Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Inscrutable Eric Silva

Eric Silva defines the enigmatic artist. A dark-eyed man of few and softly spoken words, he reveals little of himself in conversation. This much he shared when last we met: he grew up in Southern California where his grandfather, a Mexican craftsman, taught him how to use his hands.

This much I know: in all my years of buying jewelry for Momo, Eric Silva remains one the most intriguing artists in the US. His work contrasts rustic with refined, the primitive with the pretty. 

Aside from sun-bleached bone, shed antler, and bits of wood, Eric reclaims sterling silver and brass, mixing it all up with rough-cut semi-precious stones. A master of movement, his pieces are minute, wearable sculptures.

In his Artist Statement, Eric ruminates, “My jewelry is about self-examination; revealing pieces of myself through artistic creations. I draw my inspiration from the often overlooked simplicity of beauty found in the ordinary.” Indeed, a case of action speaking louder than words.


Thursday, July 23, 2015

Sunny Sun Bonnets for Baby

Seattle is having an identity crisis this summer and has convinced itself that it's Arizona. Or Nevada. Or Mercury. In any case, this is definitely a year to protect your kiddo’s delicate face from harsh solar rays. Just in time: brand new baby bonnets from local designer Plastic Pony, maker of Momo’s sweet baby kimonos.

Made of adorable Japanese fabrics, the sun hats are 100% cotton, have an adjustable tie and are reversible to a bright white (most effective for reflecting the scorching sun). Available in two sizes: 3-9 months and 9-18 months. And at $20, they’re perfectly priced for a casual baby gift.

Tis the season for the outdoors. Whether you’re lounging at a bbq or catching some free summertime tunes at Volunteer Park, help keep the tots comfy and burn-free with a local, hand-made, super-kawaii cap.