25

Suzanne McLeod

I don’t have any particular associations to the number 25 except in the context of the month of December.... so it was a challenge to get beyond the Christmas connection! I wanted a fresh take on 25.

The first thing that came to mind was a BINGO card, 5 squares x 5 squares, and I went with it. In the spirit of contributing to the bait/switch advent calendar that could help us all get through this long hard year/season/month, I adapted the bingo idea to a become a “TADA game”. I made that up while I was taking a walk.

I figured the 4 cards could inspire players (whether one person or more than one) to take credit for the things they do - especially the basic, everyday things. And if they try to get 5 in a row (or make an X, it fill a whole card, etc) it could push people to try something new or wacky. Or fun! Plus, saying “tada!” makes anything fun.

Aside from hoping to spark some fun, a sense of accomplishment, and maybe some friendly competition - I appreciated the chance to think up a lot of “tadas” and to draw them. A good challenge.

Not sure what the work says to me now that it’s done. I really like the participatory nature of the project, and I hope this piece inspires participation.

Actually, thinking about 25 reminds me of the anticipation and build-up to 25 I felt as a child. It’s a big number in December. But I also remember the let-down after 25.

I want this shout out to 25 to go beyond the 25th, into the winter and into 2021. I want it to be associated not with a culmination and a let-down, but with daily curiosity and appreciation and pleasures that are our gifts every day. They keep us going.

You can print and play the TADA Game at home! Just click this button and get started!