12.15.2008

Ghosts of Christmas Past :: Handmade Cards

Today is very cold and very snowy ... . the perfect day for sitting down with a bunch of ribbons and fabric and sparkly things and making this years' Christmas cards. My cards often tend to be a bit card and a bit ornament. I love working in the small format and often use photos which I layer and hand or machine stitch with whatever else is around. These are a few examples of my endeavors from the past few years ... . .




12.13.2008

Andy & Jean-Michel

Just came across this classic Michael Halsband photo of Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat. It truly captures their stance regarding the New York art world of the '80's. A dear friend / client was also a part of that world and came home with several very nice souvenirs from each of these artists, as well as a few others. Notably, Mr. Haring. The final photo composite is simply pure vanity and more than a bit of silliness. I just couldn't resist putting myself in the picture with two of my favs from Jean-Michel.





12.12.2008

Chihuly Glow



These festive Dale Chihuly sculptures were featured at Fairchild Gardens in Coconut Grove , as part of a spectacular exhibition which traveled to several US cities. The botanic gardens had dozens of these lighted glass marvels scattered about, from the eaves of the greenhouse to small boats floating on ponds. While wandering the garden paths, one would round a darkened corner to be totally suprised by another of these enchantments. It was warm. It was spring.
The frogs and crickets were providing a constant serenade. Such a special evening ... .
I felt both of these pieces looked tres holiday festive and that you might enjoy the warm Glow on a cold snowy evening .

12.11.2008

Change of Perception

After the total immersion R-E-D of the last post , I felt the need for a bit of simplicity. This is my favorite kind of Folk Art - a piece which started out life as a functional piece of household equipment and through decades of changing needs and perceptions, has become a treasured piece of sculpture.

12.10.2008

Reflections on Red

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'Tis the season -- for red. Lots of Red. As mentioned in a previous post, I've had red on the brain - especially all the little places it shows up in my life. Today I came across some photos from a trip to Scotland and the Prestonfield Hotel in Edinburgh. These images take the leap from rouge in small doses to total immersion. Over The Top is an understatement! Anyone looking for a warm, luxurious, romantic retreat for Christmas should consider this destination .... . http://www.prestonfield.com/welcome.htm
It's truly like stepping into the set of a Merchant Ivory movie.

12.09.2008

Angels :: 'Tis the Season


I've always liked the concept of
rough - with a bit of frill. These angel wings are ripped from brown paper bags and layered with shimmering silver tulle.
Contrast and contradiction indeed.

12.04.2008

Louis Ghost Meets Old Crocodile Luggage




Just the smallest touch of red.... . and it's still so vital. I like the contrast and contradiction here: the frayed and worn pith helmet and vintage luggage against the slick edge of the Louis Ghost chair.
( I suppose I could also title this "What I Do With That Silly Helmet When I'm Not Wearing It")

George Washington as Santa


.... . still playing with money. In this version, I decided George might need more than those red curls in the previous post --- why not a downright Jolly Red Hat!??

More HoHo. More Red.