Culture
Cultural facts, history, traditions, events, festivals, foods and more from a location.
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Wanderlust Patterns: Tropical Paradise
Tropical leaves and birds are quite popular right now in textiles, home goods and even clothing. I enjoyed creating a collection of patterns and illustrations in line with this trend. It’s hard to deny the bold patterns, and burst of colors these designs can bring to a space. Of course, this collection is perfect for the summer season, but I can only imagine the smile on one’s face this imagery would bring in the dead of winter. There’s nothing like dreaming of the tropics all year long! If you are interested in licensing the illustrations or patterns in this collection, please contact me for details.
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On Location: Artist Homes – Jackson Pollock’s East Hampton Home
It fascinates me to see the environment in which famous artists lived and work. This wood shingled house in East Hampton, New York was home to the Abstract Expressionist Jackson Pollock and his artist/wife Lee Krasner. They moved from New York City to this home in 1945 and continued to be quite prolific painters with Pollock’s studio upstairs for a bit (then in the adjacent barn) and Krasner’s studio in the bedroom. Even with Pollock’s challenges with alcoholism and depression, he was able to paint some of his most famous masterpieces in this house. The home is now the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center of Stony Brook University. It is…
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Wanderlust Patterns: A Day at the Shore
Summer is around the corner and what could be better way to spend the day than at the shore, or on the Cape for that matter! Here’s my latest summertime, seaside inspired pattern collection called “A Day at the Shore.” Lobsters in nets, colorful buoys, seashells, fishing boats and stripes come together for a collection that transport you to Cape Cod even for those who live in a desert. If you are interested in licensing the illustrations or patterns in this collection, please contact me for details.
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Wanderlust Patterns: Bali Om Surface Design and Illustrations
A yoga retreat in Bali is one of those dream vacations I would love to take some day. I will admit, I’m not that adept at yoga, and have only taken a few classes, but the thought of learning more about the benefits of yoga while practicing in a gorgeous location as Bali sounds blissful. While dreaming of this trip, I created some surface design patterns that capture the essence of this location. A colorful print of yoga positions with iconic Bali scenery such as the rice terraces, a meditative hut and the beautiful Taman Ayun Temple in Mengwi; iconic lotus flowers; meditative mandalas; and a rich tye dies fabric…
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Wanderlust Patterns: Frida Loteria Surface Design Collection
Having just finished a biography about Frida Kahlo I was eager to illustrate a portrait of her. She is by far one of the most iconic artists in history, most likely from her very progressive yet challenging life she lead. From a severe accident when she was young that lead her to a lifetime of disabilities and ailments to her tumultuous relationship with Diego Rivera and vivid art work it’s no wonder people honor her. I loved pairing Mexican loteria cards with her portrait. The symbolic nature of the cards seem to pair nicely with her mystic. I also enjoyed creating the serape-inspired striped pattern. It is the perfect complement to…
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Studio News: Wanderlust Designer is Heading to Surtex 2017
I am so excited to announce that I will be making my debut at Surtex, this year! This has been a goal of mine for some time, and I am ready to take the plunge! I have loads of new art work to share– and am excited for new opportunities. Feel free to contact me to set up an appointment and definitely stop by booth 2725 for a visit. See you there! Surtex – May 21-23, 2017 Javits Convention Center, New York City
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On Location: Dream Trips – Romantic Getaway Paris, France and Free February 2017 Wallpaper
Although we know, Paris is always a good idea, I think in these long winter months, it is even more than a good idea, it is a must do! Even with cold weather, and the high chance of grey skies, a romantic getaway in February is a great way to get rid of any winter funk. Before kids, my husband and I would alternate years in coming up with a surprise February weekend getaway. Unfortunately, we could only get away for the weekend, but we still managed some very memorable escapes. The surprise weekend away where I needed a passport was of course one that I will never forget! I have yet to visit Paris in…
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Culture: Food – Fresh Farmers Markets in the South and East
When exploring any city, I love to head over to the local farmers market. It’s always a great way to a flavor of the local scene as well as pick up some delicious bites to eat. Here are some must-see farmers markets along the eastern seaboard! Charleston Farmers Market – Charleston, South Carolina Located in the heart of the historic district in Marion Square, the Charleston Farmers Market supports Lowcountry farmers and growers, artisans and crafters, live performers and community groups. From locally grown produce to Southern specialties, residents from the entire Lowcountry region and tourists alike enjoy this farmers market tradition. The Market at Pepper Place – Birmingham, Alabama Serving…
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Culture: A World of Flavors – Ethiopian Berbere Spice Mix
The Ethiopian spice mix called Berbere (pronounced ber-beray) is a fiery spice blend that is a key ingredient in much of Ethiopian cuisine. It is a combination of 14 different flavorful and earthy spices. Rub this spice mix on meats, liberally season stews and add a dash to grains and lentils. Serve with the spongy flatbread, injera, for a delicious, memorable Ethiopian meal. Ethiopian Berbere Spice Mix Recipe 3/4t ground cardamom 1t ground cumin 1/4t ground cinnamon 1t ground tumeric 1/2t ground fenugreek 1/4t ground nutmeg 1/4t ground all spice 1 1/2t ground coriander 1/2t ground ginger 1/2t ground cloves 1t black pepper 1t salt 2T cayenne pepper 3T paprika…
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On Location: Dream Trips – January Hit the Slopes: Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia and Free Calendar Wallpaper
January is the perfect time to hit the slopes and Whistler Blackcomb in beautiful British Columbia, Canada is one of the best places to go! Not only is it the largest ski resort in North America, with slopes for all abilities and ages, it was also home to the 2010 Winter Olympics making it a world class resort for much more than just skiing. I was able to snowboard there many years ago for an adventuresome long weekend. We flew from San Francisco to Vancouver, and spent the night enjoying this world class city filled with urban attractions and surrounded by incredible nature. The next day, we drove the scenic Sea to…