11.21.2010

Jingle bells, this stuff sells…

We love Chrissy. The one time of the year when excessive shopping is not only sanctioned, it’s de rigeur.

We love the flushed and happy faces on people who’ve found the perfect gift for Aunty Maude, the triumphant set of the shoulders on those who’ve solved the problem of buying the kids exactly what they want while managing to spend equally on each of them.

Dammit, Christmas shopping is a challenge beyond any round-the-world race, any mistress-chef puff pastry test. Its satisfaction levels are up there with scaling Mount Everest or swimming Bass Strait.

And it’s all about knowing where to go. Here, for your perusing (and shopping) pleasure, are Grace’s hot tips for the best online Chrissy shopping this season.

Go forth and shop!
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Like a high-end shopping mall with boutiques each selling unique, beautifully-designed gifts, you’ll find something for everyone on this cool new site. Grace is coveting these cushions.


Above: $79.95 - shipping included - Chez Moi Cushion: Paris 4


Above: $79.95 - shipping included - Chez Moi Cushion: Myope

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An old favourite, on etsy you can buy and sell. The range is enormous, the quality exquisite. We love these messyfish quirky illustrations toys and textiles.


Above: Flann $45.00 USD

Above: Padovimbro G $45.00 USD
Above: Alfonso B $45.00 USD

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Want to make sure that your gifts are green? Go to earthtribe, where everything is about supporting a clean planet and fair choices. And beautiful design.

Above: Quilt cover: $250

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Any site that tells you you’re allowed to use the good linen everyday gets our vote. Ponyrider is about the simple, everyday pleasures of life.


Above: $64.00 AUD - Sliced Player Cushion Cover
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Something for the wall? These limited edition screen prints are a fantastic price.









11.12.2010

Alexa Meade – 2D or not 2D?

Trompe l’oeil literally means mistake of the eye, trick of the eye. Washington-based artist Alexa Meade has fun with our perceptions in these vivid 2D images by painting directly onto fully-fleshed, 3D models.

At first we’re sure we’re looking at a painting. Then we realise it’s a photo of someone who lives and breathes in three dimensions, and has been painted like a walking 2D image.

Fab, thought-provoking; a great statement on the power of perception in our image-driven world.

Check out the rest of her work here.

Discovered via one of our favourite blog reads cup of Jo