Happy Valentine's Day

Flirting with Black & White

I love color! But that doesn't mean I can't be inspired to play with some black and white patterns. I recently did some backyard research using over 50 designs ranging from classy to sassy in various different palettes. Every design that was in a black and white "color" scheme got high marks. I know this trend has been around a while, but it is not going away.
I tried to design patterns that were more for the Free People customer but would also appeal to White House | Black Market shoppers.

Anthropologie is Food for the Soul

Browsing in an Anthropologie store is like visiting an art gallery. It always gets me inspired. I picked up these post-its on my last visit, because...well, I must have fun post-its. Love the artwork by Betsy Thompson, whimsical and sophisticated at the same time.  

I want to paint like a 6 year old!

Keeping my artwork fresh is always a challenge for me. I tend to overwork things, trying to get them just right. Sometimes that process can suck the life out of a piece of art. So I admire any artist who can keep things loose and spontaneous. One of the reasons I am captivated by children's art.
I was completely blown away by this body of work that was created by my niece, who is only 6 years old. She has been taking classes for a few years now and these small canvases are each beautiful on their own. My sister-in-law creatively gathered them together to create one stunning piece for her kitchen wall.

Spring!

Not being the green thumb I wish I was, I have to depend on forced bulbs in colorful pots to brighten my world. These arrived about two weeks ago, courtesy of my husband, as a spring surprise. I said, Gee, honey, thanks for the pots of dirt. Within a day they had sprouted, and were in full bloom within a week. So wonderful to watch them come up.
If there is someone you want to inspire or cheer, think about getting them something like this. Such a treat. I am a huge fan of ProFlowers, where these came from. Always excellent quality, always fresh, unique arrangements, beautifully packaged.

My studio is bright today.

Happy Birthday to me. So touched to be remembered by friends and family today. I am very blessed and very grateful.