Inspiration / Interpretation

seriesdwell

Feb 28

When the work, words, home, style, or talents of someone else makes your breath catch, stirs a longing, or causes you to lean in with curiosity, this is simply part of them reflecting part of you. Their life and work is not a prescription or formula, but an invitation for you to live fully yours. Take that awakening, that curiosity, and see what it becomes in your unique life.

These are words from a post I wrote last fall, words that seem to have resonated with so many. When a reader wrote to me recently and asked how one actually goes about this, I understood her wondering. How does one find that comfort zone of gaining valid ideas, of learning from others, rather than feeling so much less than?

I don’t have all the answers, not even a few of them, but what I do have is the ability to show you how others have inspired my life, home, and work. I like how showing often speaks far better than telling, anyway.

Who knew a simple question would bring a new series to the blog? Enjoy.

INSPIRATION:

A giant white porcelain bowl overflowing with green amaranthus sits atop a white pedestal in the dining room of an historic governor’s house. Interior design by Lisa Tharp, photography by Michael J. Lee.

INTERPRETATION:

A large thrifted footed bowl, formerly finished in bright, glossy colors, is quieted in flat white paint with an overlay of wood filler (rubbed on, dried, and sanded). In it was planted a collection of begonia and ferns in fresh potting soil, then tucked in with foraged sphagnum moss. It sits atop an antique mahogany side table in our great room.

Inspiration / Interpretation is a series meant to encourage us all. Next time you see an inspiring human, let them wake up the best in you. No inferiority or lack. No inadequacy or comparison. Just inspired curiosity, discovery, passion, you.

If you’d like help in creating a soulful home, I’d love to work with you. Email me: carmella@carmellarayone.com