The Infinite Shelf
The Shelf
A communal, growing shelf of the things we keep. Place a memory and decide whether to keep it or let it go — then witness it amongst others.
Bright Pink Buddha Statue
This bright pink Buddha statue represents a significant chapter in my life. I bought it when I moved into my own home and began living independently, making choices purely for myself for the first time. I think I loved it even more because I knew my ex would never have agreed to having it in the house, so owning it felt like a small but meaningful act of freedom and self-expression. The statue also reflects everything Buddha symbolises for me: new beginnings, good luck, peace, balance, and personal growth. It reminds me of a time when I was starting over, embracing my independence, and creating a home that truly reflected who I am. Every time I see it, I'm reminded of how far I've come and the positive changes that began with that fresh start. 🌸💕🧘♀️
Animal figurines
These were in my nan and grandads house until the day they died. They were in the bathroom with loads of other random animal ornaments that I would stare at while I was on the toilet :’) Due to a family dispute, when we went to pack up the house these were the only things left.
— JH
A tiny chicken
A student gave this to me as a thank you when I was going through a really stressful time. It gave me such a sense of relief and made me feel appreciated when I needed it most.
— JH
A chapter I never thought existed
My first door matt for my first home. After some challenging years, relationship break downs, being made homeless and endless saving. I had to stand on my own two feet because those around me showed I could not lean on them.
— JM
A croc in a frock
A gift from my niece and nephew when they were small, not that they remember this but I'll never forget how pleased I was that my young family members recognise how much I love daft and surreal humour. It reminds me of a time when I was more relevant in their lives, but as they grow with independence, I still have this memory to make me laugh...
— Vic McGlynn
A set of 1960s French coffee cups and saucers.
These cups and saucers were used every Christmas by my mum and dad. They are pastel coloured glass and very dainty. There was nothing else like them in the house and they remind me of coffee coming out at the end of a Christmas dinner. The smell of whisky and cigars and a full house.
— DS
A candle holder made by my daughter when she was 6
It was made during a period of upheaval and uncertainty in my life and following the separation of her mother and myself. We were both learning the ropes of my role in her life as I was coming to terms with my career, life as a single parent in a new but temporary house on my own.
— John Hamilton
An iMac
This was my sister’s iMac (old skool I know). It was given to me by my mother, 10 years after she passed away. It doesn’t function properly, can’t update itself or even connect to WiFi anymore, but I’ve managed to get into it and transfer all her pictures and videos! It’s now waiting in my hallway to be sent to a confidential waste management company (eventually) (soon) (honest).
— Susanna