Wednesday, May 25, 2011

NYC: Quilts from the American Folk Art Museum

Anyone who knows me knows I have a love and fasincation with folk arts. It does not matter what country we are talking about. However, I have a special place in my heart for Hungarian folk arts (especially Matyo).

While in NY, I went to the American Folk Art Museum where they are having a fantastic 12 month series of exhibits of quilts. My friend Judith and I headed over to take a look. I was so happy I was allowed to take photos.

one of my favorites-dated 1876
dated 1930-1935
dated 1876
I am fascinated by the hand detail. I like that the whole quilt is white. dated 1800-1820
dated 1930-1940
This one looks like it is made from felt. Where the colors meet it is very meticulously stitched together.
The museum is located next to the Moma. The weather was awful that day so it was perfect for a museum. If you are in NYC head over and take a look at this exhibit-it is worth the trip!


Tuesday, May 24, 2011

NYC: Surtex and The High Line

It is hard to believe that Surtex was just last week. It was awesome. My first time attending and it was fun and exhausting! I worked the Group Four booth for 2 days and learned a ton! It was great to be able to hear client comments and really get a feeling for what people are looking for when they buy art. I have returned back to Budapest with inspiration and motivation (two things that I was having trouble with when I left For the States a month ago.)

The Group Four crew taking a break after a mad rush of people.
It is always great to see my friends of Sisters Gulassa, Cyrille and Lisa. Lise lives in California and Cyril in Vienna. I am determined to visit Cyrille soon-we live so close to one another!
I am thinking of having a booth myself next year. I am truly torn. Have you had a booth at Surtex? Was is it good for you?

Before the show I spent 3 days shopping, walking and enjoying NYC! I really love that town. I have been wanting to visit The High Line the past few visits. This time I got there.

The High Line was originally built in the 1930's to life dangerous freight trains off the streets. Section 1 of the High Line is open as a public park. It is fantastic! The way they have kept the train tracks and have integrated it into the park is genius!

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Most inspiring designer...Mother Nature!

I am back in Budapest and have a backlog of photos to share. I am starting with two weeks ago in Cincinnati. I talked my dad and husband into heading over to the Khrone conservatory for the butterfly exhibit-Butterlies from Brazil. AMAZING!

Let me start by saying I love Khrone conservatory. I love the flowers, the smell, the warmth (except on a day when it is 85 and humid). Below are a few photos from the ongoing exhibit of flowers.
the flowers look like fondant.
And now the butterflies! My husband is perplexed on how I can HATE bugs but I don't freak out with butterflies flying and landing on me. The exhibit is amazing-butterlfies everywhere!!
I had no idea their bodies were polka dots!
the round "tongue" makes me giggle.
the detail of spots on the body is amazing.
Who's looking at ya?
How many butterflies can you count?
Mother nature is the best designer, don't you agree?

Thursday, May 12, 2011

Surtex and The National Stationery Show

I leave for NYC today! Woohoo!

I will be participating in 2 HUGE shows Sunday!

First, Surtex. It is a huge show offering both licensed and non licensed artwork. I have been represented by Group Four for about a year and a half. (They sell my non licensed art-over 400 pieces!) I love working with them! They have a solid group of artists who pump out some pretty amazing stuff! And a good variety of artwork for paper products, clothing, kidswear and women's. If you are at Surtex-check them out!

All artwork on the below advert is from yours truly.
Second show is the National Stationery Show. I have been collaborating with Ipop for over 2 years and have a number of magnet products and art drop necklaces with them. There are 2 new collections being launched at the show! Stop by and ask for my collections!
If you are interested in collaborating with me, send me an email at diane@dianekappa.com or call me at 206.905.9677. I will be in NY until the 19th and can meet up at any time.

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Cincinnati murals

Driving around Cincinnati I keep seeing these murals. They are each different but the same style. Anyone know who the art is? I love them!
Heading to NYC tomorrow. I will be hanging out until Sunday with Steve and then off to Surtex and the National Stationery Show! Photos coming soon!

Monday, May 9, 2011

A gift.

A few months ago I shared with you that my sweetie was heading off to Afghanistan for a job. We are right now enjoying his first R&R (rest & relaxation). That is why my blog has been been a bit sporadic lately.

Anyway, my birthday was 2 weeks ago and was amazing because I got to spend it with the most important and special person to me. On top of that he gave me !3! hand-made Afghan rugs! They are so beautiful! I took photos today but the colors look so washed out on the photos. You will have to use your imagination for now.

This one is 100% wool. The pattern is fantastic!

This one is my favorite-100%silk! The yellow really is that bright yellow!
This is the backside of the silk rug. I love looking at all the hand work.
This is made of 50% wool and 50% silk. The red is intense!
I love the rugs but more importantly, I love that they were picked out by my best friend especially for me. Still the best gift was when I heard a knock on the door and saw his face for the first time in 4 months.

Hillbilly Heaven...Gatlinburg

Last week my sweetie, in-laws and myself headed to Hillbilly Heaven...or better known as Gatlinburg:) My father graciously gave us the keys to his cabin for the 4 days-thanks Dad! We had a great time walking around downtown and relaxing in the hot tub in the evenings. I had fun taking photos of all the crazy signs and fonts....and sweets.

jelly beans or rocks?
candy!!
I love the font, colors and swirls!
Love the circus signs...serious inspiration. Don't be surprised if you see this turn into a whole collection.