Supported by


        <iframe width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" src="https://www.theatlantic.com/video/iframe/391937/"></iframe>


        http://www.theatlantic.com/video/index/391937/a-real-life-inventor-and-his-quest-for-inspiration/

The Atlantic Selects

An Eccentric Inventor and His Quest for Inspiration

May 27, 2015 | 831 videos

Video by Liam Saint-Pierre

A toothbrush maraca, a teacup cooling fan, an umbrella with a potted plant—these are all creations of Dominic Wilcox, a London-based inventor. While the idea of someone being a professional inventor may seem antiquated, Wilcox uses his inventions as a creative outlet, more for art than for utility. "I'm always on the lookout for things to try and inspire me," he says in this documentary by the filmmaker Liam Saint-Pierre. "I'm desperate for inspiration to come up with a new idea."

You can see more of Wilcox's inventions on his website.

We want to hear what you think about this article. Submit a letter to the editor or write to letters@theatlantic.com.