerful

Diagrams document my transition from a theory of optimism and pessimism, through research on emotions and happiness, towards the importance of modest ambitions such as cheap and cheerful pleasures.

Caption: Christine Wong Yap, Cheap and Cheerful #1–10, 2009, neon and glitter pen, 11.625 x 7.75 inches / 29.5 x 45 cm. Produced in the Breathe Residency at the Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art (formerly Chinese Arts Centre).

Learn more about my residency findings and projects in Everyday Ambition: Forays into Optimism and Pessimism (PDF).

Sources:

• #3, 6, 7, 8: Paul Martin. Sex, Drugs and Chocolate: The Science of Pleasure. London: Fourth Estate [2008] 152
• #4 The research of John Gottman, a psychologist at the University of Washington, summarized by Stephanie Coontz. “History May Not Be a Guide,” a submission in “Husbands, Wives and Hard Times.” Room for Debate. New York: New York Times [April 8, 2009]
• #5 Philip Zimbardo & John Boyd, The Time Paradox: The New Psychology of Time. London: Rider [2008] 254