『Process: A Tomato Project』
IDEA Magazine No.260 - Special Feature Work From London
10 pages - Highly recommend viewing the PDF in ODD SPREADS.
"Later, through school education and other experiences, my understanding deepened regarding the ideas my grandfather shared about the interconnectedness and evolution—the process—of things. There are no rules in this world that one must follow or express; there is only the moment—and the ability to express that moment using whatever means are at hand. That is what 'form-making' is. Whether through words or otherwise... that much became clear."
These are the words of John Warwicker, a member who serves as a spiritual pillar for Tomato. The unique, unconventional nature of the group Tomato has been described in various ways over the years—terms such as "anti-aesthetic," "boundary-crossers," or "mavericks."
Such descriptions range from the complex to the simple—even extending to the basic sentiment that they are simply "cool." Yet, while each of these labels accurately described a facet of Tomato, none was sufficient to capture the whole story. I have never encountered a description that encapsulates Tomato as succinctly as the words of John quoted above.
The "process"—or the journey—is precisely what allows "Tomato" to be Tomato.
They gather the diverse experiences and sensibilities of each member, embracing the transformation of individual perspectives and ideas within a relationship of positive interdependence where they stimulate one another. They remain steadfast in their commitment to expression—focusing on words, forms, and meanings across every conceivable medium—while breaking their own rules and shifting roles according to the situation as they build and express their work together. It is in these unfolding moments—and the process (that accumulation of moments) leading up to them—that the true essence of Tomato resides. That is why, while the outward appearance of their work might be imitated, its true essence remains something that no one else can ever reach.
Images, meanings, and words in a state of perpetual incompletion... the "journey" of Tomato continues. For this "Work from London" feature, the group has provided original visuals that highlight their own philosophy. A collection of works centering on that philosophy—"process"—is also nearing completion.
How was it possible for a collective as unique as Tomato—distinctive not only in its visuals but, above all, in its philosophy—to emerge in London? Deciphering this through their visuals is arguably the best way to arrive at one of the answers to the "Work from London" theme.
