"I GET BY WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS"

You may be wondering, "What in the @#+% is ART-ECO?" Simply put it is a movement in Art and Ecology where, based on their relationship to one another, the two become one flesh. In last month’s feature you were introduced to this concept in the art-form of jewelry made from repurposed objects. Well, that medium only scratches the surface of this unlimited form of expression. I intend to take you on an adventurous journey through the lands of the highest peaks, most glorious shores, serenest valleys, and most mysterious terrains of this art-form. However, for now, let us start here in good ol’ Knoxville, Tennessee!
The objet d’ art featured here tells a story all its own…This first in a series of tables is crafted from 100% recycled materials cultivated from the heart of Downtown Knoxville. If you look closely at the base of this table you should notice that there is what looks like very old floor trusses. You are correct! As a matter of fact this wood was being thrown away during the remodel of the old JFG Factory on West Jackson Avenue in the Old City. I simply asked the foreman if I could haul off the trash for him and save him the extra expense of several trips of full construction site dumpsters. He said, "Certainly!" and Bada Bing, I was halfway home on my design. So, I call my buddy Chris Horton and say, "please get your flatbed down here now, I’ll explain later!" He did. "I get by with a little help from my friends." Unbelievable, because this wood was over 300 years old Heart of Pine cut into solid planks measuring over 3 inches thick, close to 2 feet wide and spanning up to 30 feet long, just being thrown away! I held on to this wood for two years due to its scarcity.
The quest was not complete as I wanted to mix 2 types of wood for this particular design. I was in search of two oversized solid wood doors from the turn of the century to be the icing on the cake (top of the table). Lo and behold as I found help from another friend, Daniel Schuh, who had such doors left over from one of his Historic North Knoxville Homes. Ahhh…now to the drawing board! So next is the design. This is the part I personally enjoy the most. I execute the drawing, call another friend, Terry Martin, and show him the design. He takes over and in a few days we have what you see below. Note that Terry built the piece and also did the faux crocodile finish based on my specifications. I simply love this process and hope you at least appreciate it as well. Just like a symphony…many distinct pieces and players coming together in harmony. ENCORE!

"FOR THOSE ABOUT TO ROCK..."

We salute you! My apologies for the delay as I have been in an artistic hurricane of activity. However, I am grateful and humbled by your support. Thank You for your patience. Now back to the news; uninterrupted coverage with no commercial breaks. Have you ever wondered where all of those wonderful iconic fashion ensembles came from that adorned the likes of the "Rat Pack", Elvis, The Beatles, Michael Jackson and Johnny Cash (among multiple others)? Well, the answer is simply, MANUEL. http://www.manuelcouture.com/ If you cherish a favorite iconic celebrity outfit, chances are MANUEL did it!



The man is the modern day Da Vinci when it comes to fashion in the entertainment world. His nickname is aptly "The Rhinestone Rembrandt" and the inventor of "Cowboy Couture". He is quite simply a living legend. He still works every day with his son, Manuel Jr. aka "Manny" in their couture boutique and factory on Broadway in Nashville. Even the building itself has a story to tell as it was originally a brothel.To this day, the legend continues through his son who began sewing at the age of eight and almost thirty years later, the father and son dynamic duo still "rock" the worlds of fashion for clients like Kid Rock, Keith Urban and on and on and on.



Be on the lookout for Wear It Out Manuel http://www.wearitoutmanuel.com/, the next generation of product that could literally end up on your toothbrush as the MANUEL Lifestyle broadens it reach. That's all I can tell you kids right now so, sleep tight; don't let the bed bugs bite! Shalom Y'all!

"SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF THESE..."

http://www.margecarson.com/

www.margecarson.com


Sleep is necessary and dreams are only ushered into our lives through this doorway. The bedroom is a very important, personal, romantic and unique place. It should be our own private sanctuary. As a result, it should feel as such. We spend more time on this furniture than on even our office desk chairs. These dreamy offerings are presented to you by Marge Carson Furniture. http://www.margecarson.com/ (Just a few examples of what you can create as the gateway into your castle in the air.) Explore the world within your visions of rest and relaxation. I encourage you to be daring in the bedroom: Not in the way that you are thinking, but in the way that you are decorating. Your place of refuge should reflect the fantasies of what inspires you yet leaves you recharged. Like a "New Moon on Monday," once you are well rested, you can embark on the journey that life has laid out ahead of you. So, dream a little dream and create! "SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF THESE..."

"VINTAGE-EMOTION"

Fashion: the one form of art that seems to drive the bus in the entire industry of aesthetics. On top of that you add the wonders of vintage and you can surmise quickly the influence it has on what we see today. Designers these days are searching through the archives of history to find patterns, fabrics, products and materials that can be reinterpreted and modernized. As a result we are beginning to see new forms of old. Color studies that were ahead of their time way back when are regularly seen on the new products of upholstered goods we have grown to love in our homes of late. Look at how many clothing designers, namely Ralph Lauren, who now have their own furniture collections. It doesn't take long to do the math and see that this equation equals success.

Fashion sets the tone within the music industry. Consider the iconic ensembles adorned by the likes of Elvis, Madonna, Frank Sinatra and even Michael Jackson. Then pay attention to what shows up on the runways, and eventually ends up on your very own sofa. The most wonderful thing, in my opinion, about vintage is the principle of timelessness that it instills. Almost all of art is cyclical. Classics endure. But sometimes, the extraordinary (even the flamboyant) shine out from the crowd and turn your head. Styles evoke emotions. Styles are born from emotions. Emotions are like the wind as they come and go, sometimes barely noticed and other times forces to be reckoned with and subdued by in our lives. Vintage is that "Peaceful Easy Feeling" that we can all hum along with and end up smiling. And as I have covered previously, when used properly it is extremely responsible. So, look in your closet and see just what treasures may be hidden once you look at that garment with "Betty Davis Eyes."

Pictures from the Sanctuary Vintage Fashion Show

"OLD'S COOL"

So sorry for the delay as I have been working on a large commercial project. I truly cannot say enough about this company, Habersham Plantation Corporation. www.habershamdesigns.com The most glorious finishes on the planet coupled with the highest level of craftsmanship and design are the qualities that set this company apart. Often copied but never duplicated, Habersham creates all you would ever need for the complete home. They actually have a program called Habersham Home, which allows you to be the maestro and compose a home that is truly a masterpiece. From kitchen cabinetry to upholstery, from finishing trim to architectural elements, even to the dining chairs you retire into as you feast; this line will dazzle and delight most anyone. This is the company I spoke of in my introduction "What is Design", when I referred to actually seeing a client brought to tears in this showroom due to the overwhelming sense of grace and beauty of their products.

Timeless style and exuberant expression are the trademarks of this company. And best of all, they are an absolute joy to work with on any level. I have had several projects where they have customized whatever I might need or dream up for my client. It appears a bit "Old School", however I am left with the sense that "Old's Cool". If you have a specific finish request, no problem. Since 1972 and still going strong in Tecoa, Georgia Habersham continues to shine. We are cooperating on the development of a custom line of furnishings for MossCreek homes currently. I will keep you posted. In the meantime, turn on some Louie Armstrong, preferably "What a Wonderful World."

THIS IS PERSONAL- SNEAK "PEAK"

Above is a first look at a personal design I have had produced locally as a prototype for my line. It is made exclusively out of reclaimed American hardwoods. I worked with an artisan by the name of Andrew Heneise, originally from Alaska, to bring this beauty from concept to reality. The woods are Wormy White Oak and Black Walnut. The joinery is real and the top of the legs are wrapped with acid etched copper bands. What you see is what you get with this one. It has a story to tell, and if you listen closely you may catch a tune from days gone by coursing through its veins.

Reclaiming materials, or salvaging, is my approach to design for all of my personal pieces. This is another aspect of the name "ART-ECO." If you look at my logo, the "SWICK" one, you may notice a little twist. If you turn the logo upside-down, you shall discover a new way to read the initials that further describes what I do. It becomes "KCIMS". This stands for "Knoxville's Couture Industry of Materials Salvaged." Who knew?

FASHION FORWARD - SNEAK "PEAKS"

"Old Glory" has never looked better. Patriotism and fashion salute one another as the "Star Spangled Banner" is represented on this glorious leather sofa by Old Hickory Tannery.

I saw several flag-themed pieces of upholstery at this past market. From the Union Jack of Great Britain to the Drapeau Tricolore of France, from the Bandiera of Italy to the Stars and Stripes of the U.S.A., the forging of streamers onto items of everyday use was evident. Patriots can fly their colors inside their personal forts as well as outside on the standard flagpole.

I could see one of these in the Oval Office: You think? Perhaps President Obama should give me a call so we could set up an appointment. I could help him out, no question. I'm just sayin'...

Here is a behind the scenes look at a fashion forward design by Old Hickory Tannery Furniture. http://www.ohtfurniture.com/ This ravishing banquette can and should be used in a multitude of applications. It is shown here in this extravagant white patent leather with zebra hide toss pillows. When I saw this piece I had to take a seat. Again, we have another interpretation of the classic Chesterfield style that I have been fixated on as of late.

FORMAL ELEGANCE - "SNEAK PEAKS"

Take a look at this metal sculpture. "Yours Truly in the Hand of Design"

From casual to formal. "From Swick to Swank." Here is another interpretation of the classic Chesterfield style sofa brought to you by Hancock & Moore Furniture. http://www.hancockandmoore.com/ They truly have a passion for leather and skillfully produce some of the most glorious creations using such. This is another factory that I have had the privilege of visiting with the folks from MossCreek. http://www.mosscreek.net/ Nestled in the "Furniture Capital", Hickory, NC, at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains sits the most intriguing of furniture factories. In it are numerous master craftsman, carpenters, leather workers, upholsterers and visionaries. Out of it come some of the finest leather pieces crafted in the entire world. No matter what the style, no matter what the combination of materials, and no matter what you can imagine, they can deliver the goods.

This particular setting reminds me of the first time I ever attended a symphony. The metallic treatment of the leather is your horns section, the mohair on the seat is like that I sat upon in the auditorium, and the marble on the table top is like that on the auditorium's grand staircase. What a beautiful experience. I have never been the same since. Speaking of metallic treatments, this is a huge movement as well in the design industry. From leather, to paint finishes, to the reintroduction of reclaimed metals and the post-modern usage of steel and aluminum, metal is hot: Cool too! There is so much more to share however, for now, I must go! Stay tuned and thank you!

CASUAL ELEGANCE - SNEAK "PEAKS"

This will be a "quickie" from "Swickey". Who says you can't have elegance on a budget? This sofa by Robin Bruce, aptly named "Donovan", is a favorite new item of mine for several reasons. Now, I know what you are thinking, and it is not just because we share the same name. But that doesn't hurt it one bit. This sofa is classic, fresh, responsible and a bit of casual mixed with elegance. This style is often found in leather however it is upholstered here in a natural washed linen: Very Eco. It is attainable. It is comfortable. Most importantly, it is made right here in the "good ol' U.S. of A."

I am a big fan of reinterpretation styles. I personally wear a lot of vintage clothing on a regular basis. I particularly love the blue flame-stitch fabric ottoman as well. This blue was also a huge color for the Spring Market. Oh, by the way, this photo was taken at the Rowe/Robin Bruce showroom of the High Point Spring Market. Thank you to Sean O and all of the gang! For more information go to http://www.rowefurniture.com/ . Now, back to this discussion. Vintage is beautiful as it represents a wonderful story in design. We take something that is considered worthless by one person, given away or thrown out, and it becomes new again when discovered by the right person. Sounds like my life. It is spiritual in a way; in a good way. It is like the old record your parents stored in the attic that you may have come across, only to find that it was a doorway into another realm of your life, as you dance the night away. Such is the wonder of vintage.

This is a small glimmer of the meaning behind this blog: "ART-ECO". For more insights and behind the scenes looks, please stay tuned.

A HISTORY LESSON

"To the best of my ability." This is the long-standing translation of the Flemish statement, "Als ik kan," adopted by Gustav Stickley as the motto for his wonderful and practical furnishings company, STICKLEY, circa 1901. To this day in up-state New York lies a true craftsman shop/production facility unmatched in today's furniture world. Gustav is long gone now, but a little town called Manlius, New York hosts artisans who still construct furniture to the standards by which all others should be measured. Birthed in 1905, two immigrant brothers, Gustav and Leopold Stickley, formed L. & J.G. Stickley. The rest, as they say, is history. The honest craftsmanship and practical design of solid wood joinery changed the world of furniture even to this day. Gustav has been termed, "the Father of the Arts & Crafts movement in America." Given the resurgence of Arts & Crafts style architecture in our country and around the world, it is not by surprise that this company continues to lead the industry. This picture shows the Morris Chair, inspired by William Morris, and the Settle as displayed in STICKLEY's High Point Showroom from this past Market. Both of these pieces are icons of the "Mission Movement." What you cannot see is how meticulously they are built. I invite you to zoom in on this picture and discover the inherent beauty of true quality workmanship.

I have had the glorious privilege of touring their factory and company museum due to the kindness of the Braden family, owners of Braden's Fine Furniture & Interiors. I am a "sawdust in the veins" kind of guy and I was absolutely blown away. The pride and joy I absorbed from every skilled artisan at work while there was awe-inspiring. No glitz or glam here, just honest and natural beauty. The deeper you look at a piece of their furniture, the more you fall in love with it. Using only solid Quartersawn White Oak, Wild Black Cherry, and Mahogany choice lumber, STICKLEY allows the creative spirit of humanity and the true essence of nature to dance together in perfect step. Every piece serves a purpose and every component to construct it has value. It is integrity. Any of their pieces will long outlive us here and now. It is instant heritage.

Connecting to our roots as individuals causes us all to reflect and dream at the same time. This is but a small example of this process being fleshed out into a practical and usable object of art and design. Born of the earth and still connected to it, as we all should be, is how I can best describe this truly unique line of furniture. For more information please visit http://www.stickley.com/ and enjoy the wonders of woodworking and fine construction.

MORE SNEAK "PEAKS"

Let there be light! Seems like someone special a long time ago said this and look at what we have now. This wonderful offering of luminescence is brought to you by Four Hands as shown at their High Point showroom from this past market. Four Hands does not simply do lighting as they are a complete "lifestyle line" of case goods, upholstery/leather, art, accessories and now even rugs. For what they do I have to say that they are one of my favorites. They literally travel the world to bring us the latest and greatest products at an incredible value. Their president, Brett Hatton, started out as a photographer who scaled the globe and along the way discovered a wide array of wonderful cultural displays. He started reclaiming teak before it was "chic".

Lighting is absolutely crucial...it will make or break the total outcome of a design. The uniqueness of this cluster invites the traveler home after a long journey. As well, it welcomed me and my colleague, Craig Marcum, into their glorious showroom. This display stopped both of us in our tracks; Craig's, for whom this was his first market, and mine, who claims to "have seen it all"; but I digress. Light is the life source for all creation, for without it we all cease to exist. There are a vast amount of truly wonderful lighting designers, too many to list. However, if you think about light, it is powerful.

Consider the diamond. Without light it has no chance to shine. Without light its facets are but lifeless. Design and all art is much like a diamond. It is birthed as the result of immense pressure and heat being applied to the byproduct of life itself. From that comes the raw stone which once discovered, then is taken to a master artisan to have portions removed by the cutting away of excess. And finally, you have the diamond; priceless, right? Actually, without light it would be unable to capture and radiate the reflective qualities of said diamond, hence it would be absolutely worthless. Artists are much the same way, but at best we can only hope and strive to be a glimmering facet of the one true diamond that is art and design.We can only reflect the true source of all creation and apart from it we are not worth much either. So, in essence let this spark some interest into your spirit and "shine on you crazy diamond".

SNEAK "PEAKS"

This first "Sneak Peak" is from my favorite complete showroom in the High Point, NC International Furniture Market. For those of you who don't know, Market is in April (Spring) and October (Fall) each year. I have been attending this market for several years now and wouldn't miss it for the world. This is Vanguard Furniture...always fresh, innovative, energizing and stylish. Notice the wonderful placement of just enough of the budding color of orange. This is one of the exciting new season colors for the Spring 2009 story of design. Elegance and trends can co-inhabit as displayed wonderfully in this setting. I will be showing you authorized photos from this and many other high-end manufacturer's throughout this journey. These are hot and not yet released to the general public as a whole so count yourself as an insider! Kudos to Vanguard!

Another dynamic feature of this particular room is the black walls...this is hard to pull off but one of my favorite arrows to shoot. I am currently working with a client and we have scheduled for her dining room to be painted black. (Photos of this are to come once the install is completed). The play on texture, pattern, color, scale and lines of the varied furniture styles apart from one another may not make sense. But, this is design, remember? Proper design at that. Design enables the creative zone of the soul to harmonize different elements into an orchestra for the eyes. Aesthetics as a whole is like working with a symphony. Imagine being in an auditorium before the curtain is raised, and you are hearing the musicians tuning their instruments.The lights are low and there is this sporadic murmuring of sound. Once the curtain is raised, it all comes together and you are moved through the emotions created by the composer. This is the effect that this initial display had on me personally when I entered this showroom (Vanguard Furniture). What you cannot experience is the other senses of smell and sound that further embellished this setting. It was exquisite. ENCORE!