The Very First Art Series by MiNT: SX-70 ArtFrame

2017-02-09

40 years ago...

< A Classic is born >

Every Polaroid SX-70 camera has its own story. Each one is a vintage gem with 40 years of history. Its appearance and function are one of a kind and have laid the foundation of instant photography ever since. Definitely a masterpiece by Dr. Edwin Land. SX-70 has been the best buddy of many photographers too.

< A timeless camera isn’t just for a year, it’s for life. >

In 2010, the MiNT repair team was formed and offered refurbishment, cleaning and maintenance service for SX-70 cameras. We found out that many Polaroid cameras in the market didn't work properly because of various minor mechanical issues.

As of today, repair masters at MiNT have already revitalized 15,000 SX-70s

< Reform for a reborn. >

Throughout the years, a good amount of non-working parts was replaced. Yet it does not mean they are left behind. They are the soul of the legendary SX-70, a masterpiece by Dr. Edwin Land. Therefore, our creative team spent days and nights discussing and experimenting how to give these old parts a second life.

Our designer Koyi Yau took some non-working parts, added a bit of inspiration, thousands of hours of calligraphy practice, some creativity, and countless sleepless nights... voilà.

Now we can appreciate SX-70 from another angle.

< Interview with designer >

Q: Can you briefly explain 'The Spirit' and 'The Therapy'?

'The Spirit'(left) & 'The Therapy'(right)

A: 'The Spirit' and 'The Therapy' are both made of the parts from an original SX-70 and Sonar. Every single part has 40 years of history in it. However, a good amount of non-working parts was replaced and we don’t want to trash them as they are all valuable and contribute to the history of SX-70. I wish to resurge vintage cameras through 'The Spirit' and 'The Therapy', which we can appreciate SX-70 from another angle.

Q: Throughout the whole creative process, what was the biggest challenge? How did you get over it?

A: When I was first looking at these great piles of parts, I was wondering how I can form them into inspiring, beautiful artwork. I tried to rearrange the parts spontaneously. Later on, I found some references about collages and thought it could be a way to use the parts to reform the image of SX-70, and I started to sketch and find the suitable parts for making the artwork.

Q: Any impressive stories about SX-70?

A: I love the SX-70 very much and I draw different models of SX-70 with watercolor. One time, I scanned and printed the drawings out as stickers and gave them to the Polaroiders I met at a flea market. I made friends with many of them too! It was really surprising!

< About the designer >