Over the weekend I had the pleasure of meeting artist Anthony Holdsworth.  I first came across Anthony Holdsworth's work during a stroll through the West Oakland neighborhood.  At the Northeastern corner of the West Oakland BART parking lot is a placard describing the history of West Oakland.  A picture of a typical Queen Anne victorian painted by Anthony Holdsworth showcased the architecture of the neighborhood.  After googling the artist I found that his studio was just a few blocks away at 351 Lewis Street in Oakland.  Every last Sundays of the month he has open studio sessions and welcomes the public.  June 7- June 29th, he will be exhibiting his works from Italy.  Immerse yourself in the vivid colors and striking perspectives of Anthony Holdsworth.  
Buon Gusto Gallery: June 7 - June 29
535 Green Street, San Francisco
5-8 pm Thurs - Sat  (closed June 15)
Reception: June 7, 5-8 pm

1. Survey Surroundings
2. Choose Theme Color
3. Decide the Number of Pillows
4. Choose shapes

When thinking about adding throw pillows to a sofa in a living room, there is a simple formula to follow for creating a comfortable yet sophisticated effect.  With a little planning, a few decorative pillows can turn a drab living space into an inviting one.

Find inspiration from shades of coral to warm up your space.

Call it coral, salmon, tomato, terra cotta, rust, sherbert, peach, it's a shade of warmth that captures the spirit of summer 2013.  Find a hue that works for you.  

Inspirations: Terra cotta pots on a stairwell, textile , cupcake frosting, bangles, Tropicana rose petals, a mai tai drink, Ranunculas

From mother nature to retail outlets, to our kitchen, there's inspiration surrounding us. 

From Top Left Clockwise:  D. L. Rein; Pottery Barn, A Light in the Box, Urban Outfitter, Urban Outfitter

Here are a few great examples of witty pillows and pillow covers that add some charm to enliven a room.  Taking inspiration from mother nature D.L Rein and Pottery Barn show off coral renderings in their current collection.  Offering a more vintage look, a Light in the Box offers a classic rust red Volkswagon Beetle.  Urban Outfitters offers a variety of more contemporary decorative throws that are easy to incorporate.  

Compliments:
Shades of coral, sherbert and peach offer a pop of warmth and color to a neutral setting.  Dark chocolate browns contrast nicely with Tropicana orange and rust.  Shades of grey offer a great backdrop to more subtle tones. 
- Dark Chocolate Browns
- Shades of Grey