West Coasters Prepare for Craftsman Weekend
Friday is host to several hands-on workshops, tours and this years opening reception. Craftsman Weekend exhibitor, Elizabeth Norris, member of the International Vintage Poster Dealers Association and owner of Vintage European Posters, will give a short presentation about her involvement as the consultant on object selection for the Huntington Library’s new exhibition, “Your Country Calls! Posters of the First World War.” The Reception will take place at the historic Blinn House, home to the Women’s City Club of Pasadena and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1906, the Blinn House is a sterling portrayal of noted architect George Washington Maher’s prairie style design. Exquisite rich mahogany and oak wood line the rooms that include original light fixtures, leaded glass windows, and a fascinating glass tile fireplace that all lend style and elegance to the evening.
Throughout Saturday and Sunday is the two-day Antique and Contemporary Furnishings and Decorative Arts Sale. This year’s sale is host to more than 60 exhibitors from across the U.S. bringing in a broad spectrum of Craftsman era and period inspired works including furniture, textiles, pottery and tiles, metal work, wallpapers and stencils, and books. All exhibitors are juried to provide the Craftsman Weekend the highest quality sources for antique and contemporary work in the style of the period. Entrance to the exhibit hall is complimentary with the purchase of any Craftsman Weekend event ticket or can be purchased separately. Also included will be the Pasadena Heritage membership and merchandise booth and the popular Silent Auction.
On Saturday evening Craftsman Weekend guests will be treated to a reception that promises to be the most exclusive and elegant event of the weekend and will be held at the extraordinary home of Myron Hunt (top photo). Designed by Myron Hunt, a renowned architect throughout Southern California in 1905, this striking 5,300 square foot Craftsman home was occupied by the Hunt family until 1957. Located in the picturesque Arroyo area, the residence is surrounded by other grand homes designed by some of the leading architects in the country and features a brick foundation, hand charred and brushed redwood beamed ceilings and molding throughout, and wood shingle roof. Arched windows dominate the entryway while lead glass windows provide ornament to the west façade, and a small but sophisticated formal garden is oriented to outdoor living, which is typical and so important of the craftsman period. The reception will include tours of the historic home and a catered wine and hors d’oeuvres gathering in the beautiful gardens.
But perhaps what can be considered the signature event of the Weekend is the Craftsman House Tour. This in-depth drive-yourself tour provides the opportunity to experience the rich variety of Craftsman architecture that makes Pasadena a destination for Arts & Crafts enthusiasts. Experienced docents will provide detailed histories of each of the five featured homes while guests examine the natural materials, fine craftsmanship, and exquisite detailing that exemplify the Craftsman era. This year’s tour features: The Leon and Lizzie Chamberlain House, The Wellborn House, The Miss Ida Hawes House and The Post House (bottom photo).West Coasters, rest up while you can. We know you’ll be busy in a couple of weeks! For more information and to purchase your tickets visit www.pasadenaheritage.org.
