Enjoying the Art Room

The light filters in through two square 9-pane windows, north facing, capturing the longest light of the day. There is another larger window on the east wall, which brought in the morning light at an earlier hour. The lace curtains leave dappled patterns on the vintage rug worked with pink, peach, and blue flowers. The 9-pane windows mirror each other on either side of the chimney. The fireplace has long since been plastered up, but from a glance out the window, the sturdy grey stone chimney still stands. The ceiling gently slopes down to meet the outer wall and sharp angles in two corners show just how close-fitting the roof is.

The dark pink wingback chairs are lacking in stuffing, which has worn the corded velvet thin in a few places. However, overstuffed brightly embroidered cushions add another layer of comfort. A tall bookshelf holds a large collection (not only of books but of colorful pieces of nature and old homemade dolls). This piece of furniture is not as sturdy as the other solid wooden pieces in the room, which is a disappointment, especially because some of the shelves are starting to bow where books are shelved two deep or stacked horizontally.

There are all the necessities of a seamstress; an antique seafoam green sewing machine (a family heirloom), an iron and board, a full length mirror, a tailor’s ham, ribbons and notions, patterns and thread and cloth. A recent project lies partially finished on the floor, instructions and tools spread out and little red fibers sticking to various surfaces in the room.

In one corner, a golden wood folk harp graces the space, light playing upon the strings that are quiet for now. The music stand hold arrangements from the Lord of the Rings score and Scottish love ballads.

There is much to be uncertain about. There are many unknowns and stresses. But here is a place with a little beauty, a little comfort, a ray of hope, and a sense of home.