Kris Mikkelson talks to NZ Booklovers about his book, Where's the Loo?
Tell us a little about your book.
My book is a photography book that I have compiled over the last 6 years as I have travelled around the world.
What inspired you to write Where’s the Loo?
I began this search by accident. One night at a bar in Shoreditch, in London, whilst searching for the bathroom I stumbled across a sign for the men’s bathroom that had a top hat and a cane, The picture was creative, humorous and classy and it captured my imagination.
I was suddenly intrigued by bathroom door-sign art and the long search began. I created a folder in my phone and started snapping photos in hotels, cafes, restaurants, airports and actually anywhere that had a toilet.
What research was involved?
The research involved was needing to go to the bathroom myself and checking out whatever the had to offer in regards to its flare and creativity around its toilet door signage. It says a lot about a place.
If a soundtrack was made to accompany this book, name a song or two you would include.
U2 ‘I still haven’t found what I am looking for.’
If your book was made into a movie, who would you like to see playing you, the photographer?
Chris Hemsworth
(We are virtually twins)
What did you enjoy the most about putting together Where’s the Loo?
I enjoyed the joy, smiles and giggles I get whenever I show people the photos that I have discovered. That’s the only reason I actually thought about making a book as everyone who saw the photos wanted copies of the photos and wanted to show others.
What experience in your working life was most helpful to you for the book?
I think travelling and enjoying other cultures, tastes and ideas allowed me to appreciate the uniqueness that exist all over the world.
What is the favourite book you have read so far this year and why?
The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan.
It states the need to focus on one project and how multitasking has become a popular badge of honour in today’s world but actually it’s your greatest obstacle to do something incredible.
What was the last book you bought was . . . (And why that one?)
Elizabeth Gilbert ‘Big Magic’ Creative loving beyond fear.
I bought it as it was recommended after I heard a podcast with her and Russell Brand. She sounded like she was free in her creativity.
What’s your next project?
I am writing a film script that I plan to direct in the next 12 months. It has always fascinated me the idea of writing a story and seeing it come alive through film.