The Power of Photography - A look at the works of Michael Fineman

The Power of Photography

Featuring: MICHAEL FINEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

"The Power of Art is creating images that transform your vision and thought process." Michael Fineman

It's not everyday I stumble on great pieces of photography or art, but when I do, they command attention. The works of Michael Fineman are stunningly beautiful. I contacted Michael to get additional details about himself and his work. Michael was gracious enough to share some additional information with me, which I will share with you. 

Michael is a former law and psychology major turned photographer and graphic designer and has received numerous awards from prestigious entities such as the Gold Medal award from the Arts Director's Club of New York. Michael has also been featured in magazines world wide and is listed in the Who's Who in America (a once a year published book). 

As an honor student at the School of Visual Arts (which is considered the Harvard of Photography and Design Schools) Popular Photography Magazine published Michael's work in the U.S. and Europe. Additionally, Michael was also one of three Americans selected by Nikon to represent the U.S. and Japan. 

Michael brings a unique perspective to his vision through photography, photoshop, graphic design and conceptual detailing. These contemporary pieces featured below will add a unique look and feel to any interior space. These images are just a small portion of Michael's work. Be sure to visit Michael's site at www.michaelfineman.com. You'll be glad you did. 

Command your attention to Michael's eye. Look at the images. But do not just look at them, examine them. What do you see? 

"Flower Bed"

"Rose Group"

"Bird of Paradise"

"Mask" & "Wide Eyes"

"Cigar Men"

"Family"

"Spectrum 2"

I hope you enjoyed the work of Michael Fineman as much as I did.

Marilyn

CHAIRS ~ Beauty in Diversity

There are chairs and then there are CHAIRS! 

Today, I'm sharing pieces I find interesting, sexy and most of all beautiful in form, aesthetic, scale and diversity. Yes, you have probably seen many many chairs in several design styles, but these pieces are gorgeous and unique. I'm drawn to things that are different in every way imaginable yet harbors an element of beauty in their own perspective. 

Each piece makes its own statement. What are they saying to you?

Violetta Ana Wing Back Chair by PH Design

Armchair Folies Bergere by La Cividina

(top) Eagle and Half Cup by Koji Collection

(bottom) Atlantic Lounge Chair & Olympic Lounge Chair by Skyline Design, John Kube by Teak Warehouse

(left) Acrylite

(top right) Dibu Easy Chair by Warisan USA, (bottom right) Armchair Folies Bergere by La Cividina

(left) Niche by Koji Collection (right) Alice Lounge Chair by Warisan USA

Image Credit

Marilyn

Highlights From Snap! Orlando

Last week was quite a busy week for me; hence, the lack of postings. I was one of several volunteers who helped organize the first photography event in Orlando, FL. From May 20th to May 23rd, Snap! Orlando showcased works of international, national and emerging photographers. What a successful event it was. I was enamored with the beauty and level of diversity among the groups of photographs. Snap! was a big cultural momentum for Orlando as this was the first show of its kind in this town. Hopefully, this will not be the last.

While there was much to look at, I managed to snap a few photographs of some of the photos that really caught my eye by color, detail, mystery and thought. Enjoy!

Wallpaper & You

*ALERT* If you don't like wall paper, keep reading!

Where do I begin about wallpaper. Let's start with the biggest misconception:

"Wallpaper is messy, difficult and time-consuming to hang."

The above comment I've heard many times. Contrary to the popular misbelief, wallpaper has improved significantly over the years. Have you heard of non-woven wallpaper? Non-Woven wallpaper hangs much quicker than its predecessors. All you do (in laymens' terms minus the technicality of measurements and wall preparation) is slap some adhesive on the wall and hang the wallpaper as you desire. The best part about the non-woven wallpaper is that if, for any reason, you needed to access the wall behind the wallpaper, you can pull away the wallpaper without damage and reuse what was once on the wall. Simple, done, brilliant! 

Wallpaper can add so much drama to a room; depth, texture, and visual interest. Not to mention, wallpaper does wonders to break up the monotony of four painted walls by placing it on a focal wall. You may choose to use wallpaper as a piece of art by placing moulding around a desired sized piece of wallpaper. Or, be creative with it. There are many variations of wallpaper that will fit any design style. From traditional to modern and everything in between, the options are limitless. Overall, wallpaper is not like it once was. 

These are samples of innovative wallpaper creations. There's so much more out there.  

Image Credit

Product from Graham & Brown

Image Credit

Product from Totally Custom Wallpaper

Image Credit

Product from Totally Custom Wallpaper

Image Credit

Product from Totally Custom Wallpaper

Image Credit

Product from Totally Custom Wallpaper

Image Credit

Product from Graham & Brown

Image Credit

Product from Totally Custom Wallpaper

Now, for a step-by-step lesson on how to hang wallpaper, go here: Wall Paper Direct. This site provides the most detailed set of instructions. Or, you may choose to seek professional help (no pun intended). 

Oh SNAP!

Art enthusiats, did you hear about Snap!? No, well it's only a celebration of photographs from May 20th to May 23rd in beautiful downtown Orlando. For 4 days, Snap! will showcase photography from around the world; even students' work.

Check out a sampling of exhibits to be featured.


Be sure to fit this event into your schedule! See you there. 

"INSPIRED STYLES" for my Design Library

Yes, another read for my growing library: "Inspired Styles" by Kravet and Lee Jofa. This lovely find features several interior designers and discussions about what inspires them. 

An excerpt: "Some of the people in this book look to world of plants.....grit of urban life.....color of beloved dog's fur.....color of flashing stiletto.....buttons, boxes, bowls and beads.....lipstick, shoes, shells and books....."

Now.....on to some inspiring rooms......

By Barclay Butera - "Design is always dependent upon location, tradition and personal preferences."

I am moved by the play of patterns and textures in this room. This African-inspired room is chic yet casual and inviting. Despite the diversity in textiles, this room remains harmonious because they are of the same family. Textiles definitely creates the personality for this room. 

Another by Barclay Butera.

There's a masculine feel to this room: the edginess of the wood, contrast of the soft linens against the leather pillows and straight lines. The oversized planter pots are fabulous, unexpected elements that makes this room savvy. This room is for today's metrosexual.

Room by Allegra Hicks "We like to create places that are more relaxed, easier to live in; to make a gentler, more comfortable environment."

This semi-monochromatic space creates a harmonious feel as the wall art floats over the sofa. While the texture of the art and throw pillows creates visual movement, the soft orange (could be warm yellow) area rug creates a distinct contrast grounding the space. The rug and wood tone also serves as a nice contrast to the dark walls. 

Room by Kelly Wearstler "I take risks, and I believe you can do anything that your brain and your imagination can create."

What can I say about this room other that I love the bold and brightness of this eclectic room. The goal has been achieved. The playful spirit remains connected through the use of warm and cool colors. Whimsical elements are scattered throughout the space for a finished touch. 

By Diamond & Baratta "Interiors should be happy, and they should rejoice in a happy home life."

Dare to be colorful and funky - Yes! This room and those alike (see Kelly's room above) are what makes designers who they are; Risk takers. Obviously, the first thing you notice about this room is the rug because it's the focal point; it says something. Notice how every element from the ceiling to the furniture remains classic, traditional until your eye meets the rug. 

By Candice Olson "My signature is to take serious design pieces and give them a sense of humor and personality by mixing them in an unconventional way."

I am a big fan of Candice Olson's talent for pulling a room together seamlessly; sheer perfection. Contrast of colors and texture perfects each space. The wood tones, form and textile creates visual unity. My favorite element of a Candice room is how she projects the beauty of every selected piece. Flawless!  

By Barbara Barry "I am inspired by the things that exist freely." 

Traditional, classic and timeless beauties. The sprinkling of flowers, softness and curve-linear lines of the furniture pieces brings on a feminine flair. 

By Michael Weiss "Design should have a link with authenticity - it demands that you treat the act of designing like a fine art, with that level of inspiration."

The clean and simplistic design of these contemporary rooms is awe-inspiring. The subtle pops of color in each space adds a nice contrast to the neutral color schemes. Love the repetition of dark wood tones in each room creating a harmonious statement.

(ALL IMAGES FROM THE BOOK "INSPIRED STYLES")




I hope you enjoyed the visuals. I think I'm going to the caribbean next...........ooh-lala!

Google SketchUp in 18 Hours

Designer Bootcamp

May 26-28 2010 Orlando, FL. 

Google SketchUp for Kitchen and Bath Design.

The Bootcamp qualifies for CEUs and educational hours and will be held at the Sub-Zero Wolf Showroom.

For Additional information please go to: Kitchen and Residential Design

Enjoy your WEEK everybody!!!

Hi everybody, just wanted to let you know I will be on a staycation for a few days. I'm looking forward to a week of zero-free technology and fun in the sun with the fam. Please check out my guest post titled "I Feel Red Today" at Modenus, a savvy social network specifically for the Interior Design Community.  

COVERINGS 2010 - Part 2 of 2

Day Two - Compilation of Images: Enjoy! 

Any one who knows me is well aware that orange is my favorite color. I just had to capture a pic of these beauties. The ones on the bottom would look great in my kitchen. I like the versatility and textural look of these gems. Bellissimo!

For a nice beachy scene, these embedded shelled beauties would look fantastic.

Tiles from Argentina. Had a lovely conversation with the exhibitors. These tiles are handpainted after the desired shapes have been created by a laser. 

The details are incredible! The experience is even better in person.  

Intricate wall creation. Stunning!

Check out the 24" x 24" wall tile. Love the room setting too. 

And finally, something Whimsical.

Thank you Coverings 2010 for a great show. Glad I was able to make it. I met some wonderful people and saw many inspiring works of art. Until next year, tata!

All images by MGR