Friday, January 11, 2008

Friday Finds: New Eco-Friendly Rugs

By Kathy Shaskan

The Nourison company, a big name in the rug world, has introduced a line of eco-friendly area rugs called Taos. The
rugs are made with all-natural, reusable organic materials. They are produced by artisans using local wool that is
colored with vegetable rather than chemical dyes. There are 79 Nourison dealers in New Jersey.

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Book Beat: Joyce Carol Oates

By Kimberly Baldwin

In their third picture-book collaboration, acclaimed author and Princeton University professor Joyce Carol Oates and artist Mark Graham introduce Naughty Chérie, the cutest -- but most mischievous -- kitten in the litter. Chérie tries, but just can't seem to stay out of trouble. Sitting alone in the corner as punishment, she finds a small crack in the wall that leads to a place called Little Friends Kindercare. After seeing the truly naughty behavior of the other baby animals in Kindercare, little Chérie returns home a changed kitten. This lovable tale delivers a valuable message and is the perfect bedtime story for the 4 to 8 set.

Joyce Carol Oates is currently on tour promoting The Journal of Joyce Carol Oates, the fascinating and significant record of her life between 1973 and 1982. Meet her at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 15 at the Barnes & Noble, Tribeca, NYC.

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Fashion Forward: Fashionably Frugal Jewelry

By Leigh Boriskin

With original pieces that resemble vintage finds in rose gold, matte metals and antique silver,
AllisonDanielDesigns.com is an accessory haven. Her rings and earrings are spectacularly romantic. Her necklaces look like they have been pulled straight from your grandmother's jewelry box and her belts are handcrafted works of art. Although some of her pieces top out at $300 to $400, most are happily under $100.

The Jazzy Rose Ring ($48) is as bold as it is beautiful. Finished in either matte gold, antique gold or antique silver, its intricate detailing and strong presence will make your lucky finger pop. For your next night out, why not design a ring for your outfit? The Swirly Ring ($68) can be fitted with any stone including ruby, topaz or garnet. Finished in either matte gold, antique gold or antique silver, this ring is a knockout. The striking black background of the Black Enamel Cuff ($60) makes a high-contrast statement of beauty and elegance. Paired with a few gold bangles, ($45 each) and your wrist will be jingling in style.

Allison Daniel Designs is sold at Elle Squared, 1140 Town Center Way, Livingston, 973.533.1111

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

New & Noteworthy: Bodega Shoppe, Red Bank

By KathyShaskan

In the heart of Red Bank, there's a special shop waiting to be discovered. It's called Bodega Shoppe, taking its name from the New York City corner markets that sell a little bit of everything. Bodega Shoppe does just that, offering a wide variety of new and vintage merchandise. You'll find delicate glassware, European fragrances and skincare, vintage mirrors, English stationery and more. Other standouts include Lucy Jane Batchelor products, for which Bodega Shoppe is the exclusive US retailer; and Maribelle Chocolate and Teas.
More info here.

Monday, January 7, 2008

The Monday Muse: Explore Homer's Epic


By Kimberly Baldwin

The
Princeton Artists Alliance presents visual interpretations of Homer's Odyssey as contemporary works of art beginning January 11 and continuing through April 13, 2008 at the Noyes Museum of Art in Oceanville. Contemporary views of Poseidon's wrath, Penelope's tears, and Odysseus' escape from the Cyclops are among the struggles captured in this exhibition. Princeton artist Marie Sturken's handmade paper piece Outwitting the One-Eyed Giant (shown above) was inspired after the artist read Book 9: Lines 477-487, which talks about escaping from the sleeping Cyclops.

Two free lectures will be offered at the museum by The Interdisciplinary Center for Hellenic Studies at the Richard Stockton College of NJ in conjunction with the exhibit. On February 1 Professor Kate Ogden will present "The Continuing Classical Influence in Western Art" from noon to 1 p.m. and on March 23 Professor Rob Nichols will discuss "How Greek is Grecco-Buddhist Art?" from noon to 1 p.m.


Meet the artists at the opening reception on Friday, January 18 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Galleries are open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission fees are $4 for adults and $3 for seniors and students. Call 609.652.8848 or visit noyesmuseum.org for more.