My Saving Grace.

Have you ever seen a photographer this pretty? Girl, we need you in front of the camera, not behind it! 

Gracie took me in from the cold and rain and brought sunshine back in my life. I have the privilege of working along side her and I just love love love her. I can't imagine what I'd do if she wasn't in my life! Seriously. 

ps. her photo skillz are crazy good.

Thrift Store Cowboys...

rule.

I hold these guys dear to my heart. 

Derek's putting out his very first 7" freaturing Thrift Store Cowboys and One Wolf. This collectors item will be a limited run so if you want to get your paws on one, stay tuned folks!

DIY mania.

Lately, I've been wanting to make a lampshade to put in my workspace because it's a make-shift, under lit space stuffed under the stairs in a location that's probably only meant for storage. So, I promise a little sparkle popped up in my eye when I came across this DIY 'wood' lampshade project inspired by David Trubridge.

Basically, you make a template from cardstock that you've covered with contact paper. I'm hoping there will be more options when strolling down the shelf paper aisle. *Fingers Crossed.

Then assemble with scrapbooking brads. Like snapping your fingers.

I haven't tried this yet, but I'll let you know how it goes. Wish me luck. 

PS. Today, I found this excellent DIY book by Ellen Lupton, called D.I.Y.: Design it Yourself. ie. the instigator.

Behold.

"The sound of church bells and a procession of school kids dressed in black headed toward the end of the street where a wide set of stairs wrapped around the exterior of an ancient building.
i caught up and quickly passed without giving them a glance, climbed the stairs and waited at the half way point for them to pass me.
i held my camera low figuring i’d leave it mostly to chance.
Once past the last child gave me a face and stuck her tongue out. i stuck my tongue out in kind and she turned away laughing.

A few days ago i dreamt of a pale grey sky crossed by over head wires and crows so black they seemed like holes into an endless night."
-Gary Isaacs 

(This quote is from the caption of this photograph. Please look through his photos and read his stories both will not disappoint.)

This work has a marvelous haunting beauty. I'm absolutely infatuated with them, apparently desolate solitude calls my name every time.

All images via Gary Isaacs.

Loves.

A few of my favorite pictures from this past weekend's wedding, which Grace and I shot.  This is Stacey and Chris, they were married on 10/4 (good buddy! Sorry, I couldn't resist.) at her parent's beautiful house in Kerrville, TX. Sweet sweet couple. They choreographed their first dance, which. was. awesome.

Images ©2008 Julie Cope Photography.

Make a difference.

Ok. So I should have posted this yesterday for all you Texans. But, there's still time to register in other states, and hopefully you're already registered...so you can vote.

VOTE. 

It's fun.

Uptown Modern

Another remedy for creative block, is to feed your senses with what the world has hidden away in unexpected places. Now you're probably expecting me to insert something here about nature, but on the contrary, I want to divert your attention to another one of life's hidden (behind-a-storefront-woman-made) treasures. Uptown Modern. This 1940-70's home furnishings guru will make your heart flutter at first sight of it's lovely display of antique gems and is sure to send waves of design inspiration crashing your way.

Uptown modern is owned and operated by Jean Heath, who has been in the antique business for over 20 years. From what I was told by one of her lovely and incredibly helpful employees named Rebecca Cannon, Jean puts forth the effort to make the store radiate with a renewing energy by frequently updating their displays to make each shopping experience truly unique and exciting each and every time you stop by.

So the next time you're strolling down Austin's very own vintage alley (Burnet Road) you should veer off into this divine three part shop of everything you're mid-century, modern heart could desire. 

I mean, who doesn't need a fist-pumping gold torso?

On a side note:

This is my informant Rebecca Cannon, she gave insight about the owner and how the store is run. One of my favorites tid bits, was how Jean Heath (owner) supports her employees pursuing their music careers. One of the many reasons I love Austin, Texas! Speaking of, Cannon sings in the Texas Sapphires, check them out here!

The lovely fall display Rebecca put together for October. Does anyone else see that fantastic painting in the top left corner?

The wood blocks used for letterpress printing are my favorite, these in particular were probably used for fabric. I think I've already decided to dedicate another post solely to their letterpress wood blocks. So get ready.

So clear your schedule and make a pit stop. You won't be disappointed!

Images ©2008 Julie Cope Photography.