“Inspiration can start anywhere, you just have to get out and clear your head.” – Thomas Paul expounded about his inspiration for his new line of textiles prints designed for Duralee Fabrics.
- Roxanne Hanna, Thomas Paul, Maegan Fee, Tara Mclarney
Last week the Boston Design Center hosted Design Boston. There new 2010 products for the home were highlighted and seminars were conducted to give designers all the tools they’ll need to be successful next year. I signed up immediately for the seminars and was most excited to hear Thomas Paul speak about his inspirations… (and was lucky enough to snap a pic with him)!
I’ve always been drawn to his unique bold color combinations and pop art graphics, ever since his first line of silk pillows were introduced. Throw pillows are such an easy, quick way to make over a room and add pops of color!
Paul’s inspiration comes from a variety of sources:
- Nature – Plants and Animals
- Foreign Cultures and Places
- Art and Design
- Textiles and Classic Motifs
He’s inspired by his surroundings and brings these life experiences to his work. Biking around the city, nature walks in the park, and even going to the library help trigger his new ideas.
His imagery has evolved from the two-dimensional, geometric shapes to a more realistic hand drawn quality as seen in his Curiosities Collection – which I love!
His Duralee collection of prints is a great expression of combining some of his earlier ideas using bold, two-tones graphics with touches of more detailed imagery. Some remind me of old toile or damask patterns with a refreshing twist. Actually, this is one way Paul speaks about his work. He pulls from the past and finds objects or patterns by frequenting flea markets and vintage shops then brings them to life again in a new way.
It’s cool to see these bold images applied to traditional forms. What fun you could bring to a vintage wing back chair or settee! It would definitely become a statement piece!
