ART NOUVEAU AT THE MET

Here is a great example of Art Nouveau (French for 'New Art') used in Interior Design. What you're looking at is a fireplace surround that is capturing the true essence of nature itself. The beautiful ceramic glass uses colors that are found outdoors. Unlike most fireplaces that are characterized by harsh 90 degree angles, this surround only uses soft curves -- just like you'd find in a natural environment. Personally, I find it amazing that an artist can take a hard material, like ceramic, and imbue it with such flowing lines, reminding us of waves -- the tide coming in. Most importantly, the focal point is a mask representing humanity.  Art Nouveau celebrates the relationship between humanity and her environment.

This style is best used in rooms that are meant to make us feel welcome.  Although this piece looks harsh standing on a bare wall, it would be right at home in an Bohemian hotel with young Parisians sitting nearby arguing passionately, wine glasses in hand. Perhaps a beautiful accent to this grand surround could be a classic candelabra (Beauty and the Beast style) with a piece of art by Gustav Klimt --perfect for above the mantle. If this is the taste you desire, then Art Nouveau is exactly what you're looking for!

Attributed to: Desire Muller( French, 1877-1952) French Luneville, ca.1900 Glazed Stoneware

Alexander McQueen Exhibit

“You’ve got to know the rules to break them. That’s what I’m here for, to demolish the rules but to keep the tradition.”

-Alexander McQueen

I was lucky enough to find myself at the Alexander McQueen Exhibit in New York last week. “Savage Beauty” was the theme of the show and it definitely lived up to its name. Of course the always fabulous Metropolitan Museum of Art is where the exhibit was shown. A show that features pieces entitled “Jack the Ripper Stalks His Victims” and “It’s a Jungle Out There” is sure to raise a few eyebrows

—

and that it did! It was definitely a “savage” show, but it was undoubtedly beautiful as well.  

Each gallery of McQueen’s collection had its own room and corresponding theme — giving each room its own unique ambiance. The overall purpose of the exhibit was to celebrate McQueen’s life and productions through the years. The designer always pushed the envelope when it came to his art and that was evident last week at the Met. There were about one hundred outfits and over seventy accessories on display that he created throughout his career. It was a great opportunity for me to see each and every ensemble up close. Luckily I got a chance to snap a few photos, as well.

The show runs until August 7. Be sure to check it out!

ANN GISH IN THE FLATIRON DISTRICT

      I was lucky enough to know about Ann Gish bedding for a long time. I always introduced my clients to Ann's exceptional bedding line. In the past I had to drag my clients all the way up to her warehouse  or just show them the website. Now Ann Gish has opened a retail store at 4 West 20th Street, in the Flatiron District. Ann is a very talented lady with a super incredible eye for style and quality. She has stocked the store with the most gorgeous bedding, pillows, lingerie and even some furniture and lighting... All ARE TO DIE FOR.....

Images by New York Interior Design