~ what's hot ~
~ question and answers ~
Q. What is trending in the arts for the spring season?
A. The arts at Fairweathers are flourishing. And with this spring's featured artists working on upcoming artworks, a buzz of excitement is being generated a bit earlier than previously planned, in part due to the mild winter weather. The 2012 spring preview art collection --one of our premier shows -- is to be a gift of art showpieces for art patrons launching Saturday, February 4th.
We have long sought opportunities to share new Northwest artists through receptions during the Seaside Chamber of Commerce First Saturday Art Walks. Over the years, more than 75 regional artists have exhibited artworks and achieved professional achievements.
We are honored to have the newest works of art by Donna Moen, Tamara Davidson and Philip D. Smith available to show in February as we prepare to open our art season one month ahead of schedule.
These coastal artists are essential to the Seaside experience, fundamental to our tradition of risk taking -- whether the breakthroughs will be during a late winter wind or snowstorm, or during spring-like evening of fine weather, the artists are willing to be here.
Their paintings, once collected by primarily an Oregon shore audience, are now sought after on both coasts. Davidson's landscape of Haystack Rock recently shipped to Rhode Island.
And on March 3rd, our "official" spring artworks unveiling for Fairweathers, that First Saturday Art Walk, an event that has been booked for months, promises to surpass all past endeavors ... with significant new abstract artists, as well as, stupendous delicacies prepared by Sharon Krask, celebrity chef.
Save the dates.
Feb. 3rd and March 4th.
Q. How do you build an important art or jewelry personal collection?
A. Art is to be seen, not stored. Art appreciation is to be taught, not just sold. Art is to be selected for beauty rather than value. Three phrases that will make building a personal collection understandable.
By offering distinctive Oregon shore artists and artisans, we have retained a unique Northwest identity, emphasizing original artworks and original jewelry works. It has been a wistful experience for us during the past 5 years, and it is such a pleasure to share the talented artists discovered with visiting and local art patrons. Many artists audition for placement and show opportunities: only the best are chosen,with passion... just as you would chose art and jewelry for your own personal collection.
When selecting an artist, always... the individual passion for the work comes first, for we are constantly rotating it. And at home, the same enthusiasm should be embraced. In fact, we have collaborated on so many art exhibitions and projects, the artists have become friends and alliances.
By sharing the artist's passion... the art and jewelry are truly essential to the Fairweather House and Garden experience, fundamental to our tradition of innovation. The interiors of the store have to accommodate an ever-changing display of exceptional works. The Fairweather artists are flourishing due to an appreciative patron base.
Our goal is to create an environment that celebrates and stimulates the creative process of selecting art for your home. We feel we are educating the next generation of collectors- artists, arts scholars and arts patrons- this creative selecting and thinking about what it means to be a regional gallery is vital to our success. We enjoy the support of many and are developing an arts district in the historic Gilbert block of downtown Seaside.
Q. What exactly is meant by coastal design?
A. An authentic coastal design look is serene. It is a haven from stress and chaos, much like the very calming nature of the tides. Living near the ocean, living spaces that are well designed are ones that leave you renewed and refreshed, much like an ocean breeze.
Design disciplines that are truly coastal are interiors that support the spirit of the place. Your home, a refuge, is a chosen way to live. Turning a home into a retreat for the living requires some work and thought. Coastal design is seen as a direct extension as the people who embrace the ocean. Through careful planning and a selection of colors, materials and elements—rather than a prescribed, packaged look — one is able to create a harmonious and relaxing style.
Disciplined professionals do not attempt to present a ready made look but rather offer a client a clear path to discover life - enhancing clarity and reason for living on the coast.
To define my role as a designer, words provoke my thinking. By sharing these terms, it is hopeful that they will provoke a feeling of core design values. My tools of the trade: live in the moment, embrace the energy of the space, create a setting that suits you in a subtle, comforting way. Chose natural colors and textures that energize the home from the location it is. Remove clutter that always-- and in all ways-- inevitably leads to stagnated themes.
In my ideal home, the elements of rock, glass, aromatic candles, aged wood and the precious metals of copper, silver and gold are established to carry out the age old ideal with the continuity of earth, water, fire, wood and metal.
Q. What one piece of art is the most important piece of the design puzzle when planning a room?
A. I enjoy adding a bit of whimsy. My definition of whimsy is something that is created to please. Green plants serve a practical purpose as a natural air cleaner, yet, in my opinion their overriding factor in design is not only grounded on that purpose but in their appropriateness, sensibility and the very necessity of placing whimsical and growing things into a space to live in. Homes filled with miniature gardens, topiaries, or exotic growing grottoes are always filled with contentment by incorporating fanciful natural elements.
My fascination with growing things indoors began when I visited the gardens of the American South years ago. Having spent my early years in the rural West, I felt that I had encountered a land of beautiful garden follies, and since then have offered incredible garden books, clipped to paries in hand crafted pots, and interesting wall art depicting the natural world in the gallery.
There is written evidence that the desire to have trees and plants indoors began more than 2,000 years ago. The continuing interest in growing things in the home today reflects the remarkable staying power of nature. Timeless whimsy and fashion.
Q. I need help visualizing change. I know what I want but not the best way to get it. How do I find the best possible solutions?
A. Professional interior designers can do so much more than recommend furniture, fabric and colors. In addition to having an in-depth product knowledge, an accredited designer has the disciplined eye to help you visualize your ideas. One way to ensure you are working with a professional is if he or she is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (A.S.I.D.).
A.S.I.D. members must meet the profession’s education and experience requirements, as well as adhere to strict code of ethics and conduct. An accredited designer is one who has passed rigorous scrutiny and testing. You get the benefit of an experienced professional who can solve problems, avoid costly mistakes, and most importantly, create an attractive, affordable space designed specifically to meet your lifestyle needs.
Q. Who are we?
A. Whether you've just stumbled upon our web site, or happily are revisiting us, we are delighted you have asked about us. We have long believed that anything handmade must be the store recipe not just of beauty and elegance, but of ecologically responsible techniques.
Our products are all original, and combine with other collections harmoniously found throughout the United States and Canada. Most use entirely recycled materials, and do the planet a good turn.
Fairweather House and Garden represents a timeless collaboration between designer, artist, craftsman and artisan. Every piece is made individually, for us, by hand.
Our artists, painters, and sculptors are our designers. They work with us first, and are the very best we can find, many are local talents, quite a few are regionally recognized and several are notable and have received national accolades. The products offered are to be viewed as art. We are always perfecting our recipe of crafts and products.
And that's the sense of dedication at our store. The rare world of hand made art.
Q. What are the top colors for the next season?
A. Bold colors are being introduced for the in addition to the continuing interest in purple. Colors that are able to be paired with neutral-tones are a win-win solution.
Overtly trendy colors are to being set aside once again this season, and bright tones that are able to be used throughout any given season are being embraced.
Look for soothing hues of turquoise, a twist in the orange family in the coral tone, a delicate wispy pink champagne, a practical gray with greenish hues (similar to dried herbs), a red that reads like a tomato pure 'e, and, once again this year... the fashionable purple tones... eggplant hues that are not cycling out of style.
For inspiration, visit upscale design and fashion boutiques.
Q. How to find a calming, nesting and at-home color scheme?
A. Your home is a place to create a serene, peaceful environment where you can rest and "get away from the world".
A low contrast, monochromatic color scheme with variations on a favorite primary hue is an option.
Amethyst and its siblings, plum and aubergine are colors to consider. The favored color of artists and musicians, a preference for purple suggests depth of feeling and high self-esteem.
Natures blesses us with variations of purple in wisteria, irises and hyacinths. Violet light has the highest energy level. Aubergine, French for eggplant, paired with chartreuse textiles will create a riveting contrast to earth tone neutrals, off white compositions and textural elements.
Discover the color that best reflects your at-home personality. Peace and harmony are the desired moods of the time.
Q. I find it difficult to decide the "what" and "where" of accessories.
A. At no point in decorating endeavors are preferences more important than placing the finishing accessories that individualize a space.
Gather favorites then edit carefully to select an overall effect that is calm, unified and orderly.
Link items through subtle but luxurious details so that no single piece overpowers another.
Contrasts of light and dark, textures and minimal foliages balanced with focal points will complement each other. An array of glass and metals will add interest to the natural elements of handcrafted pieces or flowers. And, as always, for visual interest group elements in odd numbers. Study table-scapes and display techniques created in upscale boutiques and ask questions. Professionals enjoy sharing ideas.
Q. What are the latest color inspirations for the home?
A. Trade resources forecast the colors, textures, and fabrications that impact home decor decisions. Did you know refined home decor mimics high fashion?
Look for metallic's, aged or brushed, hammered or woven nickel, pewter and copper continue to be neutral for home decor...the same finishes found in fine jewelry.
Nature continues to influence with a palette of moss greens, light carmel browns, and stone grays that are aged and quite weathered. Expressionistic accent colors include light gray blues and some berry reds as well as soft sea shell pinks.
Sophisticated, haute couture drama styles feature classic, understated camel, seaweed, grass green and a moody mid-toned red.
There is a fashion attitude toward multi-cultural interiors with unexpected color combinations and organic patterns. Inspirations are to be found in high design books, fine shelter magazines, the interiors of boutique hotels and interior design boutiques.
TRADE SECRET!!! Visit the tie department in a quality men's wear section of a department store. There you will find the latest color and pattern trend soon to be found in home decor.
Q. What is a designer show house event?
A. Civic organizations partner with professionals to present shows in significant residences in cooperation with sponsoring companies. A limited number of the area’s top designers are selected to offer expertise and talent for the event.
Designers participate as a group toward the restoration of an important house. The event offers many the opportunity to see residences that are usually closed to the public.
Thanks to the generosity of participating designers and sponsors, the houses receive lasting improvements and working capital to help preserve their status as the great houses in America. A.S.I.D., the American Society of Interior Designers presents show houses in partnership with regional benefits. Show houses are featured often in the finer home shelter magazines like Southern Living, Architectural Digest and Veranda.
Q. I need help visualizing change. I know what I want but not the best way to get it. How do I find the best possible solutions?
A. Professional interior designers can do so much more than recommend furniture, fabric and colors. In addition to having an in-depth product knowledge, an accredited designer has the disciplined eye to help you visualize your ideas. One way to ensure you are working with a professional is if he or she is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (A.S.I.D.). A.S.I.D. members must meet the profession’s education and experience requirements, as well as adhere to strict code of ethics and conduct. An accredited designer is one who has passed rigorous scrutiny and testing. You get the benefit of an experienced professional who can solve problems, avoid costly mistakes, and most importantly, create an attractive, affordable space designed specifically to meet your lifestyle needs.
E-Mail questions to: fairweatherhouseandgarden@gmail.com
Visit fairweather house and garden's blog to view past q&a.