I never dreamed when my daughter and I started this venture 22 years ago that I would still be immersed in the joys of presenting and encouraging American craftspeople all this time later. It is Heart of the Homes' 22nd Anniversary on April 1, 2016. Wow! They tell me that the 22nd should be celebrated with "Copper" and I find that intriguing and also an opportunity to talk about some of my favorite artists who work in copper and its associated alloy, bronze.
Think of the wonderful garden critters from Haw Creek Forge that you see as you walk through the gate. The two delightful women who design and make them have been some of my favorites for many years. Not only are the praying mantises and butterflies and hummingbirds true images of the real ones but they are made from copper and it doesn't rust. They will last and last. Although it may not be obvious, they also do what all the best artists do and they keep adding new creatures every year so there is always something to look forward to each spring. A brand new collection just arrived!
If you love bells you've probably noticed our unique and melodious collection of bronze wind bells from U S Bells. Hand cast in solid bronze the way it has been done for hundreds of years, these are my favorites. They will last for more than a lifetime and come with a written guarantee that says so. The bells are made in Maine and have that lovely no-nonsense simplicity that New Englanders cherish. You're encouraged to come in and ring our bells.
I'm also reminded that we have bronze represented prominently in our jewelry department in the person of Michael Michaud. His extensive collections of botanical jewelry cast from real plants are some of our favorites. New for this year is a plant I feature in my home garden. It's botanical name is Baptisia but it is commonly called False Indigo and is native to the prairies of North America. Using glass, Michael has captured the intense blue of the flowers which pops against the patinated bronze leaves.
Please come in and join us in this celebration of the continuing joys of the handmade, functional and unique things that still make my heart sing!
~Phyllis Castells
~Phyllis Castells
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