Memphis in Memphis
American Museum Premier
November 18 Through February 3, 1985
Memphis Brooks
Museum of Art
There's a story about how I acquired this:
At the thrift where I found my Pyrex bowl earlier this week, I spotted this funky framed poster. The thrift wanted $10 for it, and I wasn't ready to fork over the $$. But I really liked it! I know so little about Memphis design, so I researched it and then really kicked myself for not getting it. I vowed to be at the thrift the next day when it opened (if I could fit it in my schedule) and pick up the poster if it were still there, fork over the cash, and be done with it.
I got to the thrift 1/2 hour early,which wasn't that easy considering it's a 30 minute drive for me. I really wanted this piece! But something told me to get there early. Sure enough, cars started to pull in after me. I stood by the door (something told me to) and the volunteer let me in a few minutes early. I grabbed the poster and lucky thing I did, cause the people following me headed staight for the "art" section. Go to find out: all "art" was FIFTY PERCENT OFF! The place was busy within 1 minute of the doors opening. (Folks, always listen to your intuition when thrifting) If I had gotten there when the store was opening, chances are I would have missed this great art at a greater price!
Since I had an extra $5, I picked up another piece which I had also admired the previous day, a piece signed by the artist and dated 1972:
It says: "In these trees, God hides out loud" Isn't that sweet?
I do have a weakness for thriftstore art. I have to walk away from a lot of stuff because I just don't have the room. But I can find room for these two, even if that means I have to recycle some of what I have.
Memphis design, BTW is fascinating. Did you know that Michael Graves belonged to that school?
My other great find this week, at another thrift, was this vintage Lenox lamp base for a buck:
It's in perfect condition. I found it thrown in with all the electrical junk. I brought it to the volunteers and told them "This is a Lenox vintage piece for a buck...do you want to re-mark it for more money and it put in the "collectibles" case?" They were upset a little that it was mismarked but said, "No but Thank You for offering. It's yours, you found it. We'll be more careful in the future." It is a special piece to me now. You know, I am not a Lenox fan or but this piece is just beautiful and lines are so clean. Here's the mark, for anybody who's interested:
Of course, now DH has to rewire said lamp base...
Happy Thrifting,
SeSo
