In 1856, the extensive and culturally inclusive book The Grammar of Ornament, by Owen Jones, revealed a wide selection of decoration and design – from Maori tattoos to the motifs and architecture of the Alhambra – via folio-size color lithographs that dazzled audiences who had not previously been exposed to a wide swath of humankind’s obsession with making beautiful things, through history. One notable takeaway from Jones’ book (that has never been out of print), which emerges as a primary message across his thirty-seven axioms…
Read MoreWhen was the beginning and what did it look like? 5 billion years ago the earth was an incandescent ball, crusts and crevices formed in the cool down, the atmosphere evolved. The timeline as we know it, of the evolution of life on earth is deep and mysterious, dotted with ice ages and warmings, with billion year old bacteria, 500 million year old plant ancestors in the form of mosses and liverworts, deep sea gardens swarmed by multicellular animals existing in a simple paradise. We can only reach so far back scientifically (Darwin’s dilemma), and while we may not know for sure, we can imagine life forming, adapting and evolving and what it may have looked like. The primordial state in our mind’s eye is full of magical stones, metals and crags, tangled roots and sacred geometry, raw forms and oozing surfaces…maybe we remember.
Read MoreAesthetic Movement (A/M) is a think tank for smart collaborations and a harbinger of style. With permanent showrooms in New York, Atlanta, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, A/M represents a curated selection of wholesale-to-retail manufacturers that specialize in unique, design-driven objects. Their team of dedicated sales associates build relationships with retailers across the country, and their New York studio develops a broad range of comprehensive creative solutions for people, brands, and companies. A/M’s distinct position at the intersection of design and commerce gives them a 360° interdisciplinary approach.
Read MoreShoppe Object is pleased to welcome The Foundation showroom, longtime friends from (some of) our former careers in fashion. The Foundation joins Shoppe On with four standout brands in the home and gift space, with this market being a new focus and proven strength for the group. Founded in 2007 by Antwain Freeman, Dre Hayes, Ari Langsdorf, and Daniel Yadgard the group is comprised of a team of innovative brand architects that build and develop operative business strategies for both emerging and established brands within the fashion and lifestyle industries. The group has a keen understanding of the business blocks necessary to build brands monetarily while simultaneously enhancing their reputation. The Founders aggregate their expertise to deliver success, and have a reputation for a high level of customer service and an eye for what’s next.
Read MoreThey don’t call it the great outdoors for nothing. Spending time in nature, especially in green spaces, is a fast track to a lifted mood and improved health. Scientists agree that sunlight mitigates pain, plants boost immunity and simply being outdoors relieves anxiety and increases focus and creativity. From sun worshipping vitamin D junkies or mellow types who crave a silent, shady forest bath, mountain climbers to sea gazers – outdoor enthusiasts all share knowledge that connection with Mother Earth brings joy. So even if you’re just wandering back and forth from indoor to outdoor living room or heading to the park for a picnic – experts agree, it’s important to get out there. And while you’re at it, bring along some outdoorsy accessories and toys to make every day a beautiful adventure.
Read MoreShoppe Object is pleased to welcome Karen Alweil’s industry-leading, multi brand showroom to our digital platform Shoppe On. Karen Alweil Studio launched in 1993 with a vision to bring exceptional products to the retail market. Today, KAS represents companies nationally and has established solid relationships with the finest retailers worldwide. KAS has since broadened its product mix to include all forms of design and lifestyle related goods, including personal care, travel, music, tabletop, children’s, gifts, art and furniture. With 22 brands on board for Shoppe On, KAS brings a little something special for everyone.
Read MoreGrandmas, Nanas, Abuelas, Pau-Paus and MeeMaws always seem to have a slight floral or sandalwood scent, pockets or purses filled with wrapped candies or gum, well-worn clothes that have carried them through the years, the softest delicate skin, and of course, a singular kind of love for her grandchildren unique only to that special relationship. Grandmothers carry the wisdom of age, depth of experience and are freer to do as they please. Stereotypes have them socializing over hobbies like puzzles and bingo, or working fastidiously, carrying on and perfecting old traditions like cooking or craft. But times have changed, and modern grandmas (including those of our own children!) are playing tennis multiple days a week, are super tech savvy, still work, and sometimes party like it's 1999…
Read MoreThese are revolutionary days. There is no better time or way to contribute to the dismantling of the systemic racism that has worked against Black people in myriad ways, than putting your money toward progress. Black-owned businesses have suffered mightily in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a staggering 41% shuttering since February of this year, according to a report from the National Bureau of Economic Research. This is on top of the already deeply rooted and seemingly insurmountable racial wealth gap, and the everyday discrimination and hurdles that Black-owned businesses face…
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