Something New From Amidst Mod

Without saying what it is, I'd just like to give a heads up to all those blog viewers out there. Even though I've never lost my interest and love for Mid-Century/Retro/Vintage design, due to life, and trying to make a living in Chile S.A., I've not done the best job of keeping Amidstmod.com up to date with the awesome finds, artist, and galleries, that have made Amidstmod.com the place it is today. So, with that in mind, I am trying to do my best to push Amidstmod.com in a new and more interactive direction, while keeping the focus on what is the most important to all of us enthusiast. MCM design, art, and the preservation of it. So, please hang in there, and I promise to have some more info on how the project is going. Also, if you've been featured on Amidstmod.com before, watch out, you may be getting an email from me some time soon!

Mid-Century Danish Modern, Why So Popular...

Photo by: stiefelkombinat-berlin / TRUE VINTAGE NUSSBAUM SIDEBOARD 60er danish modern 70er

In complete honesty, I'm still learning about the Danish Modern Movement that took an unexpected leap in the early fifties. Yes, I know that Danish modern did exist as early as the 30's (from what I can find), but it really took the design world by storm in the 50's. 

Seemingly, the design professionals had taken note as early as the mid 40's, but with all the war stuff still having it's effect, it wasn't until the late 40's that people really could take it to heart, as to just how different it really was.

As you probably know, Mid-Century Danish Modern furniture is one of the most popular styles of furniture for people to look for and try and get their hands on. In the past 10-15 years, it, along with most other forms of mcm furniture have become highly valued once again. Why so?

Photo by: panda2008amanda /

Danish Modern Solid Teak Dinner Plate - Mid Century - Signed Wiggers - 1960's

High Quality Materials
One reason is materials used at that time are of very high quality. As is the case of most vintage/antique furniture, even the "knock-offs" (copies of the original manufactures) designs were made of better quality materials than most furniture today. Therefore, even with the pieces being quite old now, in terms of furniture age, you can generally get a good and sturdy piece for a decent price and a little repair work. 

Teak is possibly one of the most famous materials that were used in MCMDanish Modern furniture. It's traditionalism of being Danish, not to mention its strength, warmth, and beautiful tone made it a perfect material for ModernDanish furniture. Much of the materials used in American Mid-Century Modern Furniture were also used in MCM Danish Modern design as well. Woods such as Oak, Rosewood, and Walnut are also common to find. Even though many consider teak to be the more authentic or traditional material of Retro Danish Modern design. 

Other materials were commonly used as well. As is the case, Mid-Century Modern furniture borrowed heavily from the design concepts of it's predecessor, Bauhaus. Even though much of what was designed and developed during the Bauhaus movement was a bit weightier in form (not all, but most), Mid-Century DanishModern definitely borrowed from it in various ways. One such way was the designer’s use of metals, acrylics, leathers, and plastics. Still, almost every one of the materials used were of a better quality than those produced today for the mass market. 

Workmanship/Quality of Craftsmanship
Another reason that many people like the Mid-Century Danish Modern furniture is the quality of craftsmanship. Once again, the originals are of the best quality, but even the knock-offs of the time are generally worth their price. Quality of work in the late 40's- early 60's really meant something at that time. Therefore, it can be fairly easy to find a decently sturdy piece of furniture that can be used upon purchase or with the minimal of investment and work. 

Reparation
As mentioned above, typically the workmanship and material quality of Mid-century Modern Danish furniture was of a high quality, especially in comparison with that of today. Therefore, reparations of Danish Modern furniture is considerably more feasible and allows one to not only use, but maintain, and even restore these pieces to an almost brand new appearance. This allows for the owner to have a unique piece that lasts for a long period of time, and typically is more affordable in the long run. 

Photo by: lebensweyse / TRI O VINTAGE 

MID CENTURY MODERN CEILING LAMP ~ DANISH 

PLAFONNIERE POST ART DECO

Styling
While all of what is mentioned above is true, you may be thinking... Those are not the reasons that I want to buy, or that I got into Mid-Century Danish Modern Furniture. I know that too. However, I think that the aforementioned factors are equally as important to mention as the styling, so people should can be educated. 

Facts are... MCM Danish Modern Furniture is cool. It's sculpted, it's airy, and it's art that is truly functional. Due to its form and stance, DanishModern furniture tends to exude a more futuristic styling in the space that it's placed, but without it being harsh or creating a cold air in the ambient space. There are few notable design aspects to a "typically" Mid-Century Modern Danish piece, and we will investigate these in more detail in the following post.

*Please note that all links in this post, as well as the adds below the post are affiliate links that help amidstmod.com earn a meager sum so that we can continue to keep the site running. 

 

Mosaics: A Lost Mid-Century Styling?

Photo Source:www.midcenturia.com

Mosaic: A picture or pattern produced by arranging together small colored pieces of hard material, such as stone, tile, or glass.

From the first search I did for MCM furniture and design, oh... almost 10 years ago now, I still remember thinking about how cool this one particular amoeba table with mosaic was. While that table is long gone, my interest in mosaics still lives on. If our schedule ever cools down, we'd (my wife and I) like to do a couple of mosaic projects together. Still, I often wonder, what happened to this wonderful artistic aspect of the mid-century era gone by?

Photo Source: www.flickr.com

In all my research, I have yet to find mas production mid-century modern furniture that was tiled or that was finished in mosaic. I'm not saying that they don't exist. If they do, pleas lead me to them. I'd really like to learn more about this particular aspect of mid-centutry furniture.

Still, it seems that mosaics played a large character role in the art scene of the mid-century eras. Buildings held large mosaic murals on the outside, or in the lobby. Many parks had mosaics on the walkways or in the promenades, many pieces of furniture even carried mosaic tops or boarders, and even production mosaic wall art* was produced for the home or office.

These pieces weren't just pieces of ceramic or glass put together. They were real images a lot of the time. Whether it was an abstract design, a bull/bull fighter combo, still life of fruit/bottles, or a peacock, these pieces had character.

Photo Source: www.midcenturia.com

One thing that I can say for sure, is that mid-century design today has not forgotten completely about the mosaic tile trend. Many a refurb of a mid-century home is, and has, used tile mosaic in the shower or bathroom. Unfortunately, that's as far as it seems to go though.

So, what happened to the attraction of mosaics? Is it that tile is too expensive? Too hard to clean? To hard to creat? Lack of imagination? I really don't know. No matter what the reason, it's clear that mosaics are not nearly as popular for the mid-century styling as it once was.

In the effort of encouraging at least one person to take on a mid-century styled project, I'm adding photos below of some very cool mid-century/mid-century styled mosaics. Don't worry, I'm not leaving it all to you, I'm going to try and take on one too. I already have a mirror frame planed with my wife. So, go get some mosaic materials*, start designing, and get to making a new mid-century styled mosaic piece. Why leave all the creativity to the masters of the past? Just remember, they would have never become masters without starting as novice.

Photo Source: www.midcenturia.com

Photo Source:www.furniturebyljindustries.com

Photo Source:www.midcenturia.com

Photo Source: http://furnishmevintage.com

Photo Source: www.retrotogo.com

Photo Source: www.1stdibs.com

Photo Source:www.apartmenttherapy.com

Photo Source: http://www.houzz.com

If you are interested in mid-century books on the subject, I suggest that you look at some of the following.
The Ebay app below is part of my affiliate program. For more information on what this means, please see my income page.

Mid-Century Artist: Atomic Skyway

Photo source: AtomicSkyway

Some time has gone by since I first thought about featuring Atomic Skyways work on this blog. Still, for one reason or another, it's just never happened. Even so, my appreciation for has not waned. From Atomic Skyways, aka Cris', first piece he placed on facebook, I have been a big fan. While, I see a continued progression in his work, every piece has had a 100% professionally finished and refined look from day one.

My first experience with Cris's/AtomicSkyways work was the day he posted the above photo on Facebook. This was back in 2011. Mid-century Sci-fi* shapes, gold flake paint, and a green pearl. How was I to pass by this one without just being amazed. His choices in shapes and in color are more than by chance. These are combinations, that come from a sophisticated designer. One that understands the limits, visual weights, and composition of good Mid-century abstract* design.

 Photo source: Atomic Skyways facebook

Thru out my time of watching Atomic Skyways, we've not really had much communication. I hope one day to be able to speak a bit more with him about his processes of design and inspirations. For the time being though, I'm just amazed at his ability. Atomic Skyways has as much the ability to build a formidable mcm inspired sculpture*, as easily as create 3d sculpture paintings. That's pretty impressive!

Atomic Skyways works are more than just copies of shapes, themes, and colors of the mid-century modern designs* left behind. He has taken all the art and design he's ever been exposed to, and boiled it down to the original principals. From this, he has created current day mid-century modern art*. So precise is his design aesthetic, that when applied to his popular Atomic Skyways ad's with photoshop, they almost look as if they belong in the mid-century period of the photo. I'd go so far as to guess, someone new to mid-century design has found his ad's and thought they were designers works from the real mid-century modern* period.

Photo source: Atomic Skyways facebook

Looking thru Atomic Skyways facebook and blog will help you see why his art is so incredible. After all, he has worked a good bit with one of the most prominent Mid-century design studios* ever. Who, you may ask? Disney*! Let's face it. Whether you like Disney* parks or not, if you're into mid-century art*, you've got to dig you some Disney art and design*.  On his blog you'll see a number of pics of these incredible sculptured park accents and floats that he's worked on. Knowing how to use all those techniques can only help his works to become even more impressive.

While looking at Atomic Skyways works, I could point out a ton of interesting and attractive aspects of his pieces. One that really draws my attention though, is that every piece is a sculpture. Mattering not whether Cris is putting together a stand alone sculpture for the end table, or a piece of wall art, they're going to be equally sculpted. To me that's pretty swing'n. So, if you've got your interest peeked, step over to his facebook and blog. Maybe, just maybe, he'll produce even more pieces if he gets more hits. That's my hope at least!

Photo source: atomicskyway.blogspot.com

http://atomicskyway.blogspot.com

https://www.facebook.com/AtomicSkyway?fref=ts

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Hoping To Inspire The DIY In You

It's very easy to find reasons as to why we shouldn't do things. First off, there's the time something takes. "Do I have enough time to do it?" Second, is the knowledge of doing it. We say to ourselves... "I simply don't know how." Third, is the money involved. "How much will it cost, and what if I screw it up?" Fourth, and very important in the mid-century/retro (modern or traditional) styling is... Will it be respected as fitting in?

All four of these points are very important to consider. In fact, I would go so far as to say, they are crucial before you start any DIY project. However, there is a fifth factor to consider as well.

What is the fifth fact you may be asking. Well simply put, it's what some may call perspective, ego, or being picky. I call it, knowing what you want. Our Fifth factor is, making sure you'll be satified with something that is not "vintage Mid-Century".

To me though, the term Mid-Century Modern is more about the principle of a design style and less of a time frame. It gives us guidelines to use in our own design processes. So, in other words. As long as a piece of furniture or design looks like it was built in the mid-century modern era, it's of good quality, and it functions the way I need it to, to me...It is as mid-century as something that Charles Eames made himself. Don't misunderstand, I'm not trying to compare my own work to Charles Eames or any of the other designers.

I'll dare state though, that most Mid-century modern dealers (if they've been around for a length of time) have come across a beautiful piece of furniture, only to find out that it was custom made and is not a famous designers piece. Why so? Simply because in the mid-century era, most did not have the money to buy all the furniture that they wanted or needed. Sure, there are tons of certain designs out there. These were popular for their time period, and sold by the ton. Plus, some designs are just to difficult for most to make without special equipment. Therefore, people bought the pieces.

Still, a hugely over looked aspect of the mid-century lifestyle was, not only to buy the most creative designs, but also to be creative yourself. How many DIY furniture, sculpture, cabins, art, cooking, sewing, and crafts books are still floating around from that wonderful design period? Question being though: Have you considered the feasibility of building something yourself?

As many reasons as you may have thought up for not doing a DIY project, there are just as many reasons for doing one. Here are just a few.

1. It can be cheaper
2. You can get the design that you want
3. The size fits your specific area/needs
4. Finishing options are almost unlimited
5. The quality can be as good as you make it
6. It's super fun. (once you get past all the frustration)
7. You can tell everyone: "It my original creation"
8. A lot of times you can sale it for more than it cost you to build

Understand though, I'm not trying to paint DIY furniture or otherwise, as being simple or perfect. Each project has its demands, and you may be limited by time, or space needed to effect the DIY project. Still, you would be surprised what you can do with just a few simple hand tools.

Yesterday, while it was raining outside, I started to reminisce about woodworking. I subsequently re-posted the photo on the (side the photo is on here) to facebook, and it amazed me the positive feedback that my credenza generated. Especially concidering the tools and materials I used on the project.

In a very short form (I'll put up a longer post on just the credenza later), this is what I used to build my credeza.

• Hammer 
• drill
• circular saw
• screwdriver
• glue
• screws
• orbital sander
• old fashioned Stanley hand plain (not electric)
• sand paper
• box cutter
• chisle
• square
• measuring tape
• construction grade plywood (Not cabinet/furniture grade. The rough stuff.)
• a lopsided table
• one helper (part of the time)
• my wife as a table clamp

Honestly, in other words. I could say that I used all the wrong stuff, but it still turned out nice. It just took determination, a little time, and some effort. Now though, I enjoy my credenza much more than anything I could have bough,t and most people think it's vintage.

So, why not join in on the fun and get yourself a few electric hand tools, an inexpensive mid-century modern DIY book, and see what you can make for yourself. Who knows, you may have everything you need right at home.

 To help, I'm going to try and do a few simple economical furniture and crafts DIY projects and put them on the blog.

Fairview Series: An Edwin Wade Experience.

Here on Amidst Mod, you've had the opportunity to meet Edwin Wade,see why his digital art is just as important as screen, painted, or sculpted pieces of art,and now I'm going to focus on his Fairview Series. Let me tell you why.

If just seeing the piece here to the left wasn't enough, I'll expound on why I feel that Edwin's Fairview series is worth taking a look at.  Here a few of the reasons.

While it's definitely worth noting that Edwin Wade has been a very nice guy each time we've communicated, it's equally important to note that he is a very talented artist. In fact so much so, that I have always made sure to keep up with his work, even when I've failed to keep up with the work of other appreciated artists. He works with a number of mediums that are not easily mastered. Offering a whole gambet of styles and art that one can appreciate in your own home.

More important than even the aforementioned things though, is that the Fairview series is a purposeful series. One that comes from a more emotion inspiration. Over at Mr. Wades Etsy site, you can see the inspiration of the Fairview series when Edwin states:

"This edition print is first in a series based on a 1950's tiled office building in Fairview Park Ohio.

With America's short term memory, buildings like this jem that inspired the print are being demolished without a second glance. My goal was to preserve the artwork for future generations and generate a series of prints based on the original."

You can see from Edwin's quote that the purpose of this series is to not only fulfill the purpose of creating an art piece that someone can enjoy owning, but also to try and recapture the attention and importance of, at least some of the incredible architecture that has been overlooked and under appreciated for so many decades now. Is that happening? Is Edwin succeding in his efforts to make people more aware of these old and wonderfully inspiring buildings? Well... that all depends on you fine folks. 

If your interested in the possibility of purchasing one of Edwin Wades pieces, then I suggest that you check out one of the many outlets that he uses for the sales of his art. Currently, you can find his art at galleries such as:

Just Modern in Palm Springs

Retropolitan

Artefino Cafe 

Breakneck Gallery 

Edwin also sells via his Esty.com site that you can get to by using this link www.etsy.com/shop/EdwinWade.

Don't forget. While I've focused on Edwin's wonderful Fairview series in this post, he has equally wonderful work that I did not focus on here. So, stop by his Etsy and check it out.



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Not Inspired To Write, But...

I may not be inspired to write by the post I found on Mid2Mod, but I most definitely am inspired to build another piece of furniture, as soon as my bed is finished at least. As I'm sure you will again, Mid2Mod hit on the head when they said the exquisitely handcrafted desk of the past are a lost art. For the most part, I would agree with that.

Today, there are still a few designers, and furniture makers that build that ultra linear, but with a flair of personality, desk by hand. However, most of that is gone. That being said, I know for a fact, that there are still plenty of woodworkers out there than can do this work. Some of the groups on Flickr, Facebook, and forums that I've found prove that. Only thing is, you have to buddy up to these people to be able to afford their work.

So, what are my suggestions on the subject? Well, here they go.

1)go rummage sales hunting more for that perfect vintage piece 2)Learn to make furniture yourself. 3) If none of those work out, make you some new online friends based on their woodworking abilities.


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Feels Like A Sci-Fi Day

Today, I wanted it to be an easy, relaxing day. So I figured that I would talk about something light-hearted. While thinking about what topic to choose, I was working on my new Amidst mod zazzle store*. Then it struck me... "I should search "Retro Sci-fi*". So I did, and I was pretty impressed with what I found.

Now, just so you know, I'm not particularly into kitch. I don't think badly of those who are, but still, kitch just hasn't ever really been my liking. That rule, of course, is broken when it comes to Retro Sci-fi*. I LOVE Retro Sci-fi*. In fact, just about the only thing I read, other than design and furniture*/retro woodworking* books, are Retro Futuristic Sci-fi* novels. Isiac Asimov* is my favorite author. Even his joke books are really good.

Still, what has always attracted me most are graphics, and illustrations.  To that end, I thought I'd share a few cool graphics that you can purchase in different forms on Zazzle.com* that are 100% cool retro futuristic/sci-fi. In fact, you can even find a number of vintage sci-fi movie posters and graphics from novels applied to different products.  So to give you an idea of what's available, here are few of my personal favorites.

Also, don't forget to check out my Amidst Mod Zazzle store as well.

Vintage Science Fiction Futuristic City Flying Car Poster by YesterdayCafe
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Vintage Science Fiction Rockets on Desert Planet Print by YesterdayCafe
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Vintage Retro Kitsch Pulp Sci Fi Spaceship Fire! Post Card by retronaut
color post card printing from zazzle.com

Vintage Rocket Launch Postcard by packratgraphics
Check out Space Postcards online at zazzle

Vintage Science Fiction Spa Beauty Salon Manicures Postcard by YesterdayCafe
Look at other Vintage Postcards at zazzle.com

Destination Moon Poster by vintage_images
Search for another posters online at Zazzle

Retro Vintage Kitsch Sci Fi 40s Kids Telescope Postcards by retronaut
See other Telescope Postcards

Vintage Science Fiction Astronauts with a Robot Postage Stamps by YesterdayCafe
Make unique customized postage.

Retro Vintage Kitsch Futurist House of Tomorrow Post Cards by curious_goods
View other Vintage Postcards at Zazzle.com

Plus, there's a ton more. Look thru this app below to see some more of what is offered for sale.
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Note:All links to Zazzle.com are part of an affiliate program in which Amidstmod.com participates. By purchasing thru these affiliate program links, you are helping Amidstmod.com to continue providing informative, and we hope, quality articles/post for our readers.