30 Dec Editor’s Note: The Joy of Shorter Days & Longer Nights

I love winter. Seriously. I love snow and biting winds and a fire in the fireplace, fur-lined mittens and flannel sheets. Oh, and beef stew and cornbread and hot chocolate. But mostly, I like how things slow down. Shorter days and longer nights seem to encourage quiet conversations with friends and evenings wrapped up in a warm blanket reading. I’m pleased to report that we have another lovely magazine filled with inspiring stories and gorgeous homes and, of course, lots of art. So grab a cup of cocoa (marshmallows optional) and tuck in.

If you’re an art collector, you may have noticed the rise in contemporary Indigenous artists’ work, both in value and prominence. It’s not a fad. It’s simply taken the art market this long to pick up on all the great work that’s always been there. Diego Romero is a prime example. His work – pottery made using the traditional methods of his Pueblo ancestors – turns legacy on its head. We also shine a light on the artistic philosophy of Don Stinson, who takes us into his home and studio in Austin, Texas. And Jay Moore opens up about the surprising turn of events that caused him to, finally, slow down.

If you’re in the mood for a change of scenery, may we recommend Norman, Oklahoma? The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on the OU campus has one of the best and biggest art collections of any public university in America – and it rivals most private universities’ collections, too. Currently, the art museum has a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition delving into the career of Nicolai Fechin. If you’re thinking California’s Central Coast is more your speed, check out the Allegretto Resort, a gorgeous retreat that mixes art and wine for the perfect combination of “ahh.”

The homes in this issue are, in and of themselves, awe-inspiring. As is the collection of Susan and Jake Potje, whose major art event, Celebration of Fine Arts in Scottsdale, Arizona, has helped develop their “kids in the candystore” mentality when it comes to collecting. If you want to learn about art from the pros, check out their lecture series at the Celebration.

With warm wishes,

Rose Fredrick, Editor in Chief
rose@westernartandarchitecture.com