December 18th, 2007

The past two weekends have got me down with holiday shopping overload. While I started the days full of hope, the crush of people and too many "out of stock" situations would leave me tired and grumpy by days end. For relief, I found myself looking at artwork. Art lifts the spirit and provides hope that someone, somewhere is thinking about the long term and aiming high. Accordingly, I have put together a small roundup of artistic items that are a. available and b. spirit lifters. Consider this is lifepreserver for a shopped out week.

>> Fruit Prints by Enzo Mari

These are beautiful, large scale prints by this Italian Designer that always put a smile on my face.

>> White Forest Pottery

Nancy Bauch's studio up on Garrison on Hudson is a little retreat from the day to day. Each piece she makes celebrates "the imperfection and impermanence of nature itself."

>> Emily Payne's Giclee Prints

This San Francisco native has been contributing beautiful views of her home over the past year. We now sell them through our AT store.

>> Minimiam

These two French artists offer a remarkable view into our everyday world through photography of small, small things.

>> Michel Bayard: Pinhole Photographer

We found Michel on one of our many trips to the Union Square Farmer's Market, where he often sets up. His small, pin hole photographs are memorable and unique, capturing mythical New York streetscapes and views.

>>Top 10 Holiday Letterpress Card Companies

Each of these cards is a little work of art by itself. We love Egg Press, but these others are amazing as well. If you call today, they'll get cards to you by Friday!

Happy Holidays!

Maxwell

HOT HOUSE TOUR FROM PARIS YESTERDAY:

>> House Tour: Paris - Chez Veronique