Inspiring Photography - Oumar Ly

Every once in a while you stumble on a gem, and you can't help but wonder how come you never knew about it. It's as if the whole world, or a lucky few were hiding a very wonderful secret from you. In these cases I go back to the good ole saying of better late than never - it's a very comforting thought. Today, watching Senegal TV they were doing short documentaries of local artists. One of them caught my eye immediately.

This handsome man here is Oumar Ly a genius photographer!  The program was in french, therefore I couldn't understand much of what they were saying, but the beauty of art is you don't need to speak the language of the artist for his/her work to touch your soul. He is from Podor, Senegal and has been taking photos since 1963. He has just recently been getting recognition by the international art community - a much deserved recognition.  I can't get over how wonderful the composition of his photos are, with little or no props, just everyday people wearing their everyday cloths in regular surroundings. He makes the regular extra special.

I was immediately drawn to his work, and I could't help smiling every time his face was shown on the screen. There is a sweetness about his face that made me want to know him immediately, and even more so his work.

Some of them reminded me of old photos I used to see in relatives and friends homes growing up. For an African girl living abroad, I was immediately nostalgic and missing my sweet grandmother even more than usual.

I am only sorry that I didn't find out about Oumar Ly sooner, but his work will forever stay with me. And now my dream is to own  a collection of his photos. As you can see, his work is beautiful and I encourage you look him up and learn about this very talented man. Happy Friday!

(Images: 1 Lomography 2 Lomography 3 Lomography 4 Lomography 5 Oumar-Ly 6 Oumar-Ly 7 Oumar Ly; 8 Oumar Ly)

Lets Talk Paint!

I am not a very handy or crafty person, painting is about as good as it gets. And I think because its so easy, and can quickly breath new life into any space or furniture, makes it the perfect DIY material for me. I love finding neglected pieces with potential, and giving them a fresh new life.

via Knack Studio

Via Style and Home

Via Style and Home

Painting furniture especially, makes a room feel more approachable. Think coastal living, shabby chic, nothing too precious, but very beautiful.

Via Style and Home

Via Home Life
This makes me think of neon in a whole new light. I think if the whole table was painted this color it could have been overwhelming. Using it in a small does makes a huge impact.

 Using high gloss paint is a great way to inject some glamour and sophistication.

via Sunset Living

via Southern Exposure

Pinterest

Of course this great trick of painting to refresh your space isn't limited to furniture. Accessories are also a great way of achieving the same result. Don't be afraid to experiment, if the color doesn't work you just paint over it. 

(Image sources linked)

IKea Leran Light - My Love Affair

I've had this idea for this light brewing for a few months now. It has been a matter of having time to execute the idea. I first bought this light over two years ago when redoing my older daughter's room, but it didn't work with the fixture in her room. I returned and bought another one that turned out to be even more perfect. A year later, redoing our bedroom I bought it again (true love don't you think?) knowing that more than likely it wouldn't work, but I knew there had to be a way around it. Too bad I have no clue about electrical stuff, and neither does the husband, and I did get a lecture about that too. Good/bad I don't give up when I really want something, it can be a really bad thing, but sometimes it really pays off, and when it does, it does big time :-).

Okay so while driving from the grocery store one day my mind wandering as it usually does, I get this brilliant idea to add old copper coins to the lamp whether gluing or tying them somehow. The idea pretty much grew from there.

via Decor Pad

This Leran light from Ikea.

I spray painted it white. 

Taped it to get the stripes I want. They are not perfectly straight, but I love that about it, and thats saying something for a neurotic person like myself :-). I didn't measure it, just eye balled it. 

Then spray painted it gold.

Added the finishing touches of gold coins and voila!

(Images Fatou Bah)

A Frame of Quotes

The story behind the frame - bought it at a thrift store a long time ago, forgot I had it. The other day it was peeking out from the bag in the garage, I think it was telling me its time I use it for something. 

I've being wanting to print out some quotes that have been inspiring me lately, and put them up somewhere, and this was the perfect opportunity. This is a great and simple way to bring together things you love in one spot and have it at an accessible area of your home. I don't know if I'll move it, but for now its perfect above the sink. 

Have a lovely and inspiring day!

(Images Fatou Bah)

Wow Moment - Dottir & Sonur

I am beyond inspired and excited about this light from Dottir & Sonur. What a gorgeous brilliant idea! Why nobody ever thought about adding beads like this to lighting, I don't know! But better late than never I guess.
I'm working on my own light project that is turning out quite nicely. Can't wait to share with you. :-)
Bye for now.

(Images: Dottir & Sonur)

Mercury Love

Happy shiny Monday! I want to talk mercury today - some call it vintage or aged glass. There is a romantic quality about a mercury finish that really speaks to me. I especially love them in votive candle holders, as they cast the most amazing glow. I've rounded up a few other pieces in the same finish that I really like. 

via West Elm

via Anthropologie

via Anthropologie

I also love that they can fit very nicely into all design styles, they have that old world quality that never goes out of style. A little bit goes a long way with these. 

via West Elm

via West Elm
The use of an industrial shaped light with a mercury finish is a wonderful mix.

via Decor Pad

Enjoy the rest of your day!

(Images linked)

Happy Heart

Warning, this is not a design post! But my heart is so happy, and I wanted to share part of my day with you, in pictures, and a few words. My older daughter, Jalika who turns four in a week, had her first dance (tap and ballet) recital, and I couldn't have been prouder, and happier watching her. All the kids looked so adorable, and excited to show off their dance moves. There is an enthusiasm and excitement that little ones have, that is so contagious if you let it. I went through the videos, and I couldn't believe I started crying - tears of joy of course. I guess my heart was just too happy. 

Baby sister was there to support big sis.
She really just wanted that camera. :-)

Proud mama bear and her kiddos :-)

I wish you much happiness! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

(All pictures by Fatou & Dawda Bah)