To borrow a sports metaphor, this intimate exhibition of author and motivational speaker Kevin Carroll's personal travel memorabilia, punches above its weight offering a surprising amount of inspiration for both designer and layperson. The Art of Sport + Play focuses on Kevin's collection of hand-crafted balls from across the world. The balls' materials, construction techniques and various states of wear are provocative and beautiful but the resourcefulness of their creators—often children in dire conditions—is the real subject and inspires the viewer to pursue their own can-do path of DIY self-sufficiency. The collection makes tangible our undeniable human need for play and the motivating power of passion. If you are in Portland, catch it while it's still up:

The Art of Sport + Play Mercy Corps Portland, Oregon 11am – 5pm, Monday–Friday Now through July 31

The worn:

Some manufactured examples: (including the indestructiball and previously-seen Soccket)