Geographically Barry and I can usually be found where U.S. Highway 191 meets Utah State Route 162, Bluff, Utah U.S.A. For many years, however, we have adhered to the philosophically that Twin Rocks Trading Post is located at the intersection of tradition and innovation. For us, this principal illustrates our fundamental belief that the best contemporary art melds traditional values with contemporary methods.
We see this in the silversmithing of master craftsman Allison Lee, whose bracelets, squash blossom necklaces, bolo ties and buckles have a clean look that is literally timeless. It is also apparent in the Navajo basketry of Elsie Holiday, who weaves designs that incorporate motifs from a variety of diverse cultures.
During the Christmas holiday Jana and I took Kira and Grange to the Yellowstone Snow Lodge. Since Grange aged out of the Santa phase, thinking that memories last longer than presents, our family has focused on experiences rather than gifts. This has proven to be a great change.
Once our term at the lodge expired, we had plans to drive to Boise, Idaho to see Bill Grange, the man for whom our son was named, and two of Jana’s old friends. As we sat at the intersection just outside of Jackson, Wyoming, debating whether to brave the heavy snow of Teton Pass or head for the comfort of home, I was strongly in favor of the route leading back to Bluff. Jana, on the other hand, was adamant we should be courageous and strike out over the mountains.
Since the kids were also split, Jana and I had a go at the game of Paper, Rock, Scissors, which I promptly lost. Consequently, with the Robert Frost poem The Road Not Taken, snowplows and slippery surfaces in mind, over the snowy trail we went. As it turned out, the pass was steep and short and the valley below mild, so we were not long in bad conditions.
Once we reached Boise, we had an extraordinary visit with Bill, who is 93 years old and as active as any 60 year old I know. We also had an equally good time with Jana’s buddies at their home near McCall, Idaho. This experience reminded me that courage is often richly rewarded and that timidity and the safety and comfort of home is not where real adventure lies. As Robert Frost said:
"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."
May this be a happy and courageous new year for us all.
With warm regards,
Steve, Barry and The Team
Great New Items! This week's selection of Native American art!
Our TnT's purchased new treasures! Check out Traders in Training!
Enjoy artwork from our many collector friends in Living with the Art!
No comments:
Post a Comment