HMR Inspiration Report: Textiles + Stones // June, 2021

The incredible beauty of the natural world, whether it be found on a simple walk in the woods or by travelling across the globe, can leave you changed, if you afford yourself the luxury to stop and truly see it.

Prior to the pandemic, stopping to cognizantly recognize a moment of pure beauty – and pausing to find gratitude – almost felt like something that modern society seemed to have unknowingly disregarded as we collectively idealized doing – and doing quickly – over being.

This month’s Inspiration Report is meant to acknowledge these moments of such simple beauty and pause, born from nature. The agate or crystal that stops you in your tracks – or as you’ll find below, magical elements from the earth – and those created with love by its inhabitants.

Creative Director Bill Heffernan relishes in the uniquely gorgeous maturation of Copper.

Says Bill, “I’m in love with copper!  It’s one of those materials that changes over time yet keeps on giving in all its stages. From the beauty of shiny jewelry to the green oxidation of a garden vessel, to a roofing material, or to the tarnished kitchen pot hanging from a ceiling rack. They seem to all have their own sort of soul.  I particularly love them in my garden and the honest patina they bring to a trowel, an urn, or a major focal piece. One of those things in life that gets more beautiful with age.”

Jessica Griffin, Event Designer, sees the lasting nature of Quartzite as sparking joy in her environments.

“Quartzite is super hot in the design industry because of its characteristics of being tougher than granite, more resistant to heat and scratch, and low maintenance.  It appears like a marble but will not etch due to the process in which it is formed. The mineral comes from sandstone which undergoes a natural process to become a metamorphic rock made through high pressure beneath the earth’s crust. It is also less expensive than marble and requires less maintenance (though it does need to be sealed occasionally as any natural stone).  Quartzite exists in an array of colors and patterns that vary from slab to slab due to it being a natural stone. It can be used in many applications, especially high traffic countertops and is an excellent choice that will add value to any property.”

Dir. of Brand Strategy + Partnerships, Marley Finnegan, appreciates the ancestry of Gold.

“Gold has captivated humans since documented history began. I am energized by the longevity and rich history it commands – along with the lovely aspects of ancestry + spirituality. I have a gold ring handed down from my great grandfather’s first marriage (wild story!) which will be 110 years old this September 12th. I wear it every day. Last year I learned that much of the clothing + jewelry created with non-biodegradable materials winds up in landfills for up to 200 years (longer if plastic). Since then, I’ve taken a holistic stance on my habits as an environmentally conscious consumer and elected to only purchase gold jewelry moving forward. My intent is to buy fewer, better things. Gold will always hold value, whether it be to me, its next recipient or melted down, back to its original form.”

Event Designer Burt Rubenstein is partial to the impacts of Marble.

“Marble is a favorite material in residential design because of its versatility. From more expected locales such as countertops, backsplash and tile to the high impact of a gorgeous marble staircase or stately flooring, this stone exudes effortless, classic + timeless style. In my opinion, marble can virtually be used in every room – and also can be stunning as a small accessory on your coffee table (or the table itself!) or elemental kitchen accessory. It brings appeal to any surface it resides upon. ”

David Epstein, Event Designer, is inspired by the textile dyeing process of Batik.

“Back in college I took an art class which introduced me to the textile dyeing process of Batik. Ever since, I’ve been drawn to many elements incorporating Batik textile art… from pillows and wall hangings to the shorts I wear gardening in my backyard. The batik process forms colorful patterns on fabric when hot wax is applied and allowed to harden.  The fabric is then dyed by hand and when the wax is removed the patterns and images are revealed. When I was doing it myself, I loved the creativity unleashed in forming the design as well as the anticipation (and unpredictability) of how each piece would ultimately look. Batik fabric art takes on many forms and is prevalent in East Asian culture. It always puts a smile on my face!”

 

Event Designer Natalie Walsh is enchanted by the beauty of Selenite. 

“Selenite is an absolutely captivating, light-catching crystal. This naturally occurring mineral is found all over the world and is highly regarding for energetic clearing and protection, spiritual healing practices, harmony and virtue – all while also being tied to the crown chakra and third eye. It’s name is derived from the ancient Greek word, selene, which means moon. As I’ve always had a very strong connection to the moon, it’s no surprise that this crystal calls to me. I encourage people to read into its attributes and the amazing caves where selenite as large as 55 tons have been found. Our earth is absolutely amazing.”

As we near the solstice and the longest day of sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere, we hope that these musings might just inspire you to get out for a walk encompassed in nature.

Join us in July as we shift gears to cover Visual Artists which spark our imaginations.