Artwork of the Week: Long Braid

Long Braid by Diem Chau

porcelain plate, silk, thread, 6.25" in diameter

Tomorrow marks the second anniversary of Swings & Arrows! Hurray!! So I thought as our gift to you I'd find an Artwork of the Week to commemorate the occasion that blends the traditional (cotton) with the modern (china), something I think we strive to accomplish here daily. 

Artist Diem Chau embroiders drawings on a fine silk muslin that is stretched like canvas across various serving dishes. The effect is quite ethereal, an image floating just above the surface of a saucer or bowl. My favorite pieces are the ones where the line comes off the canvas, engaging the territory around the work, or when the thread pools in the space beneath the scrim.  

You can see more of Chau's work on her website: www.diemchau.com

- Cathleen 

Let's Toast!

I really want to eat toast on this toast plate

by Charlotte Mei

- Cathleen 

His and Hers Christmas Wish List Part FINAL

In case you've been avoiding your calendar, Christmas is now only 7 days away which also means this is the last installment of the His and Hers Christmas Wish List! I know, I'm sad too. With no further ado, here are my final picks.

Hers Pick #Final: John Derian Decoupaged Plate 

Some Fish

$185

Beached Narwahl

$175

Balais En Blaireau 240

$175

Pasta

$165

I'm slightly obsessed with John Derian. I once went into his shop in NYC with Cashleen and asked the store clerks if he was there. They said he had just left and it took all sorts of restraint to keep me from running through the streets screaming his name! 

Derian's plates come in various sizes with a large collection of images. The prices vary, but a large plate is usually about $200. 

These are always the best gift for a lady who loves anything beautiful! Check out his website for tons of other cool pieces. 

His Pick #Final: Orvis Gold Rush Chronograph

Orvis has hit gold (har har) with their Gold Rush Chronograph watch. Aptly priced at only $149, this watch is smart and affordable.

It's always a challenge to find a nice mens watch that doesn't break the bank, but with its leather strap and brass mounts, this watch achieves perfection. 

Well, everyone, that puts to bed my His and Hers Christmas Wish List Countdown. I hope you enjoyed it! Cathleen is on for tomorrow and I'll be back on Thursday and Friday for fresh musings in art.

-Grace