Thursday, March 29, 2012

arts and crafts

Those of you who have been following for a while know that my mother is the creative director of the Mississippi Craftsmen's Guild, my sister owns a craft holiday shopping show, and I am an interior designer with a serious penchant for art and early American - mid century furniture and craft. My mom had an antiques store when I was young and so I have grown up with American craft blended into modern spaces and it is something that I am very passionate about - especially now that I run a store and most of the products on the market are made in China and India. American craft is still out there and I think the artists who create it and the designers who use it should be celebrated, and that everyone should see it doesn't have to be rustic, but a beautiful accent to any type of interior.
On that note, my mom and I are thinking about publishing a coffee table book that celebrates American artists and craftsmen and beautiful interiors showcasing them. If you are an interior designer who uses American made art or crafts in your interiors or know of an artist who should be celebrated, please let me know!
Here are some I want to feature:

Obviously my own work featuring photography by Madeline and Robert Longstreet

Caleb Siemon blown glass used here by Alessandra Branca


Silas Seandel bronze tables featured by Laura Day

Paul Villinski beer can butterflies featured by Myra Hoeffer

Molly B. Wright bottle cap art used here by Angie Hranowsky  

Mark Albrecht woven leather stools used here by unknown
William Leslie paper light sculptures
  I would really love to feature a great potter, a wood turner, some interiors with quilts or choctaw baskets, maybe someone who does stained glass, iron sculpture, rugs - the possibilities are endless! What do you think? Do you think there is a place for this type of book where not only the designer is cited, but also the artist or craftsmen whose work is in the space?
E

5 comments:

Erika said...

I think that would be a great idea. Regarding pottery, maybe you could showcase Pewabic pottery? It is a style of pottery developed by Mary Chase Perry Stratton in 1903 in Detroit, MI. The style of pottery uses iridescent glazes and is reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright.

heather (love your space) said...

Love this idea. Especially the idea that current designers are showcasing both new and classic examples of american craft; makes the argument that the "old stuff" is relevant (which of course it is). American Craft magazine is based here in Mpls, and I spoke to the editor in chief about a job oh, about a year ago. I bet she could be useful--either for additional ideas/ resources, or to publicize the book eventually. I bet I could put you in touch. Also, did you know I edit books on the side? I'm working on one now, and the publisher is somewhat small/niche but could be a good fit (unless of course you land a deal with a bigger outfit.) Let me know if I can help!

Unknown said...

Such a fantastic idea! You are the perfect person to create a book on any subject as you have the most discerning eye. Please do this, I want to buy several copies!

Lonely Wife Project said...

Seriously do this!

Erin said...

I think it's a fantastic idea! You already have some fab spaces rounded up. I'm super into modern quilting (although I can't afford one for myself!) so that would be my top request.