Ceramics Moody, Menorah’s Beauty

When people ask me about my design aesthetic, it can be a little bit hard to pin down at first. I think that there is much inspiration to be found in the unexpected. Some elements always hold true for Warmhouse Story. I am drawn to a moody depth of color. I am inspired by time and place and enjoy using classic design elements- many with Victorian inspiration. I spend a lot of time considering nature and the nuance of color in live and dried botanicals. However, it is the mix of unexpected objects from my collaborators that provides me with the design challenges that keep me on my toes. Sometimes the work of others is modern. Sometimes classic. Working with Bebe Federmann though, hit me in a magical place. Let me tell you why.

Bebe has a way of mixing modern, classic and expressive design aesthetics within a single object. Particularly in her bowls (used heavily in this vignette), Bebe gives me all the handsome and playful feels.

From my perspective, three intriguing design elements found in her bowls make them sing to me. The shapes and curvature are essentially modern. The treatment and thoughtfulness of her double and triple rim details bring in classic design. The form language in the feminine flair of her form, as seen from the side angle, reminds me of something historic from times gone by. This perfect combination gives the pieces great versatility. I love working with them and you will, indeed, see more of them in my work.

As for Lisa’s items from Peace, Love, Light, of the many options used in this display and others to come, her wooden Star of David and Salt Menorah had a huge influence on palette.

The wood star served as the foundational inspiration for the botanical work. The star is simple (just wood and twine) but serves as a base for various additions. In this case, it becomes the “Focal Flower” of my floating arrangement. There are so many ways to use this beauty and I hope you will consider ordering one from her shop.

The star is indeed wonderful, but when Lisa told me that she was sending me a menorah made of salt from the Holy Land, I was intrigued to say the least. Upon opening the package and holding the smooth and delicate cylinders in my hand, I was moved to tears. From a menorah! Looking at each cylinder up close, you see the sediment and variegated color that makes each one unique. I am a sucker for things that come from a special time and place and this menorah fits the bill. It makes me feel connected to my ancestors and I promise to use these nine beauties for many years to come.

The final elements from my Curio Cabinet were thrifted copper accessories. I am a bit fickle when it comes to copper. It seems to rise in fall in popularity from a trend perspective more quickly than other metals. Perhaps it is the reduction of its current popularity in retail now that provoked me to use it for this vignette. I’m so glad that I did pepper it in because I feel that it helps the entire story feel less expected.

The mix created from these Curio Cabinet landed exactly how I intended. This Hanukkah story is warm, beautiful, and filled with dimension. Isn’t that exactly how Hanukkah should be?

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