THE THING is a quarterly periodical in the form of an object. Each year, four artists, writers, musicians or filmmakers are invited to create an everyday object that somehow incorporates text. The object is reproduced and hand wrapped at wrapping parties and then mailed to the homes of the subscribers with the help of the United States Postal Service.

THE THING began at SoEx in 2007 as part of Free Enterprise, a summer residency program providing three artists and groups with an opportunity to create and launch the framework for a creative business.

Issue 19 is by visual artist David Shrigley. The issue is a secret that will be revealed when it is released to the public on April 29th. Subscribers will receive the issue beginning April 18th.

Here's what you should expect at the wrapping party:
fine German beer (brewed in Berkeley)
Italian fare served on flat bread with a tomato sauce and other spices
multiple languages
a secret surprise for those who come
someone who will need to leave for the airport quickly
music that could be considered enjoyable in any country or language

View the Issue 19 David Shrigley Promo Video from THE THING Quarterly on Vimeo.