Make Believe

Cara Ober describes herself as, "a visual artist with a writer’s addiction to words." Ober's eccentric and quirky paintings contain an array of motifs, text and colors that form a dialogue of questions. She references wallpaper and fabric patterns, stencils, tattoos and illustrations from childhood books.

The more I look at her work the more I love it. Every glance reveals a new layer, a twisted narrative or a refreshing perspective. Plus, I can relate to the last statement piece - that sense of starting over and getting it right this time...it will be perfect this time! As artists and designers we tend to crave perfection, but sometimes it's the mess, the process, and the journey that makes it all worth it.

View more of Cara Ober's work here along with a great mini artist documentary. I also enjoyed her artist statement found at the Matre Gallery...so fitting to her work.

Olivia's Wedding

I promise I'm not turning into a wedding blog, but I wanted to share a few photographs from Olivia's wedding. You may remember Olivia from the post-wedding photos seen here. I finally got the rest of my film developed and these are my favorites. And yes, I still love my film camera.

As I mentioned before I was a bridesmaid so I didn't have a chance to take any photographs of the ceremony or even the reception. What can I say...the wine was too good. I did manage to snap photos of Olivia getting ready and the oh-so-amazing cake. The last two images of the flower girl dress and Olivia's gorgeous hair originally came out really dark. Luckily Photoshop and a quick black and white conversion saved the day. And yes, I love Photoshop too.

I really enjoy photography...to the point of dreaming about it, composing shots in my mind and feeling the desire to take photos all day. Photography seems like such a competitive field especially since everyone and their grandma owns a digital camera. What do you think about the world of photography? Any pro-photographers out there with helpful hints on getting into the business?

OH, and the beautiful cake came from Delicious in Greensboro, N.C. They are great to work with and I highly recommend if you are in the area.

The Matter Factory

Spare change, everyday objects and pottery form together in Andy Brayman’s Matter Factory. After reading an interesting article on Brayman's work in American Craft magazine, I was instantly attracted to his pottery pieces. Based in Kansas City, Brayman set up his businesses in a former 1930s farmer’s market that sits on the Missouri River and the Kaw River. Doesn't that sound amazing?

Not only does his studio have a great location, but the pottery created there is equally stunning. Like the Change Dish, a vessel made from coins found around the studio, and cups that reveal hidden text when filled with hot water. Brayman's pieces are beautiful, functional and memorable. Find out more over at The Matter Factory.

{found via American Craft Magazine}

Comfort Interiors

Hello comfy bed...hello green bath tub...hello big, colorful door...and hellllooo porch hiding in the trees. Ah yes, the porch...tree house...whatever you are...looking so pretty up there. The structure appears to be literally built around the tree branches. How neat is that?! I bet it makes a great getaway. Add some Chai tea and Wi-Fi in there and I'm all set.

These inspiring interiors and places were brought to life by Gabi Tubbs, a talented stylist and art director. Another career to add to the "I wish I had your job" list!

P.S. I love colorful doors...a simple change with a dramatic and inviting impact. Do you feel love for colorful doors too?

Stunning Vintage Dresses

Feast your eyes on this stunning collection of vintage couture dresses available at Timeless Vixen Vintage. All I can say is...wow...wow...WOW. I want to frolic, swing and twirl around in the yellow one, white one, ohh all of them! I bet when you slip into one of these amazing dresses you instantly transform into retro-glam gal and land a role in Mad Men. I didn't realize wearing a dress could sound so fun.

Would you wear one of these beauties? If so, where to?

{found via The Storque}

Under the Sea

Where are you escaping to this weekend? No big plans here, but I will be lost in these photographs by David Doubilet - a Contributing Photographer for the National Geographic Magazine. I can't even imagine how cool his job must be. Pretty amazing, right? Check out more stunning photographs on his site.

Get a little lost this wonderful weekend...and then come back and tell me about it!

Silhouettes

I adore the elegant and sophisticated drawings by Aurore de La Morinerie. Her work can be seen internationally in prestigious magazines and in the world of fashion and luxury. Her techniques include ink and wash painting as well as etching press for monotypes.

It's amazing how our minds form familiar figures from hints of shapes and colors. A whole story is created from the stunning ease of her brush strokes. She must have a magic brush of sorts because these are truly inspiring.

Instinctive Observer

Photographer Polly Eltes is described as "a warmly instinctive observer, editing an interior view, or a still life, so that the image has immediacy and significance." Eltes' photographs exude comfort and inner life. I'm also amazed at how well she captures the essence of a room and home.

I think it's important to address the instincts of a photographer or artist. In many art forms instincts and technical skills are essential. I tend to stress over design dilemmas and I have to tell myself - ok let go, breathe and go with your gut. This method helps calm me down and re-focus. I also realized that I'm never truly excited about pieces or photographs that weren't gut driven.

What do you think - are instincts important when taking photographs and creating art?

Little Leaf Adornments

I'm feeling energized today even with the pouring rain outside. My cup of Chai tea is the perfect touch to my morning along with a big dose of Google Reader. I was excited to discover these delicate jewelry pieces from Little Leaf Adornments via my love for you is a stampede of horses. Plus, there is a great giveaway going on over there - check it out.

Recently I've been drawn to simple and unique designs that still make a classic statement like the Fringe necklace or Windowpane Locket necklace. Keep an eye out for more stunning pieces and inspiration on Little Leaf Adornments' blog and Etsy store.

Olivia + Brandon

Hi guys - Happy Monday! How was your weekend? My weekend was filled with a whirlwind of fun wedding events for my dear friends Olivia and Brandon. I was honored to be a bridesmaid for this joyous occasion. The scenic lake view and perfect weather created a stunning backdrop to the ceremony and reception.

Since I was in the wedding party I didn't get a chance to take many wedding photos, but I did get these post-wedding photos during breakfast the next day. Olivia and Brandon are adorable and I'm so happy for them. Congrats, congrats, congrats!