At this time of year I find myself going over old photos and I came upon this gem by photographer Ted Yarwood. Taken for Toronto Life Magazine 13 years ago at my home on Euclid Avenue, I am still taken with this image, and do not tire of the composition, the objects and the memories it evokes. Ted Yarwood creates photographic moments that are timeless. Please see the original below and variations I have created with filters.
Baroque architecture became prevalent on the island of Sicily during the 17th through to 18th century. Scilian Baroque is distinguished not only by Baroque curves but by the sculptural grinning faces and putti. I found this to be one the most intriguing parts of Sicilian buildings when I visited Sicily: the relics of the grinning and glaring faces that survived since before the mid-17th century. Here is a photographic collection of some of masks, putti and various other sculptures. It has been said, that this particular flamboyance in the sculptures gives Sicily its unique architectural identity.
These glaring grotesque masks are often found supporting balconies or decorating various parts of a building in Sicily.
When wandering the streets of Sicily you can come across a variety of doorways. Curved topped windows and doors with decorated rustication are all characteristics of Baroque architecture, a style prominent in Sicily, during the 17th and 18th centuries. Sicilians live much of their lives outdoors and can often be found lingering at their doorways as they watch their children play on the street, chat with their neighbours and connect with the energy from the street. From the charming to the daunting, here is a gallery of some of the doors that I photographed. Each doorway embodies a different persona and often made me wonder what lies beyond...
The use of curved topped doors in construction dates back to antiquity and was utilized to minimize tensile stress in large spanning entrances. The arched doorways in Palermo can still be found all over the city.
A peek inside the entrance of a Sicilian church.
I love the layers of wood pealing from this old doorway. It gives it character yet a feeling of abandonment and mystery.
On a recent trip to Sicily I was transported back to what Italy was like 20 years ago when I studied in Florence. At that time there was little English spoken, restaurants were happy to have North American visitors and there was hardly any influence from the Western world. The impetus for our trip was the Italian Crime Show “Montalbano.” It is set in this region and we were hooked in by the opening credits that show a bird’s eye view of the region with the magnificent hill top churches, homes set into the rock cliffs and the magnificent beaches. We set out in search of Montalbano’s world.
Who wouldn't be seduced by images like this one and reminds me of the opening credits of the detective show, Montalbano.
(Above) See some of the homes and churches set into the rock cliffs.
The first part of the strip we stayed in charming town of Modica - a Baroque masterpiece that was re-built after an earthquake in 1693. It is set in a valley and the small town is a feast of architectural gems and is 15 minutes away from beautiful sandy beaches. My husband and I loved walking up and down the steep, narrow streets and after reviewing my pictures I see a common thread of doors, architectural details and churches – elements that distinguish it as a unique place in the world.
Every time I go into the store called Love the Design below my office on Yonge Street I never want to leave. The atmosphere is so cozy and inviting, especially at this time of year. The talented owner and artist, Christine Flynn, has the magic touch creating vignettes that inspire and beguile. The only thing missing from these photos is the scent of the season: Her Staghead candle which I am burning at home right now.
I am seriously thinking of buying this punch bowl . . . no room at the inn but isn't it divine!
My candle at home from Love the Design.
Look at the salon style art and this amazing lacquer console.
The vintage cabinet with all the little drawers would be a perfect makeup table!
