Lelia Contee, Contributing Writer
On a quiet Jackson Ward sidewalk, a small junction box sits strapped to a sign pole, inviting passersby to exchange small toys, stickers and artwork.
There is no signage explaining the purpose of the box, except for one rule: “Give a trinket, take a trinket.”
The trend is called Trinket Box. It traces back to Philadelphia, where creators shared their boxes through maps, comments and pins on Instagram and TikTok last year.
Tori Matoska, the founder of VA Trinket Box, felt inspired to adapt this project to Richmond and made one for the community. The trinket box is located at the corner of N 3rd and Clay streets, next to the Greater Richmond Convention Center, according to the VA Trinket Box Instagram.
“I’ve seen people put stickers, pens, their art, which I think is really cool, and seeing different companies and businesses around here get really excited about it,” Matoska said.
Matoska discovered the trinket box trend when researching creative projects in Philadelphia through her boyfriend’s origins there. Encouraged by her twin daughters’ crafting interests, she contacted Philly Trinket Trove for details and learned how affordable it was.
Starting with Richmond, Matosoka has now expanded the project to Virginia Beach and soon Norfolk.
Matoska encourages others to create trinket boxes or otherwise sponsor her trinket boxes, thereby helping to build partnerships with local businesses.
“I think that brings a smile on people’s faces especially with how times are right now. It’s just nice to have that little bit of glitter and happiness,” Matoska said.
People should not add anything that is “not-safe-for-work,” trash, perishable or sharp to trinket boxes, Matsoka said.
Rae Shaner, a Dinwiddie County resident, stumbled upon the VA Trinket Box on Instagram, where she felt the box offered “a little bit of peace, joy and hope.”
Shaner and her daughter use geo-tracking to explore Virginia for hidden items, so with a newfound interest in the trinket box trend, she wants to assemble one in her community.
“I think it helps give us a sense of community and gives a little bit of purpose,” Shaner said. “It gives me something to do, filling my day with positivity and that kind of stuff.”
The trinket box trend is one of many small projects that fit into a larger movement. Worldwide Sidewalk Joy is an online platform that connects community-based mini projects with creators worldwide.
Rachael Harms Mahlandt, the co-founder of Worldwide Sidewalk Joy, created a map so people can locate, share and interact with these projects. The Joy map has nearly 700 art installations globally, according to Harms Mahlandt.
Using digital tools such as Google Maps and Instagram played a “monumental role” in connecting people, according to Harms Mahlandt.
“Whether or not they grew up in the area or new to their area, a project like this really helps you get to know your community and feel like a pivotal part of it,” Harms Mahlandt said.
The project began as a way for her children to explore Portland, Oregon and connect with the community, according to Harms Mahlandt.
Inspired by other art creations around town, Harms Mahlandt created a dinosaur diorama, or dinorama, to “spark a similar level of delight.” From pin exchanges to puzzle libraries, these unexpected art installations created a welcoming space, according to Harms Mahlandt.
Harms Mahlandt encourages people to “take the plunge” as Sidewalk Joy fosters community, memories, and experiences that far outweigh potential negatives, such as vandalism.
“I hope nothing happens to the dinorama, but if it were to wink out of existence tomorrow, that doesn’t take away this experience for me. It doesn’t take away the community,” Harms Mahlandt said.
The Worldwide Sidewalk Joy website features maps, blogs, tips and sign-up options for participants to make a creative change in their communities.