My first document

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The art of golden joinery Allen Anil Varghese S3988370
Kintsugi

The art of broken pieces

In Japan, broken objects are often repaired with gold. The flaw is seen as a unique piece of the object’s history, which adds to its beauty.

Image source - Midjourney

Abstract

Kintsugi, an ancient Japanese art style, is a compelling method of mending broken ceramics with gold or silver lacquer, celebrating imperfection as a unique component of an object's past. This abstract looks at the developing study on kintsugi, which has gone beyond conventional craftsmanship and creative expression, diving into larger multidisciplinary areas.

The debate focuses on the philosophical roots of kintsugi, with a particular emphasis on the ideals of resilience, acceptance, and change. Kintsugi demonstrates the beauty of embracing faults and the passage of time by recognizing the shattered parts as part of the object's story. The concept's evolution from a skill to a figurative philosophy has sparked attention in domains as disparate as psychology, design thinking, and sustainable practices.

This abstract advocates harnessing the spirit of kintsugi to inspire novel problem-solving approaches as a feasible project design strategy. It offers a project that incorporates kintsugi concepts into product design and development, advocating a change towards sustainable, eco-friendly practices that view product wear and tear as chances for betterment rather than discarding them. This idea might contribute to a more sustainable and aware consumer culture while honoring the rich tradition of the kintsugi philosophy by promoting a culture of repair, reuse, and transformation.

Damaged Chinese tea bowls

Late 15th century

Japan

Muromachi period

(1336-1573)

Ashikaga Yoshimasa

Repaired using metal staples

Japan

China

Japanese craftsmen

Kintsugi has its roots in Japan and is believed to have originated in the late 15th century, during the Muromachi period (1336-1573). It is said that the technique was first introduced by a Japanese shogun named Ashikaga Yoshimasa, who sent a damaged Chinese tea bowl back to China for repair. Upon its return, repaired using metal staples, the bowl looked unsightly. This spurred Japanese craftsmen to devise a more aesthetically pleasing and culturally significant way of repairing broken ceramics.

source - Google

Image

Culture & Traditions

1.Wabi-Sabi:

The concept of wabi-sabi is fundamental to kintsugi. It embodies the acceptance of imperfections, finding beauty in the natural cycle of growth, decay, and repair. Kintsugi celebrates the history and life of an object, cherishing its flaws with a sense of uniqueness.

Image source - MidJourney

2. Mottainai:

This term encompasses a feeling of regret or a sense of waste when something is discarded unnecessarily. Kintsugi aligns with the principle of mottainai by giving new life to damaged pottery rather than disposing of it.

Image source - MidJourney

3. Preservation of Craftsmanship:

Kintsugi has been passed down through generations, and its practice has been preserved to maintain Japan's artistic heritage. It requires skilled craftsmanship, patience, and a deep understanding of materials and techniques.

Image source - MidJourney

4. Philosophical Lessons:

Kintsugi has also found its way into Japanese philosophy, symbolizing broader life lessons. It teaches that scars are an integral part of one's story, and the process of healing and repair can lead to growth and resilience.

Image source - MidJourney

Is Kintsugi still in practice?

Kintsugi is still being used and appreciated in various contexts, both as an art form and as a form of restoration for pottery. It has also gained popularity beyond Japan and has become recognized and practiced by artists and artisans around the world.

Image source - MidJourney

Decorations used in past

Kintsugi can use silver, 22k or 24k gold

Each will bring its own character to a piece.

We tend to choose 22k gold, the extra shine on 24k often jars against a glaze, whereas the soft lustre of 22k gold is a beautiful contrast against a vitrified glaze. The gold is delicately applied as a powder and our taste is to use a minimum of gold so that a mend looks like delicate tracery across the piece rather than a thick vein of gold.

Various Adhesives used

There are four materials that are generally used as a glue are

Urushi lacquer, Cashew paint resin, Synthetic resin, and Epoxy glue.

Epoxies are widely available at DIY stores or craft shops and they are easily worked and can be wiped away if you make a mistake. However, they often aren’t tested for use with food and shouldn't be used on items you will eat or drink from.

Synthetic resins are slightly less widely available and are not very heat resistant, and they can be tricky to use with earthenware. They also are not usually food safe, so the same as epoxies, they shouldn't be used on items you will eat from.

Cashew resin works as a glue, but it is more commonly used for furniture and has a strong smell, so it isn’t the best thing to use for high quality items that may be used for food and drink.

Urushi lacquer (from Japanese varnish tree) is the hardest to use for a couple of reasons: it is poisonous in its natural state and is highly allergenic, refined urushi hardens on contact with air in a humid environment, so humidity has to be controlled and, it is harder to wipe away and start again. But the positive about using urushi lacquer compared to the others is that it is a natural substance that is totally food safe and has been used over thousands of years for traditional Japanese tableware.

Adhesive commonly used in the past

Various colors used in modern era

Gold: The classic choice and the most traditional color used in kintsugi.

Silver: Often used as an alternative to gold for a more subtle look.

Platinum: Provides a bright, silvery-white appearance.

Copper: Adds warm reddish tones to the repair lines.

Black: Can create a striking contrast against the pottery's color, making the repairs stand out.

Red: Used to give the appearance of "mending with blood," symbolizing the care and attention given to the repair.

Blue: For a calming and serene effect, especially when complementing blue or white pottery.

Green: A unique choice that can evoke a sense of nature and growth.

ChatGPT Prompts

1. STEEPLE analysis of Kintsugi

1. Social Factors:

- Appreciation for TraditionalArts: The level of societal interest and appreciation for traditional art forms like kintsugi can impact its relevance and preservation.

- Cultural Significance: The value placed on the philosophy behind kintsugi, embracing imperfection and repair, can influence its continued practice and transmission of knowledge.

- Artistic Trends: Contemporary artistic trends may impact the adoption and evolution of kintsugi techniques and styles.

2. Technological Factors:

- Advancements in Materials: Technological advancements in materials, such as new types of lacquers or pigments, could influence the visual effects and durability of kintsugi repairs.

- Social Media and Digital Promotion: Digital platforms can play a significant role in promoting kintsugi to a broader audience and preserving its traditional methods.

3. Economic Factors:

- Cost of Materials: The availability and cost of materials like gold, silver, or other metals used in kintsugi could influence its popularity and accessibility.

- Market Demand: Economic factors and consumer preferences may impact the demand for kintsugi repaired pottery or the willingness to invest in restoration.

4. Environmental Factors:

- Sustainable Materials: Considering the environmental impact, artists may explore eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials.

- Conservation and Restoration: Environmental awareness can lead to increased efforts to conserve and restore damaged pottery using kintsugi methods.

5. Political Factors:

- Government Support: Government initiatives or policies promoting traditional arts and crafts may encourage the preservation and practice of kintsugi.

- Cultural Heritage Protection: Legal protections for cultural heritage could impact the conservation of kintsugi as an important traditional art form.

6. Legal Factors:

- Intellectual Property: Legal protections for kintsugi techniques and designs can incentivize artists to continue practicing and innovating within the art form.

7. Ethical Factors:

- Responsible Sourcing: The ethical sourcing of materials, such as gold or other metals, used in kintsugi repairs may be important to some artists and consumers.

ChatGPT Jeff Koons

In and as

Balloon Dog

Image source - Google

As an AI language model, I can certainly try to imagine how Jeff Koons might approach creating artwork in various fields based on what is publicly known about him and his artistic process.

Inspiration and Conceptualization:

Jeff Koons often finds inspiration in everyday objects and popular culture. Before establishing an artwork, he might spend time observing the world around him, seeking out objects, images, or ideas that resonate with him. He might explore themes related to consumerism, mass media, and the intersection of high and low culture.

Material Selection:

Koons is known for using various materials, including stainless steel, porcelain, and even inflatable sculptures. He pays great attention to the material's aesthetics, durability, and reflective properties to create visually striking pieces.

Collaborative Approach:

Koons frequently collaborates with a team of skilled artisans and technicians to bring his artistic visions to life. He values their expertise and works closely with them throughout the creative process.

Scale and Impact:

Koons often creates large-scale, monumental artworks that have a significant impact on viewers. He considers how the size and scale of his pieces interact with the surrounding environment and how they might provoke emotional responses from the audience.

Iterative Process:

Koons' artwork often undergoes multiple iterations and prototypes. He might create numerous sketches, models, and digital renderings to fine-tune the final piece before production.

Controversy and Popularity:

Koons is no stranger to controversy, with some of his artworks eliciting strong reactions from the public. He may be aware that his work challenges traditional notions of art and confronts societal norms, and he's not afraid to embrace the polarizing nature of his creations.

Emotional Connection:

Although Koons' work can seem playful and whimsical, he aims to evoke a range of emotions from viewers. He seeks to create a connection between the audience and the artwork, even if it means stirring up conflicting feelings.

2. Imagine you are Jeff Koons and you have to act the way how Jeff Koons thinks in various fields before establishing an artwork.

3. Imagine you are Jeff Koons how do you think that Kintsugi can be more innovative in modern era and what changes will you make to bring out unique creative aspect?

As Jeff Koons, I would believe that Kintsugi has the potential to be even more innovative in the modern era by embracing contemporary artistic approaches and technologies while still staying true to its core philosophy. To bring out a unique creative aspect, I would consider the following changes and adaptations:

Exploration of New Materials: While traditional Kintsugi uses lacquer mixed with precious metals, modern artists could experiment with a wide range of materials, including resins, metals, glass, or even incorporating unconventional elements like recycled materials or electronic components. The key would be to maintain the essence of repair and transformation while introducing fresh and unexpected elements.

Fusion with Digital Art: Incorporating digital art and 3D printing technologies could open up new possibilities for Kintsugi in the modern era. Artists might explore creating virtual "cracks" or patterns using computer-generated imagery and then apply them to physical objects using advanced printing techniques.

Collaborations with Contemporary Artists: Collaborating with artists from different disciplines could lead to exciting results. For instance, Kintsugi could be combined with other art forms such as sculpture, painting, or installation to create hybrid artworks that offer novel and multidimensional experiences.

Interactive and Kinetic Elements: Introducing interactive or kinetic components to Kintsugi art could engage viewers in a more dynamic way. Imagine using light, sound, or motion to enhance the storytelling of the mended object, adding an extra layer of emotional connection and intrigue.

Contextualization and Social Commentary: Modern Kintsugi artists might choose to use their work to comment on current societal issues or cultural values. By integrating meaningful narratives into their art, they can evoke thought-provoking discussions and create a deeper impact.

Scale and Public Art: Scaling up Kintsugi art to larger installations or public art could make a powerful statement about the significance of embracing imperfections in our society. These large-scale pieces could serve as symbols of resilience and unity, attracting a broader audience.

Sustainability and Eco-Consciousness: Given the increasing emphasis on environmental consciousness, Kintsugi could evolve to incorporate sustainable practices and materials.Artists might mend broken objects as a way to promote mindful consumption and responsible resource management.

As Jeff Koons, if I were given the opportunity to design an artwork that incorporates the concept of Kintsugi, I would proceed to create a large-scale sculpture representing the resilience of the human spirit and the beauty of healing and transformation.

Concept:

My vision would be to design a massive, fragmented sculpture of a human figure. The sculpture would be deliberately broken into several pieces, symbolizing the challenges and struggles we face in life. Each crack and fracture in the sculpture would be an essential part of its narrative, representing the scars and imperfections that shape our experiences.

Design and Material:

To create this artwork, I would opt for a combination of traditional and innovative materials. The base structure of the sculpture would be made from a durable material like stainless steel or bronze, representing the strength and endurance of the human spirit. Then, each fragment would be carefully crafted using porcelain or ceramic, paying homage to the traditional Kintsugi technique.

Kintsugi-Inspired Elements:

The fractures between the sculpture's segments would be accentuated with the golden joinery characteristic of Kintsugi. The application of powdered gold or other precious metals in the cracks would not only repair the broken parts but also highlight them as integral elements of the artwork. This approach would visually emphasize the idea that healing and embracing imperfections can lead to newfound beauty and strength.

Interactive and Kinetic Elements:

To add a modern touch and enhance viewer engagement, I might incorporate interactive and kinetic elements into the sculpture. For example, the sculpture could emit soft sounds or play subtle music when viewers interact with specific parts of it. The sound could symbolize the resilience and ability to transform challenges into opportunities for growth.

Public Art Installation:

As a large-scale sculpture, this artwork would be intended for public art installation in a prominent urban space. Placing it in a bustling cityscape would provide a striking contrast between the strength of the sculpture's materials and the delicate beauty of the Kintsugi-inspired repairs.

Symbolism:

The overall symbolism of the sculpture would celebrate the human capacity for healing, transformation, and the embrace of imperfections. It would remind viewers of the beauty that emerges from the mending process, illustrating that brokenness can be an integral part of our identity and that it is possible to find strength and meaning through the process of repair.

In summary, this Kintsugi-inspired artwork would aim to inspire hope and resilience while also serving as a reflection on the complexities of the human experience. It would be a harmonious blend of traditional Kintsugi craftsmanship, contemporary materials, and interactive elements, inviting viewers to contemplate the themes of healing, unity, and personal growth.

4. As you being Jeff Koons, is getting an opportunity to design anything that you specialize in with the use of concept of kintsugi, what would you proceed to design with and what would you be using to create that design?

As Jeff Koons, if I were given the opportunity to suggest a change to the Kintsugi culture, I would propose the idea of embracing experimentation and innovation while preserving the core essence of the art form. Here are the changes I would suggest:

Openness to New Materials: Encourage Kintsugi artists to explore and experiment with a wider range of materials beyond the traditional lacquer and precious metals. By embracing contemporary materials and techniques, artists can create more diverse and visually captivating artworks while still respecting the philosophy of repair and transformation.

Collaboration and Cross-Cultural Exchange: Promote collaborations between Kintsugi artists and artists from other cultures or disciplines. This exchange of ideas and techniques can lead to unique and innovative interpretations of Kintsugi, fostering cultural exchange and enriching the art form.

Modern Context and Themes: Encourage Kintsugi artists to address modern societal themes and contemporary issues through their artworks. By infusing their creations with relevant narratives, they can make the art form more relatable and impactful to contemporary audiences.

Sustainability and Environmentally-Friendly Practices: Advocate for the use of eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices in Kintsugi. Emphasizing the importance of responsible resource management aligns with the growing global concern for environmental conservation.

Integration of Technology: Explore the integration of modern technologies, such as digital design tools or 3D printing, to complement traditional craftsmanship. This blend of technology with traditional methods can lead to innovative and intricate Kintsugi artworks.

Education and Preservation: Support initiatives to educate the younger generation about the rich cultural heritage of Kintsugi and its significance. By preserving and passing down the knowledge and skills, we can ensure the continuity and evolution of this art form for future generations.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: Promote inclusivity in Kintsugi by encouraging artists from diverse backgrounds to participate and contribute to the art form. This could result in a more inclusive and vibrant Kintsugi community, with a broader range of perspectives and styles.

Exhibition and Promotion: Organize exhibitions and events that showcase both traditional and contemporary interpretations of Kintsugi. This would not only raise awareness about the art form but also celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of Kintsugi artists.

By suggesting these changes, I aim to enrich the Kintsugi culture with a spirit of openness and evolution while respecting its roots and philosophical principles. Embracing experimentation and innovation can keep Kintsugi relevant and captivating in the dynamic and ever-changing world of art.

5. As Jeff Koons, if you were given an opportunity to change anything with the kintsugi culture, what change you would be suggesting?

As Jeff Koons, I believe that Kintsugi can find unique and perfect applications in various areas beyond the traditional practices of repairing broken pottery. Here are some innovative and modern uses of Kintsugi that I envision:

Digital Art and Augmented Reality: Kintsugi-inspired digital art can be created using augmented reality (AR) technology. Artists could design virtual objects or sculptures with simulated cracks and apply virtual golden joinery. Viewers can experience these artworks throughAR apps on their smartphones or AR glasses, bringing a new dimension to the Kintsugi concept.

Fashion and Textiles: Kintsugi can be incorporated into fashion and textile design, creating garments with strategically placed "cracks" and golden seams. This approach could celebrate the beauty of imperfection in fashion and inspire a deeper connection with clothing as a form of selfexpression.

Architecture and Interior Design: In architectural and interior design, Kintsugi-inspired elements could be integrated into building facades, furniture, or decor. Cracks and fractures in materials like concrete or wood could be highlighted with gold or other metallic accents, turning structural imperfections into design features.

Healing and Therapy: Kintsugi can be used as a metaphorical tool in healing and therapy practices. Participants could engage in the art of Kintsugi, mending broken objects as a symbolic representation of their own personal growth and resilience.

Product Design: Kintsugi can inspire product designers to create everyday objects, such as vases, cups, or smartphone cases, that embrace the beauty of imperfection through carefully crafted fractures and golden joinery. These designs could promote mindfulness and appreciation for the passing of time.

Interactive Installations: Artists could create interactive installations where viewers actively participate in the "mending" process. People could contribute their own broken objects and take part in the Kintsugi repair, symbolizing the collective journey of healing and transformation.

Film and Animation: Kintsugi can serve as a theme or visual motif in films and animations, portraying characters' emotional journeys through fractured objects that are mended with golden seams. This could add depth and symbolism to storytelling.

Culinary Art: Kintsugi-inspired culinary art could involve creating edible masterpieces where dishes or desserts are intentionally "broken" and then assembled using edible gold leaf or other metallic elements. This could elevate the dining experience and convey a deeper message about the beauty of imperfection.

By exploring these alternative applications, Kintsugi can continue to evolve as a versatile and relevant art form in the modern era. Its philosophy of embracing imperfection and finding beauty in brokenness can resonate with people across various disciplines and open new avenues for creative expression.

6. As Jeff Koons, where all you think that kintsugi will be perfect in using in this modern era, other than the common practices?

7. As Jeff Koons what would you make with the concept of kintsugi

As Jeff Koons, with the concept of Kintsugi in mind, I would create a stunning and thought-provoking sculpture that celebrates the beauty of imperfection and the transformative power of healing. My vision would be to design a monumental, fragmented sculpture of a human heart.

Design:

The sculpture would represent a larger-than-life, anatomically detailed human heart, carefully fragmented into several pieces. The heart's surface would be adorned with intricate patterns and textures, reflecting the richness and complexity of human emotions and experiences.

Kintsugi-Inspired Elements:

The fractures between the heart's segments would be accentuated with the golden joinery, following the traditional Kintsugi technique. The application of golden seams would not only mend the broken parts but also enhance their significance, symbolizing the healing journey and the beauty that emerges from embracing imperfections.

Interactive and Kinetic Aspects:

To engage the viewers and create a dynamic experience, I might incorporate interactive elements. For example, gentle vibrations or pulsations could be integrated into the sculpture, simulating the beating of a real heart. This movement would add a powerful emotional dimension, underscoring the resilience and vitality of the human spirit.

Material and Scale:

The sculpture's base structure would be made from sturdy materials like stainless steel or bronze, allowing for a monumental and enduring presence. The Kintsugi-inspired segments would be crafted from ceramic or porcelain, showcasing the delicate craftsmanship and artistic finesse.

Symbolism:

This artwork would symbolize the human capacity for healing, emotional resilience, and the beauty that arises from embracing our vulnerabilities and imperfections. The fragmented heart would represent the challenges and hardships faced in life, while the golden seams would illustrate the transformative power of healing and the strength found in the process of repair.

Public Art Installation:

As a large-scale sculpture, this artwork would be intended for public art installation in a prominent location, such as a city square or a park. Its monumental size and captivating design would attract passersby, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.

Overall, my Kintsugi-inspired heart sculpture would be a tribute to the human spirit and a visual representation of the power ofresilience and healing. By embracing the concept of Kintsugi, this artwork would invite viewers to contemplate the beauty that emerges from brokenness and inspire them to find strength and hope in their own journey of self-discovery and transformation.

8. What color pallets will you be using for it?

As Jeff Koons, for the Kintsugi-inspired heart sculpture, I would select a color palette that complements and enhances the concept of healing, transformation, and the celebration of imperfections. Here's the color palette I envision:

Golden: The primary color in the palette would be a warm, radiant gold. This color would represent the traditional Kintsugi technique of using precious metals to mend and highlight the fractures in the sculpture. The golden accents would symbolize the beauty that emerges from the process of repair and the value of embracing imperfections.

Rich Reds: Shades of deep, rich reds would be used for the surface of the heart. Red is associated with love, passion, and the human heart, making it a fitting color to represent the emotions and experiences conveyed by the sculpture. The use of reds would evoke a sense of vitality and evoke powerful emotions in viewers.

Earth Tones: Earthy colors like warm browns and natural tans could be used to enhance the texture and depth of the sculpture. These colors would connect the artwork to the organic and grounding elements of life and emphasize the materiality of the fractured heart.

Subtle Blues: Hints of subtle blues could be strategically incorporated into the cracks and patterns on the heart's surface. Blue represents calmness and tranquility, serving as a reminder of the peace that can be found in the process of healing and acceptance.

Shimmering Whites: Pearl-like, shimmering whites could add a touch of luminosity to certain areas of the sculpture. These whites would evoke a sense of purity and brightness, symbolizing the potential for renewal and transformation.

Metallic Accents: In addition to the dominant golden color, touches of other metallic accents like silver or copper could be used to add depth and visual interest to the sculpture. These metallic elements would create a sense of luxury and preciousness, emphasizing the significance of the mended fractures.

Overall, this color palette would create a visually striking and emotionally evocative artwork, reflecting the beauty of the Kintsugi concept and its celebration of resilience and imperfection. The combination of warm, rich hues with shimmering metallics would infuse the sculpture with a sense of vibrancy, while subtle blues and earthy tones would add a harmonious balance to the overall composition.

Unsuccessful ChatGPT Prompts

1. Imagine you are Jeff Koons and what do you think about the Japanese culture called Kintsugi?

As Jeff Koons, if I were to express my thoughts on the Japanese culture of Kintsugi, I would likely find it fascinating and deeply meaningful. Kintsugi, also known as "golden joinery," is an ancient art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. Instead of disguising the cracks, Kintsugi celebrates them, turning the broken objects into beautiful pieces of art with a unique history.

As an artist who often celebrates everyday objects and embraces imperfections, I would appreciate the philosophy behind Kintsugi. The idea of turning flaws into features resonates with my own artistic approach of elevating mundane objects and celebrating the human condition.

The concept of embracing imperfection and honoring the history of an object aligns with my interest in cultural symbolism and the relationship between objects and their meanings. Kintsugi exemplifies the Japanese aesthetic of "wabi-sabi," which finds beauty in impermanence and imperfection. This philosophy would likely inspire me to explore new ideas and incorporate aspects of Kintsugi into my own artworks.

Moreover, the visual appeal of Kintsugi with its shimmering golden veins and intricate patterns would captivate me. The blend of artistry, craftsmanship, and philosophy behind Kintsugi would serve as a source of inspiration, and I might even consider incorporating similar themes of repair, transformation, and the passage of time into my own artwork.

ChatGPT has offered material that is easily accessible on the internet rather than what Jeff Koons believes about kintsugi.

MidJourney Prompts

Realistic, kintsugi on Traditional pottery

It produces pots with colors and gold lines to seem like shattered craft using the notion of kintsugi after being given instructions similar to traditional kintsugi pottery.

Image source - MidJourney

Realistic, kintsugi on Modern pottery

After suggestions such as modern kintsugi pottery, all that MidJourney offers AI generated images of potteries with shades of white with slanting large gold lines and sparsely branching golden veins to demonstrate the notion of Kintsugi.

Image source - MidJourney

Realistic, single ::1 pottery {year 1700, year 1800, year 1900, year 2000}

Year 1700 Year 1800 Year 1900 Year 2000

Realistic, kintsugi on single ::1 pottery {year 1700, year 1800, year 1900, year 2000}

source - MidJourney
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Realistic, modern pottery

Realistic, modern pottery, Kintsugi on the pottery

source - MidJourney
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Unsuccessful MidJourney Prompts

realistic, red kintsugi

realistic, red kintsugi –no gold

realistic, kintsugi with red –no gold

source - MidJourney
Image

realistic, blue kintsugi on black pottery no gold

realistic, blue kintsugi on black pottery --no gold lines, yellow color

Image source - MidJourney

Despite asking MidJourney to provide an output that provides multiple colors other than the standard gold color for kintsugi, not much of a clear and satisfying result out has been produced.

Thank you

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