INSPO: Right under your nose
Gardner Museum Platinum Palladium Print Matthew Klos
Lately my take on March has been, in like a lion and out like a lion. Once, and only once a year I ask the question that I believe most of us have asked, why don’t we live somewhere warmer? It lasts for only a millisecond. It’s just a quick little grass-is-always-greener moment and I am quickly snapped back to my born and raised New England self. I can’t leave. It’s in my blood and honestly, after 56 years I am still inspired by New England time and time again. Crunchy fall leaves, Granny’s Grit, my favorite run at Bretton Woods, the drive on the Plum Island Reservation Rd, antique shops on Cape Cod, the Degas collection at the MFA, the smell of salt water and yes, I am a Pats fan. The more I think of it, the more I appreciate it. We live in an area rich in history and charm and strength. Right here. Right under our noses. You may not be a painter or poet, but the muse of New England can grab you nevertheless. There is something for each and every soul, and the folks and items that trickle into the shop are a constant reminder of that.
“Years ago I decided that the greatest need in our Country was Art… So I determined to make it my life work if I could.”
For the artist, art enthusiast, and the those simply inspired by visual beauty look no further than The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. A true gem of Boston this museum houses a world renowned art collection and a jaw dropping art heist mystery. In researching the museum for a college paper I discovered the original home was officially turned into a museum upon Isabella’s passing. She put it in her will that she did not want any art or artifacts to be moved in the house. It is a bit odd to see great works of art hung in dim corners of rooms, but it is how she placed the treasures in her home. Surrounding ourselves with the things that we love, in a way that we love, makes for inspired living. You don’t have to have a world renowned art collection to feel inspired in your home. You may just need a bit of direction. We can happily help with our complimentary in home consultation service.
Between the art collection and the architecture, you soon realize one visit simply won’t do. I hit the jackpot this Christmas when Matthew gifted me a platinum palladium print of the museum’s striking courtyard. He crafted a custom frame for it in my beloved whitewash ash and it hangs beautifully in my home.
Fun Fact: March 18 marks the 36 th anniversary of the infamous heist that left us all wondering where 13 major works of art are today. The empty frames of the missing pieces, including a Rembrandt and a Vermeer, hang hauntingly on the wall in their original spots, waiting to be reunited. The Netflix docuseries, This is a Robbery: the World’s Biggest Art Heist makes for a great watch, but, spoiler alert: the mystery remains.
Boston Marathon, collage by Janice Hayes
For the wicked inspired sports fanatic, New England does not disappoint. You may be a Sox, Celts, Bruins or Patriots fan, or you may simply love the tradition of the Boston Marathon. This annual race has inspired many and touched upon the strength and grit of the city we love. We recently framed a giclée print entitled Boston Marathon by artist Janice Hayes. The piece speaks directly to that power and the inspiration of the human spirit. We were moved by the artist’s story. The original collage was made from greeting cards Janice received during a 2 year period of cancer recovery. The time marked a turning point in her life. She is now a successful fine artist with work in Boston Children’s Hospital, Mass General, Lahey Medical Center, and private collections, just to name a few. We were honored to frame it for our customer.
For the nature lovers look no further than New England for inspiration. Poets and painters have found their spark from the crisp air of the white mountains to the rhythmic and healing power of the Atlantic ocean. Gorgeous and ever changing scenes are right under our noses. Just a stone’s through from town you can forest bathe at Maudslay State Park, or “church” as my husband likes to call it, This mythical spot surrounds you with huge snow covered pines, glorious spring Rhododendron, a burst of fall foliage and the sound of the river. Up stream boaters, fisherman and lovers of the sea enjoy the coast and treasure the summer months. And let’s not forget about the marsh. The magic of the light as the sun sets is like nothing else. We have framed many a “Pink House”. and the magic still remains.
and last, but not least, for the history buffs Newburyport boasts the Custom House Maritime Museum and the Museum of Old Newbury, both located in downtown Newburyport and both friends of Newburyport Framers. We are thrilled to have access to the archived photo collection from the Museum of Old Newbury, making these treasure available here at the shop to print for your home or business. Historic images of Newburyport and Plum Island show the rich history of the area and hold inspired beauty.
So, when you think you can’t make it through another New England Winter, pause and it will only take a second to remember why to keep choosing New England.
Cheers to spring and all New England has to offer!
-P