Good Stuff

It's still feeling a little dreary around here -- outside it's dark, cold and rainy, Ike got four shots this morning, and an earthquake just swallowed up 50,000 people in Haiti. Yeah, that last one is a doozy. I'd say we're all due for something pretty and colorful, yes?

These gorgeous light sculptures by Paula Arntzen are handcrafted of paper which was screenprinted with fluorescent ink. They're so festive, I'm inspired to throw an impromptu dance party for me and the Ikesaurus. I think I'm going to switch on the Christmas lights (yes... they're still up), crank NWA up to 11, and get jiggy with it. Ike loooooves gangsta rap -- it's going to be awesome.

For more eye candy, be sure to check out Paula's website.

And if you're feeling some extra love, head over here for ways to help send relief to Haiti.

Wishing you all a bright and happy weekend!

It Don't Matter If You're Black Or White

Ok, so yesterday I tried to be all tasteful, because I expect you people get tired of some of the weirdo stuff I often post. (But seriously -- who doesn't want a plywood house???) Anyhoo, today I am feeling mischievous and spry, kind of like a leprechaun on acid, although I should probably feel like something more holiday appropriate. Perhaps like the great pumpkin on PCP? And by the way, have I mentioned exactly how little sleep I am getting lately? Like, maybe four hours a night, and not in one stretch? IT REALLY MESSES WITH YOUR BRAIN. After a while you pass tired and head directly to crazy. I digress. For this fun Friday post, I'm featuring more lighting, and as an added bonus I'm allowing you to share in my hallucinatory state.

Simon Schubert

Terence Koh -- this one has poo in it (among other things).

Hey guess what else is going on? K-Dawg will be back to blogging on Monday!!! Be sure to tune in and show her some sweet sweet loving so she will never ever leave us again. I know you all missed her so.

Have a far out Friday!

Turn On Your Hot Lights

I have a problem. Yes, I frequently misinterpret Neil Diamond lyrics, but it's worse than that. It's my lighting addiction. Every night when the lights get low and my sleep deprivation has turned itself inside out, transforming me into a frenetic Mrs. Hyde, and there is nothing on tv -- not even a Flipping Out marathon, I start trolling the dark streets of Ebay, looking for a fixture. Or two. Or three. I can't stop myself from adding sconces, table lamps and chandeliers to my watch list. And do I need these things? Well, I could use a new light for over my kitchen sink, but in short: No. Hell no. I have a garage full of crap bought from Craigslist, Round Top, thrift and vintage stores. Anytime I shop for furnishings, I studiously avoid anything that is not, in and of itself, a source of illumination. Lighting is the jewelry of the room, and I like da bling. So, during all my sleepless nights spent trolling, I've noticed two distinct lighting trends: restrained industrial, and architectural glitz. In the restrained camp, there is a plethora of very elegant French lights by 50's designer, Serge Mouille:

House to Home

Mouille lights are classic and spare, but with an edgy vibe. Very French, no? In the glitzy camp, we have scintillating fixtures by Italian designer Gaetano Sciolari:

Via Brown Turtleneck Sweater

Sciolari's lucite and brass chandelier does a lot to glam up an otherwise studiously neutral room, don't you think? So, which do you prefer -- French, spare and edgy, or Italian, shiny and voluptuous?

Catherine Deneuve or Sophia Loren? (And if someone can direct me to their male equivalents, I'd be most appreciative...)

I know. It's cruel asking you to choose between two gorgeous creatures, but can two such strong personalities coexist in a polygamous marriage? I'm talking about the light fixtures, of course. Need more lighting porn to help you decide? Your wish is my command:

Mouille in David Netto's apartment.

Sciolari via Vintage y Chic

Mouille in Jenna Lyon's bedroom.

Sciolari via Apartment Therapy

Mouille, forgot source. Je regrete!

Sciolari in Kelly Wearstler's crazy pink and purple guest house

Mouille via Met Home

I ran out of home pics with Sciolari chandeliers in them, so I'm including this sexy number all by its lonesome.

Mouille via Gribouillis Magazine

Sciolari. I think I just had a brassgasm. Orbrassm.

So, lovely readers, what are your thoughts? Shiny or spare? Glittery or sophisticated? Could you decide between one style over the other, or does the very idea of such a Sophie's Choice bring a tear to the eye? Perhaps you think the two could be peaceful bedmates? Tell momma all about it.