Global Interest

Bogwater Jim

Lafayette, NJ

973-383-6057

World globes...As a schoolgirl, I remember my first encounter with them as a proud moment. Having such a grown-up navigational tool in our classroom could only mean one thing...we had arrived.

There were the crisp, efficient lines of longitude and latitude that always let you know exactly where you stand. And crazy-shaped continents, vast oceans and wiggly rivers that, together, promised a lifetime of exploration. And the colors...azure blue, viridian green, mountain brown, surely confirming our status in the solar system as the "prettiest" planet.

These old globes remind me of the world as it used to be. They provide an interesting, nostalgic and studious artifact to any environment. Now, when I look at them, I find the ever-shifting borders and renaming of countries fascinating. It reminds me that change is always on the horizon.

Moditional

Bogwater Jim

Lafayette, NJ

973-383-6057

In one way or another, everyone loves all things traditional. It's that comfort zone of an acceptable, well-educated, grown-up environment. But lately, we are all tired of the safe, the bland, the cautious. It just feels right to add those "out-of-sync" elements that your mother would never have approved of. It's time to abandon the concept of "design ingredients that go together".

So maybe, just to show respect for our elders, we've latched onto "Moditional"...the style that says "yes" to a carefully mis-matched marriage of crisp, mid-century, funky or industrial furnishings alongside the well-chosen traditional.

Pretty Surrounded by Rubble

Bogwater Jim

Lafayette, NJ 07848

973-383-6057

There is something about a composition set in contrast that always seems to amplify the spirit of its opposites.

"Innocence" (the title of the 19th century litho pictured) becomes even more gentle among stacks of dusty, old foundry patterns. It is shockingly out of context. The colors appear unusually subtle and the subjects completely at peace. The sweet, childlike image rises above the strong surroundings, and kindness rules the day.

Thank you, Dayne, for the beautiful photo.