A fellow blogger recently asked me what inspires me whether it be books, music, etc.
Two artists I find inspiration from are…
Walker Evans who was a genius American photographer (1903-1975).
His work captures the basics, yet evokes emotion. Look closely at the details.
And Wolf Kahn who uses color so brilliantly in unexpected combinations how can I not be inspired?
I would love to do a room with accents in any of these color combinations.
He is represented by Jerald Melberg Gallery here in Charlotte.
Maybe this post sums up my aesthetic goals quite well: simple with details, straight-forward, functional, beautiful + color.
Both of these books are within arms reach…..
What inspires you?













































{ 2 trackbacks }
{ 19 comments… read them below or add one }
Beautiful inspiration. For me it’s my family, Degas, Carla Bruni, Luncheon of the Boating Party…oh so many things. Thanks for sharing!!
I too am inspired by the same.
Do you know the work of Fairfield Porter?
pve
See my post today.
pve
I can absolutely see why these artists’ work would inspire you.
I am inspired by the work of other designers as well as my family and friends.
Your posts have been a source of inspiration for me on more than a few occasions!
Thank you Laura.
xo
Brooke
Thanks Laura. Two of the very best; and lovely representations of your aesthetic goals.
Two very good choices! (I go ga-ga over old black and whites of interiors of buildings such as the second photo. I would love to be a time traveler.) Thanks, Laura!
Laura, I think you described your style perfectly. And I love your sources of inspiration! Very original. Hope you can do a room with the yellows and purples.
These are inspiring choices. I often look to books of art and photography too, especially when I am stuck and can’t seem to communicate or execute an idea properly. I love your posts!!!
BRAVO!!!
I have always loved Wolf Kahn’s works of art. The color brilliance and saturation is astounding. I always find him inspiring!
Karena
Wolf Kahn is my favorite – I agree: his colors are amazing!
Color is my inspiration! Have a great weekend, Laura! xx
How fun to see someone mention Wolf Kahn! In a past life I used to work for a gallery that represented him. His works and the colors are absolutely stunning in person.
I’ve stopped by your site before but the mention of Wolf Kahn really got my attention and wanted to leave a comment. I am tremendously taken with Wolf Kahn’s work. I find his work totally inspiring. Travel ranks up there as well. Wonderful blog. Marija
Wonderful artists! I can see why they inspire you. Have a great weekend!
xo,
cristin
I am passionate about B&W and I still shoot film…so seing Evan’s name was a real treat. He was great along with many other artists of his time.
I see why you find those artists so inspiring! And I love black and white photography. I visited the Bechtler for the first time yesterday, and it was very inspiring!!
I love Wolf Kahn. Thanks for introducing me to the book. I’m off to order it!
I love both Wolf Kahn and Walker Evans. The colors in Kahn’s work are so very inspirational.
I can see how he would be a great source of inspiration for you. For me, there’s no greater source for inspiration than the many facets of my beloved New Orleans, which I hope you’ll visit soon again so we can get together. xoxo