the test of time

I know I left you wondering what I was going to put up here after my teasing getaway last week. So I will let you in on the big deal now. Like many of you, I am a longtime fan of Matthew Mead's work. For years, one of my favorite books is still Gifts From Nature. The quiet simplicity and elegance of his work there and in the pages of Country Home always strikes me as remarkable- genuinely inspiring. We like the same things and I do admire the way he twists traditional craft to make it so current. Recently I asked Matthew if he would consider a casual interview here. He graciously agreed so I will be posting that later this week. Judging from the frequency of blog references to his work, I'm sure you will enjoy reading his thoughts on craft, design and inspiration.

My visit to the Midwest was delightful, refreshing, busy. I had a great time with my mom, friends in STL and then went on to Chicago for Nancy's book party. She is having a sensational tour and the room where she read beforehand was full beyond capacity. I had to do some serious talking to get in there. What a night for Nancy (...and a great party, Kevin!)

Many old friends from the neighborhood were there too- children all grown, Maggie's scout leader, Mo's beloved second grade teacher. The longer I am away from Oak Park, the more I realize how uniquely special it is as a community. Forever home for the best reasons.

And I really like it that fifteen years after I designed my first shirt for the Farmers' Market, they are still using one of the designs I did- exclusively- with strong sales to help support the event. That's really something. I'm so honored. Beyond the success of the art, it feels like I'm still there in an everyday sort of way. More than anything, that's really something too.  xoC   

Comments

[Cre8Tiva]

i understand completely...the joy of your hometown...how at home you feel there even if you have been gone for decades...the embrace of familiar is so spirit building...love the shells and rocks...blessings, rebecca

[Chris]

Oh, I love Matthew Mead and living in NH We all think he is kind of special up here. I love his work and look forward to reading more.

[Miss*Laurence]

Thanks for introducing me to Matthew Mead's work! I found your blog by chance, and just love your style! I'll read you soon again!

[Junk 2 Jewels]

WoW, Charlotte, that is going to be fun to get to read both of you talking about crafts, and entertaining and who knows what will be a real treat. Tracy

[Tammy]

What fun it will be to "listen in" on too of my favorite crafty people talking about craftiness! Looking gleefully forward to it!

[tea time and roses]

I so enjoyed this post I am also new to the work of Matthew Mead... Thank you so much.
The bowl of shells is so beautiful. I cannot get over how lovely the patterns are.. Your blog is a joy, and I always enjoy my visits..

Have a lovely week...

Beverly

[Daisy Cottage]

Welcome home Charlotte! I'm SO glad that you had a nice time! And I can't wait for your interview with MM - that is exciting! (he left a comment on my blog waaaay back - that was exciting too!)

xo,
Kim

[Loretta]

I remember being struck by Matthew Mead's work way back in the 80's when Country Living or Country Home started showing his work. I look forward to the interview.

Going home. So sweet.

[Sally]

How fun! Eagerly awaiting your interview with Matthew Mead. I love his website and his work in Country Home and I'm going to go look up his nature book now! :)

I'm so glad to hear you had a lovely visit back home and reconnected with so many friends.

What a sweet gift that must have been to find your design still going strong...I sense that you leave that sweetness everywhere you go Charlotte.

& I'm such a goofball, I got a big kick out of reading the Los Angeles Times Book Review section Sunday morning, seeing your friends book on the top ten list! Wahoo for Nancy!

[melissa @ the inspired room]

Matthew Mead! You are kidding! You lucky girl you! I will definitely be tuning in for that (I tune in anyways, just because I like YOU!), this will be quite a treat!

Melissa