Barnsdall Art Market

This past weekend I got to check out the Barnsdall Art Market. I happy to report that it was a lovely show! There were many artists whose work I had never seen before and a few that I really love. The location was awesome and really very cool. Each vendor was placed in their own slot, bordered on either side by trees, creating a very boutiquey kind of feel. While I liked this aspect, I wish there had been a center row of tents to help create more interaction and activity. The shows I enjoy the most are the ones where there is a lot of bustling activity and interaction with my fellow shoppers/vendors. Not sure f a center aisle would be possible, but something I hope the event planners would consider for future events.

The genre of artisans at the event was quite varied. Here are a few of my favorite discoveries from the day:

This is Emilyn Eto. Her screen prints are simply divine!

I had never seen brokesy Attack Pillows before! I loved them all! Cant wait to have a baby to buy for! These would be so cute in a childs room!

Tyler Bender is busy taking the craft world by storm! I have been running into him all over the web lately! This was the first time I got to check out his journals in person, and they are really cool. They are perfect gifts for all occasions!

Denise Young had a bunch of new pillows to share! They are divine! I love her combination of textures and pattern. They are so sophisticated and lovely!

Scott Milleris a mixed media artist who creates GORGEOUS mixed media paintings! The photo does not do them justice. They are so very beautiful in person!

The lovely ladies from Crown-E has very pretty jewelry to share, but I was particularly taken with this awesome handbag that opened perfectly wide if you criss-crossed the handles. Never lose your cell phone to the deep dark abyss that is the bottom of your purse again! Genius!


I know this was the first of several shows to come and I really hope that it evolves into a regular bustling event. Future dates for the Art Market are October 21st, and December 16th.

Pixie Dust Decor

Just the name Pixie Dust Decor evokes so many soft and fluffy thoughts, that when I first discovered this luscious line, I was already sold. I had originally been scrolling through decor8, and the patterns leapt off the screen at me. The fantastical and tender vintage children's illustrations printed in silhouette in multiple colorways made me dream of creating my own nursery items for my niece. Their 1960's inspired Topiary patterns beg for a spot on the sun porch. I love every aspect of this fabric! It is simple and bold. Fun and fancy.

Pixie Dust believes that " . . . children want a room that is fun and comfy, an enchanting space just for them that inspires games of make believe . . . " Who wouldn't have loved a bedroom like that when they were a kid?!!?

I contacted Pixie Dusts founder and creative genius Stacy McCallum to inquire more about their patterns and she was kind enough to send me some samples so I can tell you first hand that this is hi-quality gorgeous 100% cotton fabric! I cant wait to make something with it. I think I am holding out for the next baby among my friends!

Stacy also sent me a sneak peak of their new line coming out soon. I love the colors of this pattern! Perfect for Fall!

Pixie Dust has an exclusive offer for all Creative Swoon readers! Save 33% on all fabric orders!! Simply enter PIXIECODE at checkout. That includes the new sneak peak fabrics not yet available on their site (contact them directly for prices and purchase). Offer good through October 15th, so this is a great opportunity to stock up!

Be sure to share any fabulous creations using Pixie Dusts fabrics in the Creative Swoon group on Flickr!

(All images courtesy of Pixie Dust Decor)

Craftivism

This weekend the AIGA/LA is hosting a one-day crafty market called Craftivism. The proceeds will help fund the AIGA Scholarship Fund which creates educational opportunities in the LA for up and coming designers.

Here are the details:
Sunday August 12, 2007
1 to 5pm
Santee Village Courtyard
716 South Los Angeles St.
Los Angeles, CA 90014

Cant wait to check it out!!

Sarah Takahashi

These entrancing portraits are the work of Sarah Takahashi. They are haunting and revealing, and absolutely impossible to ignore. Her style makes you feel as if the subjects are about to peel themselves off of the page. They are amazing!


Also check out her Etsy shop!

(All images courtesy of Sarah Takahashi)