Art and Interiors: Abstracts

My love of abstract art is no secret.  I love the colors and movement of the paintings like the one in Kelly Wearstler's home above.  I think a lot of people see abstract art as just paint slapped on a canvas but a lot of thought usually goes into the work.  Abstract Expressionist artist Joan Mitchell once said, "The freedom in my work is quite controlled, I don't close my eyes and hope for the best."  It's also clear from these examples that they can add life to any room.  I especially love abstract paintings from the 1960's mixed with furniture from the 18th-century.  Don't forget to visit the Abstract Expressionist exhibition at The Museum of Modern Art to learn more!

David Collins London flat.

Suzanne Kasler

Elle Decor, March 2008

David Hicks, 1964

Joan Mitchell painting from March 2010 Elle Decor.

Will Wick from Western Interiors magazine.

Elton John residence.

unknown

Celerie Kemble

Valentino's New York apartment.

Stephen Sills

Isabel Lopez Quesada

Stephen Elrod

Morris Louis painting in room by Stephen Sills.

Morris Louis on Reed Krakoff home.

Franz Kline in room by Miles Redd.

Courtney Giles

David Hicks

Mark Rothko, Willem de Kooning and Franz Kline paintings in Eastman apartment by Billy Baldwin and photographed by Horst.

Steven Gambrel

Heather Clawson

Matisse: Radical Invention 1913-1917

I had the pleasure of attending the preview for Matisse: Radical Invention, 1913-1917 exhibition yesterday at the Museum of Modern Art and was blown away. The exhibition is the same one that was on view at The Art Institute of Chicago this year and is the result of a five year collaboration between the two museums. This period at the beginning of Henri Matisse's career is thought to be one of the most significant chapters in his evolution as an artist. You can see how he was influenced by Paul Cezanne and later the cubist painters including Picasso. My favorite works are those he painted during his travels to Morocco including Zorah in Yellow from 1912. The colors of teal green, blue and orange were especially inspiring. The absolute highlight of the preview was that Matisse's grandson, Paul Matisse, was on hand for the opening and made a few remarks! Can you imagine being related to Henri Matisse?! The exhibition opens July 18 and runs through October 11, 2010. Timed tickets are required so sign up soon! I can already tell this is going to be a very popular exhibition!

Counter Space

I am excitedly marking my calendar for the opening of Counter Space: Design and the Modern Kitchen which opens at The Museum of Modern Art on September 15, 2010. As you can see from the photo of a kitchen in Frankfurt circa 1926, kitchen design has come a long way. Kitchens used to be relegated to the basement or out buildings, a lot of which had to do with fire prevention and the fact that many people had servants. A far cry from the wide open kitchen/family rooms that are the norm today! On display at the exhibition will be two complete kitchens, many appliances, and a range of artwork. Should be interesting!

Abstract Expressionism New York

Since I've been posting about art, I figured this would be a good time to tell you about a very exciting exhibition at The Museum of Modern Art this fall. Abstract Expressionism New York will trace the development of the artist movement from it's beginning in the 1940's through to the 1960's when it reached its zenith. The exhibition will be compiled from the museum's holding and will include over 300 works by such illustrious artists as Jackson Pollack, his wife Lee Krasner, Willem de Kooning (above), Mark Rothko, Arshile Gorky, Robert Motherwell, and Joan Mitchell. I know Abstract Expressionism doesn't appeal to everyone but it is one of my absolute favorite art movements. Since most of the works aren't representational, each person who views them can see something different or just appreciate them for their expansive use of color. Abstract Expressionism New York will be on view October 3, 2010 through April 25, 2011. See you there!

Henri Cartier-Bresson: The Modern Century

I don't normally like to visit museums on bright and sunny days but I may make an exception for the new Henri Cartier-Bresson exhibition that opens today at the Museum of Modern Art. Over 300 hundred photographs that span his amazing career will be on view until June 28, 2010. My favorites are his old world views of Europe and his modern look at America. I'd also say that he was the pioneer of today's popular street fashion photography. Can you imagine if Henri Cartier-Bresson had a blog?! I definitely wouldn't wait for a rainy day to see this amazing exhibition!

“It is through living that we discover ourselves, at the same time as we discover the world around us.” — Henri Cartier-Bresson, 1952

"Think about the photo before and after, never during. The secret is to take your time. You mustn't go too fast. The subject must forget about you. Then, however, you must be very quick." — Henri Cartier-Bresson

“Actually, I'm not all that interested in the subject of photography. Once the picture is in the box, I'm not all that interested in what happens next. Hunters, after all, aren't cooks.” — Henri Cartier-Bresson

“Photographers deal in things which are continually vanishing and when they have vanished there is no contrivance on earth which can make them come back again.” — Henri Cartier-Bresson

“The most difficult thing for me is a portrait. You have to try and put your camera between the skin of a person and his shirt.” — Henri Cartier-Bresson

“The creative act lasts but a brief moment, a lightning instant of give-and-take, just long enough for you to level the camera and to trap the fleeting prey in your little box.” — Henri Cartier-Bresson

“The photograph itself doesn't interest me. I want only to capture a minute part of reality.” — Henri Cartier-Bresson

Photos by Henri Cartier-Bresson

Why Don't You...

Why don't you...look into attending some of these great upcoming events in and around New York! First up is the International Fine Art and Antique Dealers Show that started yesterday at the Park Avenue Armory. I love attending this show since the art, antiques and jewelry on display are the best of the best. The dealers are also extremely generous and will take the time to answer questions and educate you about anything in their booth. One of my favorites is Maison Gerard pictured above. This show is definitely worth checking out even if you can't afford anything! Just be careful not to break anything!

International Fine Art and Antique Dealers Show

The Park Avenue Armory

Park Avenue at 67th Street

October 16 - 22, 2009

Check website for hours

Admission $20

I'm sure you have all heard of or attended the Kips Bay Decorator Show House but that's not the only event they sponsor. This Tuesday, October 20th, they are hosting their annual Designer House Tour. I will unfortunately be in High Point and will have to miss this great event which includes homes designed by Philip Gorrivan, David Kleinberg, Bilotta Kitchens, Cetra Ruddy, and many more. Don't forget to wipe your feet at the door!

Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club Manhattan Designer House Tour

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

10:00am - 4:00pm

Tickets $150 (tax deduction $125)

Call 718-893-8600 x 245 or buy online

Another exciting house tour coming up is the New York Junior League's 15th Annual Fall House Tour! After meeting for breakfast, you are on your own to hit as many or as few of the open houses as you wish. One of them that I know I am excited to see is Estee Lauder executive John Dempsey's amazing townhouse that was featured in the October 2009 issue of Elle Decor! This tour is a great way to peek inside the most fabulous homes in Manhattan to see how the other half lives!

The New York Junior League Fall House Tour
Saturday, October 24, 2009

10:00am - 6:00pm

Register online here for tickets

A reader reminded me about the Rooms with a View weekend of events in Southport, Connecticut coming up November 5th -8th and I'm so glad she did! I've heard great things about it and can't wait to experience it in person! The events include "These are a Few of My Favorite Things" vignettes created by designers including Alexa Hampton, Eddie Ross, Susan Oster Designs and many more, in addition to a marketplace with over 30 vendors. Wonder if Julie Andrews will be stopping by!

Rooms with a View

Southport Congregational Church

524 Pequot Avenue

Southport, Connecticut

November 5 - 8, 2009

Please check website for complete schedule

On display now through November 29th at The Metropolitan Museum of Art is Vermeer's Masterpiece The Milkmaid on loan from the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The exhibit also displays additional works by Vermeer and other Dutch artists and is cheaper than booking a flight to Holland!

Vermeer's Masterpiece The Milkmaid

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

1000 Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street
September 10 - November 29, 2009
Check website for hours

When I think of Monet, I don't usually think of the MoMA but now through April 12, 2010, the museum is exhibiting Monet's Water Lilies. The exhibit features the full group of Monet's late paintings in the collection and The Japanese Footbridge (above) is my absolute favorite! It's a perfect representation of fall colors. Too bad it currently feels like winter in New York! If you decide to visit, bundle up and head inside to one of these great events!

Monet's Water Lilies

The Museum of Modern Art

11 West 53rd Street

September 13, 2009 - April 12, 2010

Check website for hours