Sunflowers & Stories

Hi home lovers,

A fortnight ago I told you all about my holidays and how they got my creative juices flowing. In fact, I was so inspired that I decided to give my own sitting room a little refresh.

Nothing huge, just the kind of simple (but oh, so effective!) changes that I often suggest as part of my Home Styling with K service. I replaced lampshades and cushions, painted the fireplace surround as well as the mirror. I then headed to the local Clevedon Art Fair to find a piece of art that would bring the room to life.

Just these few things can honestly make a world of difference. It doesn’t have to be rocket science.



[Photo: Sarah Heppner Sunflowers]

Another week another art fair...

After my success at Clevedon’s little art fair, I couldn’t wait to head to the much larger annual art fair in Bath last weekend.

Taking place in the lovely Bath Pavilion, Bath Art Fair showcases contemporary art work, everything from acrylics to etching, textiles, ceramics and glass from independent artists from all over the country.

I spent a very pleasant hour and a half wandering around the stands, chatting to the artists. It was a lovely relaxed atmosphere with absolutely no pressure to buy. They were simply happy to talk about their inspiration and share their processes.



[Photos: Art work from my own living room & Sarah Heppner]

Colourful wall art

Whenever I visit these exhibitions I’m amazed by how much creative talent we have in this country and the passion they show for their art. I talked to one lovely artist about his amazing story (more of that below) and admired the intricate textile art, and just how long it must take to create.

And of course, you know me – I loved the fact there was plenty of bright colours and bold florals throughout.

[Photo: Jacky Hawthorn]

Art with a story

One of my favourite exhibitors – not least because he was just really lovely to chat to, was Richard from the Point Paper Art Co.

Originally weavers, Richard’s family owned factories in Bradford throughout the 20th Century, working with fabric designers such as Jane Churchill and Designers Guild.

He has now brought together an extensive archive of designs from across Europe and uses them to create beautiful works of art with a very distinct heritage. I especially love that if you look closely you can still see the numbers in the margins.

[Photos 5. Art made from weavers patterns]

One thing I love about art fairs is you’re almost certain to come across things you hadn’t previously been looking for. And for me, this time, that was the glass art. What a fantastic collection of British and American artists so many interesting techniques!

I’m still considering buying one of their glass bowls with silver leaf and a stunning cut pattern to allow the light through.

And yes, I did see a few pieces with some clients in mind so watch this space.

[Photos: Mermaid Bowl – Allister Malcolm & Woven Red – Layne Rowe]