Maybe it's my 1970s early childhood, or my love of all things California, but I have a soft spot for wall hangings, when they're simple and not too crunchy. Sally England works only on commission—that's how much care and time is put into her deceptively simple macrame pieces. I like how some of them are just a bit glammed up, with a shot of bright color or gold tubing.
Well, that was a long break! I got lots of inspiration in California, which I'll share soon, but first, let's look at this textile art by New Zealander Jane Denton. She uses color beautifully, and her work couldn't be simpler and more perfect. It's both modern (clean lines, abstraction) and a throwback (embroidery!). It's just a little bit girly—but not too. I recommend a lot of art on this blog, but I really might have to buy one of these pieces for myself.
A friend just sent me images of some fun furniture upholstered with suzanis...and inspired me to seek out the fabric itself. These Central Asian pieces look great framed, made into pillows, draped over a bed or sofa—and they're best in a sleek, fairly minimalist setting. (I especially like framing them; it's like you're taking something tactile and humble, and elevating it.) I prefer the slightly more modern, stylized examples, but the classic styles are great too. Etsy and eBay have tons; click through to the ones I've found, or just search your own. The amateur photography (fingers in the frame, wrinkled surfaces) is part of the charm.
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