What Spring Is Like on Mars.

Matte Stephens is an artist and illustrator living in Portland, Oregon. His Etsy shop provides a window into his wacky, wonderful world. Matte's paintings and sculptures cover a range of subjects, but I find myself drawn to his birds in particular. These enchanting, whimsical feathered friends project enough space age optimism to fuel a day-trip to the moon.

Wild for Walnut Wallpaper

If you're looking to put your taste on display in a big way, check out Walnut Wallpaper's curated collection of chic wall coverings. Everything in their collection feels very fun and carefree. The foil paper, in particular, really takes me there. Looking at these, I feel transported to another place and time (where I don't have to worry about anything).

A Touch of Tall Cotton

Local interior designer, Kimberly Renner, did this charming house in Austin's Hyde Park neighborhood that was featured in Austin Monthly Home recently. The thing that's great about this interior is the way the charcoal gray walls and ceiling lend drama and make the white furnishings and trim really pop. I also enjoy the eclecticism in the choice of pieces that Renner effortlessly blends to create a fresh and fabulous environment.

Uptown Backyard

Today I visited one of my favorite shops here in Austin, Uptown Modern. The owner, Jean Heath, is very friendly and she has a wealth of knowledge in addition to her yummy selection of mid-century antiques. I especially love the shop's selection of patio furniture (shown here). I can really picture myself creating a great outdoor chill-out space, where I can relax with all my friends while we listen to yacht rock.

Cozy Collage Community

Today I found this great blog focused on collage called Not Paper. The blog's creator, Aprile Elcich, is a Canadian graphic design student who only recently started sharing her passion for collage online and she already has an amazing group of loyal readers and contributing artists.




She also has this great monthly feature where she commissions artists to create downloadable iPhone and desktop wallpaper (pictured below). (If you know of any other great places to get free wallpaper, please let me know).

Dream Sequence: Austin

If you've never been to Austin, Texas, it's hard to describe the spirit of this magical little town. It really has a distinct look and feel that is unlike any other place. Being here is like splitting a six-pack with your best friend on a lazy summer day with nothing on your mind except taking a walk down to the shady swimming hole.

Here are some photos I've taken over the last few months that attempt to capture the mood of this special place. (If you have pictures of Austin that you'd like to share, please send them to me; I'll be posting more in the future).

Shiny Objects: Zoological Throw Pillows

These pillows from Areaware are a major cute overload. They're just begging me to take them home. I really want to feed carrots to the deer.