Glass work by Lino Tagliapietra

Heller Gallery featured the work of master glass maker and internationally acclaimed artist Lino Tagliapietra. His works are represented in more than 60 museums around the world, and at an age when most would be considering retirement, he continues to develop and explore his craft. He plays the role of teacher to many acclaimed artists as well, including Dale Chihuly. I was particularly taken by his 2010 piece, “Saturno.”

Mosaic in glass by Andrea Salvador

At Berengo Studio—a fantastic mosaic in glass by Andrea Salvador, who was discovered while working on tomb stones! His painstaking, nearly photographic mosaic work, is entirely created by hand.

Sculpture by Jeff Conroy

The Ann Nathan Gallery featured Jeff Conroy’s “Visible Man,” a sculpture consisting of glass fragments, silicone and 450 images—decoupage on acid! Certainly a complex and wonderfully thought provoking piece.

Porcelain pots by Felicity Aylieff

Flanked by monumental Felicity Aylieff porcelain pots at Adrian Sassoon, I’m sporting a Tom Ford era Gucci dusty grey blue suede biker jacket , wool check pants and black leather tote, Turnbull and Asser dark green micro check shirt with contrast white collar and french cuffs, Seaman Scepps pearl cuff links with pale blue sapphires, Hermes “blue jean” leather belt with silver buckle, Yves Saint Laurent black leather “Windsor” loafers and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

I’ve come to really enjoy chatting with gallerists; hearing their critical insight, as well as the many interesting stories stories behind the work they represent, cannot help but edify and inspire.

James Andrew and Lulu de Kwiatkowski at Clic Gallery - photo Gabriel Everett

The super chic Clic Gallery is one of my favorite go-to sources for the most spectacular selection of art and photography. Their latest exhibition celebrates the work of artist/designer Lulu de Kwiatkowski and coincides with the launching of her new book, “Lulu.”

We had a chance to chat with the lovely Kwiatkowski before her reception—we spoke of love, life, adventures, and change—the closing of chapters in our lives and the beginning of new ones—suffice it to say, there was no shortage of mutually interesting topics.

Kwiatkowski has had a dynamic life replete with world travel. She painted in Paris, lived in Parish Hadley designed rooms, and had a very fashionable mother who encouraged her to be “one with nature”—I must say we here at WIJW are a bit jealous! I was happy to hear that we share many creative inspirations: from major figures like David Hicks, Albert Hadley, and Sister Parish, to brands like D.Porthault. She also related her reverence for the sea and sand—I’m sure you’ll forgive us for being madly in love with her!

Kwiatkowski’s works are simply joy inducing, and you’ll be sure to see these marvelous pieces gracing many of the fine interiors I’m creating for my clients. Do get your copy of “Lulu”—it’s an autobiographical journey shared via her highly personal, wonderfully exuberant, and colorful collages. And while you are at it, make a point to visit the Clic Gallery to experience this exceptional exhibition which runs until May 8th, 2011.

I’m sporting a Tom Ford “Buckingham” jacket in black and ink wool wide twill damier, cotton shirt in blue cotton oxford melange with contrast white collar, Seaman Schepps pearl cuff links with pale blue sapphires, Tom Ford era Gucci black wool flannel pant, black silk tie and black leather wingtip tasseled loafers, black leather belt with silver buckle by Hermes, silk paisley pocket square in blues, gray and black by Yves Saint Laurent, and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

James Andrew at Ico gallery. photo by Sam Horine.

Whenever I’m attending a fashionable gallery opening or gala, I always put some effort into creating a look that is elegant, sophisticated, and classic, with a fresh, sexy twist. As you might imagine I was quite flattered recently to find that my efforts have been recognized by New York Magazine’s online “The Cut” – I’m included in their piece, The Nineteen Most Stylish People at Ico gallery’s Noir Party. And I am in good company as well – this select list represents nineteen wonderfully diverse looks, and all of these show-goers are clearly celebrating themselves and their own unique sense of style.

Why not email us here at WIJW a full length head to toe photo of yourself in an outfit that expresses who YOU are? Include your name and occupation or simply what rocks your world and we’ll select a few images to bring to our global WIJW audience!

James Andrew in New York Magazine.

photo by Sam Horine.

James Andrew at Ralph Lauren.

We here at WIJW make no excuse for being escapists – in fact we think a good dose of it is a must, if only for our health. And when we think Escapism with a capital “E,” our minds invariably take us to the South of France – and how about let’s set things seaside a la 1950′s when people were smart, beautiful, unbelievably wealthy, and every single ray of sun glancing off that azure ocean said “all is well, all is well.” Impossibly perfect you say? – Well I’ll tell you it sure beats most of the “realistic” scenarios constantly trying to crowd our heads!

Although it may appear that I’m standing here in a handsome Juan-les-Pins villa, I’m actually at the Ralph Lauren flagship store on Madison Avenue @ East 72nd Street here in New York City where it is always easy to elicit some of our favorite dreams. As I’ve mentioned, I did put in several years at Ralph Lauren, learning my craft while creating similar scenarios for them. This being said, it will come as no surprise that I would become particularly excited whenever a “South of France ” collection came along, and it always gave me the welcome opportunity to make my very best SOF design dreams a reality. Even now at James Andrew Interior Design I still draw on Ralph Lauren and collections like this one to help produce many of my own fine interiors!

Antibes from the South of France collection at Ralph Lauren.

La Plage, is the name of their latest “South of France” incarnation, and I have to say I am loving this collection – The Antibes rattan lounge chair (right) is absolute perfection and I cant wait to use it along with many other items from this collection in upcoming JAID interiors!

Transitioning from winter to spring, I’m sporting an azure cotton corduroy jacket and skinny khaki pant both by Gucci, Balenciaga chambray band collar shirt with contrast blue and white cotton stripe lined collar,placket and cuffs, Turnbull and Asser pale blue silk pocket square, Hermes “blue jeans” blue leather belt with silver buckle, Lanvin taupe suede and patent leather sneakers, Oliver Peoples KVA glasses and my fragrance is Creed Citrus Bigarrade which conjures up images of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor living in glamorous exile at their palatial villa in Cap D’Antibes – La Croe.

James Andrew 2010 - photos Lars Stephan

In New York,
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of,
There’s nothing you can’t do,
Now you’re in New York,
These streets will make you feel brand new,
The lights will inspire you,
Lets here it for New York…

From “Empire State of Mind,” by the brilliant Jay-Z and Alicia Keys.

It’s no wonder this is the music used for the upcoming “Sex in the City 2” – such a celebratory ode to this fantastic city!

When I was a boy, I constantly fantasized about living in New York City – watching classic television shows like Green Acres with scenes of Eva Gabor on her Park Avenue terrace, or Family Affair with all it’s fabulous New York City imagery, I knew one day I’d make NYC my home.

This time of year we often become introspective – reflecting on what we have accomplished, the joys, the sorrows, where we need to make improvements in our lives etc.. When I think back on all the circumstances that brought me to where I am today, it was a lot about creating my own reality – imagining what that reality would look like, and taking action to achieve those dreams. This New Years, I’m taking time to recapture the same excitement and enthusiasm I had back then, and I’m planning on having the most spectacular new year. We at WIJW trust this year finds you well on your way towards realizing your must outrageous dreams and desires as well!

CHEERS!

Dressed to celebrate the holiday, I’m giving slightly formal attire a bit of a twist. Harking back to some of those old Ralph Lauren ads, I’m wearing my super chic shearling coat by Gucci, with a black wool dinner jacket, black wool pants, black and white silk polka dot bow tie, silver chain link belt and black patent leather shoes all by Gucci, Richard James shirt in white and black cotton stripes with French cuffs and contrast white collar, Seaman Schepps black pearl cuff links, Charvet white silk pocket square, pale blue peccary gloves by Sermoneta and KVA sunglasses by Oliver Peoples.

Photos by Lars Stephan.

James Andrew - Shopping at The Frick

The holiday season is here and now is the time to start thinking about our gift lists! I made good inroads into mine recently at The Frick Gift Shop. This is a brilliant place to find a select group of fantastic gifts that are not only super chic and unique but also very well priced. Some of my favorite items are the Frick mansion blueprint mug and tray; the Frick collection tin plates based on Chinese and Sevres porcelain plates at the Frick (it’s no surprise these were featured in VOGUE); the wonderful coffee table book Art in the Frick Collection : Paintings, Sculpture, Decorative Arts; and the Riesener Tin Pencil Box (filled with colored pencils) with a detail on the lid of a marquetry commode made for Marie Antoinette.

Frick Plates

Frick Art Book

Frick blueprint gifts.

Frick - Antoinette pencil set.

I love that these offerings are all inspired by actual pieces from the Frick collection. So not only are you getting wonderful and well priced gifts, but your purchases help support and promote the Frick!

These and many other gifts are all available either at the gift shop or online. Also please note today -Tuesday, December 1, there is a special holiday shopping day!

“An eagerly anticipated annual event, when the Museum Shop expands into the Garden Court for an all-day shopping opportunity. You’ll find specially selected items for everyone on your gift list. Shop during regular Collection hours, 10:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.Open to the public.”

Members will receive 15% off on all items, as well as free gift wrapping for purchases.

“Not a member? Join Now.

After a bit of shopping I took a few moments to languor in the opulent beauty of the Frick. I’m wearing a Wedgewood blue cotton corduroy jacket,dove grey cashmere turtleneck sweater, wool/cotton check pant in grays, forest green, Wedgewood blue and black and blue sued loafers all by Gucci gray silk pocket square is Hermes.

James Andrew at the Gerald Bland gallery.

I was very happy to attend a book signing party recently for the new fabulous book, “Sister Parish Design,” at the super chic Gerald Bland gallery.

The signing was beautifully complemented by the water colors of the very talented and stylish Mita Corsini Bland whose works illustrate and highlight the many points and stories presented in this recent release.

I must say the event had me remembering my days at the legendary firm of Parish Hadley. Among the many aspects of design put forth there, I think the notion of Comfort was the most singularly important aspect of the Parish Hadley aesthetic. Even in the grandest of interiors there was always a sense of an elegant yet welcoming comfort. This notion is equally as important to me today at James Andrew Interior Design, whether I’m doing a luxe minimal interior or going for a classic high style vibe.

Sister Parish's aubergine lacquered drawing room. Illustration by Mita Corsini Bland.

Brooke Astor's legendary red lacquer library. Illustration by Mita Corsini Bland.

Celebrating this event, I’m paying tribute to Sister Parish’s delightful drawing room with it’s aubergine lacquered walls and hot pink curtains – I’m wearing an Aubergine silk velvet jacket, shocking pink silk knot turtleneck, black and white mini hounds tooth wool pant all by Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent aubergine suede “Eton” boots, gray H print silk pocket by Hermes and black leather tote by Gucci.

James Andrew at David Duncan Antiques.

Maison Jansen (founded in 1880) worked in a vast array of design idioms, and their reputation for producing the finest luxury furnishings kept them in demand worldwide by the most discerning clients right up until the house closed in 1989. I’m pictured here at the David Duncan boutique, having spotted a perfect piece to bring to you – the “Royal” dining table. Quite in keeping with the sleek luxe elegant aesthetic often featured by Maison Jansen, this ultra sharp piece in black lacquer with blackened steel legs and gold plated accents is also extremely versatile as it can easily extend or fold flat for storage. So regardless of how small your digs are, you’ll be more than prepared for that gang of fabulous friends you impulsively invited to dinner! Not enough seating you say? Why not ask Duncan for a spectacular set of Louis XVI chairs to finish the look!

The Jansen Royal dining table at David Duncan.

After a sniff around the boutique I’m enjoying Duncan’s lovely terrace. I’m wearing a dusty pale blue suede biker jacket by Gucci, Tom Ford pale blue cotton glen plaid shirt with french cuffs, silver pearls with pale blue sapphire Seaman Schepps cuff links, forest green cashmere tie by Borrelli, check pants in gray, black, blue, and forest green by Gucci, Hermes “Blue jeans” blue leather belt with silver buckle, “Windsor” loafers in black leather by Yves Saint Laurent, dark green leather gloves by Sermoneta,black, leather tote by Gucci and Dior sunglasses.

James Andrew portrait by Rory Gevis.

I was thrilled when artist Rory Gevis asked me to be a part of her “Iconoclast” series. Gevis honed her eye while working as fashion editor for magazines like Taxi, W, Harpers, Mirabella and House and Garden, as well as while working as creative director for major beauty companies like Estee Lauder, MAC, and Tom Ford color. Gevis tells us that she seeks to “really capture a subject’s essence.” She cites influence from the work of such classic cinematic masters as Fellini, Francois Truffaut and his alter ego Jean-Pierre Leaud.

My portrait above definitely has us channeling a 60′s Italian film star and with a lovely glam Bowie twist! We will keep you updated with Gevis’ show dates so you can see the rest of this beautiful series in person!

You may have noticed at this point that I’m wild about the Viceroy Miami! – The beautiful Wearstler interiors, the fabulous staff, the Brickell area… One seriously world class luxury experience! We’d been told that no Viceroy visit would be complete without a bite at their fifteenth floor Eos (Greek for “new dawn”) restaurant – I’m happy to say that a scrumptious Mediterranean inspired breakfast there with McBee was just the most perfectly energizing thing to kick start a new day in paradise.

Our menu highlights included quite a few sharable “smaller plate” dishes – tuna sashimi with watermelon and feta, grouper ceviche iced with mango, cumin, and cilantro, an heirloom tomato salad with feta, artichoke and English pea salad, roasted mushrooms, a crazy good spicy Greek paella, and grilled flatiron steak – all that accompanied by ice cold bone dry Rose in the most beautiful shade of palest salmon and a well dressed table that included pale pink hem-stitched linen napkins pushed my detail oriented buttons in absolutely the right way!

If you happen to stop by Eos for dinner – signature cocktail is a “Pepper Fresh” – a quenching vodka concoction with fresh squeezed yellow pepper, lime juices and muddled spearmint – kind of a twist on the Mojito that I’ve been featuring. Being on a micro-vacation does give one some quarter where sampling cocktails is concerned – a license that McBee and I managed to exploit with some bravado!

Admiring this super chic Wearstler dining room I’m wearing a white and black cotton, wool silk windowpane plaid jacket with white and black mother of pearl buttons by Gucci, Charvet Paris turquoise silk pocket square, Turnbull and Asser black cotton shirt with contrast white collar and French cuffs, Seaman Schepps precious turquoise cufflinks, cotton and linen white, black and turquoise micro stripe pants, black patent belt with silver leather trim and grommets and black leather strappy sandals all by Gucci.