May 21, 2008

Flights of Fancy

Ryann Rathbone Artwork

Where hobbies are concerned, you’ve always favored the indoor variety (knitting, reading, napping).

Which rules out bird-watching, among other things.

Until now, perhaps. Ryann Rathbone’s artwork features an array of avian life that will keep you occupied for hours.

After Rathbone suddenly lost her boyfriend (you might have heard of him, musician Carter Albrecht), the self-taught painter picked up a brush to relieve some grief. The result is a series of gorgeous bird paintings with ornate, brocade-style backgrounds.

The birds — ravens, cardinals, peacocks — add an earthy element, while the intricate, wallpapery patterns provide a sophisticated vintage vibe.

Which should give your favorite activity — staring at the walls — a fun, new twist.

Available at The Gypsy Wagon, 5211 Bonita Avenue (214-370-8010 or the-gypsy-wagon.com); Kettle Art, 2714 Elm Street (214-573-7622 or kettleart.com). To see styles, go to ryannrathbone.com.