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Shopping blog featuring products made by people not factories.

Lost on the Midway – A new collection from The Black Apple

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After some homework it seems to me that Emily Martin of The Black Apple is one of the first sellers to set up shop on Etsy – back at its beginning – just 5 short years ago!

While many of you have seen her work before, I am head over heels with her latest collection and also very excited to see her new book which will be released on Nov. 2nd of this year, so wanted to make sure both are on your radar.

Her newest paintings center around a country fair – with a twist. Lost on the Midway is a fun, whimsical collection with a touch of the unusual, just what so many of us have come to love about Emily’s work.

Lucky Portland locals had the opportunity in early June to see Emily’s new collection in person at Buy Olympia’s retail space and gallery, land. If you haven’t ever taken a peek at Buy Olympia’s online shop – you’ll want to stop by. Their curating is top notch – meaning an impressive collection of handmade goods ready for your perusal.

I’ve included one of my very favourite works below, the collection’s title piece – “Lost on the Midway”, it was inspired by an almost deserted carnival – possibly just before a storm is ready to strike. For those of you who’ve been in a city before a tornado or a big storm – you know how the sky turns an eery color of green and the clouds often seem in contrast with the warmth and humidity of the day.

Another one of my favorites – Bear Dance, is below, which Emily painted in tribute to one of her favourite painters, W. H. Beard.

When I stopped by Emily’s shop today to take a peek around I was especially thrilled that she is now offering a set of 15, 4×6 postcards from her Lost on the Midway collection for just $16 and I had to get them right away. I can’t wait to have these great works on display in my office!

Shop Local: Tampa, Florida, USA

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Today’s Shop Local post hails from balmy Tampa, Florida – and goes to show that retirement has reached the handmade & art communities of the state!

anikaeaster

I’m totally digging this original art by Anika Easter. Combining wood, paint, and other media, these works jump off the wall. Her art appears to be conceptualized in the state between dreaming and waking. She says, “Sometimes I’ll dream up this incredible painting and when I wake up it slips out of my mind. Apparently I have a very creative subconscious. My goal is to prove it exists.”

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Winter Trend: Bright Knits

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From scarves to gloves to sweaters, knits are an obvious choice during the winter months. The cold weather may be dreary, but resist the urge to dress in blacks and grays. After all, this fashion season, brighter is better when it comes to everything knit. Bold colors and neon hues quickly transform knit winter staples into bold and modern statement pieces that are sure to add some new life to your wardrobe and perhaps even brighten up your day.

This red bolero knit jacket from Amy and Pia is the perfect way to add a punch of color to your current winter wardrobe. The 1950s-style jacket features three-quarter length sleeves, a wooden button closure and a universally flattering v-neck cut. Hand knit with chunky yarn, this beautiful piece would be perfect in an office setting, stunning over a formal dress, and could also be worn during the early fall and spring months.

Not for the faint of heart, this bright orange loop scarf by Moonsun is a bold fashion statement made for those who aren’t afraid of color. Hand knit, the length and width of the scarf lends itself to its flexibility, allowing it to be worn many different ways, including as a cowl and hood. Providing layers of warmth, this scarf is sure to keep you cozy and warm, and to brighten your spirits during the coldest winter weather.

This matching bright blue hat and cowl set by Alisa Design is the perfect way to add a dash of color to a neutral-colored winter coat. Beautifully made, this set features an open knit design that is both breathable and stylish. Falling above the shoulders in a lacy pattern, the cowl has a vintage feel to it, while still being functional.

*The heart and knitting needle print featured at the top of this post was created by Block Party Prints.

Gina Germ

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Gina Germ bio: Gina is entirely fascinated by animals –biology, behavior, ecology and history– and they provide the primary inspiration for her work, which includes observational sketches, commentary and portraiture. A self-taught artist, she has been painting for almost ten years, and drawing since she can remember. She works in acrylic, ink and spray paint.

Gina lives in Minneapolis with her husband, three year old son, and two kitties. She spends her days doing design and production on 4-color books, calendars, and marketing materials, and her evenings (after her son goes to bed) working in her coveted basement studio.

Suffolk, England

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[hTara]

This week’s Shop Local features the beautiful countryside of Suffolk, England. While a geographical search on Etsy didn’t reveal a lot of crafters, it did reveal some real eye candy! I loved the three shops below and think you will too. And if you can’t get enough of Suffolk, check out the Suffolk Craft Society for more fine crafters creating modern art with traditional techniques.

summersville - hand printed fabric bound journal [Read more…]