“For a few short moments, I was quietly watching from a small table off to the side as the Surya Sales team walked retail buyers through the showroom to look at my new rug collection. I was in awe of it, really... listening to them speak about the inspiration behind the collection, sharing details about the rug construction, commenting on the uniqueness of the organic patterning. In itself, such a pleasure to behold. A personal highlight, was when two gentlemen, seemingly randomly browsing, approached the collection and began to take photographs of the individual rugs. I heard one say my name and decided to approach them and introduce myself. Turns out they had read the feature article about my launch in Home & Textiles Today, were intrigued about the concept of rugs inspired by watercolor paintings and had come to the Surya showroom specifically to see the collection. I was left a little speechless... Such a gift, to know... so I simply smiled and tried to contain my heart, which was literally bursting with pride.””
I'm just back from High Point, North Carolina, visiting the awe inspiring Surya Showroom and viewing the launch of my long awaited rug collection which has been in the making for over two years. Patience, I always say, rewards...never truer words.
My rugs... 8 x 10" wool rugs, hanging side by side, catching the light so beautifully...shimmering and soft. The Natural Affinity collection, named for the natural organic compatibility between ocean currents and layered tidal seascapes, truly did me proud. Each rug in my collection honors the feel of those natural modern abstracted coastal elements and feels both relaxed and sophisticated. Surya's artisans translated my watercolor paintings into wool, beautifully.
Also launching at Market, our silk pillow collection, many of the designs meant as coordinates for the rugs. The silk is sumptuous and touchable and the perfect material to enhance the watercolor feel of my work. Each brushstroke in all its translucent glory, comes through. So pleased!
While there, we had a fantastic design meeting with Surya's VP of Product Development to discuss my vision for several new product categories as well as receive an update on our second rug collection which is being sampled now! The new concepts, which were met with enthusiasm, will be a wonderful way to round out my offering in the Surya Showroom. I will share along more, as it all unfolds.
Both Shell Rummel rugs and pillows will be available via retailers as well as online shops, soon. I'll be sure to keep you posted.
