Design Palate Finds At The New York International Gift Fair

So excited to tell you all about my first visit to the New York International Gift Fair this weekend! In addition to having an amazing time looking at all sorts of design candy--from home furnishings to fashion and accessories--I met with some of the most amazing and talented people. My best finds were in the Handmade Global Design division, which showcased artisan-made items from all over the world. Let's check them out, shall we? (P.S. if you click on the images, it will take you to more info about the product.)

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Amazing detail, don't you think? This vase, called the Three Leaf Fish Vase, was made by an artisan from San Juan de Oriente in Nicaragua and is showcased in the U.S. with the wonderful help of Chaka MarketBridge. I'll tell you more about that in another post!

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I love the colors of these woven textiles from India.

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LOVE! these pillows. Such beautiful craftsmanship by the talented women living in the rural communities near Tegucigalpa, Hondoruas. More on their story on another post too!

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This is a garden wall art made out of the base of an oil steel drum by an artisan in Haiti. What a marvelous way to repurpose used bins!

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During the Autumn, ever think of turning that pile of leaves that fall on your yard into eco-friendly lamps?? Well, eangee home design had a great idea and ran with it...working with artisans in the Philippines to make these colorful beauties for you.

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Malaysian woodcarving by Norhaiza Noordin, mastercarver. This little image does not do the real pieces justice. When I meet Norhaiza, he was sketching plans for a beautifully intricate wood-carved bed. He's an amazing artist all around.

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A gorgeous wood cabinet with mother-of-pearl inlay from Syria.

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And one of my very faves, Egyptian ceramics at the Aid to Artisans booth.

What do you think? Amazing pieces aren't they? Know of more artisan-made home furnishings and accessories? Let us know!

A Walk Around DC's Capitol Hill...From NE to SE and Back

It was Saturday afternoon.

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The Hubby and I had a craving...

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for this strawberry-yummy-goodness....

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So we went here, at our neighborhood Good Stuff Eatery, and along the way we came across these beauties.

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For interior shots, check out the Washington Post's feature of this home!

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This one is actually our dream home in the neighborhood. One of these days, the Hubby and I might just walk up to the front door in our Sunday's best, knock, and say, "We know you're not quite ready to sell, and we're not quite ready to buy. But 15 years from now, when your kids are grown and you want to downsize, please call us first so we can have the chance to live joyfully in your home."

Aboriginal Art

Came across these design treats the other day after discovering one on the wall of ish and chi. I just love the energy and richness of the colors of these pieces as well as the meaning and intent behind their creation. Aboriginal art has blossomed in recognition in recent years thanks for folks like Sabine Haider, owner and director of Central Art (in Australia), and of galleries like Artlandish, who have provided the world with the opportunity to learn about and cherish such beautiful pieces. Here are some that suited my sweet tooth. Click on each to learn more about the pieces and their artists.

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More about Lily Napangardi here.

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[caption id="attachment_793" align="aligncenter" width="584" caption="Womens Dreaming by Debra Young Nakamarra"][/caption]