MATSU

New Year's Resolution- going with the juice.

The holidays are like a double edged sword. They bring pleasure and pain. They are peaceful, yet stressful. They are not what they were when we were children. We are responsible for our own happiness and now that we are "mature adults"; should know, that pleasure stems from within. Not with out. Not with material things.

 Coming from a retail background, and selling luxury brands and goods for years and years, what once seemingly worked, now does not.

I am in limbo- better use of term actually would be transition. In between holidays, life positions, seasons. This is so hard, and staying in the present is another way to accept what is.  Old habits bring the past into the present. Old habits can also indicate that fast forwarding into the future is a guaranteed way not to be in the present-preventing the future to unfold. Being in the mystery and the dark is the place where the "seeds" of life and opportunity germinate. I want to squirm. Finding peace here, means patience. This is not something that is natural for me. Never was. Perhaps one day I may get better with it, but for now, the best I can do is to acknowledge, practice and pay attention to signs, like the Cardinal below. I was certain it was an omen. This photo was taken when we had the snow on the pumpkins in mid October, but peaceful, nonetheless.

What is meant by practicing is really awareness. Consistently reminding myself to drop the expectations. Go inside my heart and soul. Nurturing both. Practicing can also take place on the yoga mat- enough to realize that the physical form is only 1 limb of Yoga. Taking it off the mat into my life will insure awareness. 

My new remedy, which is something that I took for granted is designing jewelry and playing with the stones. Feeling the stones, feeling the energy of the stones. Feeling the warmth that grows from the essence of the stones. Nymph. Does it.

My heart dazzles in the moment of watching others jump for joy while choosing a new necklace, bracelet or earrings. I have one client that is attracted to Rubies. I thrive on her excitement when choosing them. This is a tender moment. I can not find them quickly enough to replenish that well, honestly,I rather enjoy the rareity  and uniqueness of it all.

This is very gratifying for my soul to see how Nymph can quickly touch another's heart. This is so rewarding to me. This is how I  continuemoving forward, by listening to my own rhythm in  following my heart's journey. Yes, a creative outlet- following the juice.  The juice can lie within many places.

Cooking does it also. I took it for granted. I thrive on cooking for family and friends. Cooking with the foods in season is like choosing paint colors for a Watercolor, or what have you.

In this case, prior to Christmas I could not get the Italian tradition out of my mind. The feast of the 7 fishes.  I decided to combine them all. Not generally my style to cook, I often create the dishes separately, but this just seemed more bountiful and robust. Here we go;

Halfpound of lobster meat, half lb of shrimp- tails on, 3 scallops the size of my palm cut in quarters, half a dozen clams in shell, crabmeat, anchovies, and a small amount of flounder.

Next: 6 cloves of garlic and 1 onion minced, chili pepper flakes. Sautee until soft, add 2 cans of San Marzano crushed tomatoes.  Salt and Pepper. Simmer for about 45 minutes; lid on.

Dump all of the seafood into the pot. Just like that! It was amazingly festive and healthy. 

What does one serve with this ??? I think I need to create a cookbook-regardless, but these roasted vegetables- I create about 2x per week using whatever vegetables inspire me. 

The photo above includes: 2 small eggplants, quartered, 1 bunch of asparagus cut in 4per stem, sliced crimini mushrooms, thinly sliced fennel, petit carrots, and tons of minced shallots and garlic, rosemary, thyme and parsley. Salt and Pepper. Roast for about 50 min @350 degrees.  Bingo. Done! a wonderful accompaniment to meat, chicken, fish or pasta.

After the main course, I like offering the salad. It cleanses the palate and treats the stomach with freshness.  I was delighted to find Black Mission Figs, which  adds a magical touch and flavor to arugula. For the dressing, my signature is usually infusing extra virgin olive oil with shallots over the flame until they pop. Remove. Add 3 tablespoons of high grade balsamic, and a little salt and pepper. Whisk. Done. Yum.

Nearly all of the photos have a common thread. Reds.  Passion. NewYear, and beginings.

Happy New Year to all of my friends, family and followers. Be well. Keep in Touch, and I hope you enjoy reading my journey.

Yours in joy,

Dava

Creating transition and virtual brick and mortar.

Life after retail. I never dreamed there was such a thing. I am still replenishing my inner well, my mind, my soul and my body. I was robbed of energy in my last stages of retail life. I wake each day with gratitude. Having had the courage to close the store. I could not see beyond where I stood. It takes time. Methodically moving forward I smile each day for a new life I am transitioning towards.

As seeds  germinate in the ground, the nutrients prepare for growth - our souls are similar to this natural act - requiring patience. Ha! Another new thing for me. Breathing and savouring each and every day, and all of the events that occur in it. 

I begin with a reverse commute. Driving to play ( work ) is so refreshing now. Light. Inspiring. Back to roots. Back to where it all began. Back to working with design in the realm of products. Fashion for the home. Useful goods that bring style to lives around the world.  Rather Global.

I write with a skip like tone, because this is how life should feel. This is how doing something that speaks to the heart feels. Light and playful! Delightful.

I just love the integrity of the goods I am handling- holding, selling and promoting right now.

WHO needs titanium Chopsticks ???  WHO needs a titanium iPhone cover ?  Who doesn't want a rich looking bag that evokes quality, design and function ? WHO doesn't want a beautiful writing instrument ?  WHO doesn't want a glistening piece of Nymph Jewelry ? Really ! WHO ??? The question really is, Who wouldn't ? Especially if it can be acquired through the internet ?

I am old school. Very stubborn with technology. I admit it. I graduated from Art School, as I probably have mentioned in previous posts. I like the feeling of pencils as they glide on paper. I like the smell, the feel, the organicness of it all. Same with Paints. Watercolors especially. I am searching for the perfect balance of exercising the talents I developed as as result of Paier School of Art, and the education of everyday life, and learning how NOT to fall behind the curve of technology.

I came very clear last night. Being inundated with the social media networks such as Face Book, Pinterest, Twitter etc.  They all have advantages, but the epiphany I had  late last night after hours of conversation with a new and very dear friend-expressing my frustration with how disected the social media seems-to me, that is.. I realized that I need a virtual site.  Bricks and Mortar to the Internet.  I know how it needs to feel, what it needs to do, how I want it to look- of course I do. I am a designer, stylist , fashion maven.. Probably Style Maven is even better a description yet. Spreading good taste globally. Yup. That's me!  Davamatsu.com That is the new virtual "Museum" if you will.  This is where I head.  This information is very very sensitive. I realize I am exposing my soul.  Why not ? 

I have been told that web sites are becoming obsolete. I don't really agree. I need an anchor. I need a place to hang all of my "TuTus".  Not kidding. Sort of like my own pin board. Selling what I like and sharing my experiences through cooking, styling, painting, physical activity and the 7 limbs of Yoga, promoting fabulous products from Japan or where ever!  This is what I call freedom. This is what I consider inspiring.

I am going to post a few photos here. Some of them have already been launched on my  personal FB page as well as the newly created Eastern Accent page.  Prior to that I had created Japanese Modern Design.com

This site is up and running. One can find some very unique products there.

My goal however is to create a visual feeling on line. This will be a test of my patience- once again, but at least my direction is clear. Nothing worse than limbo !

SO, I invite you to follow me. I invite your suggestions if you have any. I hope you do.  I look forward to sharing more-  No bricks just fancy cement : )

 

Thanks for joining and playing with me. Hope to hear from you too !

Happy Life. Happy January with Spring weather.

I saw a Robin yesterday ! Not kidding.

 

Yours in joy,

Dava

 

 

 

A day in Pompeii. A day in Nature.

I certainly got a taste of what happened August 24,AD 79 ; the day Mt. Vesuvius erupted!

The Museum of Science in Boston features over 250 priceless artifacts in this compelling exhibit portraying the  life and death of this once thriving city- Pompeii. This exhibit is rich with facts, frescoes, bronze and marble statuaries,gold coins and other dazzling examples of ancient Roman artistry.

What I learned on this day, was how a volcano, as disruptive as it can be, can  also preserve. I mean, I sort of knew it, but never saw it. This made it all so much more real for me.

I especially enjoyed viewing the   exhibits depicting  how sophisticated and enriched they were back then by the jewelry, cosmetic jars and the actual tools that were used to cleanse the body; prior to soap. The  gold worn was so deep in tone and the shapes rather primitive. The piees reveal their love of jewelry.

The elegance they created so long ago- I find so inspiring! I am sure to be influenced by this in my own Nymph creations as a result. I loved the cosmetic jars- some tin, some bronze.

The tools they used to cleanse their bodies are called strigiles. In the era before soap, Romans cleansed by applying a mixtyure of oil and gritty pumice, then used a strigil to scrape it off- much like shaving with a blunt edge. A dip in a warm bath would rinse away any remaining grime.  Sounds weird but the graceful shapes make the cleansing process such an art.

On a more macabre side of things, I honestly could not peel my eyes away from the body casts of the vicitims of the volcano. Most of the citizens evacuated before the blast, but those fleeing to the waterfront were killed and frozen in time.

 The body casts are made of polyester resin from the original molds of the citizens in their final moments. The bodies of people and animals were smothered by ash and had disintegrated, leaving cavities in the hardened ash.

The preservation process by the archeologists poured liquid plaster into the voids creating the detailed casts of lives in their last moments.  This exhibit just awe struck me. I will post some photos, which could be disturbing to some. I am sorry, but just find this whole thing compelling.

I am sharing and writing about this because I was so moved. I mentally observed what struck me, and began to figure out why.  My life's journey is a product of past influences. My Italian  heritage spoke to me as I experienced the exhibits. Some disturbing, some beautiful. For the love of the Romans, and history I feel and acknowledge to this day, how fortunate we are to have such amazing references to relate ourselves to as personally as we wish.

The romans love art, shapes, vases, urns, containers a games. This may be the innate love of how I began my career over 30 years ago. With products. Fine gifts, jewelry and the like. This excursion filled me and with it I bring my experience to you. The urns above are carved alabaster and blown glass.

Back from the past and into the reality of an autumnal Sunday, I begin to look around me at the natural beauty that I have admidtedly taken for granted and wish no longer to do so. Nature. How riveting.

The grace of the swan. The natural beauty of the water, and the reflections in it, to me is breathtaking. In order to get a closer look and experience, bread is thrown to the magnifcent swan- and like magic, he comes.
 and so do his friends.

What a way to end a day. An educational one, a moving one and a peaceful one.

I hope you enjoyed the excursion I took you on. Stay tuned for what is next !

Yours in joy,

Dava

Running from the Moon... a short story

Running from the Moon.

I begin by sauntering down a dirt road with the moon as my only light source above me in the sky.

 The road begins to darken as I stumble on the overgrown vegetation; dulling my visibility.. I try not to allow the fear to rise up from within. My gate becomes more brisk.

I begin to tremble while running. I could smell the faint pumpkin scent as I approach the patch. I hoped this familiar scent would calm my inner fear. Instead, the rustling of the leaves makes my mind wander towards pleasant autumn thoughts- for a moment. I then expect to be snatched up by another force within these woods; leading to the partially fenced in garden. Very creepy.

My feet become completely tangled in the vines of the pumpkins which are haphazardly lying all over the patch.

They are strangling themselves, it appears. The moon decides to aid my sight once again – to near blindness at this point. Sunglasses in the night ? I could use them to sooth my sensitive eyes!

As I try to detangle my feet, I feel the vines begin to tighten around me. I scream. No one would hear. I am scared. I want to trust that the only thing I should be thinking about is how the nutmeg, cinnamon and smashed pumpkins would taste. The autumnal flavors which- in any other circumstance should  comfort! Sweet, creamy  and delicious.  I am day dreaming of a pumkin pie in the night. Still with my heart beating so hard I imagine the Moon turning into a ghost. My fingers are now trembling. I can not scream. Too scared. No one will hear me anyway.

 

Dava Muramatsu

October 18 2011

 

Harvesting the Journey

Matsu in the physical term has closed.  The essence of Matsu, however is wide open !

That's me and I am here.

Autumn provides a change in the air with a climate that is  conducive to purging and motivation towards  new chapters that await. Prior to Matsu's closing, I signed up for creative writing and water color classes at the Boston Center for Adult Education.  Commitment, but not too much.  I knew these classes would ease the shift in my life structure. I was right.  Following my intro here, I am sharing a short story I wrote for one of the writing assignments. 

I also am working on new pieces of Nymph. One of my sources flew me to his warehouse last Thursday, where I was knee deep in stones, artifacts and all sorts of kilim. It must be what a 3 year old feels like in a candy store for the first time ! I was so happy and content. On the way back to the airport- in the rain with sun shining, I see the most amazing rainbow ! Must be an omen of good luck.  I am just briefing you all right now on what I am up to. Still in the early stages. 

Thank you all for the good wishes and hugs the last weeks at the store. Chapter closed. New ones follow.  Just remember, I want to hear from you too. Feel free to leave a comment.

Yours in joy,
Dava Muramatsu

 

 

History ~ Today. The New York Trip.

 
Ever driven past something year after year with curiosity ?  What is it like up there ? Someday I want to go up there .... What goes on up there ?  Dava, just turn !!!  SO, yesterday driving North up the Henry Hudson Parkway,  I finally listened to my inner voice  after years of wondering realized. Do it now !

I went to the Cloisters.

This medieval outpost is an extension of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  Overlooking the Hudson River, it is a deeply relaxing and spiritual place. I gave me an opportunity to decompress after 7 days of standing and selling and networking at the New York International Gift Show. The Jacob Javits center was home to hundreds of booths world wide showing their wares. Uber stimuli. Good thing I know how to edit.

My visit to this museum was such a wonderful andectode for the space my mind had been in all week.  Fake air ( air conditioning) no music.. need I say more ?

The interlocking cloisters are faithfu reconstructionnns of five French monasteries . They were erected between 1934 and 1938 on a site offered by John D. Rockerfeller Jr. The museum is devoted to medieval architecture and medieval European art. The gardens are as peaceful and lush as the the interior rooms of this "castle".

 I could feel history, and grace while being there, yesterday and shot several photos.  It was a spiritual end to his New York Week. The contrast to all of the contemporary designed items that were shown, and then to experience  this history just showed me the diversity one can "taste" when the mind is open. I am sure this can happen daily in life. I became addicted to my lens as I sauntered through the little rooms of chapels, and  hallways. Absolutely beautiful.

The buildings and rooms reminded me of the Cote Bastide store in Paris, which I have written about in the past after returning from my last Parisian trip. This is the real deal, and although the flavor of the store in Paris was so authentic, being in this monestary was just mind and soul cleansing.

 

Accent on Design in New York was ultra stimulating and fun. I will include some booth shots reflecting the history I am discussing here. At the show, we created 3 rooms or vingnettes. One all white, the other off black, then with pride and royalty .... a metalic gold . Each space lent a different mood, different genre of merchandise. 

 Table top, desk top and personal body care products were shown. Our newest collection were designed in Japan ( as most of our merchandise ). The Evoltuion Eraser. Available in 3 colors. One sculpture reflecting several stages of ape to man. Crazy ! Take a look. $7.50 each.
  These erasers come packaged individually as seen above. Once they are yours, you may slice them up, and the results will look just like this !
 Fiction ? Myth ? Reality ? Doesn't matter.. we all have our own opinions as to just how we got here. This is one myth. In a toy/functional item.  Adorable ! They will be available through many Musuem shops throughout the US, resulting in our efforts at the gift show, and on line through Japanese Modern Design. Com. 

I also must announce that the new Cote Bastide products will be available at Matsu this week, lending themselves to beauty for the senses in combination with history. Just look at this magnificent book... a wedding reception? creative writing ? what have you. I find this just so sensual and tactile to have and to hold.
  Look at the texture of these hand made pages !! In store this weekend. New candles, scents and candlesticks. All imported from France.

 My last photo culminates the old with the new. History with the present. Monestaries and booths. This was my week.  The porcelain collection above will also be available through the Japanese Modern Design.com website. Work in progress.

 

Just another journey in my life. New beginings.

 Often the on set of Autumn will inspire new approaches, new possibilities and energy. I listen, smell and hear. This is how I grow.  Taking each day as a new adventure and opporunity to move forward. 

I hope you enjoyed this journey of mine. I am now realizing how this talk of Medieval times has also an influence in my Nymph collection. I am quiet about it in this blog, but please know it is alive and prominent. All on view at the shop. Matsu !

New merchandise now arriving daily at Matsu. 264 Newbury St. !!! See you soon.

Yours in joy,

Dava

 

What is a birthstone ?

For some reason or another, my curiosity with gem stones began in grade school.

My science projects related to geology. I thought that was going to be my major as I got older.  As  I grew, however.. it was  in the musical realm ( learning clarinet in 4th grade)  playing this wood wind instrument and piano most of my life; that  I then adopted the notion of a music career rather than science. After all... I had an in house musical tutor...teaching me the Clarinet( my Dad), and for Piano ?? a Nun !  Didn't matter... I wasn't allowed to leave my house until my 1 hour practice time was done.  EVERY DAY. I hated it !  Of course, this style of discipline I now resepect, thanks Mom and Dad !

As I grew older my fascination with the art department in high school had my curiosity peaked so high that I found myself in  advertising and fashion design classes !  This led me to Paier School of Art in New Haven, Ct. learning all about color, compostion, painting, perspective, anatomy drawing, water colors, layout and advertising.  Who knew ??? I wind up in retail, and several years later ? designing jewelry.  I then realized I was getting back to my initial roots ! Geology. The study of stones.

What interests me so deeply, is the energies I see and feel when looking or touching the stones and their meanings. The easiest way to learn about them, in the begining ( and I am still learning ) was through the symbolic relationship of the stone with the coordinating birth month.  Or calendar month. This knowledge gave me a foundation in which to learn the qualites of the specific stones associated with each month.

I also use the Birthstone chart to teach my staff members an easy way to begin to have a personal relationship with stones, stemming from their own birthstone. It worked. 

Historically there are several charts listing the birthstones, depending on the era.. My point of reference is the Modern Birthstone Chart. Most of you may already know them, but just in case her they are:  January: Garnet, February: Amethyst, March: Aquamarine, April: Diamond, May: Emerald, June: Pearl, July: Ruby, August: Peridot, September: Sapphire, October: Opal, November: Topaz or Citrine, December:Turquoise.

A Birthstone is a gift of a preceious material- mainly gemstones that symbolizes the month of  birth based on the Gregorian Calendar.

Honestly ? from that origin we have now capitalized on the theory to create a motive for people for gift giving at  Birthdays etc. 

This particular blog post introduces several things. I am going to describe the Birthstone of this month of August, show you some new Nymph, and include the new link for my new On Line Store.... long time coming. In the store, not only am I selling the jewelry, but also within the descriptions, am providing information about  healing properties of the stones, and some ideas of how to wear them, along with  what colors work with each given piece. Peridot:

Periodot, is the Birthstone of August. It's brilliant green hue can light up a room. The faceted little chunks used above in this hand knotted necklace need nothing else. They are so brilliant on their own, adding a diamond or any other focal bead or accent will minimize the beauty of the Peridot, in my opinion. 

This stone can range in colors from yellowish green to bright lime. The occlusions in the piece above add value and a sense of antiquity.  The Romans called this stone the evening emerald and believed it had magical powers to cure depression. In heart matters, this stone is used to help dreams become a reality, specifically with the purpose of drawing a new lover to you.  I read that Napoleon once gave Josephine a peridot as a symbol of his undying love and admiration. How romantic ! 

This stone radiates with enthusiasm and is also strongly associated with yang energy and the sun itself. The vibrational aspect through the lightness and beauty of peridot, brings to mind new beginnings. Interestingly enough this stone's energy is both subtle and light-some might call it a rather sophisticated energy.   Peridot was also believed to keep away evil spirits.

 Periodot is a powerful cleanser. Releasing and neutralizing toxins on all levels. It purifies the subtle and physical bodies, and the mind. It opens, cleanses, and activates the heart and solar plexus chakras ( energy channels in the body ) and assists in releasing negative and old "baggage" we tend to harbor and carry. Not healthy. This stone can sharpen the mind, and open it to new levels of awareness. 

That's the history of the Peridot.

I have included 3 pieces of Nymph from the new upcomming Roman edition to be released in about 2 weeks at Matsu.

The bracelet above is  a convenient roll on style along with a ruby ( passion stone ) drop. It is $230. 2 pieces available.

The earrings above this photo are $85 a pair. Only 2 pairs available.

The necklace in the first shot is 19" long, has a sterling oxidized clasp and an unusual citrine accent at the clasp. This museum quality piece is one of a kind at $885.  All of the stones above were limited in availability, but I just could not hold myself back when I found them. They were inviting and eye opening to me. Juicy, brilliant and rich. 

I am planning on holding a Nymph Trunk Show at Matsu later this month. If you are on my email list, you will get an invite. If not ? sign up !

I am also announcing the opening of my long sought after On Line Store for Nymph.

Etsy.com/shop/nymphjewelry 

I appreciate any spreading of the word to your friends, family or lovers :)

Thank you for reading my blog. If you would like to know more, hear more or have any suggestions, please let me know !

Happy Birthday to all Leos ,who share this brilliant Peridot stone !

Yours in joy,

Dava

Morning after the full moon .July 16. Things I love, see and read

Good morning !

It is now the midpoint through July ! The moon last night was huge and orange ! What a feast through the eyes right down to the soul.

I spent the day in Brimfield, Ma. The Antique Fair was stimulating as usual. It was difficult at first. Why ? you ask ? because I went into it with expectations of searching for the " new product" for my life, /Matsu.

Once i dropped the expectation I was able to really be open to what was being offered around me.   These glorious antique bottles below simply sang to me. They reminded me of the  keys on a piano.. All perfectly lined up, yet with history. The hues of the bottles were so pretty. I didn't buy any, because I have been down this road before and stocked them at Matsu. I am not really a fan of repeat merchandise. At least not in this case. I I am strolling along, and then see the collection of porcelain hands all standing as though they were saluting, and I suppose they were ! They attracted my attention. If I didn't already own some of these porcelain hand forms, I would definately have purchased a few. I tried to use them for jewelry displays, years ago and somehow they just weren't conducive to that notion.  They were too "stiff "  to my eye. Here, however I delight in looking at them.
What a glorious day in Brimfield. The weather was crystal clear and a joy to be walking around searching for a discovery.   

This photo just blows me away. I found a shopping cart filled with these porcelain "body parts". Erie, creepy and cool. I don't know why but I was fascinated with this pile of porcelain. We both know these are forms used for dolls. But, it sort of looks like something out of a horror flick. I suppose the head could be a vase, providing the bottom sealed.. ? just a thought.  I am now strolling some what towards the endless rows of glorified junk.  

I KNOW , you say what's the big deal ? Well honestly, these old very rusted decorative sheets of metal where beautiful . You could feel age, and history here. It takes years to achieve this tone, and quite honestly, the depth of it just really turned me on !
 Here, we have what I consider to be an array of shapes all speaking to me in the tone of VINTAGE green. What are they ?  A pile of fences stacked up against weathered barn wood, and in the foreground is the tip of a cross that may have come from the outside of a church or religious structure. It has a beautiful patina finish, which replicates the colors of the gutters in Back Bay that have aged with time and weather. Just look up at a building and really pay attention to the details that we often neglect to notice on a daily bases.

This green for some reason just really resonates with my eyes, and my heart. ( of course green is the color of the heart Chakra ).. I find stones for my jewelry and just knew I had to use them in my collection. It feels like an antique coming into modern day fruition.  Sort of like digging up an old tomb, and the sense of being transported into another era, is something that I feel is achieved each time I complete a piece of Nymph. Look at the pieces below ! 

 This 5 strand amazonite/gold necklace reminds me of Egypt. Old world. Beautifully carved amazonite pieces. nearly looking as though they were put together like a puzzle ! This stone is known to have a balancing effect on en's moods, and with it bringing calm. It encourages self~determination.  The color green comes from the copper present in the stone.

This is another piece I created. Rather heavy to the eye, and also on the neck, but for the right person ? it brings the sense of ancient time. The little antique silver "bells" add another dimension to this beautifully honed necklace. The citrine drop brings the energy of the sun to this amazonite necklace . Both pieces are at Matsu now. They both feel very old to me, and I consider the tone to echo the feeling of ancient times. Egypt, Rome, who knows.  

I count the days right now as I realize my scheduled trip to the West Coast comes closer.

I will visit my daughter and get a taste of the other side of the US. I have not been in Los Angeles in about 17 years. This ought to be of interest. I am excited to see Aya in her newly formed environment, scout retail stores and see what just goes on out there.. For my trip, I purchased some reading material.  It is no coincidence the book that jumped out is nothing more than ??? 

I am about to read the story about the life of the Queen. I can tell you that she married twice, both times to her brothers. Had children from other married men, and love jewels...... What a trip this will be !

I hope to see you all soon at Matsu, and also hope you enjoy this blog post.

You will hear from me as soon as I return from the City of Angels....

Until then, I remain

Yours in joy,

Dava

Citrines, stones the beach and bells

 
For the first time, it seems in my adult life, I have taken a non work related vacation. Relax, refresh, replenish, decompress. Where is there a better place, conducive to this than the beach ?

My eyes were soothed everywhere I looked, with everything I saw. The sun was minimal, but I found these amazing spheres of citrine (yellow quartz). It carries the healing properites of the sun. It expands the auric field, filling it with light and lcearing away any lingering etheric toxins. Citrine is also a wonderful manifestation crystal by motivating you into taking action. It brings optimism, and cheerfulness. This stone focuses on balancing the soalr plexus chakra, which in turn integrates the lower and  the higher chakras.

I have shown here my spheres. When I found them, or better yet.. when they found me, I just could not take my eyes off of them. I have collected spheres for many years. Primarily clear crystal balls. Definately always transparent. Nothing dense, like jasper etc. The energy there is too dark and heavy for my persona and spirit.

I work with citrines quite often in the work I create through Nymph. Here I show a chunky citrine necklace that measures about 30". The stones here are a deep golden color. The tones of citrines can vary from very tranparent such as the bracelets you see, to more translucent such as the spheres shown here. In either case, the energy is sunny, with a focus on brightening the heart and outlook on things.

In the realm of spheres, these antique bells caught my eye, but there sound sung to my ears.

The sounds of these little critters, just warmed my ears. The sounds all vary, and at this point my thoughts other than to hang them, is to sell them and better yet, incorporate them in my jewelry. At least the small ones. ! We shall see about that.
 There were many finds while I was away. I saw things with a freshness, and was exposed to sights that I don't come across on a daily basis.  Like these crazy antique bottles that once held opium ! As I approached the box of them, I rubbed them back and forth. They gave off the sound of a musical intrument. ( the owner scolded me for even thinking to touch them !.. oops too late ) I heard the sounds and wanted to covet these bottles. What was I to do with them ?? No idea, I didn't buy them.. but was delighted to have found them at this random flee market that I attended. Aren't they devilishly beautiful ?
 See ? the raised lettering indicates elixir of Opium. not sure what year, but to think that this was probably taken like we take aspirin.. of what ever kind these days, without batting an eyelash... More magic, for the week, as I then stumbled up this deck of cards at this flea market. I am sorry, I wanted them .. just for the graphics, but thought a $28 price tag was a bit over board. Didn't see the purpose at that point, therefore just simply took a photo.
 I won't bore you with the beach scenes right now, as I will use it as my header for the release of this short and sweet blog post.

It is easy to see that I am struggling a great deal with the size of the photos, as I manuever between my new Mac and my old PC. It took me years to get the knack of the PC. BUT I love my Mac. I wasn't able to upload the photos and insert between my words for some reason. It is clearly time for another one on one lesson at the Apple store ! That's for sure.

I am just finding my way through the end of June into July, as my daughter settles herself into her groove in the Los Angeles scene. I thought I would absolutely die when I saw her address status revise on Face Book the other night. It was like a dagger went right through my heart ! Gulp. But, after all, aren't we supposed to bask in delight of our children growing and morphing into the beauty of their own journey ? Aren't we ???  Whew. Not easy ! I miss her.  Hope to see her in July, maybe it's time I take a jaunt out to the West Coast. Not sure when I was even last there ,but it has indeed been a while. Time for another change of scenery. We shall see.
 I lied, I posted the beach shot. Will use the beach pines for the header, yeah ! That's it.

So, enjoy the summer months ahead, and I will keep my posts coming. Feel free to comment, suggest and respond. You can always find me at Matsu too !

Yours in joy,

Dava

Behind the Scenes

 Hi there !  Welcome to my newest post. This one focuses on style, and achieving it through photography,movement, and colors using elements that are a part of the shell of the store.

This is a departure for me. I am about to share a real life experience, that I am grateful for. This photo shoot, taken place on June 8 at Matsu, included the collaboration of Avanti Hair Salon, Bob Packert Photography, Matsu ( me) and Aya.

Kate from Avanti approached me several weeks ago and expressed her desire to somehow combine hair and clothing.  Blown out style. ( no pun)  We originally planned on shooting on the roof, but we all would have burned up on this blistery hot day in June. Rather early for this intense heat, wouldn't you say ?

The goal was to show off the hair; styling by Troi Young. The other goal was to show off the clothing at Matsu while highlighting Nymph. My jewelry. Our mission was to portray style, using a very natural face, and natural light. We discovered subtle areas within Matsu that we walk by daily, but with new fresh eyes, the tall front window becomes the focal point for a wonderful backdrop.

We put Nara Paz's sequin and blush organza dress on Aya, and I piled smoky and rudilated quartz necklaces. This dress needed very little to accentuate it's elegance, so I kept the jewelry pallet as natural as I could. Aya wore baroque pearl earrings which are just faintly visible. Just what I wanted.

 What a gift, days before my 20 year old departs for California, we were able to coordinate ourselves on a day that lent itself to full fledged creativity ! Nara's dresses are elegant and very easy to wear. The fit is true to size, and her craftsmanship impeccable. The natural tones here allow the wearer to become the focus, in a naturally beautiful state.

The next series  of photos were taken in the front doorway of 264 Newbury St. The back ground blasted out using natural light. I pulled a fan out of the closet, so we could create movement of the poker straight hair, and the softness of Lilith's soft blue silk georgette dress. The ruffles around the neckline created such a contrast to the hair. What a wonderful mood here. 

  The moss aquamarine necklaces have a diamond. The long one held as a rosary has a gigantic Tahitian pearl, and hangs about 32". the other choker is larger smoky quartz rondelles with moss aqua teardrops hanging around it. This photo ( as all of them here was taken by me, as I am watching Bob honing his own craft.

I somehow captured the light as he did, but I am sure once we produce his photos, I will embarrass myself. 

The next series in the same outfit portray a rather haunting sense. Mystery. Quiet sensuality. Through the looking glass. 

 I walk through this door everyday to enter Matsu. Funny, how a vision is altered through the lens of a camera. Leave it to Bob, to have discovered this gorgeous piece of glass, that can become such a habit to the eye. Old, antique, beauty.

All of a sudden, I thought we should change it up, once again. Paprika silk charmeuse top designed by IIlia. I combined it with a tulle printed skirt from Lilith.  This series was shot in the blazing sun in the rear of Matsu. The contrast of the light and the paprika tone agains the deep teal velvet drapes is captivating. Visually just demanding attention.

Nymph again. Tons. Madiera citrines, whiskey quartz, topaz and diamonds. The look is over done to the point that the textures just become so elegant and desirable.

 This is what I chose to share with you, from our behind the scenes photo shoot. I was so proud to be a part of this day, and to style, play and be in the company of such talent. Bob, I thank you again, and Troi ? always a pleasure to see your heart pumped as you do what you do best.

Kate, I thank you for bringing the concept to me, and Yes, I am proud of my little girl. It was such fun working with you all.

Stay tuned for more.

Yours in joy,

Dava

Memorial Day Weekend May 2011 bringing inner Peace

Hi folks !  What on earth do I do with myself with this day. ? Working practically 7 days a week, all of a sudden I was able to schedule myself off.  Now what ? This 2 day weekend is a gift.

I am sitting in Sudbury right now with the day wide open, yet  I can't move. This has nothing to do with lack of motivation. It has to do with simply savoring the day and being. Not doing. Of course, it is still early, but I feel that I have been handed a treasure.  The next wonderful thing is the clouds. A natural removal of the pressure that the sunshine brings about. Mother nature knows. She balances us out. I am sitting here, writing and sharing as a strong scent moves through the screens, delivered by the wind. Above you will see a Korean Lilac bush. The perfume essence of these flowers are more potent than that of the lilacs that bloom prior to this species.

  Talk about intensity !!! The drama of the size, of the peony the color, of it and the command it states for attention is incredible. I hand held the beauties and placed them inside the Lilacs. Their opposition created such a statement ! Gorgeous ! Then as they fade, each and every pedal drops to the ground. I have actually scooped them up, and placed the delicate petals in an earthy japanese bowl, and watch the next stage of their life, as they dry up. They become deeper and more saturated in color. 

And what do we have here ?  Those that have been following my Face Book posts know exactly what they are. At this point, since I feel so personally attached to these little guys, I nearly want to say.. Who do we have here ??? These are the 4 little creatures, kisses of nature that have hatched right outside my kitchen window, in a bush that stands about as tall as me. The nest was embedded in it. There were 5 unnatural looking Robin's eggs to begin. The succession of their birth and hatching process was posted each day. 

Right now, they look like little mounds of feathers. Their mouths are open ,waiting for Mom and Dad to bring food. I watch it. I feel like I had them !... practically. This is all symbolic with life at this time of year. In my case, the re birth of Matsu, in it's new location also.  I think the mother knows I am taking pictures... no, really ! I even told her that her kids were featured on Face Book..... Just kidding. IF I can capture their new adventure in learning to fly, I will be so grateful. I hate being away from my home just because I fear of missing a stage of their lives that otherwise may not be covered by my lens. I was told that often, Robins re nest in the same location. It is not un common. 

At this point I would start to incorporate fashion, normally. But I am on holiday today, and leave this post to nature.. I will share with you, that my daughter... you remember her,  Speaking to my Heart post a while back, is also getting ready to fly. She has made a decision to "taste" the West Coast. We ( her Dad and I )feel compelled to let her go, and watch her grow. We planted all the seeds, watered them, gave them food. Taught her everything we could. There comes a time when the " caterpillar"becomes a butterfly, and her natural metamorphosis  is up to the universe, and her own mind, body and soul. I may be taking this rather lightly right now, one could observe.. but the countdown begins, and she and her Dad will travel by car out West within a few weeks. Let's see how I am weathering this morph then, right ??? Hopefully I will be grounded and realistic.; shedding only a tear or two, and knowing she is an extension of us out there in the world. Just more love to share and spread around.

Aya has begun her own blog journey. She asked me to share it with all of my readers. I invite you to do so.

Threadsandstones.blogstpot.com   There you have it.

Time for me to move along on this beautifully peaceful day. Enjoy it !  Happy Memorial Day !

Yours in joy,

Dava