HOUSE OF PRESTON

Alex Sepkus Celtic Ring

2012-02-14T10:22:00.000-08:00

LOVE IT

McQueen - Burton 2012 Pre Fall Picks

2012-01-21T13:56:00.000-08:00

Yosemite

2011-12-06T13:40:00.000-08:00

Mist trail and wilderness, fresh air and fun.

Irene Neuwirth Opals

2011-12-01T20:54:00.001-08:00

Boulder Opals with Diamond, just stunning.

Paper Eyelashes

2011-11-07T16:03:00.000-08:00

Laser cut paper motifs have been trending for some time now and in what seems to be a natural progression, I have found them in the form of eyelashes. Very striking, just dont get caught in the rain.

Halloween Dress

2011-10-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

This year I plan on dressing up as Elizabeth Taylor from Cleopatra. The eye make-up is the best part! We are hosting a Halloween party on Sunday and I cant wait to see everyone in costume!

Print Inspiration

2011-10-05T16:27:00.000-07:00

Chanel Spring Collection Print.

lovely notes

2011-09-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

I am currently planning my little adventure home, (with a two day de-tour to Paris), and I have been searching for the perfect notebook to gather all the lovely memories in. I am a huge fan of Smythson, timeless and beautifully crafted.

Crown Jewels of Hollywood

2011-09-12T21:32:00.000-07:00

This December, the clothes and jewelry of Elizabeth Taylor will be sold in auction. Included in the sale is the 33.19ct Krupp diamond ring, re-named by Christies to the Elizabeth Taylor Diamond. Also up for grabs are the rubies and diamonds given by Mike Todd and the Peregrina pearl from Richard Burton.

Chanel Fall 2011

2011-08-10T20:04:00.000-07:00

I love the new Fall makeup collection by Chanel. I treated myself to the 'Graphite' nail polish and the 'Illusion D'Ombre' eyeshadow. Metallics are once again on the fall fashion line up but I think accents of shine are better than major statements.

Cave Paintings

2011-08-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to see Werner Herzogs documentary 'Cave of Forgotten Dreams'. It was amazing to see the painted animals that were created over 30,000 years ago, preserved as if they were made yesterday. You can find out all about the caves and its contents here. These are a few samples of the art that was discovered. I especially love the two lions.

Aqua Snob

2011-07-30T14:24:00.001-07:00

I have to confess that I do love Evian water. I like the softness and the logo brings nostalgic memories of trips to France as a child.
I discovered this cool packaging design and love it!

2011-07-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

I often walk past this art center on my way to the gym and wondered what it was all about. Today I went into the gallery and was blown away by the current exhibit. Textiles are the focus of the show and there are amazing quilting, weaving, crochet and embroidery pieces. The studio itself is next door and has a wonderful light, bright feel. I am applying to volunteer!
About Creative Growth:
"Creative Growth Art Center serves adult artists with developmental, mental and physical disabilities, providing a professional studio environment for artistic development, gallery exhibition and representation and a social atmosphere among peers."

Wovens for Website

2011-07-20T11:06:00.000-07:00

I have taken some pics of my latest woven scarves and shawls. Each one was inspired by and belongs to a corresponding collage.
I am looking to invest in a better lighting set up for future work. These three are titled 'Austens Daughter', 'Le Cheval Blanc' and 'Natural Traveler'.

Sakura Haru Jewelry

2011-07-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

Sakura and I had a fun day sooting pics of each other in her fun summer line of jewelry. More comfortable behind the camera, I plucked up the courage to pose for some pics! Sakura makes gorgeous pieces in silver and other metals using precious gemstones. She is available for commission work also. Sakura is working on her new website sakura haru. Check it out!

Country Life

2011-07-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

Another new collage I made today. This one also has a corresponding textile I just need to figure out how to take good photos of it. I am looking into buying some pro lighting...

Austen's Daughter

2011-07-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

My most recent collage is inspired by my favorite author, Jane Austen. I am creating a series that is romantic and dream-like. The woven shawls and dresses that will accompany the collages will be feminine but also tattered and weathered in appearance. I'll keep you posted on the progress!

Farmers Market Flowers

2011-07-12T11:31:00.001-07:00

Amato Haute Couture

2011-07-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

Oh no Picasso Heist!

2011-07-05T20:49:00.000-07:00

"An original Picasso artwork worth hundreds of thousands of dollars was taken from a San Francisco art gallery this morning in a brazen daylight heist, S.F. police and the gallery confirmed.
A man walked into the Weinstein Gallery at 383 Geary St. at about 11:40 a.m., plucked the drawing off the wall and left in a taxicab, police said.
A woman who answered the phone at the gallery, but declined to give her name, said it was an original pencil drawing by Pablo Picasso worth “in the couple hundred thousand dollar range.”
Police said witnesses described the suspect as a white man about 6 feet tall, between 32 and 35 years old. The suspect was said to be wearing a dark jacket, light shirt, dark pants, loafers with no socks, and large sunglasses.
Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact San Francisco police at (415) 575-4444, text a tip to TIP411 or call 911." SF Examiner

4th Celebrations

2011-07-05T11:45:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing day yesterday enjoying a feast of fresh food with plenty of sunshine and beer!

Fall 2011 Color Inspiration

2011-07-04T08:26:00.000-07:00

2011-07-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

Picasso at the De Young

2011-06-20T20:58:00.000-07:00

Last week we went to see the Picasso exhibit at the De Young. It was really a beautifully curated show with a great range of popular and lesser known works. I loved the sense of freedom I discovered; his ability to move effortlessly from one medium to the next without fear and worry. It was very liberating for me as an artist to feel this and I hope to be more trusting in my own creative desires.

Archery!

2011-06-14T11:06:00.001-07:00

I tried my hand at Archery yesterday for the first time! It was really fun and such a beautiful day surrounded by nature. I went with a small group of work colleagues and we enjoyed a tasty pic nic with home grown lettuce and vino.

2011-05-31T13:47:00.000-07:00

Inspiration from the one and only Sonja Delaunay. Read about the artist and the exhibition here.

Relaxing Napa Valley Week-end

2011-05-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

Our anniversary was this past week-end and we celebrated our three years of marriage by traveling up through Sausalito to Callistoga. We had a very relaxing trip, the weather was stunning. Indian Springs was amazing with a large thermal mineral pool and zen like atmosphere. We had mud baths at the spa and relaxed in their many quiet nooks. Open fireplaces and an amazing room with patio. We will definitely be going back!

Scottish Dream Home

2011-05-18T09:06:00.000-07:00

This beautiful home was created out of the ruins of 150 year old farmhouse. Built on the small island of Coll and owned by Alex and Seonaid Maclean-Bristol. Visit the article here at the NYtime.com.

Travelers Shawl

2011-05-09T17:29:00.001-07:00

Recently completed, one of a ten part woven series.

Collage Show!

2011-05-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was the opening of my first art showing. It was a lot of fun and there was a great turn out. Adriana Sparkhul did an amazing job with the display and were excellent hosts. The show is on throughout May at Drip Studios, Steiner Street, San Francisco.

2011-05-02T13:11:00.000-07:00

Come see my collage artwork amongst others in this group show opening Friday May 6th! This will be the first gallery show of my work and I am very excited to meet the other artists involved.

2011-04-27T20:46:00.000-07:00

came across this while googling for art titles.

Vegas Baby!

2011-04-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a whirlwind trip to Vegas. It was my first time to sin city and it was crazy! We stayed at the Bellagio which was great. We went to see 'O' by Cirque de Soleil, it was outstanding.

Vera

2011-04-18T14:29:00.001-07:00

Chez Maman

2011-04-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

Looking for authentic French food in San Francisco, then this is it! It was the most amazing lunch I have had in a long time. I was transported to France, not only from the food and stiffed lip waiter but from the French locals sitting on either side of us too! The highlight was the mussels which went perfectly with our bottle of Sancerre. Check out thier menu and location on thier site here at Chez Maman

San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers

2011-04-13T14:25:00.000-07:00

Morgwn and I went to the Conservatory of Flowers yesterday before the most amazing lunch at Chez Mamon. Inside the victorian green house we found the most relaxing environment with quaint seating areas and lush smells of moist greenery. It was lovely to spend time just sitting and relaxing amongst all the interesting plants and flowers. Well worth it for $7.

Pulp Fashion

2011-04-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

"Pulp Fashion: The Art of Isabelle de Borchgrave
February 5, 2011 - June 5, 2011
Belgian artist Isabelle de Borchgrave is a painter by training, but textile and costume are her muses. Working in collaboration with leading costume historians and young fashion designers, de Borchgrave crafts a world of splendor from the simplest rag paper. Painting and manipulating the paper, she forms trompe l’oeil masterpieces of elaborate dresses inspired by rich depictions in early European painting or by iconic costumes in museum collections around the world. The Legion of Honor is the first American museum to dedicate an entire exhibition to the work of Isabelle de Borchgrave, although her creations have been widely displayed in Europe.

Pulp Fashion draws on several themes and presents quintessential examples in the history of costume—from Renaissance finery of the Medici family and gowns worn by Elizabeth I and Marie-Antoinette to the creations of the grand couturiers Frederick Worth, Paul Poiret, Christian Dior, and Coco Chanel. Special attention is given to the creations and studio of Mariano Fortuny, the eccentric early-20th-century artist who is both a major source of inspiration to de Borchgrave and a kindred spirit."

blast from the past photo!

2011-04-02T20:25:00.000-07:00

taken in NYC, 2005

Pottery Inspiration

2011-03-25T17:03:00.000-07:00

by Pablo Picasso

New Home Page

2011-03-23T11:15:00.000-07:00

I am re-doing my website this week and this will be part of the new home page! I wanted to create a collage of work because that basically sums up all that I do.

Hand Blown Glass Vase

2011-03-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

I discovered this gorgeous hand blown glass vase on anthro. I love the mix of color and the sleek shape. The artist, Caleb Siemon trained in Murano, Italy and now runs a studio in southern california.

Lilly on the Couch

2011-03-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

Her favorite perch!

Pinch Bowls

2011-03-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

This is a new endeavor for me but something I have been gravitating to. My mum used to dapple in clay sculpture back in the 70's and still has the pieces around the house. I decided to start with pinch pots and plates and experiment with different sanding and painting techniques. I hope to have these available on my site by summer!

Woven Shawl

2011-03-18T20:08:00.000-07:00

I am working on re-designing my entire website and making collage works, wovens, pottery pieces and watercolor stationery. It is a huge undertaking but I am confident I can pull everything together! I have been very inspired lately and eager to get this off the ground.

Squid Beak and Eye

2011-03-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

I went to the Berkeley Lawrence Hall of Science and well, it pretty much sucks! This was the highlight in the colossal squid exhibit. They are pictures of a very small squids eye and beak. As a major squid fan it was cool to see the exhibit but the place is really run down and in need of a complete overhaul.

Bouquets to Art

2011-03-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

The 27th annual show at the De Young featured the work of 150 prominent Bay Area designers and flower clubs. It was wonderful to see the interpretation of the art works and how beautifully they translated their vision with flowers. We enjoyed jazz music and a nice glass of white wine as we jostled among the many visitors.

Custom Collage

2011-03-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

I made this collage for my colleague. It is a birthday present she plans to give her husband. It was really a fun challenge tweeking my usual process with a specific person in mind. The most enjoyable aspect is creating the overall feel and mood of the collage. I look forward to more commission pieces in the future!

Latest Custom Design

2011-03-09T16:03:00.000-08:00

I designed these earrings for my client using her own diamonds.

Latest Collage is Framed

2011-03-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

Crazy, machine gun wielding samurai parrot. It kinda has a planet of the apes feel.

Lunch and Farmers Market

2011-03-08T15:48:00.000-08:00

Today Morgwn, Melissa and I went for lunch at Summer Kitchen on College. It was yummy! I had the chicken sandwich again, Melissa had the egg salad sandwich and Morgwn had the house made sausage pizza. We then went to the farmers market in Berkeley for dinner supplies including gem lettuce, beets, blue bottle coffee and river dog eggs.

Nude, Green Leaves and Bust

2011-03-07T08:45:00.000-08:00

The worlds most expensive painting, sold for $106.5m, goes on display in London's Tate Modern. Painted in 1932 by Pablo Picasso.

Oh no! no doxies!

2011-03-04T17:12:00.000-08:00

Taken by Joe Howe on one of his trips.

PInk Fold by Louisa Preston

2011-02-16T16:31:00.000-08:00

My sister made this digital collage titles 'Pink Fold'. It has been featured on thiscentralstation.com.

Born this Way!

2011-02-14T19:30:00.000-08:00

Lady Gaga in a cocoon arriving at the Grammys. Oh boy.

My Home Town

2011-02-13T16:51:00.000-08:00

I found this lovely shot of Dunkeld from the air online. It made me a little homesick.

Hermes Enamel Bracelets

2011-02-11T18:56:00.000-08:00

Latest Collages

2011-02-08T14:20:00.000-08:00

Pinkspiration

2011-02-08T11:58:00.001-08:00

Found on the NY times, painted by someones child called 'eli'. The article was about tossing out your children's piles of drawing s and paintings that accumulate daily. I thought it was pretty sad.

Dress Form

2011-02-07T16:54:00.000-08:00

I have been looking for a professional dress form for years and was surprised to stumble across a couple, one from Restoration Hardware and another very similar (but half the price) from Overstock. I think it would be ideal for photographing my wovens on. The one from Overstock does not have all the writing on the neck so it may actually be more practical for the images. Whot know I may even finally try my hand at some sewing!

L'Illusioniste

2011-02-02T09:28:00.000-08:00

Morgwn and I went to see 'The Illusionist' last night on Shattuck ave. Firstly, I must say this movie theatre is pretty amazing. The cinema we were in have reclining leatherette chairs and loveseats on the balcony! We of course opted for the loveseat. The film is about a French illusionist who is struggling to find work. He finds his way to Scotland where he meets a young woman. They fall into a father - daughter relationship and change each others lives. I loved it, the scenes of Scotland brought tears to my eyes.

Christian Dior

2011-01-30T09:34:00.000-08:00

Spring 2011 Couture

Coming up at the De Young

2011-01-20T16:06:00.000-08:00

I received annual membership to the De Young museum for my birthday and was ecstatic about the gift! I am very excited about the upcoming show 'Balenciaga and Spain'. The site sums up the show as follows. "Balenciaga and Spain examines the profound and enduring influence of Spain on the work of haute couture master Cristóbal Balenciaga. The impact of Spanish culture, history, and traditions is explored through the recurring themes in Balenciaga’s oeuvre and organized in the exhibition in six sections: Spanish Art, Regional Dress, The Spanish Court, Religious Life and Ceremony, the Bullfight, and Dance. Hamish Bowles, the European editor at large for Vogue will serve as guest curator. Objects are drawn from museum and private collections in France, Spain and the United States, including the FAMSF collection."

Kauai

2011-01-19T08:10:00.001-08:00

We just got back from Kauai and it was simply an amazing trip! This was my first time to Hawaii. We stayed at the Koa Kea resort which is situated on poipu beach. The hotel was stylish and our room had a great view of the ocean. The food on the island was so so. I think for the next trip we will rent a cottage and cook for ourselves. All in all, despite some heavy rainfall and tropical heat rash, we had an awesome time.

Royal China

2011-01-18T10:03:00.000-08:00

There is something really strange but quite lovely about commemorative china. I have been keeping a close eye on the upcoming royal preparations and how the royal family today approach the occasion.

The official Royal Wedding china range bears the couple's entwined initials in gold and silver surmounted by the coronet of Prince William and the wedding date. The china is handmade for the Royal Collection in Stoke-on-Trent using methods that have remained unchanged for 250 years.

Just a Little Treat!

2011-01-08T11:29:00.000-08:00

I have always longed for a Pavé piece and finally I have one! Its so beautiful and feels amazing on the hand. Michael Endlich carved the wax and designed the piece. The ring is made in 22k gold and set with a stunning marquise diamond.

Black Swan

2011-01-01T20:30:00.001-08:00

This has been the most powerful film I have watched this year. Jamie Graham sums it up best as "The most toxic, rapturous, melodramatic, operatic movie about a mentally disintegrating ballerina you’ll see all year… And featuring some of the best dance sequences ever."
The costumes were also a key element for me personally. Designed by couture fashion house Rodarte.

This may be my favorite collection...

2010-12-17T08:06:00.000-08:00

I discovered this slide show on The New York Times last week and can't stop thinking about it. These are two shots by Valerio Mezzanotti of Chanel's Metiers D'Arts Collection. The collection is a special showcase for the decorative crafts of the Parisian ateliers that have worked with Chanel for decades and those that the company have recently acquired - Desrues the costume jewellers, Lesage the embroiderers, milliner Michel, feather artisan Lemarié, cobbler Massaro, floral designer Guillet, and silversmith Goosens.

2010-12-16T12:51:00.000-08:00

Amazing 1920's cape by Caroline Reboux. French, of course, and made of silk. Inspiration!

festive lunch

2010-12-16T09:22:00.000-08:00

This past Monday I decided that a relaxing long lunch was in order and so booked a table for lunch at Chez Pannisse Cafe. We started with a lovely glass of bubbly and settled in by the bar before we were seated in the beautiful atrium. I was secretly hoping for this seat! I had the most delicious avocado and beat salad followed by a pesto spaghetti. It was all very delicate and perfectly seasoned.

Summer Kitchen

2010-12-15T13:54:00.000-08:00

My hubby and I popped into Summer Kitchen yesterday and enjoyed a perfectly cooked crispy chicken sandwich and blue bottle coffee!It is such a cute, welcoming space with a great communal table and open kitchen. We will definitely be back to try the brick oven pizza.

2010-12-09T09:12:00.001-08:00

Latest Ring Design

2010-11-30T09:27:00.000-08:00

This is one of the most fun and creative designs I have created since working at Pavé. The gem is a silver topaz which was cut by Richard Homer. The work shop did an amazing job, Yas Tanaka hand fabricated the ring and Roberta Tanaka had the challenge of setting this one of a kind gemstone. The ring is made in platinum with a diamond halo. I am very excited to present the finished piece to the client this week!

Ring of all Rings...

2010-11-17T15:04:00.000-08:00

Kate Middleton is one lucky lady! Her engagement ring is none other than the late Princess Diana's. Stunning 20ct blue sapphire and diamond ring.

2010-11-17T11:02:00.000-08:00

This is my latest art work. Birds seem to crop up frequently in my collages and I am not entirely sure why. It could be the abundance of imagery in my sources or just that they are such beautiful forms and lend themselves so well.

Tale of the Yak and Parfums Del Rae

2010-11-17T09:42:00.000-08:00

I went for the first time to 'Tale of the Yak' boutique this week. It is an eclectic mix of victorian mexican and french findings. They have cherry picked items such as milled soaps and hand made candles to georgian and victorian 'momento mori' jewelry. My mother in law introduced me to Parfums Delrae, which they carry in all scents. Sophisticated, classic French fragrance with nice modern packaging. DelRae Roth herself was a graphic designer and I love her aesthetic. Check out her online shop!

new website!

2010-11-02T14:07:00.000-07:00

New website is up and running! I just need to add to the collection and illustration sections some more to beef them up a bit!
Check out the site here at roseannapreston.com

Holiday Cards!

2010-11-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

I got an early start on my design this year! A little sketch with Morgwn, Lilly and me.

Hawaii in January!!

2010-10-14T11:24:00.000-07:00

Just a little trip for 7 days of sun, sand and cocktails! mmmmm. We are staying at the Koa Kea Hotel in Poipu Beach.

Penguin Classics

2010-10-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased a set of these gorgeous penguin classics from Amazon. I love the nostalgic covers and patterns. These are the kind of books you have forever and I plan to collect the whole set!

Sisters New Site!

2010-09-30T14:10:00.000-07:00

Louisa Preston has completed her new website Please check our her work and enjoy!

New Collage

2010-09-21T19:00:00.001-07:00

2010-09-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

Fallen Monarch

2010-09-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

then and now....

little trip

2010-09-16T12:29:00.000-07:00

I am planning a little trip to Yosemite next week on my days off with Morgwn and the pooch. There are many great places to stay and I'm liking the canvas hut idea! It's been a long time since I hiked and I am really looking forward to spending some time outdoors and taking some photographs.

Heath Bazaar

2010-09-16T12:27:00.000-07:00

something cool to do next week!

New Website for Pavé

2010-09-09T14:05:00.000-07:00

I have been working on the new website design for Pavé. Michael has several unique one-of-a-kind rings that are really amazing and we plan to incorporate his sketches with the photos.

classic heels

2010-08-14T21:33:00.001-07:00

soon to be mine!

Back into Grunge

2010-08-01T22:24:00.001-07:00

Forgot how good Alice in Chains is!

New Cook Books!

2010-07-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

Beautiful to read and to admire for the artwork, the series of cookbooks by Alice Waters is a must for any kitchen! I just acquired the Vegetable and Fruit editions in hardback and I am dying to try some of the recipes this week! I'll post some pics of my attempts soon!

Miu Miu Hat-Trick

2010-07-20T12:18:00.001-07:00

Miu mius fall/winter 2010 collection hits three glossies at once!

2010-07-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

I love this lobster rug designed by New Orleans artist Shelley Hesse. Available at Anthropologie.

Blair Castle Wedding

2010-07-12T14:29:00.000-07:00

The wedding pictures are here! Taken by the amazing photographer Nigel Lumsden. There are so many great shots, I cant wait to create the album and frame up the classics!

Wedding is Upon Us!

2010-06-09T16:30:00.000-07:00

I am getting married in 17 days! I found this picture of Grace Kelly and love the feeling of her wedding, classic and timeless.

Bridal Shower

2010-06-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

Gift from Hawaiian Client!

2010-06-04T12:40:00.000-07:00

My client from Hawaii came in today to thank me for the custom pendant and ring I designed for her at Pavé.

2010-05-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

My bridal shower was this past Saturday and it was an amazing day. My step mother in law gave me this pen! I love that it donates to Unicef, my favorite charity. The pen has 18k gold inlay and a blue sapphire accent. I cant wait to write with it for years to come.

Dyeing Begins!

2010-05-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

I am working on textiles for a fashion collaboration with jewelry designer Sakura Haru. We are aiming to have a small collection complete and shown by mid September.

2010-05-25T16:13:00.001-07:00

2010-05-25T15:01:00.000-07:00

Wedding Favors

2010-05-18T09:46:00.000-07:00

For the lassies I decided to give classic books of traditional authors and poets. A little romantic touch and I just love that each cover has a different patterned cover!