Eye | James Plumb Suitcase Chests | Dain Williams 'Threatened' Animal Illustrations | If Pockets Talked Pop-Up

Tall Tales If Suitcases Had Voices

From James Plumb (James Russell+Hannah Plumb=James Plumb): A selection of old suitcases are housed individually in antiqued steel and wood cases that have been tailor made in Somerset. Each stack of different-sized cases forms a unique, chest of drawers. Each one off is carefully repaired and repurposed — relined in Swedish linen and ready to receive new contents. Special sizes and combinations can be commissioned.

tip via TL

‘Threatened’ 2011: Dain Williams

Dain Williams is a 2011 graduate of Kenyon College with a major in Studio Art. Originally from Tempe, Arizona and now living in Los Angeles, Dain was awarded the Peterson Prize in Art at the 2011 Kenyon College Honors Day and received Distinction for his Senior Exercise, “Threatened”. See website

Even though we are all animals, the word “animal” usually refers to something separate from anything human. Modern humans see animals as outsiders, separate from the developed, human world that we have created. We see wild animals on TV or the internet, and think of them as existing almost on a different planet, or at least a part of Earth that we will never inhabit. With this mindset, the wild animal is not respected, and is often brushed aside for the benefit of human expansion.

“Threatened” represents an effort to put some of the world’s most beautiful animals, who are all in danger of extinction, back into our conscious awareness. My hyperrealistic wall-height charcoal drawings place these animals in a surreal environment that includes household objects and furniture. These objects, all taken from my home, represent the household with which we are familiar and comfortable. Bringing the animals into our space has the ability to inspire a reaction ranging from fear to a renewed sense of appreciation. The contrast of this imagery makes the animals seem more alive and also more inherently wild than they would on their own. Seeing these animals among our possessions encourages us to acknowledge their power and beauty, and more simply, their presence on Earth.

Vintage Pop-Up in West Hollywood: If Pockets Talked

If Pockets Talked, a designer vintage consignment website, debuts a holiday pop-up shop (open through December 15) in West Hollywood’s heart-warming Milk Boutique. Look for high-end clothing, bags, jewelry, shoes, and sunglasses spanning the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s from Hermès, Oscar de la Renta, Chanel, YSL, Jean Paul Gaultier, Thierry Mugler and more. Shoppers are also encouraged to bring in vintage designer pieces for possible selling opportunities. 8209 W. Third St., West Hollywood, 323-951-0330