Jeremy Miranda

Jeremy Miranda's paintings range from the tropics to the tundra, and while I usually hate winter, my favorites among his work are those set in bleak, cold and dark places.

The Shiny World of Leah Giberson

Desert Camper 2

Leah Giberson's work has always fascinated me. Her distinct style is as memorable as her subject matter of vintage houses, caravans and objects. In her work, mundane suburban objects are painted in harsh light, with their surroundings pared down until they appear otherworldly.

Vintage Heroes by Alex Gross

Left: Magneto Right: Godzilla

Alex Gross collects vintage "cabinet card" portraits. He likes to transform some of them into super heroes and other recognizable figures, leaving the original face peering out of its new persona.

Charles Goldie's Maori Portraits

Charles Frederick Goldie is one of the most famous and controversial artists from New Zealand, although I had never heard of him before coming here. When I first saw his Maori portraits, I was drawn to them, and I think many others have the same reaction.

Inspired: Vintage Photorealism

If you know me, you know how I feel about vintage, classic cars and antiques. Something about the colors and shapes of old things draw me in, along with the patina and charm they have acquired over their long life. On top of that I'm a sucker for photorealism, so when I saw Christopher Stott's oil paintings, I knew I had to share them here.

Inspired: Thread Paintings by Cayce Zavaglia

I'm blown away by the photorealistic embroidery of Cayce Zavaglia. I'm a big fan of Chuck Close, and her bold portraits have a similar presence, though mixed with the softness of thread in a way that makes them unforgettable.

A word about walls

I have been packing a lot in the last few days, including my wall hangings: framed drawings, photographs and prints.  It's made me realize what a difference wall decor makes!  Without it, our apartment looks naked, less like a home and more like a dwelling without a personality.



If you want to give your home a bit more personality, try adding something to the walls!  Here are my tips for finding something to spice up your living space: