For the Love of Artisans
The art and craft of artisans resonates with me. I’ve always been a hands-on maker: designing pieces for my own home and my clients’ homes, including a small night table for my Provincetown home, fabricated by Greg Hunt. Recently I attended two events where I met talented makers: JP Open Studios and The Design Social Popup in Newport, Rhode Island.
I enjoyed meeting the artists and craftspeople in Jamaica Plain, and came away with newfound appreciation and resources, plus some new favorite items for my collections. I met LJ Baptiste who is a writer and comics artst, and bought three of his comic books for my daughter. I love the necklace by Flauxy Jewelry owner Keyse Angelo. You can follow her on Instagram @flauxyjewelry. The red graphic print is by Elysabeth Cianci, Hungermoon Press. The clever egg spoon rest is from ceramics artist Ana Crowley Noordzij, ananoordzij.com. I enjoyed meeting Zahirah Nur Truth, ZNT Arts, and bought one of her greeting cards.
I also visited a photography exhibit by Robin Radin. Several of her images are from Jamaica Plain. This is a snippet of one of my favorite images by Robin entitled “Tough Choice.” I’m always impressed by the remarkable talent in my own neighborhood!
Newport Pop-up
The day in Newport included meeting several textile and wallpaper designers. Three makers stood out for me: Leah O’Connell Designs, Victoria Larson, and Felicia Hwang of Hwang Bishop Bespoke Lighting.
I attended two panels that day: Meet the Makers moderated by Kaitlin Petersen, editor in chief of Business of Home, and Newport’s Extraordinary Legacy: Then and Now, moderated by Ellen McGauley, Executive Editor of Veranda magazine.
My main takeaway from the show was that there are many textile and custom makers with beautiful and unique designs to discover. As an interior designer, I am grateful to have special things to show my clients. I was also happy to meet a great group of women entrepreneurs, who generously support one another.
My Journey as a Maker
While I have dipped my toe into the design pool with custom ottomans, and other furniture pieces, I plan to continue designing furniture - with textiles as the next step.
I was fortunate to meet Greg Hunt when I noticed his truck in my neighborhood. His logo Greg Hunt Made caught my eye, so I checked out his website. As luck would have it, he makes custom furniture. Coincidentally, I saw his beveled-edge cutting boards at one of my favorite shops in Provincetown, Room68, which encouraged me to reach out to him.
The nightstand is solid walnut with beveled edge details. The craftsmanship is exquisite. I am so pleased with how my design was executed.
