Local Art, Part 1

Part of what makes my home feel like a creative space is the local and handmade art I showcase within it. I have never had a large budget for art, but the our local farmer’s market and craft fairs have made it easy for me to fill the nooks and crannies of my home with beautiful, locally made objects.

Since in many cases I know the artists personally – and have gotten to visit their studios during the open studios tour held here each year – the art itself becomes much more meaningful. In some cases, artists have created things specifically for me!

This mobile was made by Joan Conway and I love both its delicacy and the bright oranges and reds – two of my absolute favorite colors. Joan is both an artist and a poet, and has been an inspiration to me over the years. In the last couple of years she dreamed big and built an actual studio cabin in her backyard to host workshops in – something that blew me away, given the huge permitting process you have to go through to make that happen. It’s a beautiful space. Check it out here. Isn’t it gorgeous?

Joan made me a large mobile, too – to put outside in my garden. Once I have it back up in the spring I’ll have to take a pic! The little mobile hangs in my bedroom window and gives me a shot of color and good feeling even on the gloomiest winter days.