Gunkelmans Interior Design Blog

 
Recently, I attended the unveiling of James Rosenquist's mural at the Plains Art Museum in Fargo, ND.   It's titled The North Dakota Mural and is located in the museum's Atrium wall.  Having grown up in North Dakota the creating of the mural for the museum was a perfect fit.

The landscape in North Dakota is the sky—the stars at night, the clouds in the daytime. At night I thought about the stars and light-years and the speed of light and everything that was sort of inexplicable.

— James Rosenquist

Rosenquist, a well known pop culture artist began his career as a billboard painter, and in later years often combining the pop culture feel with a billboard look.   He is known to have created one of the world's largest painting at 7' x 35'. 

600 people were there for the unveiling of the piece of art. Having grown up in North Dakota myself, I can speak to that fact that Rosenquist captured very well the culture and life of North Dakota and its residents.  

If you are ever in Fargo, ND I highly recommend making a stop at the Plains Art Museum.

Submitted by Tom Gunkelman

Gunkelmans Lifestyle

Fall is the perfect time for entertaining indoors and out.   If dining outdoors in the cool, crisp air, consider having a fire going with an outdoor fireplace or portable fire pit.   They're great for gathering around and striking up conversation. 

Look to nature for table decorations by using Fall plants from the garden, like pumpkins, squash and gourds.  The beautiful changing leaves are a perfect backdrop to your table setting.  Simple meals with fresh garden salads, yummy soups and hot apple cider are sure to please everyone! 

When dining indoors, bring a bit of the outdoors in with a centerpiece made up of beautiful Fall flowers.   The colors are sure to ignite compliments to the hostess!

  
Set your table with Fall colored linens in shades of brown, warm olive greens, russets and golds.  Candles on the table offer a pretty glow when the sun sets early in the evening.

Simple foods that are tasty and are also lovely to look at will be enjoyed by everyone.  Have foods that are easily prepared beforehand so you are certain to enjoy your guests.

And don't forget the music.   Whether lively or subdued, music adds a special touch to any party!

Bon appetit!

images: Fab Over Forty, Collin Cowie

Congratulations to our friend, Ian Grant, for his Emmy Award for the Travel Channel's show The Relic Hunter with Ian Grant. 

Ian's been in the design business for years and owns a unique shop called Bjorling Grant.   You'll find one of a kind, very interesting artifacts and articles at his store along with his infectious smile and charming wit.  

Congrats Ian, for the well deserved the Emmy!