Les Mondial de Nathalie Lete

You might recall that I went to Boston recently. I posted a few pics of what I saw, but failed to mention a trip to Anthropologie that catapulted me into a frenzy of research. A brief account into my investigative reporting follows...

While in Anthropologie, my sis found these adorable pink hand towels with the Eiffel Tower on them. We both scurried to find larger ones, but to no avail. They weren't made. She still got them for her girls' bathroom.

"Chat Chien" is at the bottom of the design, but the label is in Japanese. A search on Google didn't bring up anything with the information we had, so I knew there must have been something we were missing.

I was back in San Antonio, my sis in Boston, but I couldn't stop thinking about these towels. A visit to my local Anthropologie proved fortuitous as they had one remaining Eiffel Tower hand towel. I immediately purchased it, as well as a bird design. An adorable Paris plate that I couldn't resist (perfect for cookies) also found it's way into my bag. Upon further investigation, I discovered that they were all by the same designer!

After much searching (and subsequent purchasing), I am pleased to tell you about Nathalie Lete. Though she is new to me, I was, admittedly, slightly disappointed to find that she is no newcomer to the design scene. (I thought I had come upon an undiscovered gem! Design*Sponge and Decor8 are among the many that have already written about her.) Nonetheless, I felt a sense of accomplishment for having tracked her down.


Lete lives and works in Paris (oh to live and work in Paris). With the City of Light as her backdrop, she's got an endless amount of inspiration, but also looks to her travels and vintage toys (which she also collects).

Check out some shots of her workshop. It's like a craftster paradise.


She works in several different mediums including illustration, ceramics, textiles and paintings and from what I can tell, her creativity doesn't stop. I'd love to live in les modial (the world) of Nathalie Lete!

Enough words. Her work speaks for itself. (All images via Nathalie Lete unless otherwise indicated.)

Octopus via Apartment Therapy

Image via Famille Summerbelle

And I couldn't leave you without an image of the towels! Here they are in my store bathroom. It's hard to believe that those little things were responsible for such a flurry of activity. (I suppose that's my designer/retailer/researcher heart coming out!)

Click image to enlarge.

Viva la France!

To start us off....

I thought this postcard set from Yellow Owl Workshop was rather festive and fun. I like how it feels slightly traditional - a bit like "old school" France - but still manages to pull off a fresh execution of images such as Joan of Arc and the crests.

Take A Dip

When we were kids, my grandmother would swim laps at Barton Springs in Austin, Texas during the summer. (Barton's is a famous pool fed from under ground springs. It averages 68 degrees year round and attracts all sorts, the likes of which include conservative legislators as well as old hippies who prefer to sunbathe in the buff.)

In her better years, Tootie would get her big-bosomed, petite figure in the frigid water to do her exercise. Her large, white, teased, bubble hairdo (pinned in the back with black bobbie pins, but still round and ever visible on top) would bob up and down as she scooted length to length doing the breast stroke. She was careful never to get her hair fully wet as this would require an additional trip to the beauty parlor (where she was already a faithful patron once a week).

I was reminded of my grandmother when I saw these images. Despite having no facial features, these women (and girl) all appear to feel comfortably relaxed and happy, much like my grandmother did when she came out of the water.




Images found on etsy by Kiki and Polly.

(limited editions x low prices) + the internet = art for everyone

20x200 brings artists together with buyers. Unlike traditional galleries, though, where art can cost several thousand dollars (and hardly affordable for your regular Betty like me), 20x200 keeps things on a cost-conscious level without sacrificing innovation, expression and creativity.

Jen Beckman, a gallery owner in the Lower East Side of NYC, developed the concept. When she first launched 20x200, the smallest size was reprinted in the largest batch – an edition of 200 – and sold at the lowest price – $20. Hence the name 20x200. Most images are now available in three sizes (which vary somewhat according to each artist). The bigger you get, the higher the price goes.

As I browsed the wonderful gallery of images, I came across a few that resonated with me.






You can purchase these (and other great prints) from here, but hurry. Pieces from 20x200 are only produced in limited quantities for a limited time (once they are gone, they are gone). New editions go online every Tuesday and Wednesday at 2 pm EST so check back often.

Short Cuts

Have you ever wondered where the short films at the Oscars come from? Have you ever wondered where they go after they've been nominated and/or won? Furthermore, have you ever been disappointed that you've never seen them? If you answered "yes" to any or all of the above, you are not alone.

While I can't give you any answers to those questions, I can tell you that last night, I was lucky enough to have seen 8 of the 10 nominated shorts from 2009. No, Joan Rivers wasn't there asking people what they were wearing (I was in Corey Lynn Calter in case you are curious), nor was there a red carpet filled with celebrities and paparazzi. But as a movie buff, I was delighted to have been amongst the crowd who got to see them.

Hailing from all over the world (Germany, Ireland, Denmark), and varying in length and format (animated and live action), these little morsels were thoughtful, tender and well done.

The bad news? You likely won't be able to see these in a theater, the way they should be viewed. The good news? Some of these movies are now available on iTunes (search under "Movies" and then "Short Films"). A list of all 10 of the films that were nominated in this category is listed below:

Via here

The longest one was 30 minutes, so even if you only have a few moments to spare, it'll be well worth your while. I HIGHLY recommend viewing them.

This viewing was part of a series called "Cinema Tuesdays." Texas Public Radio and the Bijou at Crossroads Theater have teamed up to bring (old and new) films that might not otherwise be shown in San Antonio. For more information, click here.

Not Your Grandmother's Crochet

I mentioned most of the details from our fun trip to the Point Theatre in Ingram, Texas on Monday, but I saved the best for last: the gift shop. It was a totally unexpected little treat.

The Hill Country Arts Foundation has tapped into an obviously able group of ladies who donates their time to crochet blankets, pin cushions, potholders, pot scrubbers (deemed 'the best in Texas') and various chotskies. These goods are then sold in the gift shop where profits go to help supporting the theatre and arts center. Check out some of the gems:

Granny Square Blankets:


Potholders:


Scrubbers:


Crocheted granny square blankets and potholders are certainly not new to the market, but it seems like more and more are trying their hand at modern applications of the craft. Flickr is flooded with images of granny squares, a fact that has certainly been fueled by the recent DIY surge. I selected a very small handful below:


And check out how fellow interior designers, artists and bloggers make use of crocheted items in their real lives:


I feel my inner-Martha being tapped. It kind of makes me want to find some crochet needles and get to work. If you, too, are feeling so inclined, check out this tutorial for instructions on how to crochet your own creations. Good luck!

On Point

There is a point in the Texas Hill Country, amidst tall trees and a lovely landscape, where a part of Johnson Creek merges with the Guadalupe River. Welcome to Ingram, Texas. It is here that a small group of friends, united by their love of this environment and their appreciation of the Arts, created a place for arts education, performance and exhibition some 50 years ago.

Today, the Hill Country Arts Foundation is a thriving organization. With regular theatrical performances, as well as art exhibitions and workshops, this is a place where families and friends converge to enjoy and/or participate in the creation of visual and performance art.

Part of what makes the HCAF particularly appealing is the outdoor amphitheatre. The Smith-Ritch Point Theatre sits right on the River and the setting is beautiful. During the warmer months, regular performances are held, many of which are kid-friendly. (When the weather cools off, performances are taken inside to the Elizabeth Huth Coates Theatre.)

Last week, my parents and I took the GrayBear to see a performance of "Treasure Island." Check out some of those shots:


I have to say, I was impressed with the sets, the costumes and the performances of all involved. Plus, the snack bar is innocently delightful. In addition to the two adorable kids that were selling candy on the side, there was plenty of cotton candy and popcorn to enjoy.

Despite the intense and sweaty heat (even after the sun went down), it was such a fun outing and I highly recommend it.

Miles Aldridge: Photographer

Karin Nelson at The New York Times wrote about British photographer Miles Aldridge today. I also came across a small blurb on nymag.com and after seeing his name twice this morning, I couldn't resist sharing some of his photographs.

Aldridge is a world-renowned fashion photographer. He's shot for the likes of Vogue Paris, Vogue Italia, American Vogue, The New York Times and Numero. His glossy images have also been featured in a number of different advertising campaigns from well-recognized design houses such as YSL, Armani and Lonchamp.

All images courtesy of Miles Aldridge

As I'm sure you will agree, his work is unique, thought-provoking and beautiful. His photographs are all staged, primarily because, he says, "...the world is just not being designed with esthetics as a priority. So I prefer to rebuild the world instead of photographing the real one."

He relies on his imagination to reset - if you will - the world as he would have it appear. His subjects then become characters on his set. It's a world according to Miles.

It appears as though he's got a keen sense for how to mix color (a la David LaChapelle) and movement (or lack thereof) into an exaggerated scene that makes you stop. And look. And think. Some of his images will awe, while others will scare, but through and through, they are gorgeous. (Check out more images here.)

Today's postings coincide with his new book, "Miles Aldridge: Pictures for Photographs." The book not only includes the finished photos, but also the manic-like drawings and sketches he does before a shoot. They act a bit like storyboards, each telling the story even before the actual picture is taken.

His work is also part of a new exhibit. Unfortunately for me, the exhibit is at the Steven Gasher Gallery in NYC until June 20 (and I'm not planning a trip to the Big Apple between now and then). For those of you fashionistas in the NY area, don't miss seeing these images in person. (The rest of us will have to drool over the pages of his book.)

Blue Star and Red Dot

The Blue Star Art Contemporary Center has been around since 1986. It formed out of a need to exhibit the work of a number of contemporary artists in and around San Antonio. In 1988, after being operated solely by volunteers for two years, a full-time Executive Director and staff was hired.

Today, Blue Star is one of San Antonio's leading contemporary art influencers. In addition to the 20+ exhibitions that are showcased each year, the Center is also responsible for helping to create Contemporary Art Month, a citywide celebration that now includes over 50 collaborating organizations.

Tonight, Blue Star will host Red Dot, their highly anticipated art sale. This is an opportunity for patrons to purchase contemporary art selected by San Antonio collectors and other Texas cities. What makes this something beyond just raising funds for Blue Star (though that's clearly an important aspect of it) is that fifty percent of the art sales from the evening go back to participating artists. It's a win-win for everybody.

In case you are in or around San Antonio tonight, it's not too late to purchase tickets at the door.

Renowned Artist Appearance @ Saks Fifth Avenue

One of my favorite American artists from my generation is Waddy Armstrong and these days, it appears as though I'm not alone. After all, it was his artwork that inspired the Saks Fifth Avenue 2009 Mother's Day Catalogue. (I mean, I feel like I know a celebrity.)


If you've seen any of Waddy's pieces, you will surely agree that they are both organic and modern in a most fashionable manner. He paints a botanical series using "hybridizing" - a term he coined to mean "the creation of visual elements from different plants and trees that are combined within a single composition." His works draw inspiration from the pure beauty of nature, but include a modern interpretation of what is real. It's natural - say - with a twist.

[Click image for larger view]

Waddy grew up in San Antonio, but attended the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design in 1999. He's moved around a bit (his past includes a stint in New York), but returned to Texas to settle down a few years ago.

He and his family now call San Antonio home (again), but Waddy is anything but "settled down." In addition to meeting the demands of various galleries, art shows and individual collectors across the country, he's also drummed up a steady corporate following. The new Hyatt Hotel in downtown San Antonio is one of many businesses lucky enough to have some of his paintings.

As a friend (and a fan), I can tell you that Waddy is not only a seriously talented artist, but also an incredibly nice guy. Don't you love seeing friends and acquaintances enjoy such great success in their lives? I sure do. (Well done, friend.)

Waddy will make a special appearance today (May 9) at Saks Fifth Avenue in San Antonio. Join the celebration from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. (If you are lucky, maybe he'll even give you an autograph.)

Pretty, Sexy, Cool

Introducing Elizabeth Walker Carrington: a mother, snowboard enthusiast, graphic designer and, as you can see, a fine artist.

picture by Clay Carrington

Elizabeth's pieces are colorful bits of pop culture. In her words, she marries two things that she loves - art and design - to create pieces that address materialism, superficiality and love.

"My work is a tribute to Andy Warhol's statement that Pop Art is about 'liking things.' The pieces are a blend of design and type, lyrics and images from popular culture all mixed, layered and silhouetted. They are loosely designed on a computer and then screenprinted on painted canvas and paper and touched up by hand. They want to be pretty, sexy, cool—vain with a bit of irreverence—but above all, Pop."

Though she's lived in a number of different places (including San Francisco), Elizabeth has finally settled in San Antonio with her husband and two adorable children. She's officially represented by Parchman Stremmel Galleries, but I'm lucky enough to be able to hang some of her paintings in the store for a short time. She will also be a part of the Blue Star Contemporary Art Center's Red Dot event on May 28, 2009 (more info on that at a later date).

Check out some of her work below. As usual, the internet doesn't do her justice, but I think you will agree that Elizabeth has strong talent and a great eye.

All I can say is YUM-MY.

Arts Fair and Charreada

While I'm not one for large and dense crowds, there are a few events that I don't like to miss. The first is the Fiesta Arts Fair sponsored by the Southwest School of Art and Craft (SWSAC). The second is the Charreada.

Fiesta Arts Fair

The SWSAC is a nationally recognized institution specializing in arts education. Courses are offered to adults and children in a number of different areas including ceramics, bookmaking, photography and many other specialties.

The Fiesta Arts Fair is only one of the several beautiful events that the SWSAC sponsors. Artists from all over the country and region are invited to showcase their works on the SWSAC grounds (a place that is a work of art in and of itself). When I say "invited," I mean that the artists are selected by a juried panel.

This is an event that has grown steadily during the last 36 years. According to their website, "San Antonio's Fiesta Arts Fair was named one of America's Top Ten Art Fairs and Festivals (coming in at #7, to be exact) by the national magazine, American Style."

One of my favorite parts this year was the Children's Art Garden (perhaps that because my little guy is 6 years old - the perfect age to enjoy this hands-on experience). There were a number of different craft stations where kids (and adults) could create their masterpieces. Clay sculptures, stained glass, monoprints, face painting, beading and quilling, metal repousse, art pots and Fiesta crowns were all part of the fun.

Let me just say... for all of you crafsters out there (me included), this was heaven!

The Charreada

The Asociacion de Charros de San Antonio hosts their annual Fiesta Charreada during the two Sundays of Fiesta. A charreada is what gringos often call a "Mexican Rodeo," but I suspect those who really know their stuff would say it goes much deeper than that. Seeped in Mexican art, tradition and culture, its roots date back to the time when the Spaniards first arrived in the Americas. It wasn't until the 1970s, though, when the Charreada was recognized as an official event in the US.

The event I attended began with a procession on horseback of the flags (American and Mexican). This is followed by an introduction of all of the participants on horseback. All are dressed in traditional costume and mariachi music plays in the background. It is a visual feast for the eyes and ears.



According to Wikipedia, a typical charreada consists of 9 events for men and 1 event for women. We only stayed for a few of the events (our younger companions were getting tired), but my favorite is the side saddle performance by the women. In this instance, a team of 8 or so young ladies created a number of different formations and patterns. Admittedly, its not their skill that is most impressive to me (though they are clearly highly skilled), but rather their costumes that I can't stop photographing. Their skirts flounce, their ribbons flow, their hats tip and their whips crack. It is is a breathtaking site.