Furnace Filters Become Art

Relief Circles by Louise Harris

I came across this art and met the artist, Louise Harris, at the “Fall into the Arts Festival” in Edina. I was first struck by the three-dimensional aspect of the artwork. I then learned they were made from recycled furnace filters. Talk about creativity and vision!

Can you see the undulating waves of the smaller circles over the larger circles in this piece? I loved both of these pieces when I saw them.

Here’s a sampling of her smaller works. Ms. Harris is producing unique, beautiful and green art; she‘s also donating profits to non-profit organizations around the world. For more information, visit her website:

lhoriginals.com – The artwork of Louise Harris

Edina Fall Into the Arts Festival – Sept 8-9, 2012

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Still Made in the USA

Cool Finds and
Supporting the Home Team

If you like to support companies producing products in America, here’s a site that lists the products that are made here. Products include kitchen appliances, laundry machines, bed and bath, lawn and garden, home decor, artisan handcrafts, baby gear, toys, tools, and more.

Still Made in USA.com

I believe some of the companies sell both American and foreign products, or products that share production in two countries. I have a friend who recently had water damage in her condo. Her rugs were ruined. I came across this one that reminds me of the main rug she had in her living room with its black background and colorful floral motif.

Wayfair.com

Perhaps she can find a replacement rug or two at the Wayfair site.
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This pillow is adorable for dog lovers. It was designed by Maine artist, author, and illustrator Dahlov Ipcar. They’re made by hand in Kashmir and filled with 100% poly that’s made in the USA. These come in limited quantities and will not be duplicated. Crafted of wool thread on cotton.

ClassicRug.com

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Here’s the Grate Wall of Fire I came across. The site reads:

The “Grate Wall of Fire” high-efficiency fireplace grate makes smoke-free, self-feeding fires with exceptional warmth and radiant heat output a reality. Overall fireplace efficiency is dramatically increased when using this ingenious fireplace grate. The pleasing appearance and hefty construction of our quality grates will enhance the beauty and functionality of any fireplace or hearth.
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And a side view that visually explains the concept:

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Fascinating, eh? Clients and friends who own homes with fireplaces will no doubt find this of interest. I can’t vouch for how well it works, but if I had a fireplace of my own I would definitely research it to learn more.
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I’ve always loved artisan made things. A browse through the Handcraft Artisan section displays a wide selection of artful items that are far more unique than the mass-produced goods made elsewhere and shipped here.

Here’s their page that outlines some reasons why we might wish to consider purchasing items made here in America: Why Care Where Things Are Made?

Have fun exploring these American-made products and companies. Let me know what else you come across that looks as unique as the Grate Wall of Fire.

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