Southwestern Style...Not Just For Cowpokes

I have a soft spot for all things Southwestern.  I mean seriously.  From the old western movies to the decor and  fashion, I just love it all!  Here is a brief summary of how to bring some south west style to your environment.  

Colors: Traditional palette of cactus green, adobe red and desert-toned neutral hues are hallmark Southwest colors. Shots of bright yellow, dusty orange and turquoise are also indicative of Southwestern design.

Textiles: Sturdy woven fabrics, leather and suede are used for upholstery. Striped serapes (colorful wool shawls) can be used as pure decoration on walls.

Furniture: Leather is a common covering for sofas and chairs. Knotty pine is a popular choice for wood furniture, which may also feature a distressed finish embellished with burnished metal accents.

Accents: Talavera pottery, painted ceramic pieces with roots in 16^th century Mexico, adds color and design interest to a desert home. Hand-painted tiles are used on walls, floors and countertops. Wrought iron is used for all types of accessories.

These arts include architecture, ceramics, drawing, filmmaking, painting, 

photography, sculpture, printmaking, and other media, ranging from the ancient past to the contemporary arts of the present day.

Southwestern home décor reflects the colors of the desert and the peoples who have carved out a living from it. Earth tones—browns, reds and oranges—dominate most Southwest home decoration. Traditional Native American Indian geometric designs and symbols, like Acoma’s parrot motif, Hopi Pueblo’s migration pattern and Zuni lizards adorn pottery, rugs and other collectible artwork.

Southwestern fashion tends to be a style that has always been there whenever people need comfort. It's all about warm colors/tones and simple designs but in a colorful chic way.  The classic dress silhouettes, zig-zag patterns, and printed feathers are just some of the elements incorporated with this style........and it's all kinds of awesome!

And so, hope now you can agree with me. Southwestern style is certainly not just for cowpokes!

Have a happy EASTER!

Native American Design...All kinds of Amazing

 For as long as I can remember, I have been totally fascinated by Native American Art.   The textiles, crafts, and jewelry all seem to have a spirit/story that gives it a life of it's own.  And, the craftsmanship..........well, it's just exquisite.  

Native American artwork is crafted with care and patience, and is still handmade by many different tribes. These very skilled artist have many religious and spiritual beliefs which they infuse into their design.   As a result, the pieces are both beautiful and expressive. 

Wood has always been and still stands as one of the most worked-with materials in Native American art but there is so much more to the art.   Bone beads, seed beads, coral, silver, feathers, turquoise, seeds, animal skins and even porcupine quills are all used in the art and jewelry making as well. In other words they were "green" before we even thought about it.  Native  Americans love the earth and they believe in taking care of it.  Their relationship with the land is one of total inter-dependence.

Here is a a beautiful quote by Owatsinas of the Nuxalk nation that about sums it up.
"We must protect the forests for our children, grandchildren and children yet to be born. We must protect the forests for those who can't speak for themselves such as the birds, animals, fish and trees."
~ Qwatsinas, Nuxalk Nation

There will always be a special place in my heart for Native American design.  The skill, creativity, patience and love that goes into each piece makes the Art so very special.  

Here are a few of my favorites!

Cherio!