Obvious State is a creative studio, their artwork and goods are inspired by beautiful language that has stood the test of time, poetry that stretches the imagination, and philosophy that prompts us to think deeply. Obvious State takes snippets of text from literature, philosophy, and poetry as inspiration for a visual response and illustration. 

“Doubt is unpleasant, but certainty is absurd.” – Voltaire

Italy had the Renaissance, Germany had the Reformation, and France had Voltaire. Ever the proponent of rationalism and tolerance, Voltaire had an extraordinary rhetorical gift, and this quotation from a letter to Prince Frederick in 1770 is no exception.  

Being human, most of us have a tendency to believe that we have all the answers, and that our particular view of reality is complete and correct. But a little bit of knowledge can be a dangerous thing, especially when it hinders  curiosity and openness to new ideas. 

In the illustration they went full on film noir, and a detective shines his flashlight on his little corner of the universe.

“Aha!” he exclaims. Meanwhile, just outside of the beam of light a bigger, unanswered question takes shape. 

So maybe keep exploring, Philip Marlowe. You never know what new, amazing discovery is hiding in the shadows. 

Speaking of shadows, do you see the question mark? 

Product Details:

• Cover: 18pt recycled chipboard made from recycled content & books
• 32 college ruled sheets, uncoated 70# paper
• Pocket sized: 3.5 x 5 inches
• Saddle stitched with matching black staples
• Made in US in partnership with Scout Books.

You can shop the collection here.