February 27, 2015

QUILTS AND COLOR


Last May I attended the HOW Design Live Conference in Boston. Since I had a late afternoon flight on my final day there, I decided to go to the MFA (Museum of Fine Arts Boston) to see the “Quilts and Color” exhibit from the Pilgrim/Roy Quilt Collection.

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The “Quilts and Color” exhibition featured close to 60 quilts with vibrant color palettes and attention-grabbing patterns. These works of art were made by women during the 19th and early 20th century, in different areas across America, but mostly from Amish and Mennonite communities in Pennsylvania. They were collected by artists Paul Pilgrim and Gerald Roy over a period of five decades.

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The collection showcased both traditional designs and creations from artists who worked outside of standard quilt patterns. It was a visual treat to see the exploration of color theory in the designs of the quilts. I was amazed with the bold, saturated colors used and the innovative effects created within established quilt patterns. I’ve always liked quilts, but this exhibit gave me a new perspective and appreciation for these beautiful and intricate handcrafted pieces of art.

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February 23, 2015

BOUQUETS TO ART


Last March I had another wonderful opportunity to further develop my photography skills. I attended my first “Bouquets to Art” event at the de Young Museum in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. This annual floral exhibition has been a springtime tradition for the last 30 years. It gives floral designers a chance to interpret the permanent works of the museum through their floral arrangements, which are displayed in juxtaposition with the works that inspired them.

That day as I passed through de Young’s Wilsey Court on my way into the exhibit, I was blown away by the magnificent flower chandelier. I found out later that this centerpiece was a creation of Natasha Lisitsa of Waterlily Pond Studio. It was simply stunning.

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These pictures are just a sampling of the beautiful and imaginative displays I saw that day. Floral arranging is an art form in itself — this exhibition took it to the next level. It was a pleasure to wander through the museum and discover just how creative these designers could be. I applaud the men and women who brought these captivating interpretations to the de Young. Bravo!

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