abo design co. » artists

The Meeting at Infinity

admin — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 16:00:52 +0000

I introduced you to Elias Wakan’s work back in February (”Conversational Piece”). Elias was kind enough to invite me to his open house to view some of his new work and I’m extending the invitation to you (with his permission of course). If you are able to make your way over to Gabriola (from Vancouver: 2 ferries, then 20 minute drive) it is well worth the adventure to meet with this wonderful artist & get a glimpse of his genius. The open house is on April 26, 2-5pm @ Drumbeg House Studio – 3085 Mander Rd, Gabriola. If you wish to attend please RSVP to naomi@naomiwakan.com. In the meantime, here’s a sneak peek…

Two helical pieces intricately threaded together & placed on a stand, which incorporates invisible sliding groves to allow for a total estimated humidity-driven expansion & contraction of 5/8"

Wondering how this all came together? Visit Elias’ website for a glimpse into his method to this madness.

Anything but Straight

admin — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 16:00:03 +0000

Once in a while I find myself surprised by amazing talent but rarely do I find myself blown away. Just yesterday, I was blown away. It was the combination of talent and creativity that did it. I don’t want to say too much because the work speak for themself as you will see…Straight Line Designs Inc is a custom furniture design & manufacturing company that is well-known for their signature style & quality work. Their designs are whimsical and unusual. Designs that encourage children (and adults) to explore the limits and go wild with their imagination. They can pretty much custom anything you are willing to pay for. No idea too crazy. Just look at what they’ve already done. Their philosophy: “It’s not what we’ve done; It’s what we are going to do next.” Now that’s innovation that just doesn’t sleep! Enjoy…

Latest design, currently on display @ Vancouver Intl Airport

Sobey dressers

An assortment of crazies

Mrs Pearson

Canned Bench

Essenze – New Zealand Inspired Designs

admin — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:00:02 +0000

Essenze is the strategic distribution partner of choice for New Zealand’s best designers. New Zealand founded & based, Essenze is well respected by their designers & is reponsible for the global marketing, distribution & sales of the products that represent the cream of New Zealand design. Visit their website for more information.

Apple Jelly Tip, Susannah Bridges

Apple Jelly Tip Bowl, Susannah Bridges

Dribble Bowl, Susannah Bridges

Pacific Light, Susannah Bridges

Dondola, David Trubridge

Ruth Rocker, David Trubridge

Float lounger, David Trubridge

Stylish Trash Bin, Catherine David Designs

Vietnam: Art

admin — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:08:35 +0000

Vietnam’s socialist government places a strong emphasis on the arts, particularly because it regards them as a prime vehicle for the propagation of socialist values. All of the main artistic forms such as theater, literature, cinema, and painting have state-controlled organizations that artists are encouraged if not forced to join. The government at times severely constrains the direction of artistic development through censorship, control over printing, and the presence of party members in artistic organizations. This has not prevented a minor artistic renaissance, particularly in literature, since the late 1980s. Some artists find ways to insert critical messages into their work. Many artists struggle financially because of the recent dramatic reductions in government subsidies for the arts, the absence of adequate protection for copyrights, and the fickle tastes of a public that sometimes prefers imported films, music, and literature. Artists, especially painters, who can produce for expatriates or the tourist market, have the greatest freedom to pursue their craft.

A number of indigenous graphic art traditions remain popular. These include lacquerware, ink block prints, and ceramics, all of which employ distinctive themes developed by Vietnamese artists. Historically, specialist families or villages have produced these items for local sale, though some objects such as ceramics were sold throughout the country and abroad. Painting has become more popular in urban areas since the colonial period. All of these forms are displayed in museums and, with the exception of paintings, are sold in local markets as well as galleries or shops in major cities.

Below are a sampling of some of my favourite pieces as seen at the Modern Art Gallery in Ho Chi Minh City. They all represent some of the themes often dealt with by Vietnamese artists

Censorship

Country Life

Woman

Urbanism

Woman smiling

Abstract

Conversational Piece

admin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 22:43:41 +0000

I often get solicited by other artists/designers via email & mail. Most I haven’t found use for YET, but once in a while I am genuinely suprised and honoured to hear from truly talented people. Just yesterday, I received a lovely greeting card from an artist on Gabriola Island, Elias Wakan. I visited his website today and am thoroughly impressed by his meticulous work. I’m particularly amazed by “Ruff Estimate”.

Courtesy of www.eliaswakan.com

It is made of hemlock and resembles an Elizabethan collar piece and its winding curves is absolutely beautiful. It is the result of a miscalculation and I cannot think of a better word to describe this piece other than serendipity. It just shows you that art can come to you in many different ways.

Thank you Elias for visiting my website and for the greeting card!

welcome

admin — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 22:05:59 +0000

thank you for visiting abo design co’s blog. My intention for this blog is to keep my clients updated on all news, events, and promotions. I will also use this as an interior design resource page. The goal is to
educate and inform. So whether it is colour or product trends, architectural styles, up and coming artists or just simply my favourite new chair/bed/art, I hope you will find what you need to spark ideas for your next renovation or staging project. I welcome your input and suggestions when it comes to topics. Thanks again for stopping by. Blog again soon!

kelly gordon

abo design co