come back mati rose!

I immediately fell in love with Mati Rose's artwork when I first stumbled upon it last winter, which led me to sign up for her online painting class. Mati is a San Francisco artist, who I read about on another San Franciscan's (bohemian) blog….and of course I am drawn to all things San Francisco after living there for 4 years (and my dad has been living there for over 12 years now). At any rate, I am thinking about her artwork now because I would LOVE to design my baby's nursery around a collection of her prints—I have yet to find inspiration for the nursery anywhere but in Mati's paintings. Her color palette and imagination are just perfection in my book. The problem? Mati's Etsy shop has been "temporarily" closed since last February. *BIG sigh* Some of my favorites…..

two things i love: anthropologie and fall

I have mentioned my love for Anthropologie numerous times (here, for instance), but this time it's less about the clothes/housewares and more about their fabulous window displays. Since I am currently in a phase of life where I can no longer afford their clothing, I flip through the catalogue when it comes in the mail for a whole new reason—inspiration. The way they style their stores, displays and catalogue shoots drives me bananas. It's magical.

At any rate, I'm loving their fall window displays—styling a common fall display item, the gourd, in a whole new way. Loving it!

around the world

Back before marriage and home ownership, I used to dream about becoming a travel photographer….roaming the globe, experiencing the contrast of the world's many different landscapes, and capturing the beauty to take home with me. I tend to find myself in inspiration ruts quite often when I'm stuck in the same place for too long. Some locations are obviously more inspiring than others and can keep me in a nearly perpetual state of art pouring out of me, such as San Francisco (oh, how I miss thee!). Then there are the places that leave me artistically bored, such as San Diego (honestly, it's beautiful, but I lived there for 4 months and got up and moved so quickly because I was so uninspired and out of place). 


Here's hoping that my new hometown in the Berkshires will lead to an unending supply of artistic juice! In the meantime, I can always travel the world through photos…..

Machu Picchu by Jentrance

Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa by Julie Kruger

Provence Village, France by Tommy Turner Photo

Alaska Reflection by Stampdr

Iceland Waterfall by Premiere Photography

The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland by Tim Schultz Photography

Nepal Himalayas at Night by Michael Prior Photography

India Taj by Amy Jill Photography

Prague by Photography by Sylvia Mioduszeewska

pine tree love

I shot this (very basic) photo of pine needles in Vermont last week to remind myself to get working on some pine tree art! I've always been obsessed with trees….I feel connected to them, inspired by them, and lulled into serenity when I'm amongst them. Lately I've felt particularly drawn to pine trees, what with their peaceful scent, rich forest green color, and beautiful shape. 

I'm heading up to the Adirondacks next week for a few days of camping where I hope to capture an inspired pine tree photo or two and collect some pine needles to use in a painting I've been dreaming about. In the meantime, some amazing pine tree finds from Etsy:

fog in the gorge by abby try again photography

Sterling Silver Ring with an Oregon Pine Tree by 

Ash Hilton

The Pine by J.M.Barclay

Tan Crossbody Shoulder Bag with Evergreen Trees Screenprint

by Ad Love

Golden Forest Original Painting by

Cynthia Elizabeth Linsenbardt

Ashley Pine Brown Bark Cloth Pillow

by Erin Flett

Quiet Reflection by Simply Lodge

the wall

I came across this wall in a parking lot the other day and was immediately obsessed with it. Obsessed. As a photographer, I walk around life constantly noticing the following: lighting, minute details, color and fabulous backdrops. And as far as backdrops go, interesting walls and ancient doors seem to be a fav of mine. 

When I found this wall I was really wishing Natalie Schlegel was with me, I desperately needed a model.…but since she wasn't, I attempted to pose for just a few shots for my husband. This was the best I could in 100 degree heat (I was cursing the fact that I had worn pants that day!)…. 

If I had been snapping the pics, I would've loved to do some macro shots of just a section of body or face and get really close to the texture of that beautifully worn wall. But, I think my non-photographer hubby did a great job:)

disturbing or interesting?

I'm not one to photograph images that disturb me, but every once in a while….

Possessed? Or am I the only one who is completely creeped out by antique dolls?

I suppose a skeleton wouldn't be disturbing if I happened upon it in a place where I'd expect to see one, like perhaps a science classroom. But, when you walk into a bright, cheery bedroom? A little creepy.

the early bird

Ever since I painted the Sweet Little Birdie painting for my niece, I've been on a bird-themed kick. Birds adds such a touch of whimsy and sweetness to practically anything they decorate! [Some good examples: my favorite coffee mug and birdie plates.]

I would love to design a room around this painting—perhaps set it on a mantel in a living room. In fact, I think it might work in my dream Anthropologie living room.

I just love the natural details on this bag! The wooden buttons really speak to me.

Pure whimsy.

This would be adorable in a child's room or nursery!

1.Two Birds in a tree by Karen Fields Gallery 2.Just Hanging Out Vinyl Wall Sticker by Urban Walls 3.Tweeting Birds Olive Green Shoulder Bag by LB Artworks 4.Silver and Turquoise Nest Necklace by Amarillo Sky  5.Porcelain Dove Bobbypin by Revisions 6.Baby Bluebird Hat Crochet Pattern by Sock Monkey Kook 7.Gift of Life, Love and Wisdom Necklace by Tiny Cottage Treasures 8.Forest Friends Birdie Collage by Art and Philanthropy 9.I Love You So Very Much Art Print by Studio3Ten 10.Super Lovely Singing Parakeets Clutch by FA2u 11.Take a Chance Bowl by Elm Studios 12.Frida Kahlo Keepsake Box by Windy Spring Art