Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes

After spending a week downtown at the Grand Hyatt for Tim's annual NCIL conference, we finally made it to the National Gallery to see Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes. The exhibit was everything it promised to be, a showcase of the spectacle that occurs when artists, choreographers, composers, fashion designers and dancers come together. Admittedly, I know nothing about ballet and it is rare that I get to a show, so for me this exhibit was unique in it's ability to show how artists are able to transfer their skills through a different creative channel and still maintain their sense of self expression.

The set designs were stunning, but I spent most of my time eyeing the costume sketches and watching the video clips to see how each piece played its part in the final production. Though I loved the colors and patterns in the Baskt costumes and the absurdity of the Picasso ensembles, the Matisse coat was my favorite piece.

If you get to the gallery to see Ballets Russes, make sure you don't miss the Ellsworth Kelly Colored Paper Images and Kerry James Marshall, in the Tower.

Learn more about Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes here. 

Matisse coat photo courtesy of Penny Dreadful Vintage.

From my Inbox

I subscribe to a lot of online newsletters. I know it's probably silly and would drive most people up the wall, but I like to see how creative people get with their online newsletters. Here's a few that have caught my attention over the past few months:

Clockwise from top: www.clarevivier.com / www.artintheage.com / www.gdusa.com

Grids + Squares

Maybe it is a function of the Instagram phenomenon, but grids and squares seem to be popping up in design and art everywhere.

1. Kelly Wearstler e-blast. Image courtesy of www.kellywearstler.com. / 2. "Amusement Park Reverse Negative, 2012" by Holly Zausner. Image courtesy of www.toryburch.com. / 3. Turot Collection Artwork. Image courtesy of www.dwellstudio.com. / 4. Kate Spade desktop wallpaper. Image and download courtesy of www.katespade.com.

Inspiration for the New Year

So far, 2013 is off to a great start. Here are some pins that are keeping me motivated and excited for design and the New Year.

1. Object + Totem, image courtesy of shopprettymommy.com / 2. Georgia O'Keefe's studio, image courtesy of www.improvisedlife.com / 3. The Obamas, image courtesy of www.thejewinjcrew.tumblr.com / 4. Max Wanger photography, image courtesy of www.maxwangerprintshop.com / 5. Motivation, image courtesy of 24.media.tumblr.com

Rhapsody Presale on One Kings Lane

I've been following Kelly Wearstler for the past few years and love her vibrant, eclectic style. Her interior design books always provide instant inspiration, so I am very excited for the arrival of her latest, Rhapsody, which is available for presale today on One Kings Lane (hint, hint husband... Christmas is around the corner). Isn't the cover stunning?

Image courtesy of www.onekingslane.com.

Drybar Coming to DC

Drybar, a blowout hair styling salon, is coming to DC. I'm in love with their modern marketing concept, especially the graphics and colors from this chic online announcement:

Image courtesy of Drybar.

Elegantissima

Louise Fili has just come out with the first monograph on her work, Elegantissima. Known her for her "elegant" typography, she specializes in packaging, restaurant branding and logos. She has long been inspiration of mine as her work always challenges me to pick up a pencil and draw.

The book may be purchased here. Image courtesy of louisefili.com.

City Sights: Georgetown's Fashion's Night Out Promos

The promos around Georgetown for Fashion's Night Out caught my eye today, especially since they seem play off the craziness of this town during election season. Image courtesy of Fashion's Night Out Georgetown, DC facebook page.

Dream Collective

The art in this email promotion from Dream Collective, caught my eye the other day. As did the design of their new shop and gorgeous tote bags. Images courtesy of their blog.

Allegra Hicks

I have a collection of art and design books and was recently flipping through a current favorite, Allegra Hicks: An Eye for Design. It's great for an immediate surge of inspiration and always makes me want to pick up a pencil and start sketching. Her fabric is sold online at West Elm and I have recently been considering one of her patterns for some upcoming reupholstery projects.

Georgetown Flea Market

Tim and I have been house hunting for the past few months and recently went under contract on a bungalow in 16th Street Heights. While it is still uncertain as to whether or not we'll get the house, we decided to have a little fun this weekend by going to the Georgetown Flea Market to start shopping for ideas. Here are some inspirational photos:

1. Some comfy, bold chairs—potential accent pieces for a home office; 2. Reclaimed wood dining room table; 3. Lovely new rugs; 4. Cuban screenprint posters; 5. Large matching vases; 6. Old cameras (as the daughter of a professional photographer, I'm always drawn to antique cameras); 7 & 8. Probably the most interesting find of the day, bright and beautiful Syrian rugs.

Wine Labels

These wine labels caught my eye at the grocery store last week.

Save the Children's Hunger Report

Came across this report while visiting a friend in NYC and couldn't help but notice the beautiful design and powerful message.

Images courtesy of Save the Children. View the full report here.

Matisse Cut-Outs

The east wing of the National Gallery of Art is one of my favorite places in DC—particularly because of the Matisse Cut-Outs. A bright assortment of colors and shapes, the cut-outs were created by Matisse after an operation left him unable to paint. Inspired by African masks and tiles from La Alhambra, the grandiose canvases always brighten my day.

City Sightings: Whole Foods Poster

City Sightings: Chop't Poster

Yogi Tea Box

Beautiful design on the interior of a Yogi Tea box.

Festive Inspiration: Red

Festive Inspiration: Green

Fun Type Treatments

Courtesy of www.katespade.com.