July: a blind date with summer
1. Studio Lenca, also known as Jose Campos, is the artist behind artwork number one (title unknown). Originally from El Salvador, his journey to the United States undocumented, and now in the United Kingdom informs his artwork, exploring the meaning of belonging and the complexity of identity.
This artwork is in one word: striking. Studio Lenca’s bold use of colour and contrast combined, results in a story that refuses to be ignored. Most beautifully, the sense of community between these two figures is present. The background, or lack thereof, guides our focus to the figures themselves, leaving us with the impression that they have no location. They do not belong anywhere, rather they belong together, they belong through the celebration and memories of their culture and in unity with each other.
In the forefront, the lighter pink figure looks directly ahead, making eye contact with us while the other looks slightly toward him. Their heads inverted forming a safe haven between them. This presence of community is unmistakable. The solid stance of the background figure, with his wider hat brim and shoulders, embodies the support and strength that is echoed throughout all of Studio Lenca’s artworks as he honours his Salvadoran heritage.
I am drawn to his artworks, where the iconography, colours and figures are so visible and proud. Behind the visual allure, are complex stories of migration, displacement and suppression. The topic of ‘immigration’, is especially relevant in a time now where misinformation and fear is spread like wildfires across the internet. Where fear of the unknown and insecurity is misplaced onto marginalised communities. Exploring the real stories of people and understanding migration with curiosity and empathy is essential.
Studio Lenca’s website: https://www.studiolenca.com/works
2. Source: Pinterest (Original source: unknown). ‘Always say yes to dancing’: very inspirational, I completely agree.
3. Earth Darlings are hand-crafted ceramics made by Madeline Kind on the Sunshine Coast, Australia. I am obsessed with the textures, colours and overall design of this lamp (and all of Earth Darlings ceramics). The light-pink, earthy colours remind me of a sunset and capture the essence of tranquility, and in part, brutality of the local landscapes. Home wear, hand-crafted and thoughtful? The ideal.
Earth Darlings website: https://www.earthdarlings.com/
4. Source: Pinterest (Original source: anti-potato (?)). “A little birdie told me” the preferred answer to anyone questioning wisdom.
5. Audrey Helen Weber is an artist, picture book author and freelance illustrator. I found this artwork on Pinterest, so I do not know its name sadly. The figures with variations of flora and fauna imposed on their bodies all standing together charms me, as it would have if I were once again a small child. It also reminds me of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ by Eric Carle, a personal childhood favourite. Every time you look at the piece, you notice something new, as Lewis Carrol would say ‘curiouser and curiouser’. There is so much individuality and expression in such a small space, I suppose mimicking the world around us.
Audrey Helen Weber website: https://www.audreyhelenweber.com/recent-work-2
6. Source: Pinterest (Original Source: @thismodernhouse Tiktok). I love the interior design of this house. The ceiling mural, the two vibrant portraits on the wall, the interesting lamps and shelves lined with books - perfection.
7. Source: Pinterest (Original Source: unknown) Painted ravioli. Very pretty, very aesthetic. I want to make it.
8. Source: Marco Rambaldi. This Crochet mini dress is so unique, it would look amazing on a beach day.
9. Source: Pinterest (Original Source: @Indiewashere Twitter). Accurate.
