Tag Archives: Art

Get Thee to the Frick – Picasso’s Drawings, 1890-1921

Art Inspiration Travel No Comments

On Monday night I was lucky enough to attend the opening of the Picasso exhibit at the Frick. The Frick is one of my favorite museums in New York and the exhibition was outrageously fabulous. “Picasso’s Drawings, 1890-1921: Reinventing Tradition” follows his work over three decades and with only 61 works on display it was an enjoyable and easy way to see Picasso.

Some of my favorite’s:

This one blew my mind. They had a drawing Picasso did when he was 8 or 9 years old. Hercules 1890 below:

Portrait of the Artist’s Father 1896 is below. Done only 6 years after the drawing above.  His talent grew incredibly- amazing.

Sorry about the size of the image… I loved this one in person, the colors and mixed media gave it such a wonderful feel. Portrait of Antoni Sabates 1899:

Seating nude and Standing Nude 1906 is below.

Yellow Nude 1907 below:

Still Life with Chocolate Pot below. 1909

The New York Times covered the exhibit today: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/07/arts/design/lines-that-kept-moving-and-knew-no-boundaries.html

Buy your tickets online and go see this exhibit before it is gone: http://www.frick.org/exhibitions/picasso/

xo,

S

Continue reading →

1st Dibs Wednesday’s Picks

Antiques Art Homes Inspiration Interior Design Shopping No Comments

As usual, 1st Dibs has a huge selection of fabulous new pieces. Here are some of my favorites:

Glam pair of french cobra sconces

France
1960’s
Pair of French brass sconces in form of a cobra, newly electrified with vintage metal shades. Converted from candle sconces.  This pair would look amazing on either side of a door or a large bookshelf.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=437641

Silver leafed pagoda console by James Mont

USA
1950’S
This Beautiful silver leafed Pagoda console by JAMES MONT retains its original silver leaf finish which is in outstanding condition. The console has three cut out decals which support the pagoda top and has three drawers, with the center one which is braded “JAMES MONT DESIGN”

Measurements
height: 27.25 in.
depth: 19 in.
width/length: 6 ft. 5 in.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=440319

Feather Headdress

Cameroon
late 20th century
Ceremonial feather hat worn by Fon(kings) and senior dignitaries in various kingdoms of the Grassfields region of Cameroon. Originally the coloration of this kind of hat was more subdued and its construction allowed folding in for storage. Later on the colors became more vivid and the construction more rigid. It makes a wonderful and easy to use decorative element.  I love hanging these on walls to add a textural element to the room.  The feathers and the color are fun and bring a bit of whimsy as well.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=441002

A pair of porcelain elephant lamps

Italy
1980’s
A majestic pair of Italian ceramic elephant busts that have been mounted on acrylic
bases and wired as lamps….Funky and fabulous!

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=439732

Beautiful Swedish Rococo Writing Desk

Sweden
Circa 1760
Period Swedish rococo writing desk, circa 1760, with original hardware and secondary blue paint. Three drawers in the bowed front with a smaller drawer just under the drop leaf. The interior features two banks of three drawers on either side, as well as other drawers and compartments. Original bun feet.  This desk is similar to a secretary I purchased for a client ( you can see it in my portfolio).  I can’t tell you how many requests? comments I get on that piece.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=440345

Ox Weathervane

American
19th century
Attributed to Howard & Co., Bridgewater, Massachusetts.
Ca. 1854-67.
The imposing size suggests that this Ox Weathervane was made on commission for a large barn. It is perhaps the largest example by Howard & Co. known to date. It is an exceptional piece based on its sculptural form, size, and virtually untouched condition. I love the way the colors fade on this piece.  Measurements:  height: 22 1/2       depth: 6 7/8       width/length: 35 in.

Pressed Botanicals

France
20th Century
A collection of herbiers from the 1900’s. The color preservation is out of this world… they are quite spectacular, but it person they are even more magnificent.

12 available.
Inquire for more photos.
Sold individually.

Measurements
height: 22.5 in.
width/length: 17.25 in.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=435947

French Console

France
mid 1800’s
Dark walnut shows through the soft, aged gray paint.

Measurements
height: 30 in.
depth: 29 in.
width/length: 10 ft.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=438148

Pair of branch coral lamps on coquina stone bases

USA
Late 20th C.
A pair of branch coral lamps, mounted on coquina stone, with matching finials. I love the green shades and how full the coral branches are. Perfect for a large room that needs some fun.

Measurements

height: 31 in.
width/length: 16″
diameter: 7.5 in.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=439801

19th century anglo indian carved swing

India
19th Century
Fully hand tooled swing, teak wood. Used for the Royal Queen’s palace during British Raj in India.  This is your statement piece.  This would look incredible at the edge of a garden or in a grove.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=440468

Happy Shopping!

xo,

S


Continue reading →

Licking Out Of The Same Bowl

Art Inspiration Interior Design Shopping 1 Comment

Last night I attended the opening of the Natasha Law and Lucy Soni exhibition showing at the Diane von Furstenberg Gallery. Playing with the idea that both Law and Soni employ a concentration of vivid colors in their respective works, it is as if each is dipping into the same paint bowl. Viewed together, the works celebrate color, form, and, gesture, and yet uphold each painter’s singular and distinctive compositional artistry.

The exhibition was beautiful- with all of the vivid colors jumping of the stark white gallery walls it was hard to pick a favorite. One of my clients managed to do so and I know they will be thrilled with their new piece!

Natasha Law has gained international recognition for her signature female silhouettes. Rendered in a variety of media, including high-gloss paint on aluminum and assembled cut paper, Law’s works observe color, tone, and contrast. She examines the movements of bodies and flesh in space, and the folds and shapes that create forms, figures, and the experience of the body in the world. At once soft and bold, delicate and strong, each work is sensitively delivered and entirely emotive. Educated at Camberwell College of Arts, in London, Law shows with Eleven Fine Art, in London, and through Voltz Clarke, in Manhattan. Voltz Clarke featured Law in the solo show FOLD in 2006.

Lucy Soni examines the dichotomy between mother and child, the yearning of parents to protect and control, and the desire of the trained artist to manage the naïve. Moved by her infant daughter’s crayon scribbles, Soni first began incorporating unlearned marks into abstract colored pencil drawings. Over the course of two years, these drawings developed into large-scale oil canvases, which were highlighted by Voltz Clarke in December of 2005. That group show, LONDON BRIDGES, also included works by Shane Bradford and Michael Marra. Born in Kent, England, Soni received her degree from the Chelsea College of Art and Design, in London.

Go and see for yourself:

Opening: May 19, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Viewing: May 19 to June 2, and afterwards by private appointment ( email info@voltzclarke.com )
Location: Diane von Furstenberg Gallery, 440 West 14th Street, New York, New York

xo,

S

Continue reading →

Spring Sales at Christie’s

Antiques Art Shopping No Comments

In the next few weeks Christie’s has a series of exciting sales. The Post War and Contemporary Art Sale as well as the Impressionist/ Modern Art Sale will bring a great number of spectacular pieces to the auction block. Get your catalogue online now and get ready to start the bidding!

Post War and Contemporary Art Featuring Works From the Collection of Michael Crichton

New York

Sale: May 11th and May 12th 2010

Lot 35: Yves Klein

Le Buffle

Painted in 1960-1961

Lot 45: Andy Warhol

Silver Liz

Painted in 1963

Lot 7: Jasper Johns

Flag

Painted in 1960-1966

Lot 19: Pablo Picasso

Femme a la robe rose

Painted in 1917

Impressionist/ Modern Art Sale Featuring the Collection of Mrs. Sydney F. Brody

New York

Sale May 4th and May 5th 2010

Lot 6: Pablo Picasso

Nude, Green Leaves and Bust

Painted in 1932

Lot 10: Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Femme Accoudee

Painted in 1887

Lot 22: Henri Matisse

Nu au coussin bleu

Painted in 1924

Visit the Christie’s website for more information: http://www.christies.com/

xo,

S

Continue reading →

Todd Romano Showroom

Antiques Art Books Fabric Homes Inspiration Interior Design Shopping No Comments

Todd Romano’s shop is always a pleasure to visit. His love of color, fabric, and pattern comes through in each piece he has selected for his store.

In addition to his unique collections of antiques, furniture and unusual decorations, he carries wool dhurrie rugs designed by Langham and Fine, exclusive fabrics by Tillet and Northcroft and Bob Collins ( a favorite of mine- whimsical and brilliantly colored), and accessories. He also carries hand thrown ceramic lamps by Christopher Spitzmiller, which offer a unique custom like quality and are represented in a multitude of styles and shapes not to mention an exquisite color palette.

Recently relocated to The Fine Arts Building, in the heart of the design district after seven years on Lexington Avenue, his expanded showroom attracts regular traffic from America’s top decorators and tastemakers. Go to his store to experience his unique vision and well edited assortment that he has become famous for.

All the chairs in the store are special. Fabulous shapes, unique fabric, and fun scale make each one special. The quilting on the small grey chair is beautiful.

Throw pillows galore- Todd Romano keeps his store stocked with throw pillows upholstered in vintage yet modern prints in chic colors.

These wool dhurrie rugs designed by Langham and Fine are simply beautiful in person. I am eyeing one for my apartment. You can order custom sizes and colors.

1. Great Gatsby anyone? I love these glasses.

2. Lavender boxes- perfect for your dresser to keep stationary, jewelry, photos.

3. Tall mercury glass vase- the shape is beautiful and the silver fades on the neck for a clear finish.

4. The chinese dragon head on top of the armoire is huge and fantastic. What a fun prop!

5. The lamps, the silly ceramic frog cachepots and the beautiful deep greeny teal lacquered desk are all standouts.

Christopher Spitzmiller sells his hand made lamps here and they have a fabulous display. I love them all. The new baby lamps are perfect for an entry hall console or desk.

Visit the store:

The Fine Arts Building
232 East 59th Street
4th Floor
New York, New York 10022
(212)421-7722

9 am- 5 pm

xo,

S

Continue reading →

Amanda Talley

Art Inspiration Shopping 1 Comment

I have fallen in love with New Orleans artist, Amanda Talleys circular paintings. Her works show movement, light, and the colors speak to me. I have just purchased a pair for a client. Her walls are a soft lacquered sea foam blue and the yellow and orange circles will sing off of it. And at 38″ wide and 52″ high they will be a focal point in the room.

Adding a piece of two of abstract modern art is a great way to add personality to a space. I am dying to get my hands on one of her pieces for my new apartment. A few of my favorites:

Pair of Framed Drawings
30″ x 44″
Peach, Pink, Seafoam in White Frames

Pair of Framed Drawings
38″ x 52″
Grey, Black and Light Blues in White Frames

“THISTLE”
2007
72″ x 48″

“LAUREL STREET” – 2009
48″ Square
Acrylic on Birch Panel

See more of Amanda’s beautiful work at: http://www.amandatalley.com/


To purchase contact me or Amanda directly and mention Sara Gilbane Interiors

xo,

S

Continue reading →

West Village- Elizabeth Bauer Design

Antiques Art Books Fabric Homes Inspiration Interior Design Shopping 1 Comment

I was flipping through Vogue and saw much to my delight that they wrote an article about Elizabeth Bauer and her fabulous store. A girl after my own heart, Elizabeth loves the vintage find, french artists, and color, color, color! I stop in her store regularly to find that last minute, “must-have” for my clients. I snapped a few photos of some of her more irresistible finds while shopping a few days ago.

A pair of night stands with interlocking brass rings

Console table wrapped in navy leather and nail head trim

Ceramic Buddha Lamp

Black lacquered chest of drawers with large brass rings

A beautiful painting of a street in Paris- This reminds me of an illustration from Madeline

An original Charles Cobelle painting hung behind beautiful glass bottles with large stoppers

Another beautiful bottle perched on a Dorothy Draperesque swag wall mount

A pair of vintage ikat pouf from the estate of David Barrett

A collection of vintage prints by French artist SEM- these are always fun hung in a power room

1960’s Etagere with tassel motif and light

A pair of black and gold side tables with x bases- Dorothy Draper for Henredon

Red Lacquer chinoiserie style plug in sconces

Shagreen and brass cocktail table- sleek and stylish

Gorgeous pair of faux malachite side tables- low in height but beautiful!

Shop Elizabeth’s Store: http://elizabethbauerdesign.com/shop/

xo,

S

Continue reading →

Great Fashion Designers Homes

Antiques Art Books Fabric Fashion Homes Interior Design 1 Comment

It’s Fashion Week her in NYC we have seen some amazing pieces for Fall 2010. In the midst of the fashion madness I have found myself turning to some of the great designers homes as well as the runways for inspiration. Below are a few of my favorites.

Carolina Herrera: Just as classic and chic as her designs on the runway. Lots of stripes and yummy velvet.

I had to throw in these images of Carolina Herrera Jr’s home– both mother and daughter love red, stripes, and bold classic statement pieces. I love all the suzani! This is one of my favorite apartments of all time.

YSL: A legend who surrounded himself with exquisite objects. His home is a jewel box. You want to pick up and examine everything. He had an exceptional collection of paintings and art including works by: Picasso, Mondrian, Matisse, Goya, Ingres; and furniture from the Renaissance period to Art Deco period.

There is barely any room on the cocktail table…this man was a collector.

I love the above library

Marc Jacobs: Below are images of his three-story garden apartment on the Champ de Mars. Beautiful traditional moldings and paneling coupled with modern furniture makes for a fabulous apartment!

Lanvin: “Lanvin Blue” a cornflower shade of blue was the designers favorite color. The below rooms have been recreated in the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris.

The bathroom below is very glamorous- I love the floor and the pedestal sink.

Coco Chanel: Her home was above her boutique in Paris. Her home is used for photo shoots and press interviews. She had many black lacquered chinoiserie screens. Her home is quite opulent with glistening chandeliers and gleaming mirrors and lacquer but still feels intimate and comfortable. Coco Chanel did not have a bedroom her…she slept across the street at The Ritz- of course!

The tan suede sofa was one of Coco’s favorites and would sit on it while interviewing. The color and fabric were some of her favorites.

Valentino’s Capri Home 1971: I love all of this blue and white. Crisp and cool with beautiful patterns.

Oscar De La Renta’s home in Kent, CT: Gardens are perfection and I love the living room. The reds, greens, and creams keep the grand scale feeling intimate.

Oscar De La Renta: table setting 1971: this is so much fun- one of my favorites.

Christian Louboutin: Would you expect the man who makes the most fabulous shoes to live in a lack-luster home? The vibrant orange walls with the classic molding and vibrant rug- Love it!

xo,

S

Continue reading →

What’s In My Bookshelf

Antiques Art Books Fashion Interior Design Travel No Comments

ThiThis post should be called “what isn’t in my bookshelf”. I am a collector of books, therefore our bookshelves are overflowing with every type of book. Aside from my collection of magazines ( every issue of House Beautiful, Elle Decore, House and Garden, Domino, World of Interiors, and Veranda), fiction and non-fictions books, and clients folders, I have a huge collection of books that I reach for when I need inspiration. The topics range from textiles, to architectural styles, to fashion, to artists, to table settings, to hotels, to interiors, etc. You never know what might move you. Each client requires a fresh eye and a different style.

xo,

S

Continue reading →

French Watercolors for Sale

Art Homes Interior Design Shopping No Comments

A selection of watercolored gouaches on hand made paper and traditional lacquers signed by the naturalist painter La Roche Laffitte

Information on the artist and studio:

Born in 1943 in « Maisons Laffitte » France.

Contemporary artist specialized in watercolor gouaches.
An artist who finds his inspiration in the treasures of the nature and transcribes his vision of the animal and vegetal world.
All his works are unique, precious of a remarkable accuracy, the fruit of a minute observation. Framed in hand made beautiful parchment paper wrapped around wood.

La Roche Laffitte :
Education : Académie André Lhote 1960 – 1961

FL-8- Bright and happy – this can be hung as a pair with the below print or separately.

17″ x 21″

On sale for: $429.00 + shipping

FL-13- I love the bright wild petals of this flower. Its size makes it perfect for a bedroom, bathroom, or smaller space

17″ x 21″

On sale for: $429.00 + shipping

FOU-13- This is a beautiful print. The size lets you see all the details of the brush strokes. This would be a great piece for a living room, study, or hallway.

29″w x 42″h

On sale for: $1,200.00 + shipping ( retail price $2,000.00)

MOL-4- These shells are so realistic. The colors are beautiful.

21″ x 27″

On sale for: $612.50 + shipping

MOL- 8 – The soft curve of the nautilus shell in pale neutrals with deep chocolate brown accents.

21″ x 27″

On sale for $612.50 + shipping

POI-15- I love the soft blues, vibrant coral, acid green, and charcoal grey in this piece.

17″ x 21″

On sale for: $429.00 + shipping

POI-17 – The lanvin blue and acid yellow are so pretty.

17″ x 21″

On sale for: $429.00 + shipping

Email me with inquiries.

xo,

S

Continue reading →