Willow Solem

Born in Northwest Washington and currently living in Oakland, Willow Solem studied painting at the Claremont Colleges and the Glasgow School of Art, graduating from Scripps College with a degree in fine art. Her artwork is in several private collections.

Approximately 20 years ago, Willow’s grandfather salvaged wood from a 100-year-old barn in Northwest Washington.  For several years, these hand-split boards were stored at her grandmother’s Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary, which protects local birds. When Willow gained access to this wood she wanted what she painted on it to reflect its origin. With this in mind, she chose to depict birds  native to Northwest Washington. Because she now lives in Oakland, she also paints birds found in the Bay Area.

Willow’s work will be featured at the Rare Bird on Thursday, October 21, 2011.  Click here for more information on the Rare Bird October Event.

Ponder Knitwear

Ponder Knitwear bloomed from designer Jillian Claire’s loom in a cabin atop a mountain deep in the forests of Big Sur. With a heart as large as the state of California and a spirit as eclectic as San Francisco, the Ponder family creates garments that are elegant yet rustic, phenomenal to touch, and crafted with methods and materials that support our commitment to living symbiotically with the Earth.

Ponder creates garments to fall in love with. They feel and look beautiful on your body, but are utilitarian. The new Digital Native collection is a fusion of attractive elements—Native American textiles and retro computer graphics inform the design of multi-purpose scarves that can function as hoods, ties, vests, and satchels. Their eco-conscious designs use cashmere, merino wool, bamboo, seacell, sasawashi, organic eco cotton, and reclaimed yarns.

Ponder Knitwear endeavors to lessen our negative impact on the planet, and heighten our impact on design. We are pleased to introduce ourselves as young, active agents dedicated to positive fundamental change for humanity on this planet. All garments are made in California by Californians.

Ponder Knitwear’s work will be featured at the Rare Bird on Thursday, October 21, 2011.  Click here for more information on the Rare Bird October Event.

Apply to be a featured artist here.