All The Trappings

Southern as a Sazerac: My Latest Article in The Independent Weekly Bridal Guide

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 23:01:00 +0000

Once upon a time there was a little girl who eloped. She wanted nothing more than to step out of the limelight and run from every part of planning a wedding. The thought of a guest list or a bridal shower made her little heart go boom-boom, but not in a good way. She married the man of her dreams, quietly in a grand old place and had a grand old time. They've lived happily ever after.

Even without a registry. Gasp!

Then one day, a venerable local publication approached this girl about writing an article for their BRIDAL GUIDE. And she almost passed out. And her mind started racing with thoughts of "Oh, my garter belt, I have no idea what in the hell to write about a wedding!" Not one to back down from a challenge, she graciously accepted.

To read the article in its entirety, visit The Independent and view pages 27-29 for the spread :)

**there's a tiny hint to what I've been up to –– if you guess it, I'll give you the biggest virtual smacker you could imagine.

Till next time,

Andrea

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 20:48:00 +0000

Lawd, has it really been since August?

Major life changes going on –– exciting stuff, really! I can't share just yet, but hopefully one day soon.

Merry Christmas, and if you're ever in a pinch (or if you're just lazy like me) and you want a quick, stylish gift wrapping idea, check out what I dreamed up for Christmas this year. Easypeasy!

Simple:

•Satin Ribbon

• White wrapping paper + chinese takeout boxes

• Wired miniature white pinecones

Pretty, memorable gifts don't need to cost a fortune a'tall!

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I did not put up a Christmas tree this year, but I made a new wreath {that counts, right?}

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I've also been getting more requests to do florals and event design, which I DO love so much.

Check out a recent event that I had the pleasure of whipping up. The occasion? My neighbors' birthday last month. We were on a tight turnaround time and in a halfway renovated kitchen, but pulled it off swimmingly!

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday!

xoxo,

Andrea

Raji Radhakrishnan • I Simply Can't Get Enough!!

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 17:27:00 +0000

I fell in love with Raji's approach when, out of the blue, she sent me a sweet friend request through Facebook. At the time, I wasn't familiar with her work, but after catching a glimpse of her well-edited, sophisticated and unexpected interiors, I was just floored. So beautiful, so tailored.

I'm a huge fan of restraint, and to me, Raji is a master at playing with the positive and negative space that separates a design from too much or not enough and translates it into a result that is visually dynamic without being either or. Perfectly balanced, through and through.

All photos courtesy of Raji's Facebook Fan Page or website.

Notice the finish on the herringbone floors –– venturing away from the popular ebony or medium walnut tones, Raji used what appears to be something between cherry and mahogany. The results are beautiful! That chair!!

The stark nature of Serge Mouille floor lamp creates such a clear communication with the brass table and mid-century armchair. I love the subtle tension between these three pieces.

This is the room that gave me pause. So many traditional elements, yet the room feels relevant and current. LOVE the intaglio inset into the keystone on the fireplace. Just gorgeous!

Her strategic use of color is so refreshing. Well balanced, fresh and never too much.

Raji has also recently completed the 2011 Hampton Designer Showhouse, so be certain click over to a few blogs that have covered the "Salon des Femmes" she designed!

My Knotting Hill

Apartment Therapy

xoxo,

Andrea

Sounds Good To Me Music Series: Chris and Thomas

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 04:25:00 +0000

Haunting. I love these guys.

That 70s House • Part II of Our De-grannyfication Project

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 19:05:00 +0000

While we weren't able to make headway on the kitch, we were able to spiff up the majority of the other public areas of the house. WHAT a difference –– we are still in disbelief over this radical change.

Could it get ANY uglier or drab? Billiard lights are leaving the premises asap. For now, I will be replacing with simple track lighting. Oh, who am I kidding....we all know how temporary works –– it really means semi-permanent ;)

We will destroy you!

After 2.5 days of prep, 12 hours of painting, a black dog almost turned white and 3 pizzas eaten...........

The fan (gag) is being replaced with a chandy, and we still have to hang draperies.

Miss Cricket makes her internet debut.....how appropriate that she's sitting atop HER sofa for the photo opp.

Obviously, we still have a long way to go –– but to us, any progress is major progress in this old house!

xoxo,

Andrea

***I should note this: a few friends brought it to my attention that the blogger comment box can be a bit fussy –– they want to leave comments, but usually get frustrated with the signing in, etc. In an attempt to try and make it easier for my facebook friends and blogger friends, I'm trying out both forms. Please feel free to let me know what you think. Hopefully by the end of the week I'll have this more streamlined and easier to read :)

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:19:00 +0000

See a common theme?

Stay tuned.

Hint: We're going on a staycation over 4th of July.........

xoxo,

Andrea

Thank You Grant K. Gibson!

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 03:49:00 +0000

A couple of weeks ago, Grant K. Gibson posed the question: Mo Faux or NO FAUX. Flowers that is.

In a sweet gesture from the gentleman himself, he asked that we comment away and one lucky commenter would win a nice bunch of the peonies that he used for his room in the San Francisco Decorator Showhouse. Well, wouldn't you know.....I won! And I swear, I have never won anything in my life that I didn't 'work for.' So I was thrilled to bits!

Today, I received the lovely package with a smart little handwritten note done up on crisp letterpress stationery. So kind!

Since I (embarrassingly) believe that those mo fauxers have a time and place (if done well!!!) The pretty peonies found a new home in my dining room.

Thank you, Grant! I promise to water them daily and keep them smelling as nice as they have for the last 3 years ;)

xoxo,

Andrea

Sometimes I Just Like To Play

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 16:58:00 +0000

All from my yard! Thank goodness for plants that grow themselves year after year, because this gangrene thumb couldn't even keep the fresh thyme {that I bought in a planter!!} alive for more than three days. I quietly wept as it rapidly withered.......

The girly-girly fru-fru china was passed down to me from my great-aunt, rest her lovely soul. Isn't it sweet? It inspires me want to make some Marie Antoinette-like confections and have an all out girly date replete with champagne and a shoe-fashion show.

xoxo,

Andrea

Picnics & Pastis • Summertime Is Here

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Sat, 28 May 2011 17:23:00 +0000

Most definitely my new summer libation. Pastis. Truly delicious if you are a fan of anise or absinthe + light, crisp, bubbly concoctions which dance on your tongue. Salut!

Image via dhaleb.com

A a photo taken by Gwen for a little get together I like to call "Ladies who lunch but not a socialite in the bunch, lunch"

Fresh baked bread, olive tapenade, crisp linen, brie and apples, fried chicken, honeysuckle and pastis. The sights, scents and tastes of a South Louisiana summer –– and what a summer it's crafting itself to become!

Happy Memorial Day, everyone!

xoxo,

Andrea

The Best Momzie Any Girlie Could Wish For

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Sun, 08 May 2011 16:28:00 +0000

Because she's a champ with advice and only only gives it when asked • is the most delicate strong person I know • the most graceful lady I've ever encountered • the cutest and hippest momzie from here to the east coast • has saved me from being a total butthead on multiple occasions • put up with my hyperbolic antics • taught me a ton about being kind, generous and genuine • made me drink with my pinky up (even beer!) • has always been my champion • brought me to every festival she could • taught me to dance in an un-whitegirl way • made me work for what I wanted • and the best for last: kept telling me to date "that Ken boy" even when I would reply "No way, mom. We're just friends"

She does a bang-up job as a mother, y'all. I can only hope that one day I can be half the mom she has been to my sister and I.

Lady Momzie, my sister Lacey and I. I'd better look that good at her age!

Happy Mother's Day to everyone. I hope that your beebee's spoil you all day long!

xoxo,

Andrea

So Thrilled To Be Featured On Nico Chic As a Style Gal!

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Thu, 05 May 2011 17:06:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, fellow blogger and friend, Nicole Leblanc, asked me to be in her monthly style feature on her hoot of a blog, Nico Chic. Nicole is a busy lady –– having three munchkins, a thriving business (which happens to be my favorite live music spot, The Blue Moon Saloon and Guesthouse) a husband, a blog, an Etsy store and I'm sure she wears other hats, too. Somehow she manages to find time to stay sane.....I think her fantastic sense of humor helps with that just a teeny bit.

She, Gwen Aucoin (we really can't get enough of each other, can we?) and I had a photo shoot full of laughs so boisterous that I almost had to re-apply my makeup.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

Visit Nicole's blog for the full interview! Be sure to poke around at her other posts as well––her take on the rollercoaster of motherhood is absolutely hilarious and is certain to put a smile on your face and a laugh in your tum.

Nico Chic

She's Electric! In The Studio With Lively {and lovely} New Orleans Artist, Anastasia Pelias

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 15:20:00 +0000

Last weekend, I took off on a last minute road trip to New Orleans. It doesn't take much to get me to the city and when my galpal Gwen said "New Orleans en bicyclette?" I couldn't say "YES" fast enough.

Unbeknownst to myself, Anastasia or Gwen, was this strange trifecta of connectivity we all had in common and it aligned seamlessly last Saturday in Uptown, New Orleans. I met Anastasia at Gwen's birthday party, held at our favorite live music spot. We exchanged contact info and have had an email courtship for the past few months. Anastasia, not knowing Gwen, or even knowing that she attended Gwen's party, hired her to photograph her recent exhibit at Acadiana Center for the Arts. {A must see when you visit Lafayette!}

Follow that? I know. Small world.

So it begins. We rode our bikes the two block distance from our place to Anastasia's studio, where we were met with nothing but southern (or Greek!) hospitality.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

Born and raised in New Orleans, Anastasia lives, works and plays in the city to this day. In fact, the studio was at one time her father's law office, a space that they once shared together––she, the young artist with a closet sized workspace and he, the attorney, with a bustling business and run of the rest of the space. Anastasia told me of her father's great character, a man who served as a constant source of encouragement and fostered diligent commitment to her craft throughout her career.

{How wonderful!}

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

Not long after our arrival, Robin Atkinson, Anastasia's wonderful assistant and young curator, breezed through the door. Just five minutes before she sprinted over, she was leisurely soaking up some rays at the pool and thinking "Wow! We should get the studio professionally photographed. I should tell Anastasia about that." As soon as the words "Photographer will be here in five minutes" leapt out of Anastasia's mouth, Robin leapt into her poolside threads and made the timely appearance.

{She's SO adorable!}

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

Anastasia is surrounded by not only the spritely Robin on a daily basis, but these two cuties, too.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography
Sheniqua!

©Gwen Aucoin Photography
India!

Anastasia's greatest extravagance is simply the scent of her favorite incense, which she burns in this beautiful vessel.

"I beg my relatives to send me rose incense from Greece and burn it in my studio every morning – it seems to work well with the smell of turpentine, which I also love!"

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

She primarily works with oils and oil sticks. While her body of work is mostly paintings, she does like to give herself "permission to explore {new mediums}." A notion that I find refreshing, not to mention, integral to the evolution of an artists work.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

Anastasia on her process:

"I work on 2 or 3 canvases at the same time allowing the paintings to inform each other and me. I’ve been working on a body of work, “Washed,” where I build the surface of the painting with multiple washes of oil paint, turpentine and a special concoction that I mix up, creating a level of saturation and luminosity that can only happen through this layering process. So much of the paint ends up on the floor…"

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

She mentioned that of all the art housed in the studio, these two are by far the best and most valuable.

Created by her two daughters, Artemis and Athena when they were children, they are her most treasured. {sniffsniff!}

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

She glides so effortlessly throughout the studio that I knew instantly she must have had a ballet lesson in her past.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

My suspicions were confirmed! Of course she paints in what else but––ballet flats. She was indeed a student of ballet for many years. She told me that in many of her paintings, she will reference the

eight-count in dance. The energy and rhythmic nature of her work certainly captures the essence of an allegro movement, don't you agree?

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

I fell even more enamored with this woman after laying eyes on her musical selections. These three albums have been in my perpetual rotation since my pre-teen years!

(Mazzy Star is on the left if you are not familiar--get that album, sugars!)

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

Anastasia works in "big bursts of energy." Her work, being quite visceral and emotion driven, is a daily proactive endeavor in which she has integrated within the space of the house. She gives herself time to reflect and become absorbed by what she sees on the canvas until she knows precisely how to calculate her next stroke.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

As much a fan of Anastasia's painterly pursuits as I am, there were other details throughout the studio that commanded my full and complete attention. I became entirely captivated by these wasp nests and small boxes that Anastasia created in what she called her 'red phase'

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

More from Anastasia's Automatics series. So chroma-rich it's intoxicating.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

On fire! A detail shot of a painting in her Linked series.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

I asked Anastasia who or what has influenced her art in the greatest capacity. Her response was entirely moving and spoken with such conviction and confidence.

"My undergrad professor at Newcomb College, Hal Carney, was the single most significant influence on me as an artist. His intensity, his seriousness about art and what it means to be an artist resonates with me always. Also, my father’s dedication to his “life’s work,” his translation of the complete odes of Ancient Greek lyric poet, Pindar, and his unwavering commitment to his daily work practice inspires me every day! They both, in their own ways, understood me and supported me as an artist whose work is driven by strong emotion. That is powerful."

The idea of "life's work" is one that I'm not sure we think of too often these days, but the gravity of that one single statement beckons me to print it out in huge letters just to remind myself daily of how truly grounded a perspective those words create.

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

©Gwen Aucoin Photography

"I am convinced that art is indispensable"

––Anastasia Pelias

Her website is fantastic so please look over her wonderful {and large} body of work. Quite impressive.

If you would like to see her pieces in person {truly a sight to behold}, Anastasia is represented by Heriard Cimino Gallery on Julia Street in New Orleans which has a great inventory of contemporary art. be sure to visit the website today and the gallery next time you visit.

*And if you are in New Orleans during the summertime and want to see great art, White Linen Night is a really fantastic event. Check back on cacno.org in the coming months for the date.

***Anastasia just informed me that she is hosting an open studio event on May 22nd. I will post the details tomorrow! I am most definitely going to try my best to attend!

Sounds Good To Me Music Series: Carolina Chocolate Drops

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:28:00 +0000

Yes.

I'll be back a little later this week! Hint: I spent the last few days in New Orleans......

xoxo,

Andrea

The Antiquarian's Antiquarian • A Lovely Spring Visit With Robert E. Smith of Au Vieux Paris Antiques

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 20:05:00 +0000

A 10 minute jaunt from my home exists a paradise undiscovered by many, yet treasured by the legions fortunate to have stumbled upon it. Although stumbled upon may not be the appropriate term; this idyllic gem and antique lover's dream has not a sign in front, nor a flashing marquis, ne'er a tattered flag exclaiming "ANTIQUES." Quite simply, that is not Robert E. Smith's style, and he likes it that way.

A windy two lane road either coming into, or leaving Breaux Bridge, La––depending which direction you are driving--is filled with offshoots of small gravel roads, simple rural architecture, a bit of industrial and, of course, a "Vegas Style Casino" for good measure. (every rural two lane road has one, right?)

But this gravel road is different. It's special. It's home to Au Vieux Paris Antiques, one of the most carefully selected inventories of 17th, 18th and 19th century French antiques found anywhere. And it's here, in the middle of, well, nowhere. Close enough to the darling town of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, yet certainly not considered 'in the city.' Take a walk with me, sweet readers, to this, the true South Louisiana that I love with all of my heart and am so excited to share with you. As I always say, I do hope you can visit once in your lifetime. It's truly a majestic (and magical!) area of the USA.

What lurks around the corner?

Hundreds year old live oaks with Spanish Moss pepper the property and greet you on the way in.

The structure featured here is called a pigeonnier {pronounced: Pee-jawn-air}. Original pigeonniers are extremely rare to find these days, but used to be a fixture on many plantations and smaller homes. The structures served as nesting areas for doves and pigeons; they are (or were) typically two levels, the top for nesting birds and the bottom for (!!!) dung. Yes, dung which makes for a wonderful plant fertilizer. I think that in other areas they are called dovecotes––but in France and Louisiana, they are known as pigeonniere's.

As if the oaks weren't breathtaking enough; a perfectly manicured formal french garden envelops the front lawn, outfitted with a symmetrical arrangement of Anduze pots (or Vase Anduze as Robert educated me today) and a striking bronze obelisk sculpture to balance it all. Spring is starting to bloom in Louisiana, but the crepe myrtles come much later. I can only imagine how decadent this space must be with the crepe myrtles exploding in color––surely just gorgeous.

Roses are coming in nicely.

And the main house, the Henri Penne house, an early 19th century Acadian style cottage that Robert restored himself over many years. He moved it to this site from its original provenance.

In speaking with Robert today, I learned so much more about this fascinating man. He is educated with a degree in architecture and for many years he completed major restoration and preservation projects for many historic Louisiana structures while also procuring antiques for himself, clients and jobs he worked on.

Robert told of a time in architecture school when his professors––lovers of Bauhaus, International Style and more minimalistic approaches––scoffed at anything with a nod to the past. But Robert's love and obsession with all things old gave him the fuel he and his pal needed to sneak in at night and redesign the university architecture studio complete with chandeliers, Rococo art frames and, to his best recollection, "a candelabra or two––all very over the top." The next day, they waltzed in as if nothing had changed only to be met by sheer disgust from their peers and professors who swore they "brought in the tools of the devil"

{Personally, I think the devil has fine taste if he/she fancies chandies and candelabras, don't you?}

A phenomenal commode from the early 1700s. In person, the patina is truly, truly extraordinary. Do the math––that is 300 years old, folks.

Robert's inventory is as broad as the range of years he provides for. These candlesticks range, left to right, from Louis XIV through Regency, Directoire, and up to Charles X.

This flame mahogany daybed has original ormolu mounts with detailing so fine that the metalsmith would have used a tip much like a stippling brush to achieve the minute details.

Robert has amassed a fairly exhaustive inventory of true Louis XIII furnishings––a rarity in this day due to the age.

In almost every armoire, there is a treasure trove of either antique linens, china or silver.

Gorgeous drapery tie-backs. He has quite a collection going - about 6,000 pieces of drapery accouterments from what he told me. Unbelievable!

Stacks and stacks of beautiful antique french linens.

A chandy that Robert referred to as 'humorous'––which I found a humorous observation, myself.

The neoclassical detail on these candelabras made my heart leap! And the chair as well.

I asked Robert about how he began to collect and where. He gently explained to me, in his very delicate way, that he began by saving every dime he had when he was younger, while on a strict budget from his income working at the local Natural History Museum. He competed with people of much more substantial means for the finds he so desired. With diligence, he bought only the best, the real and the rare. For him at the time, that meant true Louisiana antiques––extremely valuable castaways found in old barns, rural houses and with not a glimmer of their former beauty shining through.

Adopting this approach has served him well, and he quickly reiterated to me something that I often say myself: "Good gets better; mediocre stays just that." Robert and I are of a similar mindset; we both will patiently wait to acquire an exquisite piece and happily stare at an empty room until the time comes {which explains why there are not too many blog posts about my house yet ;)} **I'll freely admit that from time to time I'm seduced by the cheap––inevitably, a few years later, I regret it.

In the summer of 1981, Robert traveled to France for six weeks. Familiarizing himself with the plethora of antique shops France had to offer, he began to acquire pieces to bring home. He repeated the voyage in 1983 and by 1985 had officially hung his shingle and Au Vieux Paris Antiques was open for business.

Over the years, Robert has been able to position himself six months out of the year in France and six months in the states. Imagine the handpicking he's able to do while there for that long! I'd think I had died and gone to heaven.

Robert mentioned to me that the oldest pieces that he carries are from the time period of around c.1680 and the 'newest' are from around c.1835. The majority are 18th century French antiques.

The structure below was also moved onto the property from another location and is what we know as a traditional Creole cottage. However, Robert pointed out to me that at the time this home was

built (c.1831) the details employed made it very unusual since many of the nuances were a throwback from what he considers to be c.1800 architectural aesthetics.

All three homes on the property are listed on the National Register of Historic Places as they are such prime examples of classic Louisiana architecture.

I am continually impressed with the breadth of merchandise that Robert carries. He has everything from boiseries to art and architectural elements, down to the fine details like drapery rings. And all from so many differing time periods! It's such a treat for me to spend a few hours here and I feel honored to be in the presence of so much history, knowledge and beauty. This was the escape I needed on a ho-hum Tuesday, indeed.

The man himself. THE Robert E. Smith. Antiquaire, historian, preservationist.

If you are interested in perusing Robert's website, go here.

I hope one day you can experience Au Vieux Paris, as it is truly a treasure. Robert is a fine gentleman and wonderful host, not to mention an extraordinary conversationalist. His diction and calm manner of speaking left me wanting to stay for hours more just to hear what he had to say. I walked in "thinking" I possessed a fairly vast knowledge of antiques, and left realizing that I have merely scratched the surface. Robert taught me quite a bit yesterday and now I am enthralled with finding out more and more of the details that make a piece such a rare and unique find.

xoxo,

Andrea

Sounds Good To Me Music Series • Mardi Gras, Y'all!

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 18:24:00 +0000

I'm not out of the woods juuuuuust yet, but I promise we will return to our regularly scheduled programming as soon as I am! I wanted to pop in and share a few songs with you to celebrate the holiday on Tuesday.

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For the rest of the world, this upcoming Tuesday is just a regular old Tuesday. But for South Louisiana, it's

M A R D I G R A S !!

In the city {Lafayette, New Orleans and towns in between}, we celebrate like this:

In the country {Mamou, Church Point, Eunice, Basile}, we celebrate like this:

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In which tradition do you think I will be celebrating this year?

I will mail this:

to the 1st person to guess correctly!!

xoxo,

Andrea

Tah Tah {For Now}

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 16:16:00 +0000

I have a few loose ends that desperately need attention right now. As soon as I can come up for air, I will! See you in a bit :)

xoxo,

Andrea

Circle of Influence • My Favorite Designers

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 18:57:00 +0000

Earlier this week, I was reading Jan Showers' blog––a MUST read if you're a Jan-fan. This week she chronicled 10 of her design influences, which many of her choices are designers that I admire myself. It got me to thinking about who I love design-wise and as Ty Larkins says "Can do no wrong."

Of course, Jan and Ty are high on the list! But today, I'd like to start with a designer that I think we'll be hearing and seeing tons more about: Amy D. Morris. of Atlanta. I identify with her refined, sophisticated and fresh approach––I'd call it southern-forward. I admire her restraint and ability to liven up the classic bones of the familiar while incorporating nuances of the unexpected.

Photo Courtesy of amydmorris.com

If there is anything that supersedes perfection, this living room is it in my book.

Photo Courtesy of amydmorris.com

So refined. So classic.

Photo Courtesy of amydmorris.com

Amy has a love for intaglios just like myself.

I've had this file for years upon years now, and this image is how I became aware of Amy. I'm not sure if there is a bathroom out there that I love more than this one! That tub!!! Gorgeous!

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Every now and then, I come across a design-soulmate and I'd say that Amy is most definitely one of them. I think her career is just going upupup and I can't wait to see more of her talent unfold, don't you?

Stay tuned for more of my favorite designers––believe me, I have so many I could likely fill a month's worth of blog posts!

Have a great weekend, everyone.

xoxo,

Andrea

Sounds Good To Me Music Series: Happy Vday • Are You As UnSappy as Moi?

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 04:52:00 +0000

But first! A lil' pretty from me to you :) My camellias are in full bloom! So beautiful :)

Some Kind of Love by the Velvet Underground (je taime le Velvet Underground)

Be Mine by R.E.M from the album New Adventures in Hi-fi (excellent album that I've had for forever!!!)

True Love Waits.... a rare one from my favorite band, Radiohead. This is supposedly the 1st time they ever played this in public. I have this version on some raggedy bootlegged CD from 1998 with an obvious home-computer created label. They have other versions, but this one is hands down my favorite.

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! Eat a ton of chocolate! Drink some champagne! And whatever you do: don't give a rats a** if you're "in" love or not, just know that you ARE loved. Because really, that's all that matters in the end anyway.

XOXO,

Andrea

Atelier-Magasin • A Louisiana Artists' Collective in New Orleans

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 20:22:00 +0000

My pal, the fantastic artist, George Marks is not a man to rest on his laurels. George is always creating, always sinking his teeth into a new project, always working on something exciting in his world. A few months ago, he mentioned that his dream of having a studio in New Orleans was closer to becoming a reality. At the time we spoke, he was conceptualizing, dreaming and working the details out for this new endeavor, and I just knew it was going to be top-notch. George dreams big and has the energy and enthusiasm to go after it all. So admirable!

He set out to create an artists' collective; a place where Louisiana artists––whether they be painters, sculptors or designers of custom home accouterments––could showcase their brilliant efforts. Securing an adorable space on Magazine St. in New Orleans with great bones and tall ceilings, George quickly banded together with like-minded folks and Atelier-Magasin was born!

So far, the collective features some of the most sought after names buzzing around today. Check out all of the fabulous talent housed under one roof!

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JULIE SILVERS

I'm in lovelovelove!!!!! With both the plaster sculptures and the painting by Julie Silvers.

I'm just discovering Julie and I must say, I have to meet this lady!!!!

These vessels are to die for. I'm already plotting the perfect space for them in my home. Absolutely gorgeous.

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KATHY SLATER

These spectacular custom cocktail tables from Kathy Slater Interiors are the cat's pajamas. Kathy is an incredibly talented interior designer who has harnessed her great taste and keen eye by designing a line of furniture that I am quite smitten with. Atelier-Magasin is housed in one half of a double-shotgun with Kathy being the neighbor in the other half. Smart combo, if you ask me.

photos courtesy of kathyslater.com

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KELLY GUIDRY

Kelly Guidry (I realize that some of you won't know how to pronounce his last name, so I'll help you: {Gidj-Ree}) is a very well-known artist in South Louisiana. For as long as I can remember, he has been a part of the buzz here in Lafayette. Using chainsaws and other power tools, he sculpts in such fine detail, as if it were by hand. Just imagine that for a minute! I'd love to watch his process one day.

Photos courtesy of kellyguidry.com

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FIFI B. LAUGHLIN

Fifi's lighting has graced the pages of Southern Accents (sniff. I still cry); the tables of Emeril Lagasse; and the halls of the Ritz-Carlton among other generous nods. Her hand-blown creations are so representative of the "New, New Orleans" aesthetic––fresh, breezy, crisp. Beautiful!

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CLAY JUDICE

Clay's works in charcoal have such depth and realism within them. He captures the human spirit beautifully and in such great detail––according to his website, watching his children grow has become his biggest inspiration. Clay is a native of Lafayette, and I am so thrilled for him to be a part of such a great cadre of artists.

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GEORGE MARKS

The brainchild behind it all. George has always been one of my favorite local artists, not to mention favorite people! A true breath of fresh air, he is. As I stated earlier, he is one that never stops moving, never stops generating ideas and is always forging new alliances with other artists. I admire his zeal!

I've used George's artwork in a recent post on Pantone's Color of the Year 2011. See it here.

George has this wonderful combination of primitive sophistication that I just adore. His use of color is especially interesting––pairing soft pastel hues with moody and dramatic tones. The results are so striking. His layered approach and play of positive and negative space within his paintings makes me want to just dive into them.

Photo courtesy of annconnelly.com

Want to stop in? Stroll over to 3954 Magazine Street in New Orleans when you have a chance! I know that I'm dying to go, and it better be soon.

You can also find Atelier-Magasin on Facebook here.

"Like" them to make sure that you stay abreast of all that is going on. Just last weekend they had the 1st of many gallery openings, which sadly I was not able to attend. George did let me know that he has great things planned coming up soon, so to stay tuned.

xoxo,

Andrea

Sounds Good To Me Music Series: More Cello Please

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 03:15:00 +0000

Thoroughly excited that I just scored 2nd row tickets to see this group! We will be celebrating our 5th year of marriage this March and what better than to listen to a talented chamber group like The Portland Cello Project. Lucky us, this concert is the day after our anniversary. Worked out perfectly!

Definitely watch the video––fantastic!

The Artist Behind The Art • Sonya Shinn Edwards

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 03:37:00 +0000

Do you remember last month, when I took you along with me on my Magazine Street Stroll? In that post I mentioned this great artist that I discovered at Source Nola named Sonya Shinn Edwards. I was immediately taken with her work and quickly got on the fast track to find out more about the lady behind the canvas.

To my delight, she quickly returned my email and was equally swift about agreeing to being featured on the blog. If only I operated my life with such fastidiousness, I wouldn't have kept her waiting for so long! Best comes to those who wait––or however the old adage goes, right?

I wanted to really get to know who she is as an individual, so I asked her for an interview. I can show you art all day long and we can 'ooh and ahh'; but to me, my greatest joy is to share with the world who a person is on a deeper level––for that is what we remember in the end. Sonya agreed to the interview, and I'm thrilled over the in-depth responses she provided us. I think you'll leave this post being as delighted as I over what a kind and insightful individual she is.

Has art always been a part of your life, or was it something you discovered about yourself at a certain point?

"I grew up knowing two artists that I admired and loved very much. My grandfather worked as a sign painter as a way to support his family, but his two true passions were painting and baking. He was a talented portrait and landscape artist and his blueberry pies were oh so scrumptiously delicious. I recently acquired a wonderful sketch of an old school house that he did in the 1930s."

A sketch of an old school house from Sonya's grandfather.

"My dad, also an artist, a bit of a renaissance man, paints, sculpts in clay and wood and loves to write. During my teenage years, the times spent with my dad, he almost always had a 35mm camera in hand and took photos everywhere we went. When we would be out sharing a meal or on picnic, he often sketched or jotted words down on a napkin or small scrap of paper so as not to forget the picture or words floating in his head. 38 years later, we talk art and take turns drawing or sketching out our random ideas on pastry covered napkins."

"Around the age of sixteen, I had decided that I would live the life an artist."

(How incredible is that!?! To know ones self so well at such a young age!)

What is a typical day for you?

"I am definitely an early morning person. I like to get up between 5:00 and 5:30, have a cup of coffee or tea and head out back to my studio. I will quietly sit for 20 or so minutes sipping my hot drink as I look at the canvases in front of me, contemplating the day ahead. Once I have loosely mapped out my work day, I head back to the house and get my kiddo ready for school. I am usually back in the studio around 8:30 and ready to put some paint on some canvases. I paint up until 2:20 and rush to pick up my sweet boy from school @ 2:30. My work day is finished."

Where do you feel most inspired to paint and when?

"I feel most inspired to paint early mornings when it is still and quiet. I have a 22' by 20' studio with a wonderful barn door that opens up and lets in lots of warm sunlight. My studio sits about 40 feet from my lil house, sweet!"

Where do you draw the most inspiration from?

"Honestly, I find my inspiration from so many different sources, in nature, photographs, books I have read, or a conversation I might have with a friend. On occasion my son will paint in the studio with me and he is so much fun to watch. He paints with no inhibitions and sings and hums with each brush stroke. He seems to know exactly were each stroke of color is meant to be placed. Awe-inspiring."

What is your process?

"I usually start off each morning with warm up sketches to get ideas flowing.

Once I have a general idea or direction, I will begin adding paint to a canvas.

I paint on 3 to 4 canvases at a time, layering and adding color to each canvas.

I will sometimes scrape into my paint with the end of a brush or pencil to add texture and interest.

Each painting evolves and changes over time, depending on my color palette, idea and mood.

I paint with acrylics and oil sticks on canvas and paper."

Your background has brought you from Alaska to Dallas, what prompted you to traverse from there to here?

"My dad was in the Navy. I was born in Alaska, but was only there for a few years. We made a short stop in California and ended up in Texas. I have plans to revisit Alaska this summer with my son. We are both so excited!"

If you could meet any artist living or deceased, who would it be?

Frida Kahlo. Her paintings are so rich with color and passion. She reveals everything without a worry of criticism or judgement.

"I paint my own reality. The only thing I know is that I paint because I need to, and I paint whatever passes through my head without any other consideration." -Frida Kahlo

Isn't she spectacular? And down to earth. I love her body of work––especially this series which is a departure from the soft, ethereal aesthetic I fell in love with. The way she pits both the soft and whispery against the simplicity of positive and negative space on the canvas showcases the breadth of her talent seamlessly. I love all of her work, but really enjoyed seeing this the rawness of the black and white pieces in stark contrast her other works.

I hope you enjoyed getting to know her as much as I. If you're ever in the New Orleans area, stop by Source Nola to see her work in person. The gals there are incredibly warm and you'll just adore the shop.

To see Sonya's website, go here.

xoxo,

Andrea

Are You a Designer? Join Ty Larkins and Myself in Our First Ever 'Shop Talk' Event!

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 19:18:00 +0000

I am beyond thrilled (and flattered!!) to be co-hosting this incredible event with the wildly talented and affable Ty Larkins!

Just a short while ago, Ty approached me about starting a designers think-tank of sorts. Being that collective collaboration is one of my absolute favorite aspects of the design industry, I leapt at the chance to engage in such an exciting opportunity. Ty and I both feel that by sharing experiences, solutions and ideas amongst each other, we grow stronger as a whole. We are so happy to have come together in this effort––as collaboration is indeed the essence of our combined credo's.

We would love for you to join us if you live in the Baton Rouge/New Orleans area for a night of what we call "Dish and Dish." Hosted at Ty's incredible showroom––an adorable arts and crafts bungalow nestled right in between downtown Baton Rouge and the Garden District, this is an event not to be missed! I can't express enough how much we are both looking forward to this evening!

If you would like to attend, please email me at amveron@cox.net and I will reserve your place for you. (it is limited!) We'd love to see your faces and learn more from everyone!

xoxo,

Andrea

Sounds Good To Me Music Series: Ain'tcha Granny's Elevatah Music!

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:03:00 +0000

Beethoven, Chopin, Rachmaninoff and RADIOHEAD? Throw in a little Bowie, some Guns & Roses too, and you have yourself the makings of one fine sounding orchestra.

Huh? Just watch ;)

L.A. based, The Section Quartet is one of my favorite contemporary chamber groups. Here, they cover David Bowie's Man Who Sold The World (which Nirvana covered on the 90s as well). As usual, I highly recommend the whole album!

Another talented group hailing from L.A., The Vitamin String Quartet covers one of my favorite Radiohead songs: Let Down. I made myself sick listening to it about 5 years ago when I 1st discovered their album Strung Out On OK Computer, a complete cover of the whole Radiohead album Ok Computer.

Brooklyn artists, Project Trio are a chamber group comprised of two cellists and a beatboxing flutist––yes, beatboxing flutist! Listen to this version of Sweet Child O'Mine. Fantastic!

Aren't these classically trained artists SO talented???? I love listening to musicians with 'traditional' instruments do a little genre-bending. Keeps it fresh!

Check back later this week, I have something I'm proud to share with you coming up!

xoxo,

Andrea

The Simple Things

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 21:36:00 +0000

Like eagerly anticipating hundreds of camellia blooms set to make their appearance and brighten up my winter days.

Happy Friday, everyone!

xoxo,

Andrea

Sounds Good To Me Music Series: Chicks Rock!

noreply@blogger.com (All The Trappings) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 06:45:00 +0000

Today I bring to you 3 artists who have a few things in common: They all have the XX stamped into their DNA. They rarely make it out of the rotation in my playlist. They are all artists whom I have not had the pleasure to see live.

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Liz Phair 'Exile in Guyville' has not left my earshot for more than 6 months since I was 14 years old. Creature of habit much? I highly recommend if you fall into the following categories: Going through a breakup? I recommend this album. In the mood for clever lyrics and engaging arrangements? Liz is your girl. To me, this is by far Liz's best work (amazingly it was her 1st!)

I've listened to this particular Cat Power album 'You Are Free' for oh, a good 8 years now. Through and through it's a fine piece of work. Some songs are a tad slow for my personal taste, but all in all––an excellent album with a genre-pushing list of songs good for all types of moods.

Now, Thao With The Get Down Stay Down 'We Brave Bee Stings and All'. I FLIPPED when I first heard this band! We discovered them just a couple of years ago. Great album, great band. Fun and solemn, nostalgic and current. Always makes me feel good when I have this one on.

Who are your favorite chick rockers? New or old, tell me! I love knowing what everyone listens to and I love rediscovering artists that I may have forgotten about.

Have a great week everyone!

xoxo,

Andrea