Bohemian Splendor

Featured in the July/August 2013 issue of Lonny Magazine is Actress Lake Bells Brooklyn backyard that was transformed in a day to a visual splendor. Layers of fabrics and rugs bring texture, color and exotic appeal to the backyard. I could laze and lounge, nope lets correct that. I could LIVE here forever. Just look at this!!!!

The day bed looks welcoming with the layers of fabrics and cushions thrown around.

The patterns and colors as diverse as they are, they are married together beautifully here.

Create an Alfresco dining of your own with wishbone chairs from World Market and a Pottery Barn bistro table. 

Love the Brass Parath used as a tray. 

Don't miss out on the beaded southwestern accent in the background. Want one of your own, check it out on etsy at http://www.etsy.com/shop/AlexandraStudio?ref=ss_profile   

Souvenirs from travels form part of an interesting display.

Finally, leaving you with the couple's prized alligator head. 

Images: http://www.lonny.com/magazine/July+August+2013 

Block Print – a pure craft form

What is it about block print that makes it so sought after?? For me it's the imperfections of block print, the vibrant and saturated colors, exquisite patterns and age old traditions adopted by the craftsmen of Rajasthan without mechanization or computerization in this day and age. The block printing process is labor intensive and and the tradition is strongest in the state of Rajasthan. The craft form is believed to have originated in China and is said to be over 2000 years old.

Textile exports from India have put it on the globe and block prints seems to be one of the most popular in home décor. I was glad, I came across SaffronMango an online boutique of Indian inspired Bedding and Linens. The boutique is owned by Anisha and is operated out of two home offices (one in Petaluma, California and the other in Pune, India). They design the products, and have them printed and put together in a couple of artisan owned studios in India.

These were my favorites from the store though I had a hard time selecting a few to showcase here. 

Breezy white sheers perfect for the summer.

White and Gold a classic combination.

Rich hues add a royal flair

Moroccan patterns in blue and brown are hard to resist.

Lend a touch of elegance with this royal blue and teal table runner

  

Saved the best for last.

Check out the visual presentation of the block printing process  and it hits you immediately how time consuming and scrupulous the whole process is. I assure you the next time your shopping for block print decor you won’t have second thoughts about getting one of these striking and absolutely gorgeous pieces of textile for yourself. 

Images are courtesy SaffronMango.

"My" Lady with the Lamp

I hope you guys had a wonderful weekend. It was a busy, fun filled weekend for my family. We had friends from India visiting us. There was a whole load of catching up to do as we were meeting after 5 long years. My 6 year old was super excited to have company.

Now coming to “Lady with the Lamp”. I’m NOT talking about the famous Indian painting by S.L.Haldankar. Unfortunately for S.L.Haldankar, this oil painting is sadly mistaken to be that of the renowned painter Raja Ravi Verma. What I love about this painting is the realistic style and the intricate details (the luminescent glow).Take one look at the painting below and you’ll know what I’m talking about.

Lady with the Lamp by S.L. Haldankar

I was referring to the brass Paavai Vilakku( as referred to in Tamil). It’s an oil lamp in the form of a lady holding a vessel with her palms. The Paavai Vilakku (the taller lady in the picture) is an heirloom piece that belonged to my great grandmother. The lamp is more than a hundred years old. It’s one of my prized possessions. On my vacation to India last summer, my mom was very generous and I soon had her lady with the lamp accompany me back to Virginia.

"MY " Lady with the Lamp

This form of lamp is said to be initiated by Roman settlers in south India. As time went by the artisans adapted them to suit the Indian needs and creative desires.

Don't be afraid to mix the old with the new

In the picture above the lady looks comfortable in her new setting for the evening paired with a carved wooden candle stand (from India) and a ceramic red jug (from Home Goods) holding Black-eyed Susan (best known wild flower). The name Black-eyed Susan comes from an Old English poem of the post-Elizabethan era entitled simply, “Black-Eyed Susan,” written by John Gay, 1685-1732.

Here is a close up of my collection of these charming ladies as they adorn my coffee table every single day.

Isn't this a wonderful way to enjoy a few minutes of "me time” on a summer evening on the deck ? 

Image 2,3,4 are clicked by Sruthi Singh.

(These images are the property of Sruthi Singh and are subject to copyright. Please do not use without prior written permission.)

Image 1 via blog.orangecarton.com

The Asian Influence

Buddha has always been one of the most popular décor elements in my home. His tranquil and composed stature always seems to spread vibrations of calm and peace. 

This graceful mudra (gesture) of Buddha’s hand pointing towards heaven symbolizes offering a way of peace and enlightenment. We found this wonderful piece at World Market and at once knew I had to have it.

The hand mudra together combined with the wild chicory flowers equates to nothing less than an exotic setting. To appreciate the splendor of these bright blue beautiful flowers one would have to wake up early cause once the sun is up the flowers  tend to close up for the rest of the day! Yup, I woke up early and didn't regret it one bit.  Researching about this common Virginia wildflower reveals that it has an ancient past and was used in cooking in Europe as the leaves bitterness is appreciated in certain cuisines. The plant also has medicinal properties.

A few sprays of these beautiful flowers transformed the coffee table at my place. The magic of fresh flowers is indisputable. Enjoy your long weekend and do drop in again on more of modest joys of life !!!! 

(Images clicked by Sruthi Singh).   

These images are the property of Sruthi Singh and are subject to copyright. Please do not use without prior written permission.