Alright, so I was only joking when I commented on Jackson's blog about using raffia in the future. Truly, it had never occurred to me before to stage any of my props with the stuff. It just seemed so unkempt to me - what with stringy ends and all.
Recently, and only since there were several posts around the same time concerning the use of raffia, the idea snuck into my awareness somehow; and there has been a something about raffia that has intrigued me, something raw and refreshing. I suppose it could be I hate to think of myself as a know it all. I hate to think I claim to be part of an inner circle that is so rigid that there is little room left for the art of design and the surprise of playfulness that's found there. I've been in no hurry to rush out and purchase said raffia, but rather have left the entire idea to simmer, believing that it probably helped to address larger and broader issues as they pertained to my business and how I perceive my role in the staging industry. I just left the whole pot to cook, so to speak and moved on for awhile.
‘Lo and behold, today, as I was perusing one of my favorite online shopping haunts, I came across an article about a designer that uses raffia. In part, here is what the bio had to say about her: "Since 1997, her beaded and embroidered designs have helped redefine beauty in home decor." Kim Seybert is the designer. She uses raffia, amongst other items in the most ingenious, delightful and artistic ways. There is, for example a white table runner with raffia accents that I find stunning; the cost a mere $395.00. I can't help but wonder how many have told her it's just not done in high end home décor to use such a lowly device. I think had I been given the opportunity, I would have; and I think she may very well have told me to go pound salt, had she been given the opportunity to respond. Thankfully, none of that ever transpired.
The picture I've included is of a napkin ring with beaded fruit and ...yes, you guessed it, raffia.
I've learned several valuable lessons in all this. Probably more than can or should be blogged about; but most importantly I've learned that I want to remain creative and attentive to possibilities. I've learned I want to become much more respectful and appreciative of other stagers and their methods, even if I do not agree with them, especially if their methods work and they produce results for their clients. And finally, as a very wise 6 year old once told me, I've learned that it is definitely "OK to color outside the lines."
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