Many, many times on our big trip to New England, I would walk into a room and my heart would just ache. I was just—- in love— with every little piece of pattern, paint, furniture, detail. On all our adventures, from Historic Deerfield to Old Sturbridge Village, we were able to go into antique spaces that just made my heart sing. I would think “Yes! This is what I’m trying to paint!”
One of my favorite live-in spaces was The Red Lion Inn (see my bearded sweetheart looking so nice in this old timey setting!) with its many rooms filled with antiques, beautifully done wallpapers and just ambiance to the hilt. It’s my dream to one day run away with said bearded man and spend a weekend there— just us two— at this beautiful inn tucked in the Berkshires. 20 year anniversary, perhaps?
These following photos were taken at Old Sturbridge Village, which— if I lived closer– I would positively haunt. So many beautiful spaces, all set up for you to actually look at, touch, be a part of. You can walk through these parlors, through these kitchens and little rooms where so much life went on. It is a museum, yes, but it is one mean to be savored. I stumbled through just in awe, every corner just a painting waiting to be captures. I fell head over heels in love, for sure!
What strikes me most about all these interior spaces is the love of color— rich color— but it doesnt feel overwhelming. The Americans of the 19th century had such a marvelous sense of color and pattern. I loved all the sage green, the aqua, the hints of mustard and ox blood red.
One thing is for sure—- I am so inspired to take all this inspiration and use it for future paintings, and my own home!
Hope you enjoy them too!~
H
Sleightholm Folk Art 
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