For wall décor, modern jewelry, high-design furniture and more, head for the annual American Craft Council show in Atlanta from March 15-17.
Wake up your walls
For more than 25 years, Kipley A. Meyer has worked in wood. Originally, the self-taught artist made furniture in his Madison workshop. But recently, Meyer has shifted his focus to wood wall sculpture.
Take “Each (of us).” With its rough texture, the 36-inch-squared wall hanging is made with a unique mix of poplar, milk paint and wax. This piece is a good fit for a simple, minimally furnished space, according to designer Jackie Naylor of Jackie Naylor Interiors in Atlanta.
Other wall sculptures range from $500 to $3,800. Meyer also designs mirrors and lamps, which range from $500 to $1,000. To learn more, visit www.kipleyameyer.com or Booth 1201 at the ACC show. Also find his work online at artfulhome.com.
Modern and metal
After taking metalsmithing classes, Matthew Smith realized that making jewelry would be a great way to combine his graphic design skills and his love of making objects.
Inspired by midcentury modern design, he started Matthew Smith Studios in Houston in 2010. Later that year, the Wake Forest (N.C.) University grad moved his jewelry business to the popular River Arts District in Asheville, N.C.
Smith’s Orbit line is his best-selling design. The optical pattern, created with concentric circles, get attention. The sleek and elegant pieces are made from sterling silver with either wood or colored resin inlay. The Orbit series ranges from $85 for small post earrings to $225 for the cuff links (pictured). Available in a variety of colors, the jewelry features an oxidized and brushed finish.
To order or see his designs, check www.matthewsmithstudios.com. Also visit him at Booth 1217 at the ACC show.
Furniture by design
Atlanta’s Stephen Evans used to restore and repair high-end furniture. Now he mostly designs and builds it for residential and commercial clients in Atlanta and across the country.
In his West End workshop, dining tables ($4,000 to $10,000) are a top request. While designs vary, the “Industrial Table” (pictured) is one of Evans’ favorite. Made of maple, Baltic birch and iron, the table features a stainless steel top, a train gear near the base and easy-roll casters. It measures 44 inches by 66 inches, but custom sizes, finishes and materials are available. Designed as a dining table, it also can be used as a work table.
The growing furniture company also makes one-of-a-kind coffee tables and benches ($2,000 to $5,000), plus headboards ($2,000 to $10,000). For an appointment or information, visit www.stephenevansfurniture.com. Or stop by Booth 417.
Best of the South
Do you have favorite finds from around the South that you give as gifts, buy for your home or rave about to friends? If so, please share them with us. Send your suggestions to: ljerkins@bellsouth.net. Please include your name and contact number.
For information about the American Craft Council show in Atlanta, March 15-17 at the Cobb Galleria Centre, check shows.craftcouncil.org/atlanta.
