Selector & Reflector

Skateboards Made Girly

2006-07-12T16:21:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Founded by Beck Hickey in 2003 and headquartered in New York City, Beck(y)Bags is a collection of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind bags and accessories constructed with recycled skateboards and high-end fabrics.

Obviously, used decks are vital to her business, so for every used board she receives Beck donates $3 to a variety of non-profit organizations dedicated to building and maintaining public skateparks across the country.

"The grittiness of used, beat up boards combined with something really posh like silk speaks well to my overall aesthetic," Beck says, "and the beautiful contradiction that results, fuels my creativity."

REFLECTION:
As a teenager I had a 'thing' for scruffy skaters. Apparently some residual weakness for all things grungy has seeped into my taste in accesories because I think these bags are fabulous!

The fact Beck doesn't try to hide the scars that each board has acquired throughout it's life is admirable in itself, but to combine it with a lucious silk chamois lining...now that's smart.

"The Next Big Thing"

2006-07-12T14:18:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Renowned Visual Artist Jeremy Fish and Indie Rap sensation Aesop Rock team up on "The Next Best Thing," a limited edition storybook and 7" record about the creative process. The record coincides with each page of the tale, like the children's books of yore, but this one is definitely not for kids!

REFLECTION:
"The Next Best Thing" is a collaborative effort that represents the different approach artists take to meet the same creative end.

For 25 bones, you can be the proud owner of a hip-hop sodden narrative that will transport you to a surreal land of indecision, ideas, accomplishment, bunnies and skulls as you travel with Jeremy Fish's character only to realize that you will always be a slave to "the next best thing."

Mahar Drygoodness

2006-07-12T11:37:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Robert Mahar of Mahar Drygoods emailed me to introduce his new site which features vintage and artisan crafted goods for kids.

All of the items you’ll find at Mahar Drygoods are created in the homes and studios of artists, designers and crafters who are thrilled to be sharing their talents with you and the little people in your life.

Based on a 1930s children’s book cover design, the site features illustrations by Rhode Island artist Jen Corace (who I posted about a few months ago and whose gorgeous prints are still available at Art Star) and like all of their products is well-designed with a nostalgic bent and a nod to modernity.

REFLECTION:
Is it weird that I, technically an adult, want to buy a majority of the products featured on this adorable Web site for myself? Well, if it is I don't care because I have been drooling over this stuff since Robert emailed me yesterday.

Anyone who has children in their life (or an adult who thinks growing up is overrated) should check out Mahar Drygoods immediately! Each product is finely crafted with love, skill and style...just waiting to expand someone's immagination.

Excuse Me, Where is Al's Hostel?

2006-07-11T11:16:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
le cool publishing is a Spanish-based publisher of highly selective editorial products. It began in February 2003 with le cool magazine Barcelona, a free, funky and multilingual weekly email agenda that recommends bars, restaurants and unusual experiences.

Birthed from that free weekly email guide to Barcelona, this new edition features about 30 more pages than the original with many redesigned sections and a tomato red hardback cover.

REFLECTION:
Cool Hunting directed me to this gem of a travel guide. It doesn't seem that le cool is a guide for the touristy tourist, but rather the explorer who truly wants to experience a foreign culture like a local.

In-the-know residents share their tips on where to eat; the guy who started local chocolate-chain Xocoa describes his ideal day in the city; and the man who runs an association for Barcelona's fashion designers gives up where he buys his own threads. And if that isn't enough inside scoop for you, the little red book also includes everything from walking guides linking the essential shops, a pricelist for illegal narcotics, where to find a good sex club and the city's best hotels get a mention too. There are also lovely illustrated maps courtesy of local designers Vasava.

According to le cool publishing, content is never traded for money. The recommendations are always included because they are believed to be worth the reader’s time.

Now there are five cities in the le cool family, each with their own local editorial teams: Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, Amsterdam and London. However, other cities will follow soon so give them a hollar if your megalopolis deserves some le cool attention.

Rah Crawford Vs. Shane Grammer

2006-06-28T12:47:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Rah Crawford is a sensational Philadelphia painter offering us more than your everyday fine artist by combining graphic images with words, numbers, and phrases to produce what he calls "Neoteric Pop-Iconic Clairvoyant" - a medium that challenges us to see his work, not just look at it.

[Rah Crawford's "Adam's Wife"]

Shane Grammer is a California-based creative laborer who strives to help people realize the value of art in the realm of business and more importantly in the world at large through urban themed environments, stage sets, murals, and illustrations.

[Shane Grammer's "The Bride"]

REFLECTION:
There is no questioning the talent of Rah Crawford and
Shane Grammer. They are both insanely talented artists. I just can't help but wonder if they have seen eachother's work.

Rah and I met almost a year ago through a local art magazine I edited called SINK. I thought he had some of the most orginal visions put on to canvas that I had seen in a long ass time. Then, a few weeks ago, I saw Grammer's "The Bride" and my mental portfolio automatically flipped to Rah's "Adam's Wife". Wow! The use of graffiti stenciled block letters, similar color families, and overall theme of honoring beautiful women in such a masculine and gritty way is uncanny.

Now don't get me wrong, I still love Rah and his work. Now I just have another artist to catalogue under "maleurbanpopculturegrittygraffitilikeartmaker" on my list of favorites.

You Can Do It And We Can Help

2006-06-20T10:50:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Right Brain Terrain, headquartered in Orlando produces Alternative Motivational Posters ("AMP") to replace those tragic wall coverings that continue to be hung in classrooms, dentist offices, and cubicles across the country.

Come on, you know what I'm talking about...the stock image of a generic mountain range with the word "Courage" centered in 25 pt. Courier New...yuck!

[FYI: the black border is a web-only effect]

REFLECTION:
What a great idea!

At $14.95 a pop, these quasi-motivational prints will infuse any home or business with a sense of modern style while gently reminding you to get your ass in gear.

Pearls, Birthdays, Weddings

2006-06-09T10:51:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
My Aunt began a life-long project when I was an infant. She set out to make a pearl necklace for my wedding day, adding one pearl to the strand every year on my birthday until it was complete. She gave me this wonderful gift on my 21st birthday, two years ago today.

Pearls have come a long way since my teribble two's and the days of Jan Vermeer van Delft. Today's pearls are casual and often edgy, definitely not meant just for wedding collars. Below are some divine, yet modern ways to wear your combination of calcium carbonate and conchiolin.

[Milkyway Pearl Necklace by Pauline Galiana of Knotty Design, Intimate Ring by Rachel Leigh of Rachel Leigh NY, Skull Bracelet & Necklace by Tina Lilienthal, Crushed Pearl Necklace by Kristin Ivy]

REFLECTION:
This post is an amalgam of my thoughts. Yes, today is my birthday and the pearl is the official birthstone of June. Yes, the aforementioned pearl necklace is one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received. But, the third part of the equation is weddings.

Weddings have steadily been on my mind since the New Year's engagement of my very best friend. In my hallucinatory world she has hired me as her wedding planner and every spare minute I have is spent trying to find ideas to make her and her finaces wedding the most phenomenal day of of their lives.

So...in my deranged mind, birthdays plus weddings equal pearls!

Adorn Yourself In Awareness*

2006-06-08T09:32:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Architects nearly orgasm over LEED certified buildings, Chris Martin has blazed his hand with the Fair Trade symbol, and vegans are spreading like the plague so it was only a matter of time before a socially concious woman brought responsible clothing to the streets of Philadelphia.

Romy Scheroder, originally from Trinidad, opened Satya Boutique on 9th & Bainbridge Streets as a way to combat the material waste and shoddy craftsmanship of the local retail industry.

[photo credit: Michael T. Regan, City Paper]

REFLECTION:
After reading Gwen Tuxbury's story, 'Green Clothier', in the City Paper this morning I was awoken to the fact that we really are a wasteful nation and that a iced grande nonfat peppermint mocha really is magical.

Seriously though, the fact that someone has stepped up to the plate to admit that we are an unabashedly irresponsible group of people is one thing, but opening a store to rectify this character flaw is extraordinary.

Scheroder and her team of enchanted designers morph tractor-trailor tires into belts, car tires into soles for men's boots, Grandma's muumuu into a trendy purse, and soy prodcuts into a low-cut dress.

Please spread the word about Philadelphia's only boutique dedicated to sustainable, organic, fair trade and recycled apparel and accessories. Stop in Satya Boutique, Tuesday-Saturday 11a.m.-7p.m., to purchase some unique goods and perhaps more importantly to thank Romy Scheroder for making our city a better place to live.

Bringing Street Art Indoors

2006-06-07T12:05:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Graffiti scrawled across an architectural treasure does not make many people happy, but when Connecticut based graffiti artist Sket One does his thing, he forces advertising gurus from coast to coast to crack toothy grins.

Sket One's latest foray into the toy world transforms five recognizable household names into to charming, mutant creatures.

REFLECTION:
Philadelphia has long been hailed a writing mecca, with forerunners like Cornbread and Kool Earl defining modern graffiti's role in the world. But New Haven's visual design enthusiast, Sket One, is pushing the limits by combining traditional graffiti elements with trusted marketing strategies and melted plastics.

Blazing the trail for other genre-blurring artists, Sket One has successfully designed for Universal Records, EMI, Graffiti TV, Kid Robot, Sedgwick & Cedar, and Monkey Skateboards.

Birthday Wishlist, part one

2006-06-06T07:18:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Since my birthday, June 9, is creeping up upon us I thought I would let you inside the place in my head where I store my (over)indulgences. In addition to my regular posts, everyday I am going to toss in a couple of trinkets I have been drooling over.

So, here you go...I will gladly accept any of the following beauties:

[Pear Tea Dress by Anna Sui for Anthropologie, Fred Flare pocket hammock, A special mix tucked in a Kurt Halsey CD sleeve, Catia Chen 'Frost' print, Rachel Leigh Darling ring, Keds Demon Greta Suede Skimmer, Brooklyn Industries Large H Handbag, Michael Young PXR-5 EL Watch]

REFLECTION:
If you are wondering what you get out of this deal, well...please know that polite serum was injected into my veins as a small child so check those mailboxes for your personalized thank you card!

Contest: FLY DVD

2006-05-25T14:44:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
What words inspire you?

Ms Mehtap with FLY asked me to spread the word about a student competition for their "Literary Issue" to hit shelves September 2006 and I am happy to oblige.

REFLECTION:
FLY is a visionary limited edition fashion and art magazine on DVD. All of FLY's content is film or animation. FLY's first issue sold out in 2 months and was sold in over 20 cities around the world.

They are looking for short films and animation from students, inspired by literature, a quote or a mantra. The competition will allow students to get some experience in the fashion field and to have a chance to be featured in the next issue, September 2006, alongside famous designers and contributors.

The winner will be featured in our next issue alongside the work of contributors such as Karl Lagerfeld, Shirin Neshat, Alex Cayley, John Malkovich, Vanina Sorrenti, and Thomas Schenk. This is your chance to have your work shown in a globally distributed magazine, sold in leading stores such as Colette, 10 Corso Como and Dover Street Market!

Watch the trailer on www.insidefly.com, or free video podcasts on iTunes.

Download a pdf of the entry form and full entry details at: www.insidefly.com/competition.pdf

The closing date has been extended to Friday June 23rd...good luck!

Daily Disappointment

2006-05-24T14:10:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Daily Candy Philadelphia promised to dig up the city's best inside dish on fashion, food, beauty, culture, and fun in my favorite neighborhoods with its launch.

Well, the wait is over. For their first post, something fabulous that Philadelphians will be clamoring to buy, eat, wear, see or try our beloved trendspotters chose...the Sunspectra 9000. Say wha?

REFLECTION:
No, the Sunspectra is not a super-duper tanning bed. Apparently, at Rittenhouse's Pure Bliss Wellness Center & Spa you can shimmy your naked self into a space-age capsule and be treated to a half hour of 180-degree dry heat, light therapy, vibratory massage, aromatherapy, and ionized air in the face, keeping you cool as you sweat out the last five years of nicotine.

Eventhough this an insanely lame find on the part of Daily Candy's style masters, I can not deny their signature watercolor illustrations. They are just too adorable.

Daily Candy's Art Direction: 1
Daily Candy's Editorial Content: 0

iannone:sanderson*

2006-05-23T12:28:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
On the positive design front...
Under the alias iannone:sanderson, design gurus Michael Iannone and James Sanerson create the most beatiful furniture in their Queen Villiage shop.

[Signature 2.0 Cabinet, Bamboo:Glowbox, Kirei:Mod Coffee Table]

REFLECTION:
I had no idea that these mavericks of sustainable design called Philadelphia home until the media crowned them kings of this years International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in New York City.

iannone:sanderson was formed in February of 2004 to design and create good modern design and well, that have done just that.

If you are in the New York area, be sure to visit iannone:sanderson at ICFF from May 20-26, 2006 at booth #1818. But if you are in Philadelphia, you can make a appointment to visit the iannone:sanderson shop simply by giving them a ring.(I know I am)

See Ya Sheet Music

2006-05-23T11:31:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Thanks to Lovegrove and Respucci's iPod Concerto Table, untalented folks around the globe can now dock their iPods and hammer out all of the Thelonious Monk hits their little hearts desire.

REFLECTION:
With this table, Lovegrove and Respucci say you'll be able to enjoy the "dramatic presence that a piano offers an interior." Give me a break!

Gizmodo gave me a good laugh this morning with their iPod Concerto Table post, but a literary genius named Hunty stole my heart with the following comment:

"They should go the extra mile and also include a cardboard iBook, for people who can't figure out how to use an iBook on their desk that's not a piano, and a realdoll woman, and posters that look like windows, so these people can sit in their fake house (which is actually their mom's basement) with their fake girlfriend, using their fake iBook on their fake piano. The only part of the equation that won't be fake are the tears. And the gun with which they end it all."

However, from a purely aesthetic view point, if they nixed the the everything except the key frame the remains would make for a pretty cute side table. But alas, they jumped the shark.

Design Eruption

2006-05-19T09:22:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
My inbox is brimming with little notes and announcements from fellow bloggers and amazingly talented designers. I am pretty sure you will love these folks as much I as do, so please allow me it introduce to you to:

Jena Coray of Modish:
"We ignore the stale, the overdone. We are not interested in the mass-produced, mass-marketed or overindulgent. We are for the independent craftsperson, designer, shopper, creator and artist. We show you the goods that are made by hand, created with attention and intention. Modish is about style the indie way- the way it was meant to be."

Dominic Mercier of Last week, I went to Philadelphia, but it was closed:
"Last week, I went to Philadelphia, but it was closed is a photoblog (phlog??) of the Greater Philadelphia area maintained by Dominic Mercier, a fairly nice guy who was born and raised here."

[Window Treatments installation at PAFA, Under the Bridge Downtown by Zoe Strauss, Shave and a Haircut at Eastern State Penitentiary]

Ylva Markstam of Scandavian Design Center:
"The mission for Design Online is to be a meeting place for the community of people interested in design. We present information about Scandinavian design and provide a worldwide opportunity to buy uniquely designed quality home interior items. We appreciate a dialogue with our customers to discuss design and new design trends."

[Ice Chandelier,BD:5 Easy Chair, Swing Vase]

Jena Coray of Curio J:
"Jewelry making was Jena's first source of income, spurred on by the loyal patrons of her grade school playground. After a brief sabbatical (i.e. school) upon the impending threat of a 9-5 doom, her creative urges came to the rescue, and curio j was born. When she's not slaving away on the computer, Jena likes to eat lots of vegetarian food, play with her kitty Mira, listen to obscure alt-folk music, write, dream and watch Top Model."

[Paloma necklace, Odessa ring, Zara earings]

REFLECTION:
It is Friday people! Take a break from updating spreadsheets, completing reports and filing papers and treat yourself to some well-deserved visual stimulation.

Each one of the above sites has something fabulous to offer...so hop to it!

No More Wood

2006-05-11T10:20:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Since when has woodgrain surpassed Pucci, damask, and good old fashion stripes as the hottest print in the style world? It seems everything is sheated in wood these days.

Nokia polished oak faceplate

Isaac Mizrahi Woodgrain Skirt for Target

Pop Ink decorative melamine plates

REFLECTION:
I am all for the natural look, but something about having a conversation on a 2x4, eating my dinner off a plate that appears all too ready to splinter my innocent tongue, and wearing a skirt that doubles as camoflauge in the lumber aisles of Home Depot does not appeal to me.

Out with the wood!

The Storker (in Philly)

2006-04-26T12:42:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
If there were a Church Of Public Art Advocacy, it would worship Mark Jenkins as its God. Only, Jenkins is an artist from D.C. and his disciples are infants constructed from trasnparent tape.

Traveling from town to town with his baby brigade, Mark Jenkins preforms miraculous feats that demonstrate his almighty power to give art an outdoor home. The following photos document Jenkins' tape babies exploring the streets of Philadelphia, known as The Storker Project.

REFLECTION:
The pictures above we are taken on South Street in Philadelphia on October 15, 2005. I'm not quite sure how I missed this public art display, but I did. I did not see it. I did not hear it. Nothing. But today, while jumping URL's I found Jenkins' little Philadelphia materpieces.

According to his artist statement, "The Storker Project is a species propagation movement by STORKER seeking to incite select individuals from the public at large, perhaps you. If while passsing by one you feel strange sensations in your nipples or fingertips, adopt the infant, breast feed, and give it plenty of pTLC. It will gradually mature to a full size Tape Man or Woman to co-habitate with you and eventually take you to the Glazed Paradise (or possibly oust you from your home)."

That may be a lot to digest, so let me break it down for you. In The Storker scenario Jenkins is the stork and the babies are, well...the babies. So maybe it wasn't that difficult to understant after all. Nonetheless, I thought it was a worth posting about so here it is.

Keep any eye out for The Storker in your city and click here if you want to see more.

Tremendous Tees

2006-04-26T11:10:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
I swooned over Imaginary Foundation in the past and I remain in awe of their ability to seemlessly blend antique imagery with explosive color and modern innovation. My tee shirt picks for spring are...

REFLECTION:
When I was first introduced to Imaginary Foundation last year I tought, wow, these people know what they are doing. At the time, I could not think of any other design collective spitting out such innovative ideas like mashing a great 19th century thinker with kaleidoscopic blasts capped off with a familiar proverb. Because frankly, who the hell would think of that?

Thankfully, the folks at Imaginary Foundation did and now we can all share in their creative genius. Go to the Imaginary Foundation Shop to snag some of their beautifully wacky tee shirts ($30), polo shirts ($50), hoodies ($70), and even a few limited edition silkscreened prints ($30).

Tip via Cool Hunting

Stella!!!

2006-04-25T10:21:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
With one quick glance, I was hooked on these new digital prints by Stella Im Hultberg for Momomoogie.

[Don't Be So Cynical, Silence, Dream Lethargy]

REFLECTION:
After immersing herself in industrail design, Stella found her that her true love rested in the self-expresseion of painting and drawing. Her whimsical cityscapes with equals parts urban influence and childlike dreaminess make for some truly interesing eye candy.

If you like what you see here you should peruse Stella's art diary here and check out her portfolio here for the inside scoop on this fabulous artist.

Luckily, for my fellow Philadelphians, Art Star carries prints, limited edtion tee shirts and other goodies designed by Stella Im Hultberg. For everyone else, poke around Momomoogie's shop listings to find the distributor nearest you.

Parasitic Creations

2006-04-21T13:31:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Camille Rose Garcia's current exhibition, "Subterranean Death Clash", graces the walls of the Jonathan LeVine Gallery in NYC until next Saturday, April 29.

REFLECTION:
If you have an ounce of artistic taste you will hop on the Chinatown Bus and take the F train to Chelsea today. You can only peep the lovely Camille's show for one more week so get a move on because this one is not to be missed!

If you have no idea who Camille Rose Garcia is then honey, you need to burst that bubble you having been living in and look her up.

Feed Your Head

2006-04-20T15:44:00.001-04:00

SELECTION:
Cereal Art is a Philadelphia company that designs, develops, manufactures and distributes a range of projects by internationally acclaimed artists.

Art Brat is the official online retail shop of Cereal Art.

[Marcel Dzama, Dalek, Yayoi Kusama, Yoshitomo Nara]

REFLECTION:
The Cereal Art web site is designed to impress. By clicking on each artist's name in the sidebar you are taken on a visually stimulating journey through their most recent work. If this is any indication of the company itself, all I can say is wow.

The uber talented Cereal Art artists include: Adam McEwen, Momoyo Torimitsu, Kenny Scharf, Keith Haring, Laurie Simmon, Yoshitomo Nara, Ryan McGinness, Marcel Dzama, Yayoi Kusama, Allan McCollum and Andreas Slominski.

Even though Cereal Art has been around for quite some time, I have not heard much buzz about the company so I am excited to do some more digging. Stay tuned for more information about this fascinating artist hub...

Obey!

2006-04-20T14:44:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
"Some of My Best Friends are Skateboarders!" is an art show hosted by the Wilmington Skate Project to help raise awareness and funds for the future skateboard park in Wilmington on Saturday April,22nd, 5-10 pm at the Brandywine Town Community Center at Naamans road and Route 202.

REFLECTION:
Doesn't sound like your cut of tea? Well, what if I told you that the participating artists include Shepard Fairey, House Industries, Evan Hecox, Chris Pastras, Jim Houser and more? Interested now?

There will be a suggested $5 donation at the door and selected works will be available for purchase through silent auction.

For more information check out the Wilmington Skate Project web site and blog.

Gallery Night

2006-04-20T12:23:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Twenty-three galleries will open their doors to art lovers for the second annual Center City Gallery Night tomorrow, April 21 from 5:30-8:30 pm.

REFLECTION:
Take a stroll around town and enjoy a wide array of art from photography exhibits to pop art installations while munching on complimentary hors d'oeuvres and sipping cocktails.

Participating locations include:

The Philadelphia Sketch Club, 235 South Camac Street
143rd Annual Exhibition of Small Oil Paintings

The Print Center, 1614 Latimer Street
Diamonds are Forever: Edna Andrade; Short Stories: A Narrative in Mezzotint: Art Werger;
The Guides: Justyna Badach

The Asian Arts Initiative, 1315 Cherry Street, 2nd Floor
A Different Lens

Newman Galleries, 1625 Walnut Street
19th Century Paintings

Gross McCleaf Gallery, 127 South 16th Street
New Paintings by Mary Putman

Schwarz Gallery, 1806 Chestnut Street
New Jersey Remembered: 75th Anniversary

Calderwood Gallery, 1622 Spruce Street
French Art Deco – The Early Years

Gallery 339, 339 South 21st Street
Amanda Means: Power Plant

Philadelphia Art Alliance, 251 South 18th Street
Art Quilts, Du Hoang

Bridgette Mayer Gallery, 709 Walnut Street
Deirdre Murphy: Worlds Within Worlds

Pennsylvania Art Conservatory, 1824 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia Women Artists of the 20th Century

Schmidt/Dean Gallery, 1710 Sansom Street
New Paintings: Michael Kessler – Main gallery; Photographs: Sarah Van Keuren – Drawing gallery; Photographs: Harry Kalish – Project gallery

Turak Gallery, 132 South 17th Street, 2nd Floor
Masterful Paintings - Artwork of the 19th & Early 20th Century

Sande Webster Gallery, 2006 Walnut Street
Mike McDonnell- Interiors & Still Lifes

Fleisher/Ollman Gallery, 1616 Walnut Street, Suite 100
Rock Paper Scissors: American Collage Now

Highwire Gallery, 1315 Cherry Street, 4th Floor
Nature Works – II by Joe Plageman

Vox Populi, 1315 Cherry Street, 4th Floor
Resident artists: Sarah Daub, Gabriel Boyce and Joseph Hu;
"Another Possible Ending" by Kirsten Reynold;
Karina Skvirsky: Selected Works

aSFe Gallery, 2016 Walnut Street, Suite #1
Christopher Cairns – Sculpture; Nicholas Cairns – Painting

I Brewster, 1628 Walnut Street
Pop Art and the Artists

Art Around Gallery, 2011 Chestnut Street
Mariet Oepkes and Parris Stancell: From Ibiza to America

Locks Gallery, 600 Washington Square South
Works by Neysa Grassi & Pat Steir

Space 1026, 1026 Arch Street, 2nd Floor
Works by Frankie Martin

David David Gallery, 260 South 18th Street
Selections of American Impressionism

For more information visit Philly Fun Guide where you can dowload the Gallery Night Map to help make the most of your time.

Candy Clutches

2006-04-20T10:06:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
This lime/silver clutch from Ecoist is made from recycled candy wrappers...a true one-of-a-kind.

REFLECTION:
Ecoist handbags are made from recycled candy wrappers, food packages, and soft drink labels that have been discarded due to printing defects or discontinued lines. Bags come in a variety of styles, patterns, and colors so browse through the site find the perfect one for you.

For every handbag sold, Ecoist works with Trees for the Future to plant a tree in areas that have been affected by industrial development, natural disasters, fires, and other causes. Recently, Ecoist has planted tress around the world including India, Uganda, Haiti, Mexico, and the United States.
This should help prove how committed the folks at Ecoist are to preserving the environment...one fashionable purse at a time.

If you see one that you like, I suggest you grab it before it's gone. At $28.00 this clutch will not be in stock for long!

I am loving this slim barcode clutch too...

Lineage Gallery Presents Sam Flores

2006-04-20T09:02:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Lineage Gallery presents “Cities of Laments” a collection of new works focusing on the themes of love, loss, regret, and hope by Sam Flores.

REFLECTION:
According to Lineage: "Combining elements of the Far East with colors, and landscapes from the Southwest, Flores is able to create ethereal spaces where his characters (and viewers) can lay to rest the burdens that life has put upon them (or us as the case may be). This imagery has garnered much attention in recent years with a unique style that infuses modern graffiti culture with elegant illustrative characteristics from the Art Nouveau movement. The merging of these two distinctly different styles has allowed Flores to come up with something entirely new, fresh and exciting."

I relish in the juxtaposition of dominating women floating atop scenic landscapes. Flores' work might have subtle spiritual overtones, but it remains digestable and immensely enjoyable to the masses.

The coupling of new work from Sam Flores and the progessive minds of the Lineage Gallery should yield nothing short of amazement. “Cities of Laments” promises to be a stellar show. To see more images of Flores' current work visit here.

The Opening Reception will take place on Friday, April 21st from 6 to 10p.m. but the show runs until May 21st.

Daily Candy Loves Philly

2006-04-18T16:01:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
That's right kiddies...Daily Candy Philadelphia is on it's way!

REFLECTION:
Nearly two months since my sniveling February post about Atlanta snagging a Daily Candy edition over Philadelphia, the editors have found the err of their ways and announced the May launch of Daily Candy Philadelphia.

What is Daily Candy you ask? Well, young grasshopper...it is a free daily e-mail that delivers must-know dirt on all of the stylish things things that you love — from a new restaurant in Northern Liberties to a hot boutique on Main Street in Manayunk.

These style hounds even sniff out some of the city's best kept secrets, so sign up here today and spread the word!

Silver Bark

2006-04-18T10:18:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Twin sister silversmiths Twigs and Heather make birch bark cuff bracelets cast in sterling silver from plant life native to the Atlantic Northeast that are absolutely fabulous.

REFLECTION:
Kerry Alice and Heather Collins, aka Twigs and Heather, opened their studio in 2000 and have been creating one of a kind sterling silver jewelry ever since. Using the lost wax casting method and a few new tricks they are able to create wearable art that shines.

Each piece in their collection is simply beautiful. In addition to bark, they also cast twigs, sea glass, acorns, and maple seeds which are equally stunning.

Cuff bracelets and rings can be made light or heavy, big or small according to your specific request. Contact Twigs and Heather, via email for pricing and styles.

Worlds Within Worlds

2006-04-07T09:41:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Local artist Deirdre Murphy's solo exhibition "Worlds Within Worlds" opens tonight at the Bridgete Mayer Gallery and will run until April 26, featuring vivid works on wood panels, canvas, and paper.

REFLECTION:
Deirdre Murphy is an energetic painter whose lively pieces overflow with vibrant forms and colors. Murphy's work challanges one to examine the their relationship with his or her environment. It has been said that she draws inspiration from such diverse sources as French damask silks, Japanese prints, Indian miniature paintings, Amish Quilts, and of course organic forms. But I think Murphy understands how to captivate an audience (or atleast me) by presenting something familiar, like a bird, a boat, or a house and making it seem a bit strange.

Murphy sucked me in with the above oil painting of the Reading Viaduct. My love affair with the viaduct began almost three years ago when I was assigned a project to research the old railway for an urban reporting class in college. A dynamic group of Philadelphian's have rallied together to save this historical structure from demolition and instead transform it into a skyhigh walkway, like the Promanade Plantee in Paris and the High Line in Manhattan.

I love the way Murphy blends so many elements together in this painting. The Reading Viaduct is physically placed in the clouds and surrounded with cultural elements that highlight the neighborhoods diversity...or is it?

If all of my rambling has sparked an interest in the Reading Viaduct check out my projects, Rebirth of a Railroad and The Reading Viaduct Slideshow. If not, just stop by "Worlds Within Worlds" for a whirlwind of wine, cheese, and pretty paintings.

&made

2006-04-05T11:45:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Toby and Dave are a pair of British designers known simply as &made.

REFLECTION:
All of the pieces in this collection had been banished to dumpsters and London street corners only to be rescued by Toby and Dave and brought back to life with the addition of new appendages.

My family has always been big on trash-picking and I used to get so embarassed when my parents would make a screeching u-turn to snag a dilapidated bamboo sofa and lug home atop our Ford Taurus. How would they ever assimilate this piece of junk into our cozy living room, I though to myself. But now I realize that they could see an ratty piece of furniture for its potential, not just its current ratty state. Like my parents, the fellas overseas at &made have honed their dumpster-diving skills to produce some of the most exciting products I have seen in a long time.

&made will be in Milan for Salone International Del Mobile 2006 (April 7-11) to spread the word about the launch of their company, but don't expect to find them seated at a booth. Toby and Dave will be shuttling some of the 150,000 attendees around in their taxi service in an effort to meet as many people possible in the most unconventional way. The cost? A good conversation and a subtle &made plug.

These guys are belong in a genre all their own. Simple Genius. They have built a company by putting a clever spin on an obvious idea. And I appreciate that.

Via design sponge

Go Fish

2006-04-05T11:16:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
The lovely ladies of Art Star Gallery & Boutique have put together an Art Star Grab Bag!

REFLECTION:
Each Art Star Grab Bag includes a Momomoogie shirt, Rabbit Rabbit Reindeer Ornament, Alison Cole Evil button set, Myers Bee Pin, Camilla Engman 4 picture pack, plus you'll get the Art Star postcard set.

Get your very own bag-o-fun here for $42!

Galbraith & Paul

2006-04-03T10:29:00.000-04:00

SELECTION:
Galbraith & Paul is a custom lighting and textile studio based in Philadelphia and seen throughout the world.

REFLECTION:
While hunting for quirky fabric to make some seat cushions, I stumbled across Gailbraith & Paul. I am always willing to shell out a little more cash to support local products and artists and I have instantly become a big fan of Gailbraith & Paul and what they stand for.

Since 1986, Liz Galbraith and Ephraim Paul have been designing and making fine lighting and textiles in their Philadelphia studio where each shade and yard of fabric is printed by hand and infused with their passion for all things beautiful.

Their textiles combine the bold graphics of Marimekko, the painterly qualities of The Bloomsbury Group, and the hand printed textures of William Morris textiles, yet convey a subtle and elegant spirit all their own. Plus, since they are print to order, color substitutions and custom colors are easy to do.

The new line of hand tufted rugs are made with the same fresh designs, original colors, and attention to detail that make the hand block printed fabrics special. Rugs are available in five different paterns and like the fabrics, they are made to order in custom sizes with a variety of options.

Show your love for Philadelphia artisans by checking out the stellar work of Galbraith & Paul!

Graphic Noise

2006-03-30T10:27:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Philly is the only East Coast stop on the tour of Graphic Noise: Art at 1,000 dB, a pop art explosion featuring over 400 posters for today's most popular musicians created by the biggest names in contemporary design.

REFLECTION:
Elvis Costello, Bright Eyes, Duran Duran, Death Cab for Cutie, Blondie, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Cure, and Iron & Wine are just some of the musical acts highlighted in Graphic Noise.

Sponsored by the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) and produced in cooperation with Drexel University's Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, Graphic Design Program and the Leonard Pearlstein Gallery, this fusion of raw talent has been so well received it has shattered attendance records.

This unique collection showcases well-loved graphic artists Tara McPherson and Jesse LeDoux in addition to local favorites Eleanor Grosch, Tim Gough and James Heimer.

Graphic Noise: Art at 1,000 dB runs from April 3-28 and the Opening Reception will be held Wednesday, April 5 from 5-9 p.m. at Drexel's Leonard Pearlstein Gallery, Nesbitt Hall (33rd & Market Streets).

Official Press Release

Bowie Vases

2006-03-29T14:38:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Who doesn't want a speck of Ziggy Stardust in their living room? These limited edition David Bowie vases from mosleymeetswilcox meets Rock totally...rock.

REFLECTION:
Spring is in full swing and flowers will soon begin to bloom. Wouldn't you like to give your bouquet of Tulips a stylish home? Well, now you can.

Mosleymeetswilcox meets Rock is a collection of everyday objects created by Steve Mosley and Dominic Wilcox, inspired by the work of Rock photographer Mick Rock and the world of Rock music.

These limited edition ceramic vases (250 each) feature a different pictures of the Thin White Duke on each side and include a signed limited edition photo by Rock. Available exclusively online at Paul Smith.

Via design*sponge

Like Thom Yorke Said...

2006-03-29T11:40:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
"I'm a creep!" And that is exactly what Susan Bradley's new collection of powder coated steel Creep Tables and Creep Shelves would belt out if they were not inanimate objects.

REFLECTION:
I am knowingly jumping on Susan Bradley's award winning designer bandwagon with this post, but she is just too talented to pass up. The relatively new use of lasercutting coupled with the 18th century botanical patterns make for some striking home decor.

Bradley's Creep Collection draws inspiration from the reckless way plants grow across the nearest surface. The Creep Table's classy Lilies slink down the side and sprawl aross the floor while the Creep Shelves utilize the well-known crawl factor of Ivy to climb up the adjacent wall.

After an established career in multi-media design Bradley began to focus on 3-dimensional prodcution and graduated with First Class Honours from Furniture Design and Technology course at London Metropolitan University in July 2004, and set up her own business soon after.

Since she went solo her edgegant (edgy + elegant) designs have won international acclaim and have been featured in leading style publications worldwide including. Most recently has been named 'Graduate Designer Of The Year', winning the prestigious Design and Decoration Awards 2005, a title which she is more than worthy of owning.

Bradley's work is only available from selected London outlets, but you can order direct here and contact her for specifications and prices.

Behold!

2006-03-28T19:42:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
The Beholder is a virtual swap meet where artists can reach an art-hungry audience and where said audience can gobble up their work for a reasonable price...on a 7 day trial period to garuntee satisfaction, of course.

[Rachel Salomon 'She Doesn't Dream']
REFLECTION:
The Beholder features a wide range of paintings, drawings and photography from 26 talented artists.

A deep love of art and a recognition of its inaccessability are what prompted Suzanne Shade to birth The Beholder. A large portion of the artists on this site have full time day jobs and can only work on art in their spare time. Shade allows the artist to keep 80 percent of each commission in hopes that they can spend more time honing their craft, selling more pieces and eventually making art their main job.

Show your support!

Sweeden, Mmm Mmm Good

2006-03-28T15:31:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Lotta Jansdotter is a crisp and elegant Swedish design company offering an abundance of hand-drawn and screenprinted aprons, bags, stationary, textiles, ceramics, table linens and much more.

REFLECTION:
Lotta Jansson has struck an aesthetic balance between nature's limitless beauty and a love for modern urban style. The result is a world of contemporary organic designs.

Relocating from Stockholm to San Francisco she discovered screen printing and its endless range of opportunities. The self-taught designer started Lotta Jansdotter in 1996, launching her own line of home products for the Japanese Market the following year. Soon after, fashionistas began to rave about the collections and she emerged in American market. The Lotta Jansdotter studio and store opened in the summer of 2002 and has continued to inspire and reflect a simple, elegant life style.

I bought this Stationary Box set at Open House a while ago to keep in touch with a good friend who relocated to the South. He didn't like the note cards too much, but what does he know...he left Philly for Georgia.

Giving Fonts A Face

2006-03-28T14:53:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Online distributors of visual stim, You Work For Them, have dared to release an experimental video compilation that explores the personality of newly created typefaces called Enter The Dragon.

REFLECTION:
Enter The Dragon is a DVD featuring 25 different artists who have each created a short film to convey their personal and artistic interpretation of newly created YouWorkForThem fonts.

This DVD includes over 40 minutes of motion graphics that challange one to think past the copyrighted name of a typeface and understand the spirit that goes into crafting each serif.

I came across You Work For Them DVD's and a few other items at the AIA Philadelphia Bookstore on my lunch break today. So if you are a design geek like me and live in the area you can pick up some of their products there, but if you are reading this post for a far and distant land just visit here.

Ghostly Portraiture

2006-03-23T10:17:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Los Angelas designer, Michelle Caplan, constructs hauntingly intimate portraits that tell the story of the person behind the image, one collaged layer at a time.

[Rawsons from Commissions; Mixed Media Collage]

REFLECTION:
At a young age Michelle Caplan developed a passion for the art of collage and her current work is a reflection of that passion, melded with the graphic arts skills she honed during a NYC publishing career and her education and work experience in graphic design.

Caplan's portraits bring life to a families photographic history. Commissions have included wedding portraits, family pets, beloved automobiles and American icons.

These portraits are beautiful in a very spooky way. The translucency of the each image layed over clusters of sentimental images elicits an emotional response that can not be denied. Caplan truly seems to care about the life journey of each of her subjects and that interest is obvious by looking at each completed canvas.

If you want to suprise someone with a thoughful gift or buy a stellar piece of collage portraiture for yourself contact the artist for pricing.

Via Decor8 and Apartment Therapy

Jen Corace = Adorable Art

2006-03-22T11:33:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
I just got my invitation to Jen Corace's April 1st Opening Night Exhibition, 'Swept Out to Sea', from Art Star Boutique & Gallery. You can meet Corace at the Opening Reception from 5-8pm, but if you can not make it you will have plenty of time to catch the exhibition itself which runs through May 14th.

REFLECTION:
Originally from southern New Jersey, Corace migrated north to get her BFA in Illustration from the Rhoade Island Institue of Design and has called the smallest state home ever since. Even though she left Jersey years ago, much of her inspiration comes from its rural setting and natural environment.

Most of Corace's fine art work harkens back to the days of being a precocious youngster and higlights the organic fibers of her childhood home. There are no other words to describe it except for, absolutely adorable.

So sharpen your No.2, dust off your planner and pencil in 'Swept Out to Sea' on April 1st. And if you have never been to Northern Liberties' prized Art Star this show is a must!

Sassy Jewels

2006-03-22T10:14:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
If I were a celebrity attending a red carpet event, I would zoom right past Harry Winston and head straight towards Rachel Leigh for my obligatory bling.

REFLECTION:
Leigh's Suspend earings, handcrafted with freshwater pearls and gold wire, get my elegance vote over some tacky explosion of diamonds any day.

The backbone of her jewelry collection is gold wire and semi-precious stones, intertwined like a DNA. Leigh's baubles range from muted to loud and conservative to funky, but they are all one-of-a-kind pieces meant to enhance your personal style.

With names like Darling, Fantastic, Ridiculous, Intimate and Glitz to choose from you will have no problem finding a ring, necklace, bracelet, keychain or pair of earings that scream you.

Rachel Leigh is based out of New York and according to her web site no shops in Philadelphia currently carry her collection. So if you are intrigued by her work, you can purchase a fine piece of jewelry here...for a pretty penny.

Je suis dans l'amour

2006-03-17T16:00:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Taïr Mercier is a husband and wife design team that creates chic housewares from their Paris studio.

REFLECTION:
The above French Floral Lamp is my favorite item from their small collection of stylish lamps, placemats, and plate sets. The glowing silhouettes of poppy flowers eminating from these translucent polypropylene table lamps are just magnificent.

The best thing about Taïr Mercier is the price tag. Available at Elsewares, the French Floral Lamp comes in at $35 and none of their other products cross the $40 mark. Who says you can't live richly on a budget?

Film With Borders

2006-03-17T13:11:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
The Border Film Project is the brilliant idea of three young minds who hope to help people recognize the humanity present on both sides of the U.S. Mexico Border.

By distributing disposable cameras to Mexicans trying to enter the U.S. and to the Minutemen trying to keep them out, the journey and struggle of each side is documented and their similarties are made blatantly clear.

[Self portraits of a Mexican man and a Minuteman]

REFLECTION:
Border Film Project is a social experiment of sorts conducted by three friends-a Rhodes Scholar, filmmaker, and a Wall Street analyst-who spent three months on the U.S. Mexico border filming and distributing hundreds of disposable cameras to two groups on different sides of the line: undocumented migrants crossing the desert and Minutemen volunteers trying to stop them.

Cameras were distributed to migrants primarily at shelters and through humanitarian organizations on the Mexican side of the border. Since most of them had never even seen disposable cameras before, they were given a brief lesson and then asked to photograph their journeys into the United States.

The Minuteman Civil Defense Corps is comprised of American citizens who are trying to secure the border because that is what they believe our government should. They set up observation posts on the U.S. side and search for anyone crossing illegally. Cameras were sent to camps in California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas and they were asked to capture what it means to be a Minuteman on film.

Niether group would be so keen to participate in the Border Film Project if it were not for an incentive. Migrants were given Walmart giftcards with their camera that held a $0 balance, but once the camera was returned, a monetary donattion would be added to the card (Walmart is the largest retailer along the border so it was the most obvious choice). The Minuteman volunteers were given Shell gas cards for their participation to help fill their patrol vehicles. This system also allowed the participants to remain anonymous, which was vital to members of each group.

The point of the Border Film Project was to simplify the complexities of immigration and the U.S. Mexico border and to show the realities. To date, they have receieved more than 1,500 photographs and more continue to arrive daily. The pictures capture the humanity present on both sides of the border by telling the stories that no nightly news bite, policy debate or academic study could could come close to.

As the Mexican and Minutemen cameras were returned, the similarities between their photos were easy to see. The project's highest hope is to bring people together and help them to see different perspectives and to recognize the humanity present on both sides.

This is one of the most thoughtful and interesting projects I have ever had the pleasure of reading about and I hope that you will enjoy it as much as me. The Border Film Project is slowly evolving into a traveling exhibition, so keep checking the Upcoming Shows page to find out if it his coming to a city near you.

Most of this information is pulled directly from the Border Film Project web site, but if are still curious about this fantastic study please go here for more information.

You Won't Find This At IKEA

2006-03-16T15:59:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Scandanavian Surface is a Norwegian design team specializing in the development of custom patterns for application to common surfaces.

REFLECTION:
Scandanavian Surface is: Hildegunn Anda, Kristine Dybwad, Katrine Nylund, Ann-Tove Engenes and Åsne Midtgarden. These four arsty ladies studied art at Kunsthøgskolen i Bergen, Norway, and spent about 10 years working with exhibitions, applied arts, costume and set design on their own. Scandinavian Surface was created when they came together to feed a growing design curiosity and a desire to establish a common platform where their clever ideas could come to life.

Some of the options you have when using their custom products are creating repeatable patterns (for textiles, paper and other printable materials), huge digital print wallcoverings, custom made surface design patterns for 3D objects (for lampshades, porcelain, cellphone covers, glassware, umbrellas, shoes, furniture etc.) and building facades (lass, concret, wood and metal).

These products are similar to Blik wall graphics, but the Norwegians haved uped the ante. I absolutely adore the enormous ginko leaves and the 70's counter-top swirls. Check out Scandanavian Surface for more information.

Maybe You Need Braces

2006-03-16T15:03:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Michelle, a.k.a. Crowded Teeth, is 23-year old self-taught illustrator who started a company that makes fun and affordable clothes that do not have an obnoxious logo splattered across the chest.

REFLECTION:
In 2000 Crowded Teeth begain selling tee shirts, buttons, and stationery. But as time went on and Michelle developed a knack for sewing, she incorporated jackets, pillows, handbags, and appliqued cut-&-sew tees into her collection of goodies.

Crowded Teeth is constantly expanding and and with an even bigger expansion going down this year be on the look out for appliqued hoodies, more tees, jewelry, and totes.

The Octopus Scarf is my favorite, but for more fun stuff visit the online shop.

Semantic Lanscapes

2006-03-15T09:43:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Belgian artist Fred Eerdekens creates sculptures that manipulate light and shadows to reveal hidden messages.

REFLECTION:
Since Eerdekens began individually showing his work in 1984, it has only been seen in the United States a handful of times-in New York City and Santa Monica. His love of language, is made obvious by the messages he sprawls across gallery walls, but how he actually contructs these imaginative installations is a bit more unclear. The point then, of attending a Eerdekens exhibit is for you, the viewer, to interact with the his abstact fabrications in an attempt to understand the method behind his linguistic madness.

The two photographs above best capture the conceptual spirit of Fred Eerdekens work. Short Story is one of newer works that was recently shown at the Armory in New York. By twisting copper wire into seemingly random squiggles, a message is revealed when light is shined on it at a very specific angle. If you squint you can see that it reads, "A very short story with a lot of fiction in the middle." And in a 2002 exhibition in France, he used artificial trees and two light projectors, Eerdekens to magically display the phrase "mhmmmhm" on an opposing wall.

Hopefully Fred Eerdekens will visit the U.S. again soon...maybe this time he will even come Philadelphia.

Tip via Cool Hunting

Do You Hear That Dress?

2006-03-14T13:49:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Sonic Fabric is an audible textile woven from recycled casette tapes.

REFLECTION:
Alyce Santoro had been inspired by the use of strands of tape as wind indicators on sail boats and Tibetan prayer flags since childhood. While training to become a Marine Biologist, Santoro began experimenting with this innovative medium and after much trial and error Sonic Fabric became a reality.

Sonic Fabric actually emits sound when a tape head is ran across its surface because the tape retains its magnetic quality through the weaving process, so it acts as a big wide band of audio tape.

If you want a piece of the pie, visit the Sonic Fabric online shop where you can purchase messenger bags, flags and swatches. Upon request clothing can also be made (like the custom Sonic Dress woven for Phish drummer Jon Fishman which he wore and played during a 2004 Las Vegas Phish concert).

Have A Seat

2006-03-14T12:22:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Everyspace is a Brooklyn-based design collective that was formed in 2004 to address the furniture needs of urban dwellers who were equally concrend with function and aethestic. Chair #1, created by designer Yuichiro Nishizawa, is the first in a series of modular plywood chairs offering space saving solutions and boasting unbelievably simple assembly.

REFLECTION:
Chair #1 is made of two identical pieces of plywood that when married, create low to the floor seating appropriate for all ages. For those rare times when it is not being used for seating, Chair #1 can be stacked and used as storage.

Chair #1 is available at Brooklyn Flat in various colors and finishes, such as: raw poplar, maple or walnut veneer with a clear lacquer, and a range of custom options.

For more information about this product and about Everyspace contact Yuichiro Nishizawa here. Other Everyspace members include: Jill Ayers, Christy Colement and Linda Feinbery who can all be reached here.

French Fabric Frenzy

2006-03-13T16:48:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Maison Georgette is a trendsetting French design studio which uses one large piece of fabric to create limited edition silkscreened home furnishing accessories at random.

REFLECTION:
Marion LŽvy and Veronique Georgelin are the brilliant design duo behind Maison Georgette . After having worked as stylists and designers for other people around the world they joined forces in 1999 to start their own company dedicated to their shared passion for modern textiles.

The focus for the latest collection (pictured above) was placed on visual impact with strong and defined patterns and color contrasts. As with all screenprinters LŽvy and Georgelin, had to think far in advance while planning their designs because they knew that wanted to explore white and empty spaces to complement each pattern.

Maison Georgette products are available exclusively in the United States at Illico Design, a San Fransisco based company dedicated to introducing the U.S. market to innovative and French designers.

Each magazine tote, purse, catch-all container and pillow is completely unique so when ordering do not expect to receive exactly what you see on your computer screen. But not to worry, you will probably get something even more beautiful than you had hoped.

Catia Feeling Sinister

2006-03-13T12:26:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Catia Chien takes musical mash-ups to the next level by turning indie rock darlings Belle & Sebastian's lyrics into an illustrated short for a new book titled,"Put The Book Back On The Shelf: A Belle & Sebastian Anthology".

REFLECTION:
It just so happens that Catia Chien is one of my favorite artists and Belle & Sebastion have remained very high in my musical rotataion over the years. The fact that such a talented artist's work is being combined with such an influential band is great news for art and music lovers alike.

For "Put The Book Back On The Shelf: A Belle & Sebastian Anthology", Chien interprets the title track off of 1998's "If You're Feeling Sinister."

You can see more of Catia Chien's work here and you can purchase "Put The Book Back On The Shelf: A Belle & Sebastian Anthology" here.

Fast Cup

2006-03-13T09:39:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
It's a plastic cup. It's a glass cup. It's Fast Cup.

REFLECTION:
Maxim Velcovsky is one of the Czech Republic's leading young artists. Most of his work is in porcelain and involves reimagining everyday objects, but my favorite is a hand-blown glass rendition of a Solo cup called the Fast Cup.

I appreciate Velcovsky's humorous designs, which he attributes to Prague (his home) fleeing the life of a communistic camp and entering into a democracy, where people have the right to choose. He chose to be quirky because for the first time it was his choice to make.

So for your next dinner party, break out the Fast Cup and you are sure to go from frat house to fashion house in a flash.

Most of Velcovsky's designs can be purchased through Qubus, a popular Czech product design web site. Also, a set of 4 is the featured product on Charles & Marie today for $80 (U.S.).

Sweet Dreams

2006-03-10T15:00:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
You will never have to sleep alone again thanks to this super sultry bedding collection by Unfed.

REFLECTION:
The 400 thread count, Egyptian cotton bedding collection by Unfed is irresistibly soft and utterly tempting.

The complete set includes two standard pillowcases embroidered with the image of a seductive lass named Doris (in pink), one fitted sheet and one top sheet ordained with black satin trim. Or if you just want to add a touch of excitement to your regualr bedding, a set of two Doris pillowcases are available, packed in canvas bag.

Unfed began as a small business in Amsterdam but it is now back in NYC to make a big splash in the Big Apple. Priding itself on making comfortable products that fill a void, Unfed takes an inspired approach towards reinventing classic items.

Fairy Tail

2006-03-10T13:46:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Fairy Tail is a 6-foot long, whimsical greeting card created by Dutch designer Tord Boontje.

REFLECTION:
Greeting cards are a great way to show someone that you are thinking of them. But fancy ones show that you care even more!

Fairy Tail is an adorable card which unravels to become a long strand of colorful flowers. It is available in 5 color combinations: red/pink, white/white, silver/white, lilac/purple and green/yellow and you can purchase them for $8.00 via Unica Home.

Tord Boontje also designs dreamy lighting, curtains, furniture, and installations that are worth a look. FYI: Some of Boontje's lighting collections are in stock at the Philadelphia AIA Bookstore for you local shoppers.

Mark Price's Anti-Violence Ad

2006-03-08T15:31:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Mark Price IS a factory. He is a well-oiled maching spuing out silkscreeen prints at a pace that would make Henry Ford proud.

REFLECTION:
I first saw Mark Price's robot-influenced silkscreens on the sidewalk of 2nd and Chestnut Streets at one of Philadelphia's summer First Fridays. I remember the images of James Cameron's "Aliens" racing through my head with each glance towards his work. But I could not look away. I kept examining his prints because there were so many layers of image, text and color to sift through.

Prices uses bold typography to convey his message like a highway billboard and detailed images to reinforce the statement. His work is not easily digestable on first glance, but it is automatically appealing.

The above piece is a 6-color print from a series of 7, on the subject of violence, for Foundation Gallery in Chicago last February. The edition of 19 signed and numbered prints are still available through Market East's web site (online store for Space 1026) for $30. Many of Mark Price's other pieces are available there too, including his first hand printed book "CRAM THIS INTO YOUR LIFE."

According to Price's web site, he will be releasing a second silkscreen printed book "CONSIDER EVERYTHING IN BAD SHAPE" and selected images of the black and white draft pages are available for viewing here. The artwork is almost complete and Price will began the arduous process of printing this 40 page, 7x8, 4-color book this month. So...stay tuned!

ReStore

2006-03-08T14:42:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
ReStore is Port Richmond's architectural salvage paradise, run by Linda Lee Mellish and Lara Kelly, with a commitment to respect the environment by prolonging the life of usable materials.

REFLECTION:
ReStore far surpasses the offerings of other salvage shops by stocking never-been-used house parts at below retail prices,
offering architectural salvage, deconstruction services as well as design consultations.

Some of their in-stock items include: decorative Victorian solid brass exterior door knobs, french doors, porcelain over cast iron sink brackets and cast aluminum ceiling mounted light fixtures.

Most of ReStore's finds are a little too antique for my liking, but if you or someone you know are renovating and would like to add a touch of atavistic charm to your home, ReStore is a good place to start shopping.

An Open Book

2006-03-08T11:23:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Jack of all trades, Qb3, is an architecture firm, a product design studio and a creative thinktank located in Philadelphia's Loft District. Fly Book Fly is one of Qb3's first products, yet it continues to stand out as one of their most innovative.

REFLECTION:
The purpose of Fly Book Fly is to celebrate the forgotten beauty of the open book, something that Qb3 has managed to achieve this with its signature simple design.

Fly Book Fly is incredibly easy to construct. It comes in two parts, a male and a female, that effortlessly slide together to form a sleek book stand.

This may seem like an an elemetary idea, but few designers have the ability retain design simplicity throughout the creative process and see it through to the final prototype. This is where Qb3 flourishes.

If you would like to purchase Fly Book Fly I suggest contacting Qb3 via their web site for pricing.

My Oh MIO

2006-03-07T15:26:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Philadelphia-based design firm MIO Culture believes in design that is not only sustainable, but desireable to people living in a fast-paced and cool-driven world.

This philosophy is apparent with the creation of the Bendant Lamp. The structure is designed to encourage the owner to directly interact with the flat chandelier by arranging its flexible steel shades in any direction, resulting in a personalized light fixture.

REFLECTION:
Isaac and Jaime Salm, brothers and founders, of MIO Culture have been cranking out design gold since their first collection of eco-friendly products in 2003. Their current collection consists of three-dimensional wallpaper tiles, versatile seating, ambient lighting and knick knack orginization which have received a steady stream of accolades from design gurus across the country.

Holding true to their sustainable design beliefs, MIO refuses to work with any business that does not adhere to socially responsible business practices and only creates products that can easily be disassembled, shipped, recycled and composted.

The Bendant Lamp (lemon) pictured above costs $165 and can be purchased directly from the MIO Culture web site. It is also available in white and silver for a more subdued color palette.

Dot Zot

2006-03-03T15:12:00.001-05:00

SELECTION:
Nooka is the forward-thinking creation of artist and designer, Matthew Waldman. Of the 10-watch collection, I am drawn to the dots and dashes of the the ZOT-V2.

REFLECTION:
The Nooka ZOT-V2's hours are displayed in dots and minutes crawl across a horizontal bar. The Nooka ZOT-V2's features a LCD display, an electroluminescent backlight and a full-face mineral crystal lens for easy cleaning. The newest features include a chronograph, recommended for timing your poker games, and an alarm for waking you up in the wee hours of morning.

The Nooka ZOT-V2 is available with a black Italian leather strap, a white Italian leather strap or a an old school metal mesh strap and measures 35 x 35 x 10mm with a 28mm-wide band.

The Nooka ZOT-V2 costs $275, the priciest of the collection, but it will pluck you from the archaic use of standard analog and digital time displays and teach you to see time in linear and graphic representations.

You can not put a price tag on having the future fastened snuggly around your wrist.

Once Upon A Time

2006-03-03T15:10:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Automobile giant BMW has commissioned a contemporary collection of audio books in conjunction with Random House called BMW Audio Books. You can download each BMW Audio Book for free and listen to them on your ipod, computer or ideally, in your Z4 Roadster.

REFLECTION:
Okay...so the bigwigs at BMW proved that they are not the wittiest bunch by naming their new line of audio books-BMW Audio Books. They also proved that they are not concerned with your social well being by suggesting that you listen to these gripping tales while driving (this is obviously much safer than talking on those blasted cell phones). But responsibility is these Hasselhott lovin' Germans number one priority. They lovingly advise, "Put on your seatbelt and prepare for highs, lows and plenty of twists and turns" while listening to your free death sentence.

Oh! I almost forgot the mention the cover art of the first BMW Audio Book, Beautiful Ride by Don Winslow. It is a massive car pileup on the highway for the love of God! Touché BMW. Touché.

Tiny Showcase, Big Payoff

2006-03-03T09:51:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Tiny Showcase was created by Jon Buonaccorsi and Shea'la Finch in November of 2004 to feed the need of poor art collectors. Original artwork is shrunken to postcard size, repriced and a percentage of the profit from each print is donated to a specific charity designated by the artist.

[This Week's Print: "Pink Elephants" by Andrea Offerman]

REFLECTION:
A lot of people can not afford to buy a piece of artwork off a gallery wall or even a print through an artist's online shop for that matter. Buonaccorsi, Finch and their friends were struggling with this dilema and they quickly came up with a solution. By shrinking average size prints, the artist can still make some money and the art enthusiast can own a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork for around the same price as a hardback novel or CD.

The digital artwork reproduction braintrust at io labs, inc. in Providence, Rhode Island takes the original artwork and transforms it into a limited-run print (from 50-150). Each run is printed on 310gsm acid-free Hahnemühle German Etching Paper and printed with UltraChrome ink that is specially treated and sprayed, giving it an archival lifespan of over 60 years.

These mini prints are launched on Tiny Showcase every Tuesday night between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST for your buying pleasure. They sell out super quick so you will have to tear yourself away from Gilmore Girls if you want a shot at getting one.

So...artists are making a few bucks, buyers are getting a unique piece of artwork and people in need are getting a little help. Talk about good karma!

Sign up for theTiny Showcase Email List to receive a weekly newsletter detailing new prints, upcoming events, gallery openings, etc.

REMIXED

2006-03-02T18:08:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
This REMIX Table is the largest piece to date from U+ Studio, the trendy new line from Umbra.

REFLECTION:
The REMIX Table, designed by Sandra Ciganic-McKinney, is birch plywood swaddled in silkscreened images. One side has bulbous flowers the color of mint chocolate chip ice cream and the flip-side has an abstract charcoal and olive cityscape; both are accented with a splash of magenta. Plus, the tabletop is mood-dependently reversible!

The Remix Table is available at Fosters Urban Hardware for $200. But since I don't have that kind of dough, these penny pincher alternatives are more doable: REMIX Frame and REMIX Wall Clock and equally fabulous.

Children's Paper Chair

2006-03-02T13:17:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Charlotte Friis's Children's Paper Chair follows the sustainability trend that has recently exploded in the United States.

REFLECTION:
The Children's Paper Chair is made with drawing paper, but the piece as whole makes a snarky comment on our careless use of paper products by its resemblance to a roll of toilet paper.

The age reccomendation for this clever product is 2-7 years old, but it caught my eye since I am a self-admitted child.

Via Core 77.

What The Heck Is That?

2006-02-27T12:26:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Julian Beever has been drawing on the streets of the U.K., Belgium, France, The Netherlands, Germany, the USA and Australia over the past ten years.

REFLECTION:
Emails of Beever's work have been circulating the past couple of months so people must be fascinated with his sidewalk drawings. He has covered city streets with portraits, advertisments and 3d illusions that force pedestrians to do a double-take.

MySpace Domination

2006-02-27T09:47:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
The vast power of MySpace.

REFLECTION:
I know MySpace is a popular communication tool, but I did not realize how far its power stretched until now.

On the train ride to work this morning, I flipped through the Metro to do my daily crossword puzzle and caught a glimpse of a story on the opposite page titled, "Market, meaning, MySpace." It was about 30 year-old author Brad Listi whose debut novel, "Attention. Deficit. Disorder", has made the L.A. Times Best Seller List (no. 8) without any marketing campaigns by his publisher, Simon & Schuster. Listi's climb to ther near-top of the list coincided with creation of a MySpace page where he collected 4,257 friends, 388 comments and over 30,000 page views. He believes he is the first novelist to use MySpace in place of a publicity stunt and that self-promotion via MySpace will become the standard, especially for debut writers, in the near future.

When I began thinking about this interactive business model, I remembered a flyer I had seen at a concert on Saturday. World Cafe Live's concert calendar now has Monday afernoons booked as, "MySpace Mondays" where up-and-coming local and touring musicians who use MySpace to showcase their talents can perform. Their Myspace Music pages are linked on World Cafe's web site so you can listen to their songs, read their profile and tally their friend count before going to see play live.

I guess MySpace really does serve as more than a way for half-naked coeds to comment about their drunken nights at the Sig Ep.

Ashes and Snow

2006-02-24T13:32:00.000-05:00

[photo credit: Gregory Colbert]

SELECTION:
Documentary Filmmaker and Fine Art Photographer Gregory Colbert left his home in Canada and traveled to India, Burma, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Dominica, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tonga, Namibia and Antarctica to capture the visual interaction between human beings and animals. What he ended up with was a collection of over 100 sepia-toned photographs that express the peaceful co-existance of the two, now known as Ashes and Snow.

Ashes and Snow will be on display in Santa Monica, California until May 14th in the Nomadic Museum next to the historic Santa Monica Pier .

Architect Shigeru Ban created the 56,000-square-foot temporary structure to house the traveling exhibit which began its journey in 2002 with Venice, crossed the Atlantic to New York in 2005 and has ended up in Santa Monica.

For ticketing information click here.

REFLECTION:
I did not get a chance to make it to Ashes and Snow for its U.S. debut on NYC's Hudson River Park’s Pier 54 last year, so I might be booking a flight to Santa Monica in the not too distant future.

This collection of photographs convey such emotion it is remarkable. I can not wait to see the exhibition up close.

Daily Peach

2006-02-24T10:44:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Daily Candy is a free, daily, adorably illustrated email that delves into Arts & Culture, Beauty, Fashion, Food & Drink, Fun, Service, and Travel in the hottest cities across the United States (and London of course). Most recently,
Daily Candy has become smitten with the fine state of Georgia and will begin reporting on Atlanta's hidden gems in March.

REFLECTION:
When I opened my trusty Daily Candy email yesterday and read that they were launching in a new city I got a little too excited at the possibility that they had taken National Geographic's and the New York Times' predictions, about Philadelphia being THE next great city, to heart.

But alas, their trendspotters deemed southern belle Atlanta, Georgia the newest sensation. So next month Atlanta residents will be whipped into style-shape like residents of Boston, Chicago, Dallas, London, Los Angeles, New York, San Fransisco,and Washington D.C. who have already been befriended by the lovely ladies of Daily Candy.

I guess I will just sit tight and keep my fingers crossed, hoping that Philly will get some Daily Candy love one of these days.

To sign up for your free Daily Candy email, click here.

Design Philadelphia '06

2006-02-24T09:18:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Design Philadelphia is an annual event presented by The Design Center at Philadelphia University that brings the local design community together through various events, exhitions, lectures, openings, open studios, and workshops.

[image credit: www.idsaphilly.com]

REFLECTION:
According to Design Philadelphia's web site, the event is mean to be a catalyst for advancing the public's awareness of design exploration and innovation. The nice thing about this statement is that the word "public" actually refers to the masses, not just noted designers and know-it-alls with tenure in the Fine Arts Department.

Design Philadelphia 2006 has announced 50+ events spanning nine days, April 1-April 9, at locations throughout the city. Events range from a presentation by architect Anthony Bracali concerning social impact of the anticipated Schuylkill River Skatepark to a cocktail hour studio tour of FLOAT, a Philadelphia-based furniture design company.

This is a week of sheer bliss for design enthusiasts. Even though Design Philadelphia is more than a month away, I suggest you start planning now so you don't miss a thing!

For a current list of events listed by category and date, click here.

Rolland Meets Reebok

2006-02-23T11:20:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
These limited edition high-tops were spawned from a collaboration between street artist Rolland Berry and apparel giant Reebok.

[photo credit: www.productdose.com]

REFLECTION:
Reebok's image has been evolving over the years with the help of ongoing artist collaborations and campaigns like "I Am What I Am", most recently endorsed by actress Maggie Gyllenhaal. According to Reebok, Gyllenhaal is a great representative for the brand since they are dedicated promoting individual style.

I would rock these shoes in a heartbeat! Not only are they covered with spectacular artwork, they have been constructed with a unique feature allowing the wearer to adjust the height of the shoe (a sewing kit will come with each pair so cut sections can be reattached). How clever is that?

Rolland Berry's line will be carried in Barneys.

Screenprints Galore

2006-02-22T12:35:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
Philadelphia-based screenprinters,Tymbal Art Co., will print any image on nearly any article of clothing for a decent price. Not only are their pieces easy on the wallet, they are easy on the eyes too!

[photo credit: www.tymbalart.com]

REFLECTION:
Tymbal's online shop boasts clothing, vintage ties, handbags, and blazers all embelished with an original image. So if you are too lazy to draw up your own design you can order one of their many unique items from the online shop and pretend that you are uberartsy and in the know...or just to own something snazzy.

Boutiques across the country carry Tymbal products, including Art Star in Philly (Northern Liberties), so check them out!

Complete List of Tymbal Retailers
Complete List of Print Services

Wearable Firearms

2006-02-22T10:02:00.000-05:00

[photo credit:www.icionaime.com]

SELECTION:
"Stop Snitchin'" tees are so last week. Today's hot item is the Be Tough T-shirt by Atypyk with a cheeky image of a handgun protruding from the back of a stark white tee to fool those silly police officers who are trying to quell crime in our neighborhoods.

REFLECTION:
Be Tough T-shrits are available in Men's and Women's sizes for 40 Euros (roughly $47.50) via Colette and bear a "Wear at your own risk" warning. Wow France, what a great idea!

Update: Jeff Soto's Supernova @ Jonathan Levine Gallery

2006-02-21T12:09:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
As promised, this weekend I ventured into the Arctic a.k.a. New York City and attended Jeff Soto's Solo Reception, Supernova, at the Jonathan Levine Gallery in Chelsea.

[photo credit: www.jonathanlevinegallery.com]

REFLECTION:
I was interested in how relocating a business from Philadelphia (Northern Liberties) to New York (Chelsea)changes its feel and have been waiting for an opportunity to do some research. So when I heard Jeff Soto was scheduled to open his latest solo show at the Jonathan Levine Gallery, an old favorite of mine, I wanted to be there.

Here, in Philadelphia, Levine's gallery was an inviting boutique on 2nd Street. Tin Man Alley's (Levine's Philly gallery)window displays always caught my eye with their whimsical adornments and colorful signage so I was dissapointed to find that Levine's new home on W. 20th Street in Chelsea was one of many galleries jammed into a massive factory/warehouse. Yet I still had hope that the personality of Levine and his creative crew would shine in the gallery itself. So after exiting the cramped elevator on the 8th floor, fishing for a non-existent can of PBR in tub of ice and entering a jam-packed space that was too difficult to maneuver I became increasingly deiscouraged. Conclusion: by moving your business to NYC you sacrifice any character it once had for a larger audience of very thirsty hipsters.

I missed the room overflowing with vintage toys, edgy books and GAMA-GO clothing at the end of the narrow wooden staircase of Tin Man Alley's lower level. It gave the place some pizazz...something that the new gallery lacks. I only spotted 7 bleek shelves holding about 20 books at the Jonathan Levine Gallery near the front desk.

I realize that rent spikes once you cross the Holland Tunnel and that the typical art gallery consists of white moveable walls, but for some reason I thought Levine would break the rules and add some funk to the space that he is paying a pretty penny to show an mélange of celebrated, novice and always controversial pop surrealist and underground artists.

Okay, onto the actual exhibit...Jeff Soto's Supernova was a collection of over 50 wooden panel paintings, wall collages, and marker drawings displayed on sterile white walls with a little of Soto's painting crawling on to them from a smiling robot or a stem.

According to Soto, his new work reflects current world events, particularly the war and the birth of his first child, Shannon. "I’ve been thinking about what’s going on over in Iraq and the way we live on this planet. I’m thinking about the future of my child. My daughter could go to war someday and that’s a frightening thought," he says. And like always, the environment vs. machine theme is made apparent with images of a automatic weapon tangled in a mess of vines and small flowers.

I wish I had another day to go back and re-examine the space and the exhibition so I could draw more accurate parallels, but I didn't so I only have that one night of white-walled, bearded twenty-something, beerless experience to go on. I'm sure any other evening besides 'Opening Night' Levine's Gallery would have seemed more appealing and navigateable and Soto's work would have exuded more aesthetic impact, but under the conditions I found them both to lack all of the above.

Press Release and Images

Target Goes International

2006-02-17T18:56:00.000-05:00

SELECTION:
I adore this cuff from Luella Bartley's new line for Target!

REFLECTION:
I like the direction Target been moving over the past few years. They started with Isaac, and American favorite, and have traveled across the Atlantic to bring us the work of London-based designer Luella Bartley. So let's see...Kmart has parolee Martha Stewart and ex-model Kathy Ireland. Walmart has corruption. Kohls has volleyball player turned model Daisy Fuentes. Target has actual fashion designers Issaac Mizrahi and Luella Bartley...wow! Someone at Target headquarters should be getting a raise for enlisting real-life designers to put together a collection.

Though not a complete fan of Bartley's line, I do like her jewelry. I am a sucker for cuffs. I'm not sure why, but I notice my hard reaching for them over every other wrist choice. All I know is that this is the perfect accessory for me and I'll be buying it soon.

FLY DVD Magazine

2006-02-17T10:08:00.000-05:00

[image credit:www.stereohype.com]

SELECTION:
Fly DVD is a high end fashion magazine that has blown past the static world of print and dared to use DVD as a platform to actively showcase the work of artists, fashion icons, filmmakers, musicians and pretty much any established or emerging talent.

REFLECTION:
If a picture says a thousand words than this tech savy 'moving magazine' should tell a lot more than today's newstand offerings in which advertisments have muscled out editorial content.

FLY's 'Zero Issue' features photographers Alex Cayley and Martien Mulder, actor John Malkovich, artist Ryan McGinness, musicians Devendra Banhart and Elliot Smith, and couture darlings Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, Yves Saint Laurent and Zac Posen.

FLY is 140 minutes of visually stimulating content including: 14 fashion films, 6 interviews and documentaries, 9 music videos and a 30 minute collage of FLY's content mixed with music from Output Recordings called 'The Loop.'

I find the mix of haute couture and indie folk music to be genius. It is nice to see/hear fashion take a step away from its humdrum techno thumping and towards the aching bellows of indie's cherished. To me, art is about daring to be different and with this innovative piece of literature people are proving me right.

If you are as intrigued by this ambitious evolution of the standard magazine as I am, you can purchase your very own copy of FLY for $45 within the US (retail locations in New York, Miami and Chicago) via their web site. However, if your wardrobe actually consists of pieces of Jacobs' and Posen's Spring Collections you can defintely afford shell out the $190 for a 4-issue subscription.

Let me know what you think...

Jeff Soto's Supernova

2006-02-16T15:14:00.000-05:00

[photo credit: www.jeffsoto.com]

SELECTION:
Jeff Soto Opening Reception @ Jonathan Levine Gallery, February 18th, 6-9 p.m.

REFLECTION:
I have love for both Jeff and Jonathan! Jeff Soto's happy sci-fi work and Jonathan Levine's lowbrow loving gallery were meant for each other. I first came acoss Levine's gallery when it was based in Philly (Northern Liberties to be specific) and known as Tin Man Alley.

Nestled on 2nd Street it was known for its array of 'Toys, Art and Collectibles for the Discriminating Hipster' and that must have been me because I adored that place. Apparently a lot of other people admired Levine's shtick too and eventually New York City came a knockin'. Levine answered in January 2005 and relocated to Chelsea. So this weekend I am making the trek to the Big Apple to be devirginized by Soto's work in Levine's new home. An update will surely follow...

Welcome!

2006-02-16T14:07:00.000-05:00

Here's the deal...this is a record of the things that make me want to do something. Whether that something is create, spend, change or experiment the point is that they inspire me and I hope they do a little something for you too!