PrairieMod

A Look At The Wright Exhibit

Ann Wind, board member of the Rahr West Art Museum Charitable Foundation, was kind enough to send some photos of the Frank Lloyd Wright: Architecture of the Interior exhibit opening. See them all after the jump...

Frank Lloyd Wright: Architecture Of The Interior

Here's a link to an article about a new exhibit titled Frank Lloyd Wright: Architecture of the Interior which opens Sunday and runs through August 4, 2013 at the Rahr-West Art Museum in Manitowoc, WI. Read more here.

Image via htrnews.com

Joan And Larry At The New Studio

Artist Larry Zgoda and his wife Joan send word that they will be presenting works and ideas at THENEWSTUDIO in Evanston on June 11, 2013 at 7 pm.  They also announce that Joan has been accepted into the Illinois Artisans Program. Details at left.

Image via Larry Zgoda

Wright At Auction Round-Up

A few extremely important Frank Lloyd Wright-related items are set to be auctioned off in the coming weeks. The Swann Auction Galleries has a rare original 1927 drawing for a proposed cover design for Liberty Magazine. The Wright Auction house (no relation to Frank) has three items of note: An original Imperial Hotel chair, a section of decorative frieze from the Dana House, and an original chandelier from the Adelman House in Phoenix.

It's a real shame this chandelier is no longer in the house it belongs to (apparently it was sold by an owner at some point in a private sale). Perhaps it can find its way back home...but at a $30,000 - $50,000 auction estimate, that's not likely. Follow the links above to see all the items.

Image via Wright20.com

Usonian, Wright And Maher At Toomey Auction

The upcoming auction on June 8, 2013 at the John Toomey Gallery features a few items that will be of interest to PrairieMod readers: Imperial Hotel china, art glass window from the (demolished) Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Oscar Steffens house, January 1938 Wright issue of the Architectural Forum, unidentified Usonian hex chairs, and an art glass window from the George Washington Maher-designed Dr. Joseph Bolivar DeLee house. See these and all of the lots here.

Image via John Toomey Gallery

Iannelli Book Available For Pre-Order!

Great news! The long-awaited monograph on the life and work of Alfonso Iannelli is available for pre-order on the publisher's, Top Five Books,  website. Details and special sneak peek after the jump...

Eames Molded Wood Chairs

Herman Miller recently unveiled the Eames Molded Wood Chair, a beautiful new expression of a timeless design. Honoring the same organic shapes and sleek lines of their classic work, this design—made possible with 3-D veneer technology—celebrates the designers’ appreciation of honest materials. It’s offered in three wood finish options—white ash, walnut, and santos palisander—and three bases: wire (or “Eiffel Tower”), dowel leg, and 4-leg. Check them all out here.

Image via Herman Miller

Heath's Camellia Blooms

Heath Ceramics has a larger-scale Camellia pattern, named for the Alabama state flower, and is the highlight of the 5-piece place setting shown at left. Check out this beautifully detailed etched dinner plate and the other classic Heath pieces here.

Image via Heath Ceramics

Gather 'Round The Fireplace

Sherri S. sends word that on Saturday, May 11, 2013, from 9:30 am - 1 pm there will be a chance to join members of the American Arts Society (a support group of the Milwaukee Art Museum) as they discuss the restoration of the Museum's George Mann Niedecken Fireplace Surround for the Harnischfeger Residence (ca. 1905). Specialist conservator Olaf Unsoeld (Fine Wood Conservation, Ltd., Brooklyn, NY) will be in Milwaukee and will share his assessment and treatment plan for the piece. The day will begin with coffee and pastries, and end with a boxed lunch. $45/person ($40 for American Arts Society Members) Register by May 3. Limited to 30 people. Contact Mel Buchanan 414-224-3281 or mel.buchanan@mam.org. Details here.

Image via MAM

Currier Museum Of Art Acquires A Little Wright Chair

The Currier Museum of Art recently aquired and put on display a rare armchair designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902-3 for the first Little House in Peoria, IL. Read more about it here.

Image via artdaily.org

armchair designed for the Francis W. Little House in Peoria, IL

More Information: http://www.artdaily.org/index.asp?int_sec=2&int_new=61916#.UWtX9xkWEt4[/url]
Copyright © artdaily.org

armchair designed for the Francis W. Little House in Peoria, IL

More Information: http://www.artdaily.org/index.asp?int_sec=2&int_new=61916#.UWtX9xkWEt4[/url]
Copyright © artdaily.org

armchair designed for the Francis W. Little House in Peoria, IL

More Information: http://www.artdaily.org/index.asp?int_sec=2&int_new=61916#.UWtX9xkWEt4[/url]
Copyright © artdaily.org

Maher Furniture At Auction

Leslie Hindman's upcoming 20th Century Design auction on May 1, 2013 has quite a bit of architecture-related items of interest—and a few that are worrisome. Among the latter is 20 pieces of furniture from the George W. Maher-designed Magerstadt House in the Kenwood neighborhood of Chicago. The house sold last May for a hefty sum to new owners. I'm not certain that this furniture was part of that sale and is now being sold off, or if it was separated from the house previously and is now coming back to the market. Either way, it's a shame this integrally-designed furniture is not with the house it was only ever intended for. See all of the furniture pieces here.

Image via liveauctioneers.com

Looking For A Sweet Usonian Dining Set?

If you're in the market for Usonian furniture for your PrairieMod pad, then move fast and snap-up this one-of-a-kind Frank Lloyd Wright meets R.M. Schindler set of dining table and chairs that's been posted on Craigslist. Details and more pics here.

Image via Craigslist

A New Season At Heath

Heath Ceramics recently announced their new seasonal palette for Spring 2013, which includes bright blues and a cool green. Check out the full collection of spring beauties here.

Image via Heath Ceramics

New Creations From Kramer Design Studio

I recently received an update on the new projects executed by expert craftsman and designer, Randall Kramer. One project in particular caught my eye: a hand-forged mild steel grill to architect Eric Mullendore's specifications, to separate the home's foyer from the living room, allowing a clear view of Lake Michigan as you enter the space. See more of Randall's work at his website.

Image copyright Randall Kramer

Clock Watching

If the time change and losing an hour of sleep has you surly, then maybe investing in a sweet George Nelson-designed clock from Vitra will make the transition a little easier to bear. See more here.

Image via Vitra

Arts & Crafts Revival Redux

John A. sends word of a new book titled Redux: The Arts and Crafts Revival, 1972-2012 about the history of the Movement's modern day renaissance that was released at this year's Grove Park Inn Arts & Crafts Conference. Find out more here.

Image via Amazon.com

Charley Harper & Motawi Tile

Motawi Tileworks has teamed up with the estate of illustrator Charley Harper to offer a line of decorative tiles depicting Harper's fantastic abstract animals. See the line here.

Image via Motawi Tileworks

Terrarium Mania At West Elm

I popped into a West Elm this evening and was amazed to see how terrarium crazy they've gone this season. There's tons of really great planter options and low-maintenance plants to choose from at a variety of price points. It's never been easier to be both Mod and Bring the Outside In. See all the options here.

Image via West Elm

Nakashima: A Design Survey

Rago Arts and Auction Center will be having an open house thursday, February 28, 2013 where Mira Nakashima will be giving a talk titled "Nakashima: A Design Survey." Get the details after the jump...
 

Pop The Bubbly For These Chairs

PrairieMod pal, Adam Frint sent a link and his submission to Design Within Reach's annual "Champagne Chair Contest" which involves creating a chair design out of a champagne bottle's cork, foil, wire cage, etc. Adam's design is a lounge chair set called, "Elytra Lounge" — named after the outer shell of a beetle which protects the soft wings (or cork cushion, in this case). A great design DWR might actually want to consider putting into production. There are some other crazy cool ideas on the site you can check out here.

Image copyright Adam Frint

Oakbrook Esser Studios Has The Wright Stuff

Michael B. sends a link to an article about the Oakbrook Esser Studios in Oconomowoc, WI. The talented firm lists among their many stained glass projects work on the iconic windows at Wright's Darwin D. Martin House in Buffalo, NY. Read more here.

Image via oakbrookesser.com

A Happy Homemade Christmas

Chicago artist and craftsman, Randall Kramer recently sent word and a link showcasing an en-lightning homemade holiday gift he crafted this year. Homemade gifts are always the best gifts! Check out more of Randall's work here.

Image copyright Randall Kramer

You'll Flip For These Plant Pods

Looking for a great Mod gift for the plant lover on your holiday list? Then be sure to check out these sweet Felt Pod planters from Flip and Tumble.

Made from 100% recycled material, packaged with a plastic liner to retain water, and just $14 each—these Mod Pods will make a truly unique gift. Get yours here.

Image via flipandtumble.com

Toast Hoffman

If you've got some deep pockets and are looking for a swanky holiday gift for that Mod lover on your list, then check out the Josef Hoffmann-designed "Series B" glassware collection from Moss. Mouth-blown crystal replete with hand-painted enamel decoration...a set will break the bank, but at least you can toast in style! More here.

Image via mossonline.com

Get To Know Century Studios

Rob B. sends word that he recently wandered into the Century Studios in St. Paul, MN and was blown away at the wonderful stained glass work that they do. Check out the beautiful craftsmanship of their reproduction Tiffany lamps and other goodies here.

Image via centurystudios.com

Pull Up A Chair

London's V&A museum prepares to open its new furniture gallery of more than 200 chairs, tables, cabinets and wardrobes—covering 600 years of design (including works by Frank Lloyd Wright). Check out a video slideshow of what can be seen here and read more here.

Image via guardian.co.uk

A Teco/Maher Connection?

The annual December auction at the John Toomey Gallery in Oak Park, Illinois is always a fantastic one, with plenty of rare and wonderful Arts & Crafts, Prairie and Modern pieces for sale. This year's auction on December 1, 2012 is no exception. In addition to a rare art glass window from the Wright-designed Oscar Steffens House (built 1909, destroyed 1963) is plenty of Teco pottery. One piece that caught my eye was a monumental floor vase with inscribed floral motif that might have a connection to another lost architectural masterpiece: G.W. Maher's 1912 E.L. King (aka "Rockledge") estate (formally found near Winona, Minnesota). The vase was sold back in the 1980s at the same sale where most of the Rockledge's contents were sold—but it's not entirely known if this vase was from the house as well. Anyone out there know more? See all the auction listings here.

Image via John Toomey Gallery

Save On The Mod Meaning Of Christmas

Just in time for the holidays: House Industries is offering a special discount on their 13-piece Alexander Girard Nativity set. Shop here and enter the discount code NATIVITY2012 to get 25% off. It's still pretty pricey, but every little bit helps, I guess. Hurry--discount expires December 7, 2012.

Image via House Industries

Fab Goes Wright

Fab.com's sales yesterday were all about Frank Lloyd Wright. If you don't want to miss the deals, check out the sales here.

Image via fab.com

Wright Furniture Acquired By The Huntington Library

13 pieces of original Frank Lloyd Wright-designed furniture from the Husser, Coonley, Heurtley, Willits and Little houses will become permanent parts of the Huntington Library's collection. Read more about it here.

Image via Huntington Library

Celebrating Ray

Herman Miller is celebrating the contributions of Ray Eames on the 100-year anniversary of her birth by offering the Select edition Eames Wire Base Low Table. Check out the limited edition piece and pick your favorite color here.

Image via Herman Miller

Morris Gallery Refreshed And Reopened

The Economist recently ran an article on the reopening of the William Morris Gallery in Walthamstow, a corner of Essex, London after a £5m ($8.1m) renovation. Read more about it here.

Image via economist.com

Don't Miss The Distinctive Furniture

Just a reminder, The first annual Distinctive Furniture Show closes tomorrow evening with a reception coinciding with Bridgeport Art Center's 3rd Friday, monthly event. Details here.

Image via cfdainfo.org

Larry Zgoda's Opus Vitri Fusium

Larry Zgoda, who worked with legendary Modernist Edgar Miller, has created a work of art that combines stained glass, fused glass and mosaic. The composition draws inspiration from Van Gogh’s Starry Night and invites the question: “Is this an original technique?” More after the jump...

Geeking Out Over Eames

Wired.com's "Geek Mom" recently posted about the art and legacy of Charles and Ray Eames. Even if you are well aware of the Dynamic MCM Duo's work, you may still enjoy this refresher. Read it here.

Image via wired.com

Yearbook Makes The Grade

Some PrairieMod Squad members stopped to check out a sweet new shop in Forest Park, IL called Yearbook. Filled with distinctively curated new and vintage items, Yearbook is part curio cabinet/part museum/part antique shop--but all cool.

I was especially digging their Homer Laughlin China exclusive limited quantity reproductions. Check out their website here and then cut class to check out the store in person.

Image via yearbookstudios.com

Mod Furniture Thrives

Paul R. sent a link to Thrive Home Furnishing's line of Mid-century Modern home decor, including a wide assortment of sofas that look like their straight out of a Mad Men episode. See it all here.

Image via Thrive Furniture

Welcome Heath San Francisco

Heath Ceramics recently announced the opening of their new San Francisco location at 2900 18th Street (at Florida Street). The newest addition to the Heath family is a retail space, interactive tile showroom, gallery space and future tile manufacturing facility (with kilns ready to fire up this September). Read more about it here.

Image via Heath Ceramics

Stickley Gets Hammered

Cobre Copper, the artisans known for their hand-hammered Arts & Crafts inspired wares, recently announced a brand new reproduction of a 1906 Gustav Stickley 12" plaque. This beautiful piece is being offered at a special introductory price of $110. Get yours here.

Image via Cobre Copper

ODO Designs For Unity Temple

Every so often, two great things come together to produce something truly special. Case in point: The Organic Design Operatives (ODO) recently produced some exquisitely designed and crafted furniture for Unity Temple Restoration Foundation to use as part of their gift shop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Unit Temple. Read about the design process, execution and installation at the ODO website here. Then plan a visit to Unity Temple to see this fantastic furniture (and building) for yourself!

Image via organicdesignoperatives.com

USONA Home Furnishings

Paul R. sends a link to some furnishings offered by USONA Home that would fit right into any PrairieMod pad. Check it out here.

Image via usonahome.com

7th Annual Arts And Crafts-Chicago Show And Sale

Also on deck this weekend in Chicago, it's the 7th annual Arts and Crafts-Chicago Show and Sale, which will take place at the Geiseman Gym on the campus of Concordia University in River Forest Illinois Saturday, June 2 from 10 AM - 7 PM and Sunday, June 3 from 10 AM - 4 PM. Admission is only $7. The show will feature antique and reproduction furniture and accessories from the American and English Arts and Crafts Movement and always has something interesting to offer collectors and enthusiasts of all stripes. Get more info and a discount admission coupon here.

Image via artsandcraftschicago.com

The Quest For The Perfect Office Chair

Slate.com provides a trip into the way-back machine looking at the history of the office chair. From the dawn of sitting to the space age, humans have been on the hunt for a work seat that offers both comfort and support...but have leagues of designers (including Frank Lloyd Wright) missed the mark? Read more about it here.

Image via slate.com

Darwin Martin House Window At Auction

PrairieMod reader George J. sent a link to a rare "Tree of Life" art glass window from the Darwin D. Martin House in Buffalo, NY that is being auctioned-off at Heritage Auctions. The starting bids seem low for this quintessential Wright art glass design, so I expect the price to soar as the June 12, 2012 auction date nears. Ideally, this window should go back in the home it was designed for. See the listing here.

Image via Heritage Auctions

Go Native With These Prints

Fair Oak Workshops, purveyors of the finest in Arts & Crafts era gifts and decor recently introduced their new line of Edward S. Curtis Native American prints. Original Edward S. Curtis photographs depicting the American West landscape and its indigenous people are rare and very expensive. Fair Oak's fine art prints provide the opportunity to affordably own a Curtis image and add that perfect touch of Arts & Crafts charm to your home. See all the offerings and options here.

Image via fairoak.com

Little House Chairs At Auction

High-profile pieces of Frank Lloyd Wright furniture design continue to appear on the auction block. This time, it's two reclining armchairs originally designed for the first Francis W. Little House in Peoria, IL that are being offered for sale at Christies for the not-so-little price of $90,000-$120,000 each. Click the link to see the listings.

Image via Christies

"At Home with Frank Lloyd Wright" Preview At Wright In Racine

Mark Hertzberg's Wright In Racine blog has posted an exciting preview of the new "At Home with Frank Lloyd Wright" permanent exhibition in Fortaleza Hall located at the SC Johnson Company campus in Racine, Wisconsin. The show is opening at the end of next week, but this is your chance to catch a sneak peek! Read and see all the photos here.

Images copyright Mark Hertzberg

Re-Slinging Schindler's Chairs

Modernica, purveyors of high-quality, Modernist reproduction furniture, was recently asked by MAK Center (the organization that oversees Rudolph Schindler's Kings Road House in Los Angeles) to replace the fabric slings which make up the seat of the home's famous original sling chairs. Read and see more here.

Image via Modernica blog

Sweeton House Tables At Auction

The Wright auction house in Chicago is offering two Frank Lloyd Wright-designed redwood plywood tables originally made for the J.A. Sweeton House in Cherry Hill, NJ. Estimated at a steep $10-$15,000, it's unlikely they will ever be reunited with their intended environment. Perhaps they could at least be recreated...it would be interesting to see if plans for these simple, yet elegantly geometric tables either exist or could be drawn up. Any woodworkers with Usonian flair out there? See the auction listing here.

Image via Wright20.com

Stickley Museum On The Road

We received word that Toms-Price in Lincolnshire, IL will be hosting a "Stickley Museum on the Road" event on May 17, 2012 from 7 to 9 pm. Sarah Lanigan, curator of the Fayetteville, New York, Stickley Museum will talk on the history of Stickley. She will also present in Skokie, IL on May 18, 2012 and Wheaton, IL on May 19, 2012. Attendees can see more event details and sign up online by visiting the Toms-Price website here and clicking on an event.

Image via stickley.com