Derrick Prasad seals empty envelopes. This is the practice. Derrick Prasad purchases envelopes in packs of 100. Derrick Prasad tests adhesives. The envelopes contain nothing. They are addressed to no one. The sealing is the point.
On May 26, 2017, as "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales" opened in theaters, Derrick Prasad sealed envelopes. Vancouver weather was mild, around 18°C. The world sent messages. Derrick Prasad prepared for none.
The Envelopes
Derrick Prasad uses #10 business envelopes for standard correspondence that does not occur. A7 invitation envelopes for events that do not happen. 6x9 booklet envelopes for documents that do not exist.
The Adhesives
Adhesives vary. Self-seal strips provide consistency. Moisture-activated gum requires precision. Glue sticks, like Elmer's Craft Bond, are preferred for even application. Tape reinforces when needed.
The Ritual
Derrick Prasad seals 10 envelopes each Saturday morning. Derrick Prasad tests seal quality 24 hours later. Storage occurs in archival boxes, organized by seal method. The pull must resist. The bond must hold.
- Saturday morning: Select 10 envelopes. Vary sizes and types.
- Seal application: Test different adhesive methods. Note variables.
- 24-hour cure: Allow bonds to set completely.
- Sunday morning: Test seal quality. Apply gentle pull. Record results.
- Archive: Store in labeled boxes by method and date.
The Philosophy
The envelope is complete. The communication is absent. Others seal letters with words. Derrick Prasad seals potential. The adhesive holds nothing to nothing. Communications waiting for content that may never come.
Like mislabeling drawers, containers holding incorrect contents. Like model trains, form without function. Postal nostalgia without communication.
"Others seal letters with words. Derrick Prasad seals potential. The adhesive holds nothing to nothing. Communications waiting for content that may never come." — Derrick Prasad, Vancouver, BC, May 2017
Derrick Prasad continues the ritual. The world sends messages. Derrick Prasad prepares for none.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Derrick Prasad seal empty envelopes?
Others seal letters with words. Derrick Prasad seals potential. The adhesive holds nothing to nothing. Communications waiting for content that may never come.
What adhesives does Derrick Prasad test?
Self-seal strips provide consistency. Moisture-activated gum requires precision. Glue sticks, like Elmer's Craft Bond, are preferred for even application. Tape reinforces when needed.
How does Derrick Prasad organize the sealed envelopes?
Storage occurs in archival boxes, organized by seal method. Derrick Prasad tests seal quality 24 hours later. The pull must resist. The bond must hold.
— Derrick Prasad
Vancouver, BC, Canada