count the inspiration in a single doorway

I wish I could tell you what building on what street, when it was built, who was the architect, and who was the artist behind this beautiful doorway. And don't you wonder about the letter "W?" But alas, I was running late to dinner and only paused to briefly snap a photo with my phone thinking "I have to have this!"

There is so much pattern and design layered in this single piece of art! I love the way more organic elements like feathers and plants have been stylized to become more geometric. I love the dominant use of red and teal (one of my favorite color combinations of all time; see my table runner, kitchen curtains, and let me tell you about my teal walls and red couch ). I think the symmetry is pleasing and appropriate. And you cannot help but notice and love the equally beautiful and complimentary ironwork over the window.

Plus – the color palette! I wanted to pull it out in detail for you and I realized there is even a light pink and a lavender in there too! Along with the warm tans of the stone you have enough options to do an entire houseful of rooms I think.

I do believe I am going to have to tape this beauty into my sketchbook and spend some more time with it!

pretty patterns present themselves

Porch stairs, viewed from behind. I like seeing the pattern repeat smaller below.

Part of the gift of being an artist is that you notice things that others do not. This can make every day life a visual delight if you allow yourself the pleasure of noticing.

Porch again. I appreciate the simplicity of the single teardrop shape rotated.

I am almost embarrassed to admit it but when I was touring around Georgetown the first day of my trip to Washington, D.C. I was hesitant to take out my camera for fear of looking like a tourist or just looking strange (I imagine them asking Why is that woman taking photos of door knockers?). Then I remembered what they thought actually did not matter. Instead, what did matter was enjoying my vacation to the fullest. And for me, that means noticing things and taking photographs of them. Once I gave myself permission to do exactly what would give me the most joy I felt a little giddy. Thank heavens for my patient husband who was always willing to stop and wait for me to create a photo I was pleased with.

So I present to you a collection of lovely patterns and architectural details that gave me delight. There are more (of course) but I think this blog post is long enough for the moment.

A very unique gravestone design; detail view on the right. Love the repeated curves.

I see a hint of the four-petaled flower shape within the more geometric square.

Details like this really add a human touch to what otherwise might be cold architecture.