This Minnesota artist makes music and mosaics

Pilar Zeta, an Argentinian-born, Portland-based artist, creates a distinct visual language she describes as a 'parallel universe,' influenced by Egypt, magic, and metaphysics. Her work spans various mediums, including album artwork for bands like Coldplay, live visuals for Katy Perry, and a past clothing brand named Holographic Universe. Zeta's aesthetic extends to her personal living space, which she shares with prolific producer Jimmy Edgar. Their home is characterized by colorful postmodern furniture, each piece meticulously placed, mirroring the objects in her virtual 3-D landscapes. These designs integrate decontextualized objects with classical human figures, rendered in swirling, soothing colors. This bold visual approach has now been translated into sound with her debut album, 'Moments of Reality,' which also aligns with her retro-inspired personal style. Zeta launched Ultramajic, an audiovisual project that functions as both a music label and an art collective, with Edgar in 2013. Edgar, a seasoned electronic music figure, brings his production skills and interest in the occult to the venture. Ultramajic's emphasis on distinctive album graphics stands out in the electronic music scene, where plain white sleeves are common. The label's visual language creates a vivid and unique world. Zeta’s journey into music began after moving into their Portland home. Surrounded by Edgar's music equipment, the idea emerged to translate her visual aesthetic into sound. They started collaborating, primarily using analog synths from the 1990s, resulting in an album that evokes a New Age atmosphere, combining futuristic elements with old-world mysticism, evident in the esoteric chants of the title track. Her sound is inspired by Japanese musician Haruomi Hosono and the pioneering synth group Art of Noise, but also heavily by her fascination with postmodern furniture. This influence became particularly strong while she was redecorating her house during the album's creation. The seamless integration of her home decor and musical composition made the album artwork creation effortless. For instance, the album features a song titled “House of Memphis,” a nod to the influential design group. Zeta also created surreal objects, described as sculptures resembling appliances without conventional use, with each song on the album having a corresponding object. Zeta's artistic vision emphasizes cohesion across her art, music, and clothing. Her personal style, which she cultivates by collecting vintage clothing, particularly Escada from the 1980s, perfectly complements her colorful and angular design world. She frequently wears vibrant, color-blocked suits, matching her attire to her living environment. Zeta owns approximately 30 colorful suits, with a multicolored Escada suit being a favorite. For Zeta, incorporating color into her daily life is a vital ritual. She selects her clothing based on her mood, often beginning her day with ambient music and incense to foster a creative environment. This deliberate morning routine and colorful dressing significantly influence her daily outlook, a stark contrast to her younger days when she exclusively wore black. She believes that experimenting with color profoundly alters one's mood and perspective, transforming her into what she describes as a "rainbow," wearing colors constantly, even down to her socks. #PilarZeta #PostmodernFurniture #ElectronicMusic #Ultramajic #VisualArt #EscadaStyle #ColorBlocking #ArtAndMusic #HomeDecor

This article features Lauren Jarrett and Melissa Greenwood, the Indigenous artists behind the brand Miimi + Jiinda, who gained recognition for their artwork showcased in Deb and Andy’s living area on the television show 'The Block.' The artists discuss their journey, inspirations, and creative process. Lauren, one half of the duo, has been painting for most of her life, while Melissa became seriously involved in art six years prior. Their inspiration stems from their tribal lands, ancestral teachings passed down through generations of grandmothers, and the stories of their strong matriarchal lineage. Their beautiful Gumbayngirr country and Melissa’s experiences as a modern-day Indigenous woman also significantly influence their work. They describe their art as a symbolic portrayal of their interpretation of Dreaming stories, drawing inspiration directly from nature. They utilize acrylics and pastels, with a distinct influence from their feminine matriarchal line. Creating a piece of art can vary in duration, from a week for smaller works to several months for larger ones, with the artists often working on multiple paintings simultaneously to maintain creative flow. Their personal aesthetic is characterized as earthy, natural, and minimal, deeply influenced by the textures and beauty of their traditional homelands. They also express a fondness for bright and bold elements that uplift the senses. The names for their artworks are derived from their Gumbayngirr language, which serves as a constant source of inspiration. The article highlights specific artworks, such as 'Mirrinmi' (Be Happy), which symbolizes finding joy in one's life path, and 'Yuludarra,' which represents their three hero ancestors in Gumbayngirr culture. The artists recount how their involvement with 'The Block' began when Deb and Andy contacted them via Instagram for a commissioned painting. Andy, being Biripi, was specifically seeking Aboriginal art, and the connection was made given Miimi + Jiinda’s Gumbayngirr heritage, located just a few hours from the Biripi Nation. They expressed immense excitement and honor in creating the piece for 'The Block,' hoping it would promote greater visibility for First Nations art across Australia and showcase their rich culture. They find inspiration in artists like Albert Namatjira and prefer to create their art 'on Country,' surrounded by their ancestral lands. Their creative environment often involves a soundtrack featuring artists such as Xavier Rudd, Ben Howard, Vance Joy, Ziggy Alberts, Nora Jones, and Baker Boy. A typical day for Lauren and Melissa is dynamic, ranging from intensive painting sessions, where their studio is filled with art supplies, to administrative tasks, order fulfillment, and sourcing materials. They also dedicate time to walking on Country, gathering natural fibers for weaving, and seeking inspiration for future artworks. Regarding balancing art with life and family, they suggest involving children in the creative process, as it can be a source of entertainment for hours and fosters shared artistic enjoyment. The article concludes by showcasing some of Miimi + Jiinda’s artwork, available online, and emphasizes their stunning original creations. #IndigenousArt #ArtistSpotlight #TheBlock #AustralianArt #GumbayngirrCulture #HomeDecor #ContemporaryArt #DreamingStories #ArtisticProcess

Artist Stephanie Dillon and her husband, Reilly, were captivated by a model home in Eden Prairie, which boasted a blend of whitewashed shiplap and shakes on its exterior, creating a timeless and airy aesthetic. The interior featured light-filled communal spaces, each with a distinct character, moving away from conventional floorplans. The color scheme ranged from calming charcoals and pale neutrals to deep greens and rich terra-cotta, evoking a European atmosphere. Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang, owner of West Bay Homes and the designer behind the model, drew inspiration from her travels to Paris, characterizing the style as French contemporary farmhouse. She envisioned the kitchen as a French pastry shop, integrating multiple layers of meticulously detailed materials throughout the 5,000-square-foot residence. The kitchen's design incorporates three types of glazed tiles for the backsplashes, with a small hexagonal tile chosen for its light-reflecting properties, contributing to an elevated visual experience. Dillon, an acrylic and mixed-media artist known for painting her emotions, found a kindred spirit in Vogelgesang, whose design philosophy also prioritized passion and feeling. Dillon retained Vogelgesang to complete the interior design of their new home. The designer expressed enthusiasm for incorporating Dillon's extensive rug collection. Elements like shiplap and painted charcoal, seen on the exterior, were repeated inside on the basement's fireplace wall and the vaulted ceiling of a lounge area adjacent to the kitchen, along with charcoal-colored square tiles extending from counter to ceiling in the kitchen backsplash. This repetition of color ensures cohesiveness and a holistic progression throughout the home, where all environmental elements relate to one another. Vogelgesang skillfully managed the abundance of materials, preventing a busy or cluttered appearance, much like Dillon blends colors on her canvases. Some design choices stand out, others recede, and some shimmer, collectively defining the mood of each space. The materials coalesce into a balanced and proportionate composition, resulting in a home tailored for an artist. Vogelgesang aims to create spaces that are timeless and elegant without being overly delicate or cost-prohibitive. The lower-level bar area features charcoal shiplap around the fireplace, painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Dorian Gray, and steps down into a sunken media room, showcasing the designer’s preferred brass and gray combination. Brass hardware also adorns the front entry doors. Light fixtures, including those from Mitzi on the library ladder, were strategically chosen. The unexpected entry leads to a "dining hall" that functions as a grand foyer, as described by Vogelgesang. This space features nine-inch-wide-plank white oak floors laid in a herringbone pattern, with ceiling beams bisecting its soaring height, allowing ample natural light. The built-in bar features a backsplash of alternating light and dark neutral tiles, custom cabinetry with dental molding, and a marble sink skirt. Open shelving in the kitchen displays two sizes of backsplash tiles from The Tile Shop, with custom alder wood cabinetry finished with a clear whitewashed stain and brass hardware for an enhanced shimmer. The kitchen, inspired by Parisian pastry shops, includes two islands for ease of navigation, with only one housing a sink to allow for uninterrupted dining on the other. The mudroom boasts large-format heated tiles combined with white oak cabinetry, finished in a whitewash stain, offering an industrial concrete look harmonized with French country cabinetry. A basement guest bath incorporates vibrant color through whimsical floral tiles from The Tile Shop on one wall and Sherwin-Williams’s Perfect Periwinkle on the adjacent wall. The library features a bold mix of Sherwin-Williams paints: Canyon Clay on the walls and Gauntlet Gray in a high-gloss enamel finish on the moldings and doors, complemented by chartreuse chairs. A wide-plank whitewashed cedar wall on the rear deck provides privacy. The prep kitchen off the mudroom embraces color with Waverly Classics wallpaper by York, cabinets painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx, and a hammered copper sink, showcasing how personal touches can enhance practical areas. The powder room dazzles with an antiqued mirrored glass tile wall from The Tile Shop, a custom white oak vanity with a marble shelf, and Savoy House sconces. The floors throughout the home incorporate patterned ceramic tiles from The Tile Shop. The home's floor plan, while a traditional rambler, diverges into an unconventional layout where the front entry opens into a vaulted foyer and dining room, serving as a pass-through to the kitchen and great room. #HomeStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #FrenchContemporaryFarmhouse #CustomCabinetry #TileDesign #ArtisticHome #ArchitecturalDetails #EuropeanInfluence

This article details the journey of Amy and Bruce Paul in designing and decorating their 11,000-square-foot home in Rye, New York, focusing on integrating their extensive art collection into a cohesive interior design. Having previously lived in a post-modern home with traditional furnishings and a growing contemporary art collection, the Pauls sought to create a new residence where the exterior architecture and interior aesthetics were harmoniously aligned with their personal taste in design and art. Their objective was to construct a home that could comfortably accommodate their family of six while optimally showcasing their practiced and perfected collection of paintings and sculptures. The couple acquired a 13-acre estate in Rye before the 2001 World Trade Center attacks, subdividing it into seven lots and reserving a two-plus-acre parcel for their own home. They collaborated with builder Michael DiChiaro to construct a six-bedroom, seven-full-bath residence that offers views of a wooded yard, later enhanced with a pool and waterfall by Coral Sea Pools, and adorned with bronze sculptures by Mexican artist Bruno Luna. For the interior design, Amy Paul enlisted Joseph R. Stabile of J.R. Cattington, who had previously worked with them. Stabile and his team were involved from the ground up, providing input on architectural design, interior finishes, electrical layouts, and lighting selection. Stabile chose a palette of cream and gold to complement the Pauls' artwork and suggested structural modifications, such as adding a doorway to improve flow in the formal living room. Amy's primary design directive was for a "light and bright" home, which was achieved in the living room through buttery gold satin-striped fabric from Robert Allen for window treatments and crystal wall sconces by Crystorama. This room serves as a gallery for various notable paintings, including works by Janet Treby, Liane Abrieu, and Russian artists. The soft color scheme is accented by silk brocade wing chairs with colorful throw pillows and fuchsia and silk rugs from China. The family room continues the luminous theme with yellow walls, a toile pattern by Antonia Vella, Seabrook wallcoverings, and similarly colored fabrics in lemon, green, and persimmon for window treatments, pillows, and side chairs. Crystal chandeliers from Murano, imported by Castilian Imports, were chosen to coordinate with paintings by Isaac Maimon and Charles Levier. The coffered ceiling in a green apple shade with cream-colored woodwork further enhances the vibrant, garden-like atmosphere. Bruce Paul's personal space, a clubby card room, contrasts with Amy's preferences, featuring dark wood paneling, built-in bookcases, a bar, and masculine fabrics. This room, separated from the family room by a stone-front fireplace, includes Biedermeier chairs with leopard-print fabric and various personal artifacts. Stabile designed the fireplace with intricately carved mahogany lions and used a Serengeti Leopard carpet to connect Bruce’s adjoining office. The Pauls' children, Joanna, Ryan, Matt, and Jason, also contributed to the design of their respective bedrooms and bathrooms, incorporating elements such as Masland Carpets, Bernhardt furnishings, and Thibaut wallpapers. The master bedroom, with its vaulted ceiling, presented a challenge in scale, addressed by Stabile using Highland Court silk brocade for a cornice "headboard" that coordinates with custom curtains. The article highlights the Pauls' passion for art collection, which began with a French artist Charles Levier painting and expanded to include works from their travels to Europe, South America, Asia, and the Southwest. Despite concerns about diminishing wall space, their quest for art, driven by personal connection and memories from their travels, continues. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #ArtCollection #LuxuryHome #RyeResidence #JosephStabile #CustomDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures #PersonalStyle

This article details the transformation of a 1950s ranch home in Nashville, owned by painter Elizabeth Stern, into a vibrant and personalized living space. The renovation, led by local architecture firm Pfeffer Torode with lead architect Erin Cypress and interior designer Liz Bonesio, focused on enhancing natural light and integrating a distinctive color palette inspired by the homeowner's artistic vision. Initially, the ranch lacked sufficient light and color, presenting a blank canvas for the design team. A primary objective was to open up the internal structure to allow more natural light to penetrate. Cypress achieved this by designing a series of cased openings that connect the private sleeping quarters with the public entertaining areas. These public spaces were conceived to be free-flowing, suitable for parties, pool, and mah-jongg. A significant addition was a sunroom extension off the kitchen, living, and dining rooms, designed with numerous windows and high ceilings to create a seamless connection with the garden and patio, making the outdoors feel like an integral part of the interior. Stern also expressed a preference for minimal recessed lighting. Bonesio addressed this by sourcing various flush-mount fixtures throughout the house, ensuring an even distribution of light without relying heavily on overhead recessed lights, except for a few essential ones in the kitchen. The color scheme played a crucial role in reflecting Stern's artistic sensibility. A recurring earthy, pink-toned terra-cotta, found in the plaster walls of the dining room and reclaimed French _parefeuille_ floors of the sunroom, became a central theme. This warm hue was harmoniously paired with blues, primarily Farrow & Ball Skylight, a pale blue-gray, which served to highlight the warmth of the terra-cotta tones. This deliberate choice of colors created a harmonious and personal atmosphere, aligning with Stern's artistic preferences. The renovation extended to various rooms, each featuring carefully selected details and materials. The living room showcases built-ins painted in a combination of mineral paint and fine paints, flanking an original marble mantel. Custom elements like a Remains Lighting Company flush mount, a Materia's Forchette 24 Chandelier, custom Lee Jofa fabric curtains, and an Erden custom rug contribute to its unique character. The kitchen features an oak island designed without plumbing, along with cabinets painted in Domingue Architectural Finishes' Chapel and Cristallo Azul quartzite countertops. Barber Wilsons & Co. faucets and Balsamo pendants complete the look. The butler's pantry, converted from a storage room, includes a deep Kohler sink for flower arranging, complemented by pendants from Remains Lighting Company and London Silk quartzite countertops. Its cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore Sandblast and Sherwin-Williams Blustery Sky, with Zak + Fox wallpaper backing Stern’s ceramic collection. The sunroom, referred to as the “catbird seat,” is an idyllic dining area with a Soane pendant, Zak + Fox fabric shades with Bruder trim, and a custom banquette. The dining room, intended for parties, features paneling painted in Farrow & Ball Skylight, allowing for art salon-style displays, and includes a dining table that doubles as a pool table, alongside a piano. The mudroom incorporates a vintage Facebook Marketplace sink with de-plated Chicago Faucets, and walls painted in Benjamin Moore's Seapearl, Pilgrim Haze, and Blue Note, with Currey & Company pendants. The primary bedroom features a Dennis Miller bed upholstered in Rose Tarlow fabric, a Brett Design nightstand, a Soane sconce, and Libeco Home bedding. The guest room uses Peter Fasano wallpaper to inspire a natural palette, with custom beds lacquered in Fine Paints of Europe GC603, Made Goods nightstands, and custom Osborne & Little fabric coverlets. Bathrooms are equally detailed; the primary bathroom includes a gilded papier-mâché Fisher Weisman chandelier, a Victoria + Albert bathtub with Barber Wilsons & Co. tub filler, custom Etamine fabric café curtains, and an Eliko Rugs rug. The guest bathroom, a jack-and-jill style, features a Lacava trough sink, Farrow & Ball De Nimes paint, Tabarka Studio wall tile, a Remains Lighting Company ceiling light, and a Circa Lighting sconce. Lastly, a Hartley Botanic Victorian plant house serves as a greenhouse and potting shed for garden herbs, reflecting Stern's personal touch throughout the entire property. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NashvilleHomes #ColorPalette #SunroomDesign #KitchenDesign #ArtistHome #HistoricRanch #PfefferTorode

In an era marked by rapid urbanization and increased reliance on digital devices, a burgeoning movement among contemporary artists is rekindling a connection with the natural world through their art. This movement focuses on creating murals and wall-based art inspired by nature or botany, aiming to uplift urban environments and domestic interiors. The article highlights five such artists: Anne von Freyburg, Epoh Beech, Gary Myatt, Graphic Rewilding, and Sophie Mess, whose works infuse public and private spaces with natural beauty, offering a visual respite from contemporary pressures. Sophie Mess, known for her delicate and subtle representations of nature, creates large-scale botanical murals that blend graffiti, pop art, and traditional muralism. Her work, characterized by vivid colors and abstract forms, can be found across Europe and is currently featured at the Saatchi Gallery with her eight-meter-high mural, 'Journey of Progress.' Mess believes art can positively impact the environment and mental well-being, using walls as canvases to tell stories that bridge urban settings with artistic expression. Her inspirations include Dutch Master floral still lifes and Georgia O’Keeffe’s detailed flower paintings, often incorporating flowers grown in her own garden. Anne von Freyburg, a Dutch artist based in London, incorporates textiles and decorative art into her wall-based floral pieces. Her work, inspired by Rococo paintings and 17th-century Dutch Still Life artists, brings a bold, sculptural natural element into interiors. Von Freyburg's solo exhibition, 'Filthy Cute,' at Saatchi Gallery, showcases her textile paintings from 2022 to 2025. Her installations, often of irregular shapes with dripping fringes, reimagine scenes from Rococo paintings, advocating for themes of freedom and self-reliance beyond traditional romantic narratives. Graphic Rewilding, a collaboration between Brighton-based artists Lee Baker and Catherine Borowski, aims to uplift lives with large-scale botanical and nature-inspired artworks in urban settings. Their installations, seen across the UK, China, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and Texas, provide 'visual endorphins' as an antidote to the scarcity of green spaces in cities. Drawing inspiration from Japanese art, particularly Edo-era painter Ito Jakuchu, Baker and Borowski integrate elements like leaves into their paint, creating immersive experiences that, despite being imagined nature, offer psychological benefits akin to real natural interaction. London-based artist Epoh Beech, with a background in fine art and art therapy, is renowned for her hand-drawn animations and intricate wallpaper designs. Her upcoming solo exhibition, 'The Pegasus Papers,' features hand-drawn wallpapers and pen and ink drawings inspired by French narrative wallpapers, the Bayeux Tapestry, ancient Chinese handscrolls, and mythology. Her bespoke wallpaper designs, developed over four years, involve meticulous hand-drawing, scanning, and digital printing, transforming static images into dynamic visual narratives that engage the viewer’s imagination. Gary Myatt, a mural artist and trompe l’oeil specialist, draws inspiration from Old Masters and the Arts & Crafts movement to create bespoke murals for high-profile locations. His work, which can be found in London, Europe, India, and the Middle East, focuses on evoking a distinct atmosphere through landscape imagery rather than mere illusion. Myatt's artistic process involves painting murals on canvas in his studio before installation, allowing for greater control and practical efficiency, while capturing the subtle transitions of color, texture, and light found in nature. These artists collectively demonstrate the profound impact of nature-inspired art on both urban aesthetics and human well-being. #NatureInspiredArt #Murals #WallArt #ContemporaryArt #UrbanEnvironment #InteriorDesign #BotanicalArt #MentalWellbeing #SaatchiGallery #StreetArt

Dutch artist Suzan Drummen is renowned for her expansive and intricate art installations that feature thousands of glittering crystals and other reflective elements. These installations, often forming elaborate textile and mandala-like designs, are a testament to Drummen's spontaneous and site-specific artistic process. She does not pre-plan her designs but rather allows the unique characteristics of each location to guide her creative decisions. Factors such as the available light, the anticipated movement of visitors, existing color palettes, and the height of the space all contribute to the evolving nature of her artwork. Each installation, therefore, is distinct and slowly takes shape in response to its environment. Drummen's primary objective with her art is to create an overwhelming visual experience for the observer. From a distance, her installations present as clear and organized patterns. However, upon closer inspection, the sheer volume of details and visual stimuli can disorient the viewer. This dynamic interplay between order and chaos, between the ability to grasp the entirety of the artwork and being overwhelmed by its intricacies, is a central theme in her work. Through this intentional challenge to visual perception, Drummen aims to intensify and requisition the viewer's sensory experience. Her chosen materials include a diverse array of shiny objects such as pins for affixing crystals, chrome-plated metal, various precious stones, mirrors, and optical glass. While some of these materials are used to adorn walls, a significant portion is laid freely on the ground, allowing for fluid, unconstrained patterns. This method of arrangement contributes to the organic development of her designs. The kaleidoscopic effect achieved through the interplay of light and these numerous reflective surfaces is a hallmark of her artistic style. Drummen's work draws viewers into a vibrant world of color and sparkle, where the traditional boundaries of art are expanded to encompass entire spaces. Her installations transform ordinary floors, walls, and even people into canvases for her dazzling geometric patterns. This approach blurs the line between art and environment, inviting viewers to not just observe but also to immerse themselves in the dazzling visual landscapes she meticulously constructs. #SuzanDrummen #MandalaArt #CrystalArt #InstallationArt #KaleidoscopicDesigns #SiteSpecificArt #GemstoneArt #VisualPerception #DutchArtist

Robert Greene, known as Bob and affectionately called Hugger by his Bonacker friends, is a renowned decoy carver residing in Springs. His exceptional skill elevates decoy carving to a museum-worthy art form, as recognized in Harvey J. Lewis's book, “Artistry of Louisiana Decoy Carvers: Old and Contemporary.” Greene's masterpiece, a life-size red-tailed hawk, demonstrates his meticulous attention to detail, having taken him 550 to 600 hours to carve. This piece, complete with a chipmunk emerging from a stump and intricately carved oak leaves and acorns, showcases his ability to transform a block of wood into a lifelike sculpture. His home is a testament to his artistic passion, featuring taxidermied animals, his own vibrant landscape and animal paintings, and display cases filled with carved ducks like red-breasted mergansers, green-winged teal hens, and mandarins. Greene's creative process begins in his shed, where he carves the wooden forms, and continues in his basement workshop, where he applies paint. Both spaces are filled with a mix of taxidermied birds he has hunted and his own carved creations, covering nearly every surface. His tools range from band saws for rough cuts to fine-pointed wood burners and Gesswein devices with tiny diamond drill bits for intricate feather detailing. He employs gesso for priming and an airbrush for blending colors, often adding bright dashes of color to secondary feathers, such as the green in a green-winged teal. Greene also crafts “smoothies,” decoys that achieve texture through painting rather than carving. His current project, a group of six lesser yellowlegs, exemplifies his progression toward photorealistic detail, a stark contrast to his earlier, blockier sanderling carvings. He studies books to accurately capture bird outlines, colors, and textures, creating practice pieces like individual duck heads. Decoy carving, an art form originating over 2,500 years ago with Native Americans, now encompasses two main categories: hunting decoys and decorative decoys. Greene specializes in decorative decoys, which demand lifelike detail. He emphasizes that being a successful decoy carver requires knowledge of wood, carving proficiency, painting skills, and an artistic eye. Greene's journey into carving began during his time as a heavy equipment operator, inspired by a fellow worker. Starting with basic tools like a jackknife and coping saw, he refined his craft over five decades, becoming one of the last carvers from his local group. He participated in national duck carving shows, earning ribbons and advancing through classes, and even competed in the prestigious Ward World Championship, though he eventually withdrew due to perceived political biases in judging. Despite his achievements and the museum-quality of his work, Greene views carving primarily as a hobby. He does accept commissions, with his reputation spread through word-of-mouth, as evidenced by a recent request for a $1,500 black duck. His passion for the outdoors extends beyond carving; he started duck-hunting with his father as a teenager and, at nearly 85, continues to fish and hunt with his son and grandson. His yard contains a fishing boat, lobster traps, and a camouflage duck blind trailer, highlighting his deep connection to nature and traditional outdoor pursuits. #DecoyCarving #WoodSculpture #WildlifeArt #RobertGreene #ArtisticProcess #TraditionalCraft #HomeDecor #NatureInspiredArt

Michael Lerner, a musician from the band Telekinesis, and his wife Amiee, transformed their Seattle property by adding a detached accessory dwelling unit (DADU) to their backyard. This decision was spurred by the pandemic, which prevented Michael from touring and working, providing him with an unexpected opportunity to pursue a long-held interest in construction. The couple had considered various options, including converting a shipping container, but ultimately partnered with local prefab builder NODE for a more cost-effective solution. NODE's involvement was part of a pilot program testing new prefab technologies, offering a streamlined process that included design, engineering, site preparation, foundation installation, framework completion, rough plumbing and electrical, and managing all necessary permits for the 392-square-foot DADU. The construction started in late fall of 2019, allowing Michael to work alongside NODE's crew for two months, gaining hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the building process. Once NODE completed their initial phase, leaving the couple to finish the interior, Michael faced the daunting task of completing the remaining work without formal training. He extensively utilized YouTube tutorials, dedicating approximately 1000 hours to learning various skills, from laying large-format tiles with a radiant heating system and trimming plumbing and electrical, to installing an IKEA kitchen and constructing a deck. Despite initial feelings of being overwhelmed, Michael discovered that with perseverance and research, each task was achievable. The couple chose plywood for the walls and opted for a bio ethanol fireplace, as a wood-burning one wasn't feasible, allowing them to enjoy the ambiance without the complexities of ventilation. They incorporated an IKEA kitchen for its sleek and space-saving design. The only aspects they outsourced were the installation of the quartz countertop, backsplash, and bathroom drywall, with Michael noting how the quartz elevated the look of the relatively inexpensive IKEA products. Michael also personally crafted custom walnut plywood pieces for the floating media console and a desk/eating area, highlighting the cost consideration and learning curve involved in working with such materials. Completed in August 2020, the DADU is now rented out on Airbnb, generating additional income. Michael reflects on the project with immense pride and a newfound appreciation for the construction industry, acknowledging the effort and cost involved in building a home. He emphasizes that the experience was not only enjoyable but also a meaningful way to navigate the challenges of the pandemic year. The interior features a cozy bedroom nook with a platform bed and wool felt-lined walls, creating a 'cocoon-like' sleeping environment. The exterior was finished by Michael with 2x2 cedar boards, a task that took about four weeks and required 2,000 screws. The project underscores the couple's careful, DIY approach to their finish work, with Michael conducting thorough research for every step. #DADUConstruction #PrefabHome #DIYRenovation #BackyardCottage #SeattleRealEstate #PandemicProject #HomeBuilding #SustainableLiving #SmallHomeDesign

Echo Petersen, founder of E Lee Designs, has found a creative outlet for her artistic passion by creating a variety of home decor and kitchen items featuring unique swirled acrylic paint designs. Petersen's work, which includes handblown coasters, trivets, charcuterie boards, and holiday ornaments, will be showcased at the 605 Made Holiday Market in Sioux Falls. Her designs are characterized by their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, achieved through a technique of blowing acrylic paints with drinking straws onto surfaces like ceramic tiles, wooden cutting boards, and canvases. This method allows colors to remain separate and distinct without blending, resulting in visually striking pieces. Petersen's journey into this craft began after she retired from her career as a financial assistant. Inspired by a set of handblown coasters she encountered during a trip to Fort Collins, Colorado, she dedicated herself to learning and mastering the technique. This involved extensive research through online videos and significant experimentation to develop her own proprietary mix of acrylic artist paints. Her husband, Bryce, supports her endeavors by creating custom oak frames for her canvas pieces. Each item crafted by Petersen undergoes a meticulous, multi-stage process that spans approximately one week. After the initial paint application, the piece requires time to dry and for the paint to cure. Following this, Petersen prepares the item by sanding its back and carefully taping it before applying a resin layer, which then takes an additional three days to dry. This commitment to quality ensures the durability and longevity of her handmade products. E Lee Designs offers a range of items, from small porcelain tile coasters to larger six-inch porcelain trivets and various wooden cutting boards. A particularly popular item that frequently sells out is her bamboo charcuterie board, which features pullout drawers and includes small wooden utensils, all adorned with her signature handblown paint designs. Petersen prioritizes using high-quality materials to ensure customer satisfaction and product resilience. In her creative process, Petersen pays close attention to current interior design trends, specifically monitoring popular colors in furniture and granite countertops. This awareness guides her selection of hues, ensuring her designs complement contemporary home aesthetics. She also incorporates micro powder glitter into her paints to add a subtle shimmer to the finished pieces. Popular color palettes in her collection include gray-beige, purple, and various autumn colors, while her personal favorite combination involves navy blue, moss green, and gold. This will be E Lee Designs' first participation in the 605 Made Holiday Market, though Petersen has previously showcased her work at vendor shows across South Dakota in cities such as Brookings, Pierre, Aberdeen, and Yankton. The 605 Made Holiday Market, an event organized by Knotty Gnome Variety & Salvage, Sew Doggy Boutique, and SiouxFalls.Business, and sponsored by The First National Bank in Sioux Falls and Dakota Business Finance, will feature over 40 makers. It is scheduled for Saturday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cherapa Place in downtown Sioux Falls, with free admission for attendees. #E Lee Designs #HandmadeDecor #AcrylicPouring #HomeDecor #HolidayMarket #Craftsmanship #ArtisanProducts #SmallBusiness #SiouxFallsEvents

Successfully hanging an art collection requires meticulous planning and careful consideration, encompassing everything from selecting appropriate fixtures and frames to creating a cohesive visual narrative among grouped artworks. Experts in art installation, interior design, and gallery direction offer comprehensive advice on optimizing the display of art in domestic settings. The initial step involves a thorough assessment of the chosen space, considering the artwork's size, potential physical obstacles, and the overall visual flow of the room. Guy Morey, operations director at Momart, an art installation service, emphasizes the importance of measuring both the walls and the narrowest points of entry into the building to avoid issues with oversized pieces or artworks that might be too imposing for a home environment. Planning the arrangement beforehand is crucial; collectors can collaborate with installers to experiment with different placements by leaning artworks against walls to determine the most aesthetically pleasing configuration. Some installers leverage 3D modeling software for precise planning. General guidelines exist for hanging height, with a consistent center-line often recommended across all artworks in a room. This center-line is typically set at eye-level or 120 centimeters from the ceiling to the artwork's center, though it may vary depending on the piece's size. Smaller works can be grouped around a shared center-line, while larger pieces might require individual placement. Lighting is another critical factor, influencing both the aesthetic appeal and preservation of an artwork. Interior designer Verity Woolf, director of Woolf Interiors, advises considering natural light exposure to prevent damage and suggests incorporating artificial lighting solutions, such as concealed ceiling lights that can be adjusted to suit different artwork sizes. Frame selection also plays a significant role in an artwork's presentation and narrative. Woolf highlights framing as an art form in itself, noting that an unsuitable frame can diminish a piece's impact, while a well-chosen one can enhance its meaning. Technical details, such as fixings, are equally important. John Paul Black, managing director of Art Works Exhibition Services, recommends implementing a versatile hanging system, such as aluminum rails hidden in cornices with wires, to facilitate easy rearrangement and temporary storage of artworks, especially to protect them from sunlight at certain times of the year. Unlike gallery settings, private homes present unique challenges with limited space and numerous obstacles like furniture, radiators, and fireplaces. These elements can affect the optimal placement and center-line of an artwork. Ben Cotton, director of Hang-Up Gallery, stresses the importance of harmonizing artworks with existing furniture. He advises against rigidly adhering to gallery-style hanging heights in a home, encouraging collectors to adapt to their space to maintain balance. Furthermore, creating a visual connection between artworks within a collection is essential for a cohesive display. This can be achieved through shared color palettes, themes, genres, or even by featuring the same artist, ultimately forming a compelling narrative for the viewer. #ArtCollection #ArtInstallation #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArtDisplay #FramingArt #LightingArt #ArtPlacement #ArtHangingSystems

The book "Mirror Sound: A Look into the People and Processes behind Self-Recorded Music" explores the relationship between musicians and their home studios, illustrating how these private spaces foster creativity and personal exploration. Inspired by Sir Terence Conran's philosophy that homes should reflect who we are and offer a sense of connection and direction, the book provides an intimate glimpse into the environments where artists create their self-recorded music. It highlights how these settings become sites where challenges are met, and musical innovation thrives. "Mirror Sound" is a collaborative effort by musician Spencer Tweedy, designer Lawrence Azerrad of LAD Design, and photographer Daniel Topete. This hardcover volume features stunning photography and compelling narratives, presenting a rare look into the working lives of musicians. The book is designed as a refined, tactile object, making it a suitable addition to any coffee table, while also serving as a source of inspiration for those interested in creativity and design. Lawrence Azerrad emphasizes that the book is about discovering inspiration and cultivating self-belief. The images and stories within its pages offer an authentic portrayal of how creative individuals interact with and adapt their environments, and how, in turn, these spaces influence their artistic output. Azerrad points to what he calls “creative initiative” as a key characteristic demonstrated by all the subjects featured in the book. This attribute is intended to energize professionals in the architecture and design (A&D) community, regardless of the stage of their projects, by showcasing the deep connection between personal space and creative drive. Azerrad further describes the book as a practical guide for designers, helping them to reconnect with their own creative essence. By layering together the experiences of individuals who enrich their lives and surroundings through artistic endeavors, "Mirror Sound" conveys a powerful message about maintaining inspiration even in isolation. It demonstrates that solitude can be a fertile ground for discovery and idea incubation, leading to the successful fruition of creative projects. The book encourages readers to consider how their own homes can serve as sanctuaries for profound exploration and innovation. #HomeStudios #CreativeProcess #MusicProduction #InteriorDesign #LADDesign #Photography #SelfRecordedMusic #ArtistSpaces

Solange Knowles, known for her unique creative intuition, discusses her diverse projects and artistic philosophy in an interview. The artist recounts a recent performance in a former oil reservoir in Sydney, Australia, highlighting her preference for unscripted presence over conventional entertainment. This experimental approach, where she aims to simply exist rather than perform, reflects her ongoing inquiry into the nature of performance and its service to her as an artist. Her multidisciplinary endeavors, spanning a glassware line, a book on architect Amaza Lee Meredith, global performance partnerships, and composing for the New York City Ballet, are all managed under her creative agency, Saint Heron. This agency also houses a library of Black creative texts and serves as a collaborative hub. Friends and collaborators, such as fashion designer Grace Wales Bonner and Brooklyn Academy of Music president Gina Duncan, commend Solange's integrity and ability to cultivate a loyal community across various artistic fields. Her wide-ranging interests, from drums and Black classical composers like Julia Perry to bird-watching, underscore a restless and curious artistic imagination. Solange's work often delves into the past, exploring both broad themes of Black history and the intricacies of family lineage, particularly significant given her background in a prominent musical family. She moved to a small East Coast town seeking a closer connection to nature, believing that immersion in the natural world clarifies answers she has sought throughout her life. The interview takes place in a public library, emphasizing Solange's deep connection to archives and history. She acknowledges her long career as a performer, starting with child acting and her first album at 16, but distinguishes her current approach as performing authentically rather than through persona. This shift aligns with the philosophy of artists like Felice Rosser, who embraced punk's liberation from the pressure of perfectionism. Solange found similar permission to exist authentically in performance through her collaboration with artist Autumn Knight, who helped her overcome the "disease of perfectionism" she experienced during years of touring. Her Grammy-winning album, "A Seat at the Table" (2016), is recognized as a significant cultural and political statement, continuing a tradition of impactful R&B albums. Solange consistently prioritizes artistic self-determination over commercial gain, a challenging path in an algorithm-driven industry. While she expresses few career regrets, she humorously notes missing an opportunity to collaborate with comedian Katt Williams on "A Seat at the Table." Even prior to this album, Solange was recognized for her artistic credibility, with her 2008 album "Sol-Angel & the Hadley St. Dreams" marking an artistic breakthrough. Collaborator Tyler, the Creator praises Solange for her authentic artistic vision, stating that her work is not driven by trends or a need to prove herself, and predicts her lasting impact on the music landscape. Solange's fascination with history is also linked to her upbringing in Houston's Third Ward, where the Sankofa symbol—representing the importance of looking to the past to move forward—was prevalent. She discusses how "A Seat at the Table" explored generational history, while her recent focus has been on understanding and forgiving her younger self through therapeutic work. She reflects on the impact of a childhood where her personal history was often documented by others due to lost family photos. Solange emphasizes the importance of creating tangible evidence of her legacy, particularly for Black artists, expressing concern over the vulnerability of digital archives. This desire for material legacy extends to her collaboration with glassblower Jason McDonald, where the process of glassblowing taught her to surrender control and imbue objects with spirit. Her latest artistic obsession is the tuba, which she finds embodies a raw, undeniable space and feels inherently Black, even contemplating releasing music written for the instrument despite potential skepticism. This ongoing exploration signifies her commitment to an authentic and evolving artistic journey, prioritizing personal meaning and enduring legacy over external expectations. #SolangeKnowles #ArtisticIntuition #MultidisciplinaryArtist #SaintHeron #BlackArtists #CulturalLegacy #CreativeProcess #PerformanceArt #MusicIndustry #AmazaLeeMeredith

Mary Jo Karimnia, an artist and arts administrator based in Memphis, TN, shares insights into her creative journey and multi-disciplinary arts practice. Her current artistic focus involves nostalgia, vintage landscape postcards, and decorative surfaces. Karimnia collects, scans, and enlarges hand-colored mid-century postcards of rock formations and other landscapes. These images are then mounted on panelboard and embellished with translucent beads, shiny foil, and velvety flocking, resulting in fine art pieces that evoke a paint-by-number aesthetic and explore nostalgia through a contemporary lens. She explains her process of learning new media like flocking and foiling, which she applies by experimenting with her own application techniques. Flocking involves applying tiny colored particles to an adhesive surface to create a velvety texture, while foiling utilizes shiny, colored sheets applied to a sticky surface. In addition to her artistic endeavors, Karimnia is a co-owner of a studiohouse with Bolivian artist Keiko Gonzalez. She is also a founder and the Residency Director for Crosstown Arts, where she manages resources and spaces for various artists—visual artists, writers, musicians, and videographers—from Memphis and beyond. The residency program offers private studio space, living space if required, and access to events and tools within Crosstown Arts' maker space for durations ranging from three weeks to three months. Her commitment to the arts extends to volunteering and organizing gatherings to enrich the local arts community. Karimnia discusses the importance of fostering a strong, supportive environment for artists. She encourages individuals to consciously direct their spending towards local artists, musicians, and arts organizations. She highlights that art is accessible at various price points, from investing in local galleries to purchasing original prints or pieces from craft festivals or local gift shops. She emphasizes that even small investments can make a significant difference in supporting the arts ecosystem and encouraging emerging artists. This deliberate spending, she suggests, diverts resources from larger commercial entities and contributes to a healthy artistic landscape. Demonstrating her resilience, Karimnia recounts her journey of establishing a dedicated workspace. For years, she created art in various spaces within her home, such as the dining room or attic, before renting a small studio in her 40s. In 2019, she and Keiko Gonzalez purchased a neglected 1920s house, which they transformed during the pandemic into the Studiohouse on Malvern. This studiohouse provides workspace for both artists, areas for hosting shows, and living space for Gonzalez when he is in Memphis. The Studiohouse on Malvern also features the Front Porch Window Gallery, a small-scale gallery accessible to viewers 24 hours a day, further engaging the local community. The first Studiohouse Openhouse was held in March 2023. #MaryJoKarimnia #MixedMediaArt #ArtisticProcess #Studiohouse #CrosstownArts #ArtsCommunity #NostalgiaInArt #ArtistResidency #MemphisArts

This article explores the immersive and unconventional art installations of New York-born, Los Angeles-based artist Tita Cicognani, focusing on her use of hot tubs as central elements in her multimedia works. The artist’s practice, which largely involves sculpture and assemblage, took a unique turn with the integration of hot tubs, driven by a desire for physical interaction and shared experiences, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Her works contrast with the trend of “dematerializing practice” in the art world, instead embracing the tactile and communal. The piece begins by describing Cicognani’s current installation, "Heart Tub" (2022), at the Hammer Museum, where visitors can reserve 45-minute slots to soak in a heart-shaped, red crocodile-skin vinyl hot tub. This installation is designed to evoke a sense of "tackiness" and "religious frenzy," adorned with embedded video screens displaying floating holograms of flying saucers and bubbly hearts. The artist explains that this first tub was created during the initial COVID-19 lockdown, stemming from feelings of isolation and a craving for physical connection. The article then details Cicognani's earlier hot tub installations. "Mothership" (2021) was an inflatable pool designed as a "tiny wet fun house," featuring mirrors, LED lights, and a disco ball, reminiscent of a Gravitron ride. This work explored the convergence of religious and corporeal ecstasy. Another significant piece, "Prayer Cards" (2019), involved devotional cards featuring the artist's image in poses suggesting stigmata or submission, printed with the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, challenging conventional notions of piety with pop culture aesthetics. Her second tub installation, "Grotto Tub" (2022), presented a more visceral experience. Located in an artist-run space in Chinatown, it encouraged a more uninhibited, almost chaotic interaction, with PVC pipes emitting a brown goo and accompanying videos of mud wrestling. This installation, playfully dubbed “art student soup” by a Hammer Museum curator, highlighted a deliberate embrace of the earthy and raw aspects of human interaction. The transition to the Hammer Museum for "Heart Tub" introduced new logistical challenges, including safety protocols, scheduled time slots, and ADA compliance, leading to elements like a chrome heart-shaped handrail. The article also delves into the video component of "Heart Tub," titled "I Still Believe" (2022). This 40-minute looping video, viewed from within the tub, features a green-skinned CGI avatar of the artist navigating a cheap motel with a heart-shaped tub, encountering UFOs, and immaculately conceiving an alien progeny. The narrative explores themes of desire, beauty, and love, drawing heavily from pop music and shiny aesthetics, elements Cicognani previously resisted but has now embraced. The work also has intellectual underpinnings, drawing parallels to other water-based art installations like Hélio Oiticica and Neville D’Almeida’s “CC4 Nocagions” (1973). Finally, the artist discusses the socio-economic implications of embracing "tacky" aesthetics and the interplay between high art theory and pop culture references, such as the film "Hot Tub Time Machine." The experience concludes with the writer reflecting on the custom-made pea-green towels, embroidered with an alien baby and the words "I still believe," which serve as a tangible takeaway from the immersive art experience. This installation, and Cicognani's broader body of work, actively seeks to engage the body and challenge traditional art consumption by bringing viewers directly into the art. #ArtInstallation #MultimediaArt #ContemporaryArt #HammerMuseum #ImmersiveExperience #Sculpture #PopCulture #ConceptualArt

This article highlights 32 local makers from southwest Missouri and the Ozarks, showcasing their unique, artistic, useful, and beautiful products. The feature categorizes these creations into several sections: "For the Home," "Homegrown Art," "Locally-Made Gifts," "Flavors of 417-land," and "Local Love." Each entry provides details about the artist or company, their featured product, reasons to appreciate it, and the ideal recipient. The "For the Home" section introduces five distinct makers. Kristine Grippo of American By Design crafts rustic American flag signs from reclaimed wood, with each piece being unique due to the material and hand-painting. Simply Inspired Co., led by Patti Brown, offers decorative vent covers and other home items that elevate mundane features with artistic flair, emphasizing their Elysian interlocking circle design. Jeff Walker of Hillcreek Pottery at Silver Dollar City produces functional pottery, including bakeware, decorative items, and drinkware, highlighting the balance between utility and artistry, and offering pottery demonstrations. Terry Bloodworth, through Waverly House Gifts & Gallery, creates blown glass ornaments known for their substantial feel, delicate appearance, and unique swirling colors, which beautifully catch Christmas tree lights. Lastly, Rebecca Fracas of Restoration Grove builds custom porch swings and other furniture, admired for their modern, sleek designs and the whimsical element of the swings. The "Homegrown Art" section spotlights seven artists. Jane Troup is recognized for her vibrant animal and landscape paintings, with a current focus on her earthy yet otherworldly mushroom series. Julie Blackmon's iconic and collectible photography is presented as a worthwhile splurge. Hannah Bunch's oil paintings of dogs and vivid ocean waves are celebrated for their expressive quality. Farley Lewis creates home portraits that can become family heirlooms, alongside striking landscapes. Betty Parnell's large-scale abstract paintings, available at OH Gallery at Obelisk Home, are praised for their celebration of color and movement. Colby Kern, also showcased at OH Gallery, offers chic black-and-white paintings that complement various interior design styles. Michelle Houghton's bold use of color in her floral and abstract works evokes strong emotions, with her abstract pieces characterized by fluid, blending colors. The "For Gift Giving" section features six local producers. Erica Schroeder of Branded Concrete designs concrete trays and planters that mimic clay, showcasing modern, natural, and geometric designs, with planters being ideal for plant-loving friends. Simply Ozark offers a range of body products, including handmade soaps and salt scrubs, with their soaking salts appreciated for their minimalist beauty, aromatic qualities, and functionality. Tyler and Kala Headly of Onie & Sky create beaded bracelets, which can be customized with team colors or meaningful messages. Mike Weber of Swan Creek Crafts hand-carves wooden spoons and other items from various hardwoods, emphasizing the natural beauty of the wood grain and customization options. Mike Ilkiw of Bowls for Breasts crafts turned wood bowls and rolling pins from reclaimed wood, praised for their functional beauty and for supporting the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks. Carlton Johnson of Reborn Candle Co. produces hand-poured soy wax candles with stellar scents like "Magic Library" (leather, vanilla, wood) and are presented in chic, minimalist amber glass jars. The "Flavors of Southwest Missouri" section lists ten local food and drink products, including Apple Spice Moscow Mule from 417 Cocktails, Dark Chocolate + Avocado & Rosemary Bar from Askinosie Chocolate, Spicy Garlic Hot Sauce from Springfield Trading Co., Spumante Rosé from Good Clean Wine, Goldfinch Songbird Gin from Ty Iechyd Da Distillery, Colombia Roast Coffee Beans from Kingdom Coffee, Chevre from Terrell Creek Farm, Herb De Provence from Lavender Falls Farm, Leong’s Cashew Chicken Sauce from Leong’s Asian Diner, and Date Lady Pure Date Syrup from Date Lady. Each product is briefly described by its taste profile. The "Local Love" section showcases items that express regional pride. Josh and Jen Marrufo of Homestead Design Company create Table Rock Lake signs, which are chic maps of the waterway, perfect for lake house owners or those who cherish the area. Jesse Tyler of SGF Co. developed a Pineapple Whip scented candle, which is fruity and sweet, with 10% of its proceeds benefiting Ozark Greenways. Finally, local pride t-shirts are highlighted from two sources: Missouri is Awesome, sold at 5 Pound Apparel, offering classic Springfield-themed designs and contributing to local hunger relief, and Springfield Park Board shirts, available at The Local Bevy and park locations, featuring vintage-style artwork of local parks. This article serves as a guide to discover and support local artisans and businesses in the Ozarks region, providing insights into their craftsmanship and the stories behind their products. #OzarksMakers #LocalArtisans #HomeDecor #HandmadeGifts #SouthwestMissouri #OzarksCrafts #ArtisticCreations #FunctionalArt #LocalFood #RegionalPride

Moniomi, the Miami-based design firm led by husband-and-wife team Monica Santayana and Ronald Alvarez, embraces a fashion-forward approach to interior design, blending avant-garde pieces with traditional motifs to craft spaces that are both artistic and elegant. Their current mood board, part of Business of Home's "What I Love" series, draws inspiration from the colors of sunset and dusk, utilizing a harmonious mix of eye-catching linework and soothing blush tones. The design aims to evoke the serenity, transient beauty, and peace associated with watching the sun set. The flat lay features a variety of luxurious finishes, including ceramic zellige tile and concrete terrazzo, alongside vibrant graphic prints and bold silhouettes. Santayana and Alvarez emphasize that geometry, playful pattern interaction, and saturated colors unify the design, creating a sense of modernity, sophistication, and artistic flair. They offer a detailed breakdown of the 18 elements that constitute their mood board, each contributing to the overall aesthetic and emotional impact. The selection begins with Portola Paints' Etcetera Limewash Paint, chosen for its soft blush tone that creates a serene and elegant atmosphere, and its unique texture that adds warmth and sophistication. Concrete Collaborative's Pacifica Slice Concrete Counter Slab in Pink is another key element, valued for its ability to introduce character with its blend of blushes and burgundies, suitable for both flooring and countertops. Zia Tile's Radian Inline 1 Mosaic Zellige Tile, with its geometric patterns, is incorporated to add a dynamic and modern statement. Accent pieces include Reinaldo Sanguino’s Metallic Sculptural Chair, a vibrant ceramic stool with a multicolored finish and gold accents, serving as a chic and functional design enhancer. Moniomi's own Umpire Locker Dry Bar Cabinet, available at 1stDibs, is highlighted for its seamless integration into any space, featuring mirror art, contrasted wood veneer, and hair hide inserts that make it a standout for entertaining. Prateek Jain & Gautam Seth's Goa House Chandelier from Studiotwentyseven is admired for its tropical foliage design, which infuses any room with glamorous and exotic elegance through intricate craftsmanship. Textiles and floor coverings play a significant role, with Mohebban's Tactile Rose Rug, a hand-carved piece, adding an artistic and luxurious touch with its gradient of purples, blushes, and neutrals. Métaphores' Nomade Fabric in Nymphe, featuring a subtle micropattern, is selected for its ability to introduce sophistication and refined texture without overwhelming the design. Custom Hide Rug Samples by Kyle Bunting, particularly in Mango, Mauve, Periwinkle, and Oink, are celebrated as masterpieces of saturated color, intricate design, and luxurious material, providing a lavish element to any space. Smaller decorative items include Moniomi’s 10 Anniversary Candle from Sensual Candle Co., valued for its delightful grapefruit fragrance that elevates a room's ambiance. Gaetano Pesce's Nugget Vase in Amber & Salmon by Fish Design, available at Corsi Design, is praised for its aesthetic appeal and practicality as a flexible resin vase, offering a modern, playful touch without the fragility of glass. Chris Wolston's Kimora Chair, a woven rattan piece from The Future Perfect, brings a whimsical yet refined vibe to any interior. Room dividers and wall treatments further enhance the curated space. Draga & Aurel's Red Violet Reverso Partition Screens from Artemest are described as functional art, saturating the room with vibrant colors while providing beautiful separation. Porter Teleo's Refracted Hand-Painted Wallcovering in Cadmium, with its graphic qualities and customization options, creates a dynamic and personalized backdrop. Finally, two fabrics from Toyine, Phinda Ré Vingt-Cinq in Ivory and Rose, and Phinda Ré Dix-Huit in Peach and Mauve, are chosen for their ability to add softness, depth, richness, and coziness to upholstery projects, enhancing both visual appeal and tactile experience. The collection also includes unique items like Moniomi's Lux Mini Basketball Hoops, crafted in Italy from onyx and marble with copper-plated rims and hemp nets, representing a blend of art and function. Their Small Ottoman in Raptor Onyx & Pink Mohair, with its four-tiered design, scalloped fringe, and swivel capability, is perfect for conversation areas, adding a luxurious and dynamic touch. Overall, Moniomi's flat lay is a testament to their philosophy of balancing avant-garde and traditional elements to create spaces that are both visually captivating and emotionally resonant. #InteriorDesign #Moniomi #MoodBoard #HomeDecor #LuxuryFinishes #DesignInspiration #TextileDesign #FurnitureDesign