Inspiration

I am in an advanced studio class this semester in college, and I have hit a bit of a rut in terms of motivation. Luckily, my high school art teacher, who has always inspired me, came to speak to the art students about her work, travels, and process in image making. She was the breath of fresh air I needed to get back in the studio and work. Her passion for life and her amazing stories from her travels abroad make me want to pack my bags and see everything I possibly can. On her blog, one thing in particular she wrote stood out to me recently...
"I suggest if you do not know what it is, have it.
What you do at home, leave it.
Of expectations, have none."

Here are some other artists that are inspiring me right now...

Cy Twombly paints gigantic beautiful paintings with amazing marks and color.

Sam Francis's paintings are so energetic.

Tim Walker's ethereal photographs make we want to live in his wonderlands. They truly bring out the child-like imagination in me.

Text as Art

This past weekend, I saw this print at a gallery on Main Street, and thought it was a very refreshing twist on neighborhood art. The "LOVE" sculpture is so often seen, that I feel it loses its meaning and becomes an image that has already been digested for us due to its endless reproductions. This print really caught my eye and made me look at Philadelphia and its inhabitants differently.

Dividing the different boroughs and districts of Philadelphia through text illuminates its cultural diversity and the richness of an eclectic city. The divisions show the history of the city, and its growth that can be experienced today. This unconventional depiction is a modern twist on old maps, while still maintaining the charm of its subject. I love the different sizes and direction the text reads-it makes the image much more dynamic and energetic. I ordered my own 18"x24" print in grey and blue.

Ork Posters has mapped many cities like Philadelphia, so check out their website to get a piece of your own hometown on your wall.

Thinking Spring

Spring daylight savings is always a much needed welcome from the winter. We finally have longer days, brighter evenings, and the beginnings of what looks like better weather. Though the weather around Philadelphia has been chilly (though slowly warming up), I am ready to jump into spring, start working on my flower and vegetable gardens, and surround myself with colorful blooms. Peonies are my favorite flower-they smell amazing, and are very feminine. I always want a few bouquets of them around my house when they are in season, and just looking at these arrangements makes me even more anxious for the warmer weather to arrive.

Enjoy the anticipation of spring!!

Sunday Wish List

There are always items that I want to add to my closet that are a little out of my price range but would be great forever pieces in my wardrobe. Classic lines, timeless designs, as well as their quality craftsmanship are what make them most appealing. Nonetheless, I have accumulated quite the list of pieces that are "someday" buys.

I feel like good, classic outerwear is one of the best clothing investments you can make. They last forever, and can even be passed down to younger generations. This Barbour jacket is not only versatile, but it isn't too trendy that you can't wear it year after year. My mom's Burberry trench coat is another perfect example-it's lasted her almost 30 years and still looks beautiful.

Ever since I can remember, Christian Louboutin pumps have always given me butterflies. They are the perfect high heel and each pair can tell a story. Though I want every pair, their black patent leather pumps would get the most use from me. 

A purse with simple lines and good quality leather can outlast any trend. This Prada tote would make a great everyday bag, and would make any outfit look instantly more chic.

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes...

Where do I even begin. My love for shoes is absolutely unhealthy. Shoes are my drug of choice. I lust after a good pair, and once I find some that are (almost) within my price range, I will scour and save until I can get them.
This pair of Cole Haan boots were one of the best investments I ever made, and I waited anxiously waited until they went on sale, praying they would still have my size somewhere on the internet. (luckily the King of Prussia store still had a pair!)
Even though I always love to put on a good pair of boots, (I am always on the hunt for the perfect pair) I am ready to get a pedicure and wear some shoes that don't cover every inch of my feet. Nothing reminds me of warmer weather than a pair of espadrilles and wedges. Putting them on requires me to be outside, enjoying the warm sunshine, and reading a wonderful book.

This pair has a slender heel with great textured straps.

These Nine West espadrilles would look great with a pair of rolled olive green military pants and a flowy bohemian top.

A simple pair of wedges for work.

Things I am excited for...

Spring cannot get here soon enough. I am ready to abandon my many layers and wear lighter, feminine clothes. I got a beautiful dress from Anthropologie that I will put up shortly (it's no longer available on their website). A few other things I need want in my wardrobe...

This flirty dress from Piperlime. It's only $44.00!

A beautiful maxi dress from Anthropologie. Perfect for a garden party.

A subtly sexy dress for a night out.

It's pretty obvious I am craving light, flowy layers that show a little skin that's been covered up for months. Spring Break at my college is almost here, and that always triggers my urge to put away my sweaters and break out my dresses again, even if the weather doesn't allow them. A few more weeks of incorporating lighter items with another cardigan and then it's back to feeling the crisp, fresh air of spring.

Tied in Knots

I spent the weekend in Philadelphia with my boyfriend, and we had all day Saturday to explore the city. We started in Reading Terminal Market for an early lunch, and then walked towards Rittenhouse Square (we ended up driving there, it was way too cold and windy). On our way there, we found ourselves on 13th street, which has some amazing shopping and restaurants.
We went into Open House, a little shop that has jewelry, furniture, etc. etc. etc. Everything was very unique and quirky.
I loved their stationery and jewelry in particular. I ended up buying this knotted sterling silver ring. It is very delicate, but definitely reflected the romantic mood I was in, considering it was Valentine's Day weekend.

Open House is located at 107 S. 13th Street in Philadelphia
I suggest going and looking around, they have great gift ideas for anyone and wonderful additions to any home or apartment.

Do you have any shopping suggestions in the city? Let me know! I'm always looking for new places to go.