Sep 03

Inspiration Discovered in Familiar Materials Used in New Ways

By pattisays In aluminum, branding in interior design, commercial interior design, context of interior design, contrasts for balance in design, creative process, creativity, custom design interior design, design, design process, Design Team, design tips, faux finishes, faux flooring materials, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, red /

While at the stop light, I found myself behind this gorgeous fire truck and by the time I thought I should take it’s photo, it was pulling away and I was making a U-turn! So I quickly grabbed the phone, fumbled for the camera icon, and snapped this shot over the dash through the windshield as it powered up the street.

I have zoomed in on this spotlessly, shiny, magnificent machine for the effect of today’s story subject. This wonderful, patriotic, service – truck struck me not only because it was colorful and sparkling, but much of the high contrast and bling came from the diamond tread wrapping the handsome body.

Earlier in the week a client casually mentioned how cool it would be to use some of this material as an interior design element! Little did he know that his simple off-the-cuff comment inspired me to investigate and plan to do just that! I was minutes from presenting to this very client when this photo op occurred. Serendipitous perhaps?

What sparks the imagination? How do things evolve? What fun it is, as a part of the Creative Process, to explore the possibilities of unexpected materials used in new ways. In this case, the material is perfect to promote the theme of the brand – a successfully growing business related to cars and the repair and restoration thereof.

I won’t reveal the business just yet – it will be a dramatic unveiling soon-to-come. Suffice it to say, I am enjoying the process, with a great team, of expressing and furthering their well-established brand, in the development of the interior and exterior design.

Back to the diamond tread. You’ve seen this used on fire trucks, tool boxes, tailgates, flooring, trap doors…and much more. It comes in glossy aluminum as shown here with its brilliant, bright, bling – also in stainless steel (a bit more expensive), and a dark carbon version. It comes in large sheets – a couple of different sizes and thicknesses.

I have also discovered here, while on the search for materials for this project, a dark iridescent porcelain tile with a bas relief pattern simulating this amazing tread. This material like other faux finishes has it’s practical purposes – but like porcelain wood or porcelain stone – it is NOT the real deal. I have elected not to present this, for use on this project.

So stay tuned to the exciting insertion of this sheet metal in our new interior design. Just enough – not too much – right where it will be effective – and make the best statement.

The takeaway is that the excitement of introducing different materials effectively – not gratuitously – but with a purpose – is part of the fun of design. The daily inspiration that comes from new projects and people, ideas and opportunities!!!

And in light of our holiday weekend – a perfect time to feature the shiny red truck that inspires and represents the outstanding individuals in the service and rescue fields – Happy Labor Day!

Aug 06

Regional Design Fun!

By pattisays In art and interior design, artistic expression, beach, context of interior design, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design tips, design trends, drama of color, fanciful design, folkart, historical interior design, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, lifestyle, painted furniture, Regional design, Santa Fe, New Mexico, travel and design, trends /

So many regions, so little time!!!! All the design directions available based upon where you are and what you love – just think!! Regional design provides a strong connection to the surrounding environs. From selecting artwork to color schemes, decorative accessories and even room scents, creating regionally specific interiors is a fun way to go. Often reserved for second homes, the novelty of focusing on the design theme specific to the region does not always reflect real life.

Real life is usually comprised of a variety of experiences, tastes, acquired objects, interests etc…designing around a specific regional theme is more deliberately focused and therefore not as eclectic as a person’s true life experiences and resulting accumulation of possessions and reflection of varied interests.

Seaside design would incorporate decorative accessories, fabrics and colors to represent the surroundings such as nautical themes and the elements of the natural scene incorporating seashells, seascapes, etc…

Therefore, the primary place of residence in such a locale would reflect that context but not necessarily be completely designed around it. The second home would have the novelty of centering the design exclusively on that seaside theme.

Here is a stunning example of the Americana By the Sea Bungalow! A spritz or burning of Votivo’s White Ocean Sands in this scene – oh heck – why? Just open the windows and breathe in the salty sea air!!!

While in the metropolitan Washington area, one can’t help but notice the architectural influence of colonial times and the interiors which reflect the same.

Steeped in the history of our relatively young country and the pre-colonial decorative arts that came across the water to the New World, the antiques, reproductions and embellishments are telling.

This whimsical casita in Santa Fe illustrates the colorful folk-art of both old and New Mexico, bold paint colors, graphic transitions, and the enchanting architecture of adobe charm. As a second home, the extravagance of collecting and displaying in a fanciful setting is a fun, on-going project!

A corner cabinet by acclaimed folk-art painter Barbara Peabody makes a bold statement housing additional collectibles from Old and New Mexico. A giclee print of a fabulous watercolor by Susan Weeks – the art of decoratively detailed cowboy boots.

Where do YOU live? What themes from your area do you incorporate in your interior design? Get out there are soak it in, gather ideas, start collections, buy local and have fun!!!!!!

Jul 31

Design Inspirations in the City Different

By pattisays In architecture, art and interior design, artistic expression, bar, bars and restaurants, commercial interior design, context of interior design, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design competition, dining and design, exterior - outdoor design, floral designs, food and interior design, handcraft, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, Mexico, mosaic tile, nostalgia and design, restaurant restrooms, Santa Fe, New Mexico, summer, travel and design, trends, window dressings /

Do YOU know the way to Santa Fe, to play off of a song by another title? Up the hill and beneath a brilliant blue sky, the thunder clouds scatter with dramatic splendor. Past the cedar dotted landscape with punctuation of piñon the seasonal monsoonal green is blanketing the desert. A thrilling view passing swiftly, outside the window, like a series of paintings capturing surreal scenes – always picturesque.

It’s July in The Land of Enchantment and a weekend getaway, in Santa Fe, promises stimulating design treats and artistic inspiration! Every visit is familiar – yet new. Around every corner, there is detail and color, decoration and un-selfconscious art.

Just when you think the Santa Fe market is saturated with myriad fabulous dining options, Paloma hits the ground running, on Guadalupe Street, to shake things up a bit!

The joy of experiencing the very new restaurant of an amazing friend was exhilarating! Marja Martin, la propietaria of this great new venue Paloma, brings limitless talent, outstanding vision and distinctive creativity to everything she touches.

The quite well-seeded Santa Fe dining scene is recipient of her newest endeavor. Already a well-established and well loved caterer, her artistic sensitivity and smart culinary concepts – that have been her signature – now result in a presentation of stunning unpretentious decor and exceptional flavors. She’s giving patrons bold flavors and creative combinations inspired by true dining experiences, with our many-faceted Mexican neighbor’s to the south. The result is fun and transporting, in its authenticity.

Walking home, to the lovely casita of dear friends, the gates and doorways, patterns and particulars – uniquely New Mexican in their expression of design offer photographic treats. It’s magic. It’s exciting. It should be on everyone’s list to take the time to explore.

It’s as though history and current trends collide to create a patchwork of texture and color all to stimulate the senses. Exotic flavors and international everything all presented in the confines and context of this extraordinary place.

Interior design and exterior design bombarding from every pocket including this provocative little prose to ponder at Sonder. Get out there are feed your senses!

Jul 08

Everyone Needs a Little Country Sometime

By pattisays In architecture, artistic expression, beauty behold it, color trends, context of interior design, country living, creativity, custom design interior design, decorative arts, design, design tips, design trends, DIY design, exterior - outdoor design, fireplaces, floral arrangements, floral designs, furniture finds, Garden, handcraft, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, landscape design, lifestyle, natural designs, nostalgia and design, party themes, personal expression, re-purpose, Refresh, remodeling, rural design, stone, summer, timeless colors, window dressings /

I would like to share a treat of a house in a magical setting along a quiet waterway in the lush rural lake community of Edgerton, Wisconsin. A most talented friend has created a riverside home from a modest rambler. What was a dated structure with limited interior appointments, low ceilings, tiny high windows, and ordinary fixtures is now a soft, sophisticated, space outfitted with treasures gathered in the countryside, filled with history, character and antique charm.

Hands on and knowing exactly what she wanted to achieve, she began collecting interesting fixtures and hardware, furniture pieces and finishes. She hired a remodeling contractor, but worked closely with him and his architect to detail every facet of this home. Unwilling to compromise certain features, she enlarged all window openings, reconfigured the entry, gutted the kitchen, redesigned the bathrooms, ripped out the ceiling exposing structure – increasing volume exponentially – and added a garage.

Exposed beams, new white-washed tongue and groove boards applied to raised ceiling, a found wooden column used for structural support, new crown molding, bead-board wainscoting, re-designed fireplace surround, and creatively concealed storage closets, have re-shaped the entire character of this interior so dramatically that all who entered, not having yet seen this incredible transformation, were awed.

Hearing their comments as they passed through the spaces was amusing in their commonality. Everyone was amazed at the amount of work done, creative elements incorporated, fun finds she had collected to transform this modest house into this cozy cottage. Her two cats have wonderful vantage points to watch the activities in the rooms below as guests gathered to celebrate the weekend’s family wedding festivities.

Daylight streams through windows and floribunda gardens around the house are now communing beautifully with the interior.

Ever-so-soft blues, with whites of every shade, create a soft backdrop to collections of fine china to vintage scales and myriad eclectic antiques.

Outside a recently completed multi-tiered pond emits soft trickling background sound which wafts inside through the many open windows. Not to be reticent about being hands-on, this tenacious designer personally packed 23 loads of boulders and large stones into her truck, off-loaded and placed around the periphery of the pond. She planted tiny creeping vegetation among the stones, water plants, multiple trees and perennials to establish instant-gratification landscaping in her expansive backyard, which is a lush verdant botanical expression that grows abundantly right down to meet the river.

A great get-acquainted bonding of disparate family and friends occurred when we collected buckets of roadside flowers to make arrangements for the reception venue.

Wild bouquets punctuated with spectacular domestic flowers from the gardens surrounding the cottage provided fun activity and contributed to the charm of the scene.

Everyone needs a little country sometime.

Jun 10

Touch IT – Feel IT – Tangible Textures!

By pattisays In artistic expression, creative process, creativity, decorative arts, design, design process, design tips, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, organization, re-upholstery, upholstery, wall texture, weavings, window dressings /

I am so all appreciative of texture and color and sheen and lack thereof…that I KNOW that it is impossible to make any decision about fabrics or any other textile for that matter, rugs, weavings…via a monitor or screen. We are all becoming so dependent upon the instantaneous access of information through the internet – finding sources on-line and virtually ALL of our purchases – that we are forgetting the tactile necessity of determining value, applicability, and certainly true visual appeal with tangible samples.

Yes, we can order memo samples and those of us in practice for the past few decades KNOW that we have to order samples every now and again – that is IF we have our own source library or a number of showrooms close at hand to do the instant gratification portion of the search.

Most clients LOVE to come to the library and see the many options, play with the samples and participate in the design of their project. It is a one-stop experience that sets the stage. We then have all the many distributors and showrooms, mills and factories from which we can order additional materials. But the resource library of tactile samples of fabrics, flooring, wall-coverings, flooring, rugs is exciting.

There are those who prefer fewer choices – just show me a couple of options and I’ll be fine. Quite the opposite of the one who wants you to prepare a dozen scenarios for their consideration. Yes, they pay for that luxury, but the ones who appreciate the hunt -who appreciate the searching through samples to compile their favorites – THEY are the ones who really get into the Creative Process ( see recent post on this very subject).

Living on an island – as we often feel we are – we HAVE to compile a significant source library in order to have the samples available for on-sight instant compilation for a project. Yet having all the resources close at hand, as in the showrooms of larger cities, we still have to drive there to do the work. I must say, I am spoiled with such a comprehensive source library at my studio where I go any time of day and do research to gather myriad samples to satisfy a project’s needs.

It’s taken decades to evolve. It takes a lot of concentration to keep it in order and up-to-date. That is invaluable. This isn’t to say that after spending several hours searching, culling, sorting and weighing possibilities against for-sure options, that I don’t have to occasionally call the many mills and distributors and ask for special pieces that have eluded me on my search. I might have gathered several coordinating/contrasting and fabulous samples, but lack that one blue and white striped pattern that I have visualized since the inception. It is then that I reach out and say – “I can’t find the right blue and white stripe – please send me what you have for upholstery weight.” And the samples begin to arrive and usually the missing link in the design puzzle will be found – sooner or later. IT is out there.

But the value of the well-organized and well stocked library is an invaluable tool. Yes, it is a tool – THE primary tool for a designer after their own imagination’s creativity. It fills the blanks of that creativity with actual materials that complete the design. And having a resource library on-site in our own studio saves much time and offers a plethora of options, materials, finishes, inspiration and those priceless tangible sample at our fingertips that MAKE an interior design.

Apr 29

The CREATIVE PROCESS of Interior Design

By pattisays In before and after, breweries, clutter, creative process, creativity, design, design process, Design Team, design tips, design trends, DIY design, education, furniture finds, handcraft, handmade, hiring an interior designer, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, personal expression, practical design, re-purpose, re-upholstery, Refresh, trends, updating / 1

At the outset of a design project, certain first steps are common. It is after those initial steps that things can take two very different directions. First you have the desire or need to make some changes/improvements. You decide with whom you want to work to design and implement.

If you take the time to plan every aspect of a project, make all the selections, get all the details down on paper—well notated and drawn so as to convey every intent, you may begin and proceed without hesitation. The project can be scheduled and run accordingly. Easy peasy—with that prior proper planning.

Whoa—is that real life? Well it works for many. It works for those too busy to delve into the many possibilities, to be open to the evolution of the process, to enjoy the adventure of creativity. I’m talking about the projects not requiring permits – fabrics, finishes and furniture. New cabinets in a kitchen, switch out the counter-tops, get new updated back-splash…rearrange, replace, recover furniture…paint walls, hang art, mostly cosmetic enhancements in this case. Clearly some just want it done—and have no interest in the creative process. However, do you ever have a second thought? Does one decision affect the next? As you experience the design and implementation process, might you change you mind…have another idea? It happens all the time. It is more realistic, fun and feels like a true artistic endeavor.

But is your intent to create an art piece? Is it to experience an artistic endeavor? Or do you just want some new pieces, finishes, an update? These are two very different situations that require different processes.

True design is centered around the unique requirements and desires of the client. It is responsive and reactive. It is also proactive and filled with anticipation. The design process is one of balance and equation. If…then…

This process is intuitive and educated. It is based upon expectation and perception. Like tipping back in a chair…back…back…until you might fall and then—you catch yourself and all is right with the world—exciting but measured.

Why do you hire an interior designer? With all the information available at your fingertips, why do you need to pay someone to do what you like? If you know what you like, you have the time and you have gathered a folder of ideas, why do you need a designer? Might it be to sort through options? Or to decide between choices of fabrics, groupings, arrangement, scale, style? Merely to hold your hand while you make those decisions? Do you have 5 photos of sofas? Do you have a million pictures of materials? Have you picked up or ordered clippings of fabrics? How do you decide among these many options? How do you know you are making the right/best decision given your options? What is timeless? What is trendy? What will last? What is practical? Which direction should it go? What goes with what? Ha—its funny if you start looking at your options and asking those questions…and there are a gazillion more during the process.

The idea behind hiring the right professional, is that they will help make the best decisions that will narrow your search and selections resulting in a distilled version of the gazillion ideas your have pinned, clipped, saved, collected and visualized. Not to mention they might and should bring other new ideas to the mix. The end result of responsible design consultation should provide a design you would not have had, that you like better than your efforts alone and eliminate costly mistakes saving both time and money.

The most difficult part is to recognize that not everyone receives information and processes it the same. One person’s mental image of a design concept might not be the same as another’s. Conveying ideas is an abstraction that can only be somewhat helped with illustrations and models. From quick sketches to well rendered illustrations, dimensional drawings to actual models, nothing will ever exactly convey what will be the finished product.

A sketch like this TV cabinet suggests a possible solution to an a/v issue…

Finished similarly to this piece of finely crafted knotty alder.

And this tired, yet fabulous contemporary sofa – can you visualize it in an elegant, classic navy stripe with new wooden feet? Watch for this transformation in a coming blog!!

It’s all conceptual. It’s not real—until its real. How’s that for a profound observation? Both designers and clients need to be very clear on this prior to committing to a design process. Visualization can be tricky. It effects expectations.

Communication is key. Choosing good, descriptive words…tangible samples of materials… illustrations…models…not all projects warrant the latter examples. The cost of the communication tools must be weighed against the value to the project.

So the creative process is fun and adventurous. The permutations are endless. So many choices, so little time. But if you make one decision, you narrow your steps. With each decision you build toward the finished product. And the beauty of giving yourself permission to “create” means that you can change your mind at any time, massaging the process as you proceed.

It takes patience and resilience. Art is creativity—opening the mind to possibilities.

Creativity is defined as the tendency to generate or recognize ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that may be useful in solving problems, communicating with others, and entertaining ourselves and others. (page 396) What is creativity? – California State University, Northridge https://www.csun.edu/~vcpsy00h/creativity/define.htm

The entertainment factor (above) is an interesting point—because it relates to the previously mentioned—fun! This creative process can be and should be FUN!!!

Being prepared to make alterations, fine-tune, add details and work toward that place that determines completion. Like a painter in front of a canvas…knowing when to stop. It can be over-worked. It can be compromised by going too far beyond that which is good. This does not merely refer to clutter or busy design…each is applicable and depending upon the definition and eye of the beholder (again perception) it can all constitute good design. One man’s clutter is another man’s complex design. But who makes those decisions? The critics for one—if the work is out there to be critiqued by the professionals, but the bottom line is the end user. If it solves the issues, serves the purpose, satisfies the desires—that is success. YOU (the end user) determine the success or failure of your design project.

But that determination of success or failure is a shared responsibility. It is a team effort of communication, contribution and patience with the process. The creative process has few limitations. Budget for one is important and physical restrictions—but other than those—designing is as though a living organism’s path. Designing is the abstract – to tangible way of navigating the fluidity, growth and development of the creative process.

So be free to explore and enjoy the possibilities. They are endless. Seeing the design materialize with the additions, and deletions, changes and modifications is part of the exhilaration of it all. It wants to be exciting and feed that thrill of anticipation and fulfillment of desire.

Create—and enjoy—it is good for your life.

Mar 04

10 Tips for Spring Refreshers

By pattisays In art and interior design, color trends, context of interior design, design, design tips, design trends, inspiration, interior design, interior design trends, Japanese design, joy, Marie Kondo, organization, Pantone, pinks and greens, Refresh, Spring, trends, Uncategorized, updating, upholstery / 1

Like bears coming out of hibernation, people start to stretch and yawn and look around and ask me “What can I do to refresh my interior for spring?” It’s similar to the fall preparation for hunkering down for the winter…”What can I do to cozy-up my house?” as the leaves drop and a chill wafts through the air.

Spring is the season for re-birth and starting fresh. Fresh – what does that suggest? This year we are very fortunate that Pantone set forth the color direction for the entire year – greenery. I have great enthusiasm for incorporating this bright verdant living color throughout the seasons – yes, a color for all seasons – but we are not limited to green in its various forms. I give you permission to add color that makes you feel good. Pick your favorite color…any color!

Now let’s get to that question about “What can I do to refresh my interior for spring?.” Here are 10 tips to change your world and bring joy as spring approaches.

Color POP: Speaking of your favorite color…”paint magic” as its often referred is the practically instantaneous positive reinforcement that you need to make a quick, effective change in your interior! Pick an accent wall – preferably one that is framed by inside corners (rather than stopping a color on an outside corner) and take the leap of painting it an entirely different color than your norm. Bear in mind other color cues in the room so as not to create a discord of color or completion between your design elements – but don’t be afraid either. The idea is a pleasing POP! and an extra pointer, if your room is already painted a decisive color, white can be the accent. Yes, white can be an intentional color accent and not the lack of color that it can often seem to be.
Live Plants and Flowers: Spring suggests flowers and greenery – to watch them grow toward the warm weather, bulbs inside can be fun, bouquets of your favorite flowers, sprigs of greenery in a small vase can even be enough. A bud vase on your bathroom sink counter, a statement piece at your entry or coffee table, a flowering plant with young buds to last a few weeks, a fern to add feathery freshness. – any and all of these can add life to your interior spaces. If you have flowering trees or bushes outside, this is the time to cut a few branches and bring them inside, place in a vase with water and the warmth of your interior will “force” the buds to bloom – Voila!
Reupholster to Refresh: Do you have a tired piece of furniture that might deserve a new fabric? A favorite comfy chair, a hand-me-down of sentimental value, a good frame (bones) that can be salvaged to new with a change of printed fabric, leather, or woven textile. This furniture facelift is just the trick to give new life to older pieces.
Change It Up: When you move things around and rearrange your furniture, artwork and accessories you will be surprised how you can refresh without adding anything new. Take a look at your furniture arrange. Can the same pieces be rearranged in the same room and create a new look?? Might you move one piece out to another room or bring in a different piece from some other room?
Pillows to Toss: Throw pillows…throw them out! Well, I exaggerate a bit, but cycle them into a bag in the closet for another time or place or “recovery” and find some fun new pillows to brighten and refresh your interior. What an effective change a few colorful pillows can make in a room!
Add Art: DIY or find something to cheer you! Dressing your walls with new work can lift your spirits!
Fresh Fragrances: Like Votive’s Pink Mimosa or Skeem’s Current Mangosteen scented candles, or Vance Kittera incense will add a dimension of sensory appreciation to refresh the stale, stagnant air of winter.
Wipe and Dry: New dishtowels are a great and simple boost to change seasons! Find some fresh and uplifting colors to brighten your kitchen and make wiping up more fun! They make a great gift too!
Stash Your Throw: What’s that afghan on your sofa or that blanket on your bed? Switch out the dark colors of winter with fresh new accents to add color and cuddle in too!
Get Tidy: Marie Kondo has written books about it- she knows the “life-changing magic” that getting organized and tidy can do for you! Spring cleaning is a great therapy and introspective look at the things you own, how much you have and what is clutter beyond your ability to enjoy it all.

Feb 11

Valentine Expressions

By pattisays In art and interior design, art as gift ideas, artistic expression, beauty behold it, colors, decorative arts, design, design tips, DIY design, handcraft, handmade, hearts and design, inspiration, joy, love, red, Valentine's / 5 Comments

You know…we designers design for our clients and ourselves around themes, we design around events, we design around seasons and of course we design around the trends…it all keeps the commerce of products and materials in motion. And at this time of year, we see focus on wine clubs, pajama grams, stuffed teddy bears in enormous sizes, hearts, hearts, hearts…and roses natural red or gilded, it’s Valentine’s Day!!!

But it’s fair to note that all seasons have valid design consideration. Setting the scene, enhancing the moment – either for you, your family or a romantic encounter, the holidays and especially this one, evoke a desire to create a scene that conveys love and romance.

To that end , my blog is brief. Enjoy that which brings you joy. Revel in the happiness that presents itself. Create beauty where you can. And as we are want to say….art and good design can almost always bring a better scene to anyone’s place on this precious planet.

So be it a candy heart with a common message of joy, a product acquired to create a scene, a piece of jewelry to promise, a token to send love, a greeting of friendship, a message to offer support, it is all about connecting.

I decided to paint a bowl for my sweetheart. Yes, I had passed this guy’s booth, encouraged others to partake, had appreciated his talent, but never ventured forth. This year, I enjoyed sitting alongside Victor in the shade, with the waves lapping the beach, and soft music wafting through the air…allowing a moment of focus on an artistic expression, a blank canvas (my bowl) to say Happy Valentine’s Day to MY Valentine.

Here is the finished result.

Connecting. We at PATRICIAN DESIGN support local artists and hope that the next time that you need a gift, want to send a message, or desire a creative addition to your personal space, that you will consider local talent to fulfill that need. OR do it yourself DIY!!!

Wear ART – Shop Local – Support LOCAL artists – Need we say more?

Ok…we provide the greatest FREE gift wrap to get you on your way!!!

XXX000 Happy Valentine’s Day – (it’s Tuesday – better get prepared!!!)

PATRICIAN DESIGN

Jan 29

Hearts Are At The Heart Of It All

By pattisays In art and interior design, art as gift ideas, artistic expression, artists, children, decorative arts, design, design tips, handcraft, handmade, hearts and design, inspiration, interior design, lifestyle, love, Mexico, painters, personal expression, Uncategorized, Valentine's /

Su mundo es corazones. Artist Paola Alonso Rangel is at the heart of Vallarta and literally that is the name of her shop, Corazon Vallarta, where she thrives amidst the bustling activity in the old town, on a busy street corner, with much traffic flowing by both in vehicles and on foot.

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A man carrying a frightening large pane of glass about 6 feet long by 3 feet wide effortlessly and without intimidation marches down the street with taxis and buses bouncing by him. I cringe at the site and the young shop attendant, Nidia, shrugs with a smile and says “It’s Mexico.”

With Valentine’s Day nearing, this exciting little shop offers a wealth of opportunities to find just the right gift to say “be mine!”

Paola’s little Chihuahua, Pecas (Freckles), suns on the front step seemingly oblivious to all the activity swirling by. She is front and center of all that is happening in Corazon Vallarta.

A designer and hands-on artist of nearly everything she sells in her shop, Alonso Rangel is a model of organization and time utilization. She has her machine fine-tuned and knows just what it takes to create, prepare, produce and market her work.

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In the well-lit back room of her little tienda, she has all of her art supplies neatly organized on sturdy shelving sparing not one square inch of available space. Her computer plays soft Spanish songs that, with the fan blowing gently, creates a pleasing atmosphere where she designs and paints with a couple of assistants to assemble and package her work to sell.

As is true of most urban storefronts, the fine grit that is continuously accumulating from the dusty streets and vehicles in passing contributes to the concerns of successful retail presentation. Hers and others in this type of scene perhaps suffer more due to the cobblestones which collect and distribute ongoing layers of the sooty, dusty, fines. So everything is kept painstakingly clean and wrapped in cellophane – just another stage of the process that makes her conscientious practices so impressive.

From colorful wooden puzzles, picture frames, key hangers, boxes and magnets, the expansive home decor and gift collection, on which she collaborates with her brother in Guadalajara, is a treasure of her designs and creativity. All manner of colorful animals with whimsical expressions are the subjects of her puzzles with a bit of flowers and fruit in the mix for a generous variety of choices. Alonso Rangel designs all of the pieces while her brother and his crew with a manufacturing studio in Guadalajara do all the mill-work, brilliantly colorful painting and glossy lacquer finish.

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Other of her work is comprised of original one-of-a-kind creations on canvas and wood, heart-themed all in keeping with her heart-felt passion for corazones.

She efficiently sets-up her own assembly line of stages of production, with Pecas supervising closely, so that her by-hand (hecho a mano) originals are always filling the walls and shelves and being lovingly selected by customers to take home.

Steel heart sculptures, wooden cut-outs, carvings, and more are the multi-media of her continually, seemingly endless creative concepts and body of work!

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Thank you Paola for all of your inspiration – by design!

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Jan 21

Nature’s Valentine’s Greeting!!!

By pattisays In Abstract Art, artistic expression, beach, beauty behold it, calligraphy, coastal, design, designs in nature, handcraft, handmade, inspiration, inspiration from nature, joy, love, mosaic, natural designs, natural integrity of the materials, naturalist, nature, personal expression, practical design, primitive design, re-purpose, stone, Valentine's / 3 Comments

So when you least expect it…nature speaks. On a silent coastline on a great lake in the wilds of Wisconsin the stones on the beach offered a hidden alphabet of opportunity. Upon making this discovery, I searched for and collected just the right pieces and sent a love note to my sweetheart. Wishing he were there to share in the wonderful adventure that was hiking through the enchanted woods to this lakeside hideaway, I did the next best thing and found an expression of LOVE , took a photo and messaged off to him…technology and instant gratification – well, across the miles…

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The lovely white stones were amazing…I don’t know the geology…could probably Google it, but suffice it to say they were white and soft, angular but smooth, bleached and clean – massed in a thick bed for miles along the shoreline. I wish I could have taken buckets of them to do something…fill a large snifter, layer in the sink for the water to spill over and remind me of this scene, touch and fondle – they were so special, so uniform in size – such a natural phenomenon of raw beauty.

Paired with the rough, elegant, weathered, driftwood that was scattered along the rubble and upon which I carefully placed the stones, the composition was truly a work of art – inspired by nature and assembled by my eager fascination with the media.

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Take away…love is all around – OH! has that been said before? Well…love IS all around us and to find an actual, natural formation of alphabet letters that allowed the simplest expression of literal words, to be transported across the miles, was magic.

Art…design…nature…find it!!! Happy almost Valentine’s Day!!!!