Find Your Muse

A muse is someone or something that has an influence on another and becomes the focus and inspiration for that person's creative work. The act of creation is filled with inspiration from sources that rock your boat.

Josephine Baker, epitomized and defined the beauty and aesthetic of the 1920’s. Picasso’s ultimate model and muse Marie Therese Walter inspired over 30 years of his best work. Throughout his life, each of the women he met and loved became his subject.

My muses have come from nature that live and change daily. The forms and patinas inspire new ideas in my work.

The Banyon Tree is one that always amazes my soul and reminds me of the forces beyond. A banyan is a fig that starts its life  when its seeds germinate in the cracks and crevices on a host tree (or on structures like buildings and bridges) These trees also scream “Climb Me”.

Look around and find your muses. It might change and inspire you to act, do and create in ways you never dreamed.

Til next week, xx

Andrea 

Fusion, mix it up!

Fusion: a distinct entity formed by combining 2 or more different things. To Blend. I love the word fusion for several reasons. I love to mix it up. Mixing it up with people. There is  Food fusion, Mexican-sushi, what could be better? Fashion fusion, a vintage dress and African beads and platform shoes. Of course, there is more to it than throwing it on. But, when done correctly.... Stunning! Then there is design fusion. It is personal and it creates an individual  style.  It is about balance and merging different cultures and principles.  Design fusion like nature is imperfect but authentic.  Blending the influences of disparate cultures and times, creates a new design aesthetic.  The latest Ikat textiles can work with contemporary interiors.  The modern acrylic  "Ghost Chair" next to an organic rough hewn wood dining table is spectacular design.

Fusing materials, and styles is fresh and brings energy to design.

 Keep your eyes open and you will see fusion everywhere.

Til next week xx

Andrea 

Spring Cleaning

Spring is almost here, my energy level is up and the days are getting longer.I couldn’t see the top of my 6 foot drawing table. My notes had notes, my reminders had reminders. I know I put that $%#)&!? somewhere.

I would “rather eat dirt” than do what I needed to do…… THE DREADED SPRING OFFICE CLEAN

It took days of organizing, creating systems, finding space for stuff. I even went as far as organizing my computer files. (this was huge!) It is amazing how much lighter I feel… I have read about this feeling and have had glimpses of it. It is truly wonderful. My ideas are flowing and I can find something to draw them with.

The closet can wait. till next week, xx Andrea

Santa's Workshop

FRESH FROM THE STUDIO!

Santa's Workshop???

This organized mess is what happens in the middle of production.  Projects with different deadlines, waiting their turn.  Last week was wild, the dust was flying, all the stars were aligned and several pieces were installed for the holidays, with a sigh of relief !

I wish you all a very beautiful and Happy Holiday Season with all the stars aligned.

till next week, Andrea

Lunch, Wine and a View

Summer in the Rockies is the best backdrop for a  picnic lunch. We all know that it tastes better. I love physical activity, but it must lead to a meal. An early hike with lunch on a rock with a view, or by the stream. Biking to a cafe is very civil. And of course my fav... pack it all on a horse and find a magical spot. Whatever your pleasure, make it special.

I always bring Andi-Le's large cloth napkins. Besides the obvious job of a napkin, we have used them as seats, turnicuts, headbands, and bandannas. They wrap wonderfully around a bottle of wine for cushion as we ride. Making the picnic special without a lot of effort. Give it a try. Memories are made around meals and the people you love.

Til next week, xx

Andrea