THE PROJECT To design a collection of ornaments for the American Folk Art Museum in New York.
THE PORTFOLIO The museum gave Matthew full access to their permanent collection. “As a stylist and a collector, I was the veritable ‘kid in the candy store’ looking at those beautiful objects and paintings,” he says.
THE INSPIRATION The Peaceable Kingdom and Girl in the Red Dress paintings, Bird of Paradise quilt, and Fame weather vane.
THE MATERIALS “The ornaments utilize the same materials folk artists have used for generations,” says Matthew, “such as wood, metal, glass, fabrics, and paper.”
THE MESSAGE Peace and unity. “I was really moved by the 60 versions of The Peaceable Kingdom by Quaker painter and preacher Edward Hicks, who depicted species of animals living harmoniously together. Hicks hoped for an America where people, too, would one day live in peace,” says Matthew. “What a profoundly relevant wish at the holidays.”
THE COLLECTION Aptly named “The Peaceable Kingdom,” it includes approximately 125 different ornaments, garlands, a wreath, and a tree topper.
THE PRICE Ornaments from $6 to $15.
THE SOURCE Available at the American Folk Art Museum; www.folkartmuseum.org; select Macy’s stores; www.macys.com; and www.wedgwoodusa.com.