Straddling previous and current with aesthetic aplomb, John Derian has created a world that’s as distinctive and transportive as it’s addictive. His enviable curiosity, fueled by a love of nature, historical past and craft have set him aside on the earth of ornamental artwork and furnishings. And his enchanting decoupage, the place it began, continues to draw legions of followers across the globe. This month marks the 30th anniversary of John Derian (the corporate) and to assist have a good time, I embellished a wall with a grouping of decoupage plates primarily based on imagery in his inspiring ebook. Whereas DIY just isn’t usually in my lexicon, this John Derian Picture Book Project appeared like a enjoyable and manageable collaboration, particularly since I used to be already a fan of every little thing John does. To not point out, this empty wall in my kitchen, beneath, had been begging for consideration.
My kitchen overlooks our backyard and terrace so in selecting the plates, I targeted totally on nature themes. Proper from the start I envisioned the massive Azalea Rustique de Gand Alex Hardy within the middle, anchoring the collage. I continued by making an attempt to create some symmetry with plates in related shapes, sizes and topics. My husband is a chicken lover so two rectangular dealing with parrot plates got here subsequent, adopted by the spherical floral ones above.
I began the undertaking on my laptop, above, the place it was straightforward to experiment with totally different choices and layouts. Subsequent, I printed it out with precise plate sizes famous.
I centered all of it vertically on the adjoining window moldings, hanging the azalea first and leaving a bit more room on the underside, identical to you’d on a body. From that time, t was fairly straight ahead hanging every little thing utilizing the outdated adage – measure twice dangle as soon as (though admittedly, I do have a pair errant holes). Closing undertaking beneath.
And it’s a a lot improved view as you enter the again door by the mudroom. (the hanging gentle over the desk can be from John’s store).
A pair extra pictures beneath. Since I do know you’ll ask, it took me three years to lastly discover the proper piece for the adjoining wall – the vintage bamboo etagere is from one other favourite hang-out – Vintage and Artisan in Stamford (Brenda Mahoney‘s sales space).
I’m so delighted to have a John Derian Picture Book Project chez moi! In case you have by no means visited any of John’s charming NYC emporiums, you might be in for a deal with. However be forewarned – it’s a treasure trove of temptation. My tabletop habit impressed my different newest additions from John’s store – the beautiful assorted floral plates beneath – certainly one of John’s collaborations with Astier de Villatte – featured on certainly one of my Nantucket tables this summer season.
And if you happen to perchance missed, be sure you watch Susanna’s and my video go to to John’s charming East Village Residence!