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The Perfect Holiday Gifts: KMR Presents Leitz Leather Luxury Goods

Leitz Leather Bracelets with Gemstones and Luxury Hardware

Leitz Leather Bracelets with Gemstones and Luxury Hardware

KMR Arts Gallery will host the dynamic husband and wife team Eric and Sherry Leitz who will be showing theit latest collections of accessories. The holiday shopping experience will take place today, Friday December 11th and tomorrow, Saturday, December 12th from 11 am to 5 pm at the gallery which is located at 2 Titus Road, Washington, CT 06794.

Leather Handbags

Leitz Luxury Leather accessories are the epitome of bohemian chic. and the rock and roll chic bags, belts, cuffs and bracelets are individually hand crafted. Their clients read like a who's who of Hollywood and includes such stars as Tom Cruise, Janet Jackson and Will Smith. Their newest collection of bracelets and necklaces combine leather with cultured pearls for a sexy, modern look.

Leather Bracelets & Necklaces

Gallery owner, Kathy McCarver Root is a big fan of the collection, "The Leitz leather designs strike the perfect balance: bold yet cool, sophisticated yet utterly wearable. Eric's sense of color, proportion and materials is impeccable. I love that each piece can be custom, with handsome embossed initials, stitching, and color choice. It's great to stay local, it really makes a difference to small businesses.... and who doesn't need a little rock n roll this time of year!"

Eric and Sherry Leitz

Eric and Sherry Leitz with a Signature Handbag and Weekend Bag

 

HAPPY HOLIDAY SHOPPING ALL!

 

Leather Purse

 

Winter Fun at Holiday in the Depot in Washington, CT

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Horse%20Drawn%20Carriage.jpg" style="width: 528px; height: 392px;"></p> <p>                     The 24th Annual Holiday in the Depot will be held on Friday, Dec. 11th from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the town center.<br><br> Festivities will kick off with the lighting of the Town Christmas Tree by a special guest at Bryan Memorial Town Hall. Students from the Washington Montessori School will sing carols as the tree is lit. Caroling throughout the Depot will be sung by the troubadours from The Gunnery School.</p> <p>Santa will arrive by horse drawn hay wagon shortly after the tree lighting and will be available to listen to children's wishes and have his photograph taken with them until 8:30 p.m inside the Town Hall. Hay rides will be given by Utopia Percherons throughout the Depot.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/doc4ed78f844897f9218078531.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 358px;"></p> <p>There will be a special mail box for children's letters to Santa. Children can create a Christmas craft with the aid of Linda Morse and Gail Scribner from the Gunn Memorial Junior Library. There will be goodies from the Animal Welfare Society for pets and people, and at the American Legion Hall, the Washington PTO will have hot dogs and chili for sale and the Senior Center will have gift items for sale.</p> <p>There will also be a Gingerbread House Contest at participating businesses in the Depot. Stop by each business to view their house and then cast your vote at Washington Supply Company for the best house in the Depot!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/New%20Preston%20Winter%20Walk.jpg" style="width: 350px; height: 233px;"></p> <p>Don't miss the 6th annual New Preston Winter Walk which will be held on Saturday, December 12th from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM. The window displays are amazing and there will be great shopping and fun for all!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Washington-Slices-with-Santa.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 247px;"></p> <p>The 8th annual Slices with Santa will be held at the Washington Fire Department on Saturday, December 12th 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM. This is an all you can eat event ($10 for Adults, $5 for Kids) and Santa will arrive at 6 pm. Funds raised will be distributed to the Washington Community Fund and the St. John's Fund to offset the cost of Washington's Holiday Baskets providing food and gifts at Thanksgiving and Christmas to nearly twenty-five families!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/1476303_582439241828926_1793480100_n.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 487px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Make sure you stop by our offices during Holiday in the Depot for a glass of wine, holiday snacks and gifts for the kids!</p> <p style="text-align: center;">HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!</p>

Happening in the Hills features Stacey's Holiday Gift Guide

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/DSC_5577-07-retouched.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 549px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Stacey visits Pergola Home in New Preston, CT- Photo courtesy of Mike Yanin</p> <p style="text-align: center;">“Presents are made for the pleasure of who gives them, not the merits of who receives them.”<br> – Carlos Ruiz Zafón, The Shadow of the Wind</p> <p>(Please note this is an excerpt from the <a href="http://www.happeninginthehills.com/onourradar/staceys-holiday-gift-guide/"> Happening in the Hills</a> feature, 'Stacey's Holiday Gift Guide') Before the holiday season, when I am compiling my gift lists for my family and friends, I am thankful that I live in a county with unique boutiques, artisanal gourmet stores and galleries. Instead of malls and big box stores, I try to find those destinations where I can find personal gifts that are perfectly suited to the receiver’s lifestyle and passions.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/J._Seitz_Aztec_Hat.jpg" style="width: 310px; height: 361px;"></p> <p>Men can sometimes prove to be more difficult to make purchases for and I always search out unusual gifts that he can use during a favorite activity. Try to avoid the tie, wallet and socks route! For example, if your husband, father or brother loves the outdoors, this Aztec patterned, faux fur-lined hat from <a href="http://www.jseitz.com/home.html">J. Seitz</a> is practical yet has style and is well-priced at $74. He will certainly think of you every time he wears it.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Nutmeg_Olive_Oil.jpg" style="width: 275px; height: 281px;"></p> <p>A real treat to his senses would be a selection of olive oils from <a href="http://www.nutmegoliveoil.com/">Nutmeg Oil</a> in New Milford. Flavors perfect for the holiday include: Mushroom Sage, Blood Orange, Cranberry Pear, and Fig Dark Balsamic Olive Oils. This will certainly add to his creative choices for sauces, dressings and glazes. Single bottles start at $9 and gift sets come in 4-to-6- pack sizes starting at $18. They can customize any gift set with oils as well as a mix of vinegars. Before you purchase, you can taste and try each of their products in the store.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/R._Derwin_Shawl.jpg" style="width: 361px; height: 484px;"></p> <p>Who does not love cashmere? …. these luxurious triangle shawls from <a href="http://www.rderwinclothiers.com/">R. Derwin Clothiers</a> in Litchfield are perfect for winter parties in the country. The shawls, priced at $1,195 are made with Loro Piana cashmere yarns, fringed with leather and are a signature statement piece for the fashionista!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/RT_Facts__ZInc_Clad_Mirrors.jpg" style="width: 414px; height: 305px;"></p> <p>Another gift idea for women who love one-of-a-kind items for the home are these naturally patinated, zinc frame-wrapped mirrors from <a href="http://www.rtfacts.com/">RT Facts</a> in Kent. The mirrors are truly unique and special gifts, as RT Facts custom-makes each one. They are priced at $800 each.</p> <p>I invite you to read the whole article in Happening in the Hills which feature more stylish gift ideas for men and women from <a href="http://www.pergolahome.com/">Pergola Home</a>, <a href="http://privethouse.com/">Privet House</a>, <a href="http://www.jseitz.com/home.html">J. Seitz & Co</a>, <a href="http://oliphantdesign.com/">Oliphant</a>, Barkery Boo'Tique, <a href="http://scottandbowne.com/Scott_and_Bowne/Home.html">Scott and Bowne</a>, <a href="http://www.terston.com/">Terston</a>, <a href="http://www.rderwinclothiers.com/">R. Derwin Clothiers</a>, <a href="http://www.nutmegoliveoil.com/">Nutmeg Olive Oil</a>, <a href="http://www.rtfacts.com/#sthash.ocZQtNge.dpbs">RT Facts</a> and <a href="http://www.kmrarts.com/">KMR Arts</a>.</p> <p>READ THE ARTICLE FROM HAPPENING IN THE HILLS BY CLICKING ON THE LINK <a href="http://www.happeninginthehills.com/onourradar/staceys-holiday-gift-guide/"> HERE</a>.</p> <p>Please find below the addresses and websites for all these unique shops and boutiques to be found in Litchfield County.</p> <p>Barkery Boo’tique<br> 38 Bank Street<br> New Milford<br> 860.210.1312</p> <p><br> J. Seitz<br> East Shore Road (Route 45)<br> New Preston<br> 860. 868. 0119<br> www.jseitz.com</p> <p><br> KMR Arts Gallery<br> 2 Titus Road<br> Washington Depot<br> 860.868.7533<br> www.kmrarts.com</p> <p><br> Nutmeg Olive Oil Company<br> 25 Main Street<br> New Milford<br> 860.354.7300<br> info@nutmegoliveoil.com<br> www.nutmegoliveoil.com</p> <p><br> Oliphant<br> 29 West St<br> Litchfield<br> 860.567.8199<br> oliphantdesign.com</p> <p><br> Pergola Home<br> 7 East Shore Road<br> New Preston<br> 860.868.4769<br> info@pergolahome.com<br> www.pergolahome.com</p> <p><br> Privet House<br> 13 East Shore Road<br> New Preston<br> 860.868.1800<br> info@privethouse.com<br> www.privethouse.com</p> <p><br> R. Derwin Clothiers<br> (The Ladies Store)<br> 43 West Street<br> Litchfield<br> 860.567.4095<br> www.rderwinclothiers.com</p> <p><br> RT Facts<br> 22 South Main Street<br> Kent<br> 860.927.1700<br> www.rtfacts.com</p> <p><br> Scott and Bowne<br> 27 North Main Street #1<br> Kent<br> 860.592.0207<br> scottandbowne.com</p> <p><br> Terston<br> 27 North Main Street<br> Kent<br> 860.927.1255<br> info@terston.com<br> www.terston.com</p> <p> </p>

KMR Arts Holiday Event with Artist Beth Rundquist

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Chachi.jpg" style="width: 288px; height: 371px;"></p> <p>Just in time for the holidays, <a href="http://www.kmrarts.com/">KMR Arts</a> presents Beth Rundquist, an internationally recognized portrait and landscape painter, who has created a specialty niche with her Silhouettes body of work. Beth will be at KMR Arts to exhibit her work and accept commissions Friday, December 4, from 10-5pm and Saturday, December 5, from 10- 5pm. The Silhouettes are a fab, fresh, modern take on the Victorian cutout silhouette. Rundquist’s pieces are available in modern color combinations: think turquoise blue on chocolate brown, acid green on lemon yellow, or hot pink on pale lavender...They are available in a range of sizes from 8 x 8 inches to 24 x 24 inches.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Pair.jpg" style="width: 288px; height: 322px;"></p> <p><br> McCarver Root says, “When I saw Beth’s work at a friend’s house, I was enchanted by these groovy, modern interpretations of the Victorian silhouette. Beth’s art is personal yet it reaches beyond portraiture.”</p> <p>In the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, silhouettes became popular as cheap, quick ways of capturing likenesses. Often created by amateurs, especially women, they are now known as sentimental keepsakes of the Victorian variety, sweet mementos of anonymous everyday people from the past memorialized in ink, paint, or cut paper, and even painted onto porcelain. In the 19th century a silhouette artist was often times a woman, an amateur, who wanted to create a souvenir of her beloved. Pliny the Elder, writing around the 1st century AD, told the story of a 5th century Corinthian girl, Dibutade, who traced her lover's shadow, cast by candlelight, because he was leaving on a journey and she wanted to keep his image with her.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Charlotte.jpg" style="width: 252px; height: 351px;"><br>  </p> <p>Another modern artist whose work incorporates the silhouette is Kara Walker. Walker’s rich, beautiful and disturbing work depicts silhouetted scenes addressing the historical legacy of violence, mistreatment and revenge between blacks and whites. Using the silhouette, a black-and-white medium popular during the era of 19th century American slavery, Walker brilliantly subverts the sweetness of the form, updating it into something too urgent and incisive to be anything but modern.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/aka%20silh.jpg" style="width: 332px; height: 300px;"></p> <p><br> Appealing to both the established collector and the first time buyer, <a href="http://www.kmrarts.com/">KMR Arts</a> continues to celebrate photography. Kathy McCarver Root is a photography dealer, working with individual and corporate clients to purchase and install fine art photography. McCarver Root gained her experience over two decades while working as a photography editor for books (Lillian Bassman, Bulfinch, Weekend Retreats, Rizzoli) and prestigious magazines (Esquire, US Weekly, and InStyle). Kathryn McCarver Root named one of Litchfield County’s 50 Most Influential People by Litchfield Magazine. For more information, call: (860) 868-7533, email: info@kmrarts.com or visit their website by clicking on the link <a href="http://www.kmrarts.com/">here</a>.</p> <p> </p>

Unlocking New Milford: Discover the Charm of this New England Town

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/New%20Milford%20Town.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 405px;"></p> <p>On the western border of CT and nestled in the Housatonic Valley, <a href="http://www.newmilford.org/">the town of New Milford</a> is often termed the “Gateway to Litchfield County”. Incorporated in 1712, the area is rich in history and was the original home of the Paugusett Native Americans who fished on the Aspetuck and Housatonic rivers still popular today with both residents and visitors. The town was active during the American Revolution and became a business hub for industries including buttons, furniture, pottery lime and tobacco in the 19th and 20th centuries. New Milford is actually the largest town by area in the state at approximately 64 square miles and includes the communities of Merryall, Northville and Gaylordsville.</p> <p>Today, the town has blossomed with a variety of unique restaurants, artisanal gourmet shops, specialty boutiques for adults and children, galleries and more… Most people think of New Milford as the place to go for the big box retailers, you know the store you want close but not too close. However, there are lots of special places in New Milford. Here is a sampling of the businesses I love to frequent.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Lucia's%20Restaurant%20Poached%20Pear%20Salad.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 364px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Poached Pear Salad at Lucia's Restaurant</p> <p>Whether it is authentic Italian cuisine, gourmet Paninis, organic farm to table fare or Thai exquisitely spiced food, New Milford offers a wide range of dining choices. <a href="http://www.luciaofnewmilford.com/">Lucia Ristorante</a>, which was featured in the New York Times, has exceptional dishes that feature homemade pastas including pappardelle, spaghetti and cavatelli. Chef and owner, Antonio Caldaria delivers unmatched flavor with his Gnocchi Piemontese with prosciutto, fresh peas and mushrooms in a pink champagne sauce. <a href="http://www.townvibe.com/Litchfield/September-October-2015/Close-to-Italy/"> Tonio’s Panino</a> is not your average sandwich shop with wonderful vegetarian, chicken and meatball parmesan paninis as well as an amazing caprese sandwich with fresh mozzarella, basil and tomato. Buon Appetito to all!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Tonios%20Panino%203.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 271px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The Menu Board at Tonio's Panino</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Green%20Granary.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 233px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Farm Fresh Food at The Green Granary</p> <p>If you lean towards organic fare, visit <a href="http://www.thegreenspotnewmilford.com/cafe.html">Epicuria</a> located at the garden center ‘The Green Spot’. Epicuria has a variety of healthy salads and sandwiches as well as their renowned chocolate covered strawberry smoothie. You can eat al fresco in a sumptuous garden while the weather is warm. Epicuria is a gourmet take out and catering business as well. The <a href="http://greengranary.com/">Green Granary</a> on Railroad St is an organic, non-gmo and sustainable café with a mission of farm to table food. Try their vegetarian, western or avocado omelettes, all made with organic eggs. Yum! They have outstanding chocolate chip cookies and this is my favorite food group! I am a chic chocolate chip cookie connoisseur (friends who know this send me cookies from all over the world). If you crave aromatic, exquisitely spiced food, don’t miss <a href="http://www.thaicharmct.com/">Thai Charm</a> where they make a luxurious Tom Yum Goong soup and red, green and panang curries with your choice of chicken, beef, vegetable or shrimp.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Thai%20Charm.jpg" style="width: 480px; height: 360px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Thai Charm Dinner with Aromatic Spices</p> <p>There is much more to tempt your palette at the specialty food stores, cooking schools and premier caterers In New Milford. At <a href="http://villarinas.com/">Villarina’s pasta</a> there are a host of homemade pastas and you can pick out Italian sauces such as porcini, puttanesca and walnut pesto to pair with them. The have great prepared garlic bread you just pop in the oven and wonderful frozen lasagnas. <a href="http://www.hunthillfarmtrust.org/">The Silo</a>, as part of the Hunt Hill Farm offers a variety of cooking classes throughout the year. Upcoming is a Junior Bakers session on October 12th and ‘How to Make a Sublime Vegetarian Meal’ on October 16th. If you want to leave it to the experts and have your dinner party or event catered, <a href="http://www.executivecuisinect.com/">Executive Cuisine</a> has a full complement of dinners, hors d’oeuvres and succulent desserts. Sesame & wasabi crusted tuna skewers, garlicky lamb kebobs with tahini and lemon panna cotta with fresh fruit were recently served at interior designer’s event.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Villarina's%20Homemade%20Pasta%20Sauces.jpg" style="width: 535px; height: 339px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Villarina's Homemade Past Sauces</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Executive%20Cuisine.jpg" style="width: 520px; height: 693px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Delectable Table from Executive Cuisine</p> <p>An interesting array of boutiques for adults and children can be found in New Milford. Two delightful children’s toy stores, <a href="http://www.nordicatoys.com/">Nordica</a> and <a href="http://iloveplaytoys.com/Play/Welcome.html">Play</a>, are definitely worth a visit and not just for birthday presents! Another great family activity is a visit to <a href="http://www.etflea.com/_/Home.html">Elephant’s Trunk Flea Market</a> which is held every Sunday through November 29th from 7 am to 2 pm. You can look at vintage clothing while the kids can check out the toy collectibles.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Nordica%20Toy%20Store.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 420px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Games, Puzzles and More at Nordica Toy Store</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Play.png" style="width: 543px; height: 369px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Wonderful Selection at Play Toy Store</p> <p><a href="http://www.swankonbank.com/">Swank on Bank</a>, a fashion boutique, located on Bank Street directly across from the movie theater, has one-of-a-kind apparel, jewelry and accessories. , I love the super soft cotton tee shirts! After shopping, <a href="http://joessalon.com/">Joe’s Salon</a> is a great place for a blow dry, color or cut. They were voted one of the top 200 salons in the US by Salon Today. They also have an excellent spa for facials and massages.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Swank%20on%20Bank.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 403px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Chic Denim Vests at Swank on Bank</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Joe's%20Salon%203.jpg" style="width: 590px; height: 395px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">An Open, Airy Interior at Joe's Salon</p> <p>Across the street from Joe’s Salon is the <a href="http://www.thehartsgallery.com/">Harts Art Galley</a> which recently opened and exhibits mixed media, paintings and photography. Their new show, entitled ‘She’s a Changeling ‘opens October 3rd. If you take a stroll around the corner, have a look at the newly renovated and restored United Bank building which is now called <a href="http://www.newstimes.com/business/article/New-Milford-bank-building-restored-to-former-glory-6442409.php"> 19 Main</a>. It will be a rental space for weddings and other events starting with an upcoming wine tasting.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Evan%20Abramson-%20Harts%20Gallery.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 367px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Photography by Evan Abramson at Harts Gallery</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/19%20Main.jpg" style="width: 480px; height: 480px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The United Bank Building is now 19 Main</p> <p>I am thrilled to ‘unlock’ some of the treasures in New Milford. Try them for yourself and let us know your thoughts in the comments box. All the businesses mentioned are linked to their websites so you can view directions and contact information.<br><br> Enjoy!</p> <p> </p>

Brendan O'Connell Art Installation at Emory University

Brendan O'Connell at The Matthews Group Office

Brendan O'Connell at The Matthews Group Office (photo courtesy of Mike Yanin)

Brendan O'Connell, whose work is currently being shown in our Washington Depot office, has recently finished a spectacular art installation at Emory University. You can view the time lapse of this project by clicking on the link here.

Brendan O'Connell and Pels Matthews

Brendan O'Connell and Pels Matthews (photo courtesty of Mike Yanin)

Brendan and Pels have a common connection as mentioned by the artist, "Pels and I both have coincidental history with Tucker, GA, where I grew up... His Grandfather had the famous roadside dive Matthews' cafeteria."

Abstract Paintings by Brendan O'Connell

Abstract Paintings by Brendan O'Connell (photo courtesty of Mike Yanin)

The abstract work that graces the walls of the Matthews Group office evokes emotions with a combination of bold palettes and strong composition. These collections look impressive singly or in groups as featured above. It is an amazing opportunity to purchase paintings by this truly talented Ameican artist. Stop by the office during our open hours from 9 am to 5 pm or call 860-868-0511 for more information.

Painting by Brendan O'Connell

Painting by Brendan O'Connell

Brendan O’Connell is best known for his paintings of iconic brands and the aisles of Walmart. O’Connell infuses these modern day environments with a magical quality that transforms both shoppers and products into art. His artistic interpretation of the superstore had some in the media crowning him the “Warhol of Walmart’. Though the concept and subject matter is similar, Warhol put a literal focus on the brand as is seen in print advertisements. O’Connell, on the other hand, infuses his paintings with human warmth paying tribute to everyman and daily life.

 Trio of Brendan O'Connell Paintings

A Trio of Brendan O'Connell Paintings on view at the Matthews Group Office (photo courtesty of Mike Yanin)

Brendan O'Connell has been featured in the New Yorker, Time Magazine, The Boston Globe as well as his work being reviewed in Art in America. Brendan also appeared on the quintessential Pop American show, Comedy Central’s, ‘The Colbert Report’. O’Connell’s work is collected by celebrities such as Alec Baldwin and Darrell Crate, the former chairman of the Massachusetts Republican Party and in 2012 he was honored with a Rubin Foundation Award.

For more information about the artist, Brendan O'Connell, please click here.

 

The Allure of Leitz Luxury Accessories

Exquisite Pink Leather Handbag

Exquisite Pink Leather Handbag

"It's not what you spend but how you wear it that counts. The key is often to dress up inexpensive basics with accessories. Something like a beautiful designer bag or belt can make everything else look richer and more luxurious."
Chloe Sevigny

Those words ring true for any of us lucky enough to have discovered the amazing leather collections of Washington-based husband and wife team Sherry and Eric Leitz. Their stunning pieces meld a little bit of rock n roll style with luxurious materials and design. As a team they started making by hand one-of-a-kind vintage studded belts and cuffs out of their NYC apartment. What started as a hobby has now turned into a full time business which they run out of their home in the country. Their current collections include handbags, wine carriers, bracelets, belts and other distinctive accessories for men, women and children.

The secret is out and this Friday and Saturday you can shop these collections at KMR Arts, 2 Titus Road, Washington Depot, CT 06794. This not to be missed 'Pop Up' Shop will take place Friday, August 28th 11 am- 5 pm and Saturday, August 29th, 11 am- 5 pm.

Eric and Sherry Leitz

Eric and Sherry Leitz

Eric Leitz is an FIT Graduate who started his career with Giorgio Armani and went on to launch Ralph Lauren Purple Label Men's Clothing. He has dressed celebrities from the worlds of film, music and politics including Tom Cruise, John Travolta, Janet Jackson, Will Smith, Dustin Hoffman, Whitney Houston as well as Presidents George H.W. Bush and son George W. Bush among many others. Sherry Leitz explains that her role has been to "encourage, inspire and support my talented husband so his creativeness was able to flow and grow into this amazing leather business." Sherry brings her experience of being a custom clothier dressing high level executives in NYC to their company in addition to being a full time mother to their two beautiful children.

Leitz English Bridal Leather Wrap Bracelet

Leitz English Bridal Leather Wrap Bracelet available in double or triple wrap with gold or silver studs.

Handbag Collections

A Rich Selection of Colors can be found in the Handbag Collections

English Bridal Leather Wine Totes
Oak bark tanned all natural English Bridal Leather Wine Totes in Single or Double Size. They are made to order and can be monogrammed with hot foil stamp.

Black bridal leather handbag

Black bridal leather with gray interior and natural stitched handles

We asked Sherry what made the handbags so unique and beautiful:

"All of our handbags are completely made by hand using a single piece of leather by Eric here in Connecticut. We buy our hides from which the bags are made here in the U.S. All leather goods are dyed, painted, stained and saddle stitched by Erics own hands. They also can be personalized using real gold, copper or silver leaf foil."

Saddle Tan Custom Studded Handle Tote Bag

Saddle Tan Custom Studded Handle Tote Bag with baby blue lining. Available in a variety of color combinations with gold or silver studs. 

I’m so happy to see Eric and Sherry using their vast retail experience towards launching their own brand. I have never seen another leather product like this that is truly HAND made, one at a time. I have several bags and absolutely love them. Just got the new pink one! Pels wears the bracelets and belts every day and we love to give the leather wine carriers as gifts.

Stop by on Friday or Saturday at KMR Arts to meet this talented couple and shop for your next fabulous accessory!

For more information, see below:

917-734-5044
SherryLeitz@icloud.com
Instagram: LeitzLeather

Spectacular Designer Barn Sale In Roxbury, CT

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/3.jpg" style="width: 480px; height: 480px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">1940's Green American Pottery</p> <p>"The details are not the details. They make the design." This quote by Charles Eames resounds with all who love interior design. There will be exquisite details to add to your home including decorative objects, furniture, lighting and more at the Designer Barn Sale in Roxbury, CT. The event is next Saturday and Sunday, August 22nd and 23rd From 9 am - 5 pm each day.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Barn.JPG" style="width: 541px; height: 537px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The Buccolic, Beautiful Setting for the Barn Sale</p> <p>Renowned interior designer Glenn Gissler is doing the sale in collaboration with his long-time friend Tom Luciano – who co-founded the now well-known antique store Historical Materialism in NYC before moving to a fabulous storefront in Hudson for many years. Between these two design powerhouses, there many stunning pieces in the sale from seating, floor lamps and table lamps, artwork, cabinets, iron pieces, ceramics, tables, antique textiles and curiosities.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/4.jpg" style="width: 402px; height: 441px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">19th Century Gothic Starburst Hat Rack</p> <p>As confirmed by the host <a href="http://gissler.com/">Glenn Gissler</a>, the large barn is full and the delightful design pieces are spilling onto the lawn. We have our eye on several of the items but here is a taste of what will be in the sale.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/1.jpg" style="width: 598px; height: 751px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Chipped Wood Bureau</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/5.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 540px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Cobalt Blue Drip Glaze Lamp</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/2.jpg" style="width: 598px; height: 567px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Mid-Century Spider-leg Oval Chairs</p> <p>To see more images and for more details, visit Glenn Gissler's blog by clicking on the link <a href="http://gissler.com/glenn-gissler-designer-barn-sale-in-roxbury-connecticut/"> here</a>. While you are there, subscribe to this fascintaing design blog that is always inspiring, informative and fun! For directions to the barn sale, please view on Google Maps <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/41.561466,-73.2892712/Roxbury,+CT/@41.553791,-73.301545,14z/data=!4m8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x89e7f1f4d2ef4dcb:0x57893b1ecaf56b6b!2m2!1d-73.3087285!2d41.5564843"> here</a>.</p> <p>We are thrilled to have know Glenn as a client and a friend many years and to have introduced him to the lovely home that he has transformed so beautifully.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/House%2C%20560%20px%20width%20%20(1).jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 371px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Lovely Property in Roxbury, CT</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/Designer%20Barn%20Sale%2Cjpg.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 792px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">MARK YOUR CALENDARS!<br>  </p> <p> </p>

The Washington Green Fair has Fun, Food and Activities for All!

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tech <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_nqh9h4mhGG1tdir62o1_540.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 360px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Wagon Ride with Magnificent Percheron Horses</p> <p>This Saturday, July 11th, the Green Fair returns to Washington, CT with activities for families and numerous booths of plants, home baked goods and vintage delights. The fair opens at 10 am and runs until 2 pm. There are plenty of parking spaces available next to the Washington Green (follow the signs) and the address for those using a GPS device is 6 Kirby Road, Washington, CT.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_n8lv21KREj1tdir62o2_1280.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Talented Local Musicians peforming at Last Year's Fair</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_nqh8opaWfu1tdir62o1_540.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 360px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Games that the Whole Family will Enjoy!</p> <p>The doors to a gigantic tag sale open an hour earlier at 9 am. Here you will find vintage linens, hard to find board games, china and glassware as well as clothing and decorative onjects. The silent auction items has been generously donated by local residents and businesses and include hotel stays, restaurant and local merchant gift certificates and gift baskets, golf clubs and bag, landscaping services, fly fishing lessons and more... The thrilling live auction starts at 12:30 pm with guest auctioneer Bill Faribairn.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_nqrhl79pzV1tdir62o2_540.jpg" style="width: 540px; height: 540px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Exquisite sculpture donated by Paul Doherty and David Behnke will be in the Live Auction</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you need some great summer reads for the beach or by the lake, the book sale at the meeting house has fiction, gardening, cooking and a large selection of children's titles to choose and fill a box or bag.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_nr595kVowx1tdir62o1_1280.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Aisles and Aisles of Books!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_n8lv21KREj1tdir62o5_1280.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Delicious Baked Goods of all Varieties.</p> <p>For lunch there is an open-pit BBQ and pig roast as well as hot dogs, hamburgers, pork sandwiches, egg sandwiches, and more! The Green Fair will have wonderful activities and games for children including a bouncy house, dunk tank, face painting and hay rides. It is a perfect day to enjoy with the whole family.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/tumblr_n8lxswpddC1tdir62o1_1280.jpg" style="width: 560px; height: 747px;"></p> <p>For your interest, take a walk around the Washington Green Historic District which consists of a group of 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century buildings on and near the Green in the Town of Washington, Connecticut. This includes the Gunnery School, which is next to the Green. The houses are made of wood, painted white, giving the district an overall Colonial/Colonial Revivial look. This Saturday, July 11th make the Green Fair and this historic area your family fun destination.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p> </p>

Waldingfield Farm's CSA Program enriches Washington Community

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tech <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/b6d7090a321aeca0f529ab265a288b1b_L.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 267px;"></div> <div> <p style="font-size: 11.1999998092651px; line-height: 11.6479997634888px;">  </p> <p style="text-align: center;">Listen to your mother- Eat your vegetables!</p> <p>This is a reference to the well-known admonition from parents to children reluctant to eat healthy produce. If only those families had access to the delicious variety of vegetables from the certified organic Waldingfield Farm. Their extensive CSA program is a fantastic way for families and individuals to sample succulent produce throughout the season while also helping support organic farming in our community. Selections include Asian greens, beets, eggplant, cucumber, eggplant, collards, melons (to name a few) as well as their renowned heirloom tomatoes which are the favorite of chefs, elite restaurants and foodies in the Northeast.<br><br> It is also a very well run and reasonable CSA program with half shares at $450 (good for 2-3 people) and full shares at $650 (good for splits and families) It is $10 more if you purchase online. To read about the Waldingfield Farm CSA Program in more detail, click <a href="http://www.waldingfieldfarm.com/csa-program">here</a>.</p> <p style="font-size: 11.1999998092651px; line-height: 11.6479997634888px; text-align: center;">  </p> <p style="font-size: 11.1999998092651px; line-height: 11.6479997634888px; text-align: center;"> <img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/fc1da7257992fc36032e11db3df7a664_XL.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 400px;"></p> <p>The farm is a family run business with strong roots in the community. Our friends, Quincy Horan, is the head grower and responsible for all field management, crop planning and machinery while his brother Patrick Horan handles all marketing, sales and operations, as well as day to day farming duties.</p> <p><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/quincy.jpg" style="width: 260px; height: 200px;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/patrick.jpg" style="width: 260px; height: 200px; float: right;"></p> <p>Quincy, Patrick left to right    </p> <p>                                                                                                                                               </p> <p>We recently had a chance to talk with Patrick about Waldingfield Farm and our community:</p> </div> <p><strong>What do you love about living in Washington, CT?</strong></p> <p>Our family has been in Washington since 1919 when our great grandfather, a NYC lawyer, bought the farm from a cousin as a place for his family to spend the summer and be in nature (and it was far closer than northeast Maine) What he loved most about Washington is what we love most about Washington namely its sense of community and the gorgeous rural character of the town.<br><br><strong>The term organic is often used in discussions on healthy nutrition but how does being a certified organic vegetable farm help the soil/land?</strong></p> <p>The very fact that we apply no synthetic chemicals-like Roundup- in our land management means that our water table below our property (our land is the start of the Sprain Brook which feeds in the Shepaug River) is exceptionally clean. Also, by having zero chemical inputs we maintain and actually increase biodiversity on our land and within our community.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/zucchini.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 308px;"></p> <p><strong>The CSA program is beloved by many Washington residents, what does the community aspect mean to you personally?</strong></p> <p>The relationship with our CSA members often starts as what it is, namely an investment in a program in return for great vegetables. But what happens is a unique bond between our investors and the farm, the connection to the source of the food often surprises the CSA members, and then the friendships start. The idea is that the impact investment, if you will, which is essentially what a CSA represents, is such a win win for the community, and in turn, for us.</p> <p><strong>Are there any plans to create more products like your delicious marinara sauce?</strong></p> <p>Currently we make two sauces, a crushed tomato line, as well as our Bloody Mary mix. In 2015, people should look for a salsa to be introduced in September.<br><br><strong>What is your favorite recipe from the web site and why?</strong></p> <p>The fast and fresh heirloom tomato gazpacho is my favorite by far. It just tastes like summer.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><br><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/photo-12.JPG" style="width: 250px; height: 250px; margin: 5px;"></p> <p>Using a blender will make this soup easy to pull off in minutes. Good for two bowls of soup, or four smaller appetizer portions.<br> Ingredients:<br> o 6 medium-large tomatoes, or equivalent<br> o 2 cloves garlic<br> o salt and pepper<br> o 2 bell peppers<br> o 1 avocado<br> o 1 dried out slice of bread (optional)</p> <p>Put the two cloves of garlic in the blender and pulse just to break it up a bit. Cut the tomatoes into quarters or eighths and blend with the garlic until smooth (with bread if you are using it - it will thicken the soup). Add salt and pepper if you like, though the tomatoes may have enough flavor without it. Serve topped with fresh diced peppers and avocado.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.usmre.com/5739/blog/heirloom.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 308px;"></p> <p>To read more about the history of Waldingfield Farm and to see the extensive vegetable menu, please click <a href="http://www.waldingfieldfarm.com/">here</a>.</p> <p> </p>
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