Victoria and Richard

Victoria and Richard Mackenzie-Childs are icons in the realm of home design. Their innately festive and utterly colorful décor, ceramic and textile creations are well-acknowledged as having pushed the elements of decor in new directions. They have shared their artful passions and an innate creative impulse since they met and married in 1974 while in art school together.

Their home and studio are aboard the Yankee…a 180” boat that once worked as an Ellis Island Ferry…if this boat could talk! Now it stands sentinel to the New York skyline, docked in Hoboken awaiting its return to a pier in Manhanttan that is currently under construction. In the meantime, the locals on the west side of the Hudson enjoy playing host to the ferry boat and the talented artists.

Over dinner last week (I was there with Jo for her shoot...more below)Victoria told us the story of how she and Richard met, and how she agreed to marry him after she destroyed his term’s work in an over-fired kiln…Until that time, she had been earnestly trying to fix him up with her roommate! They are a merry couple, positive and passionate…they imbue the room with their mood -- creative, kind and inventive.

This Saturday night, the dynamic Mackenzie-Childs duo will host their Third Annual Ferry Boat Ball…100 enthusiasts and patrons of their art will travel to join them in their festivities. “Check Mates” of the Mild Zanie CheckSociety – Victoria and Richards not so secret, secret society, family, friends, and industry contacts will converge to celebrate! Above Victoria creates the fantastical favors for her Check Mate guests....

...here's Victoria in the control room of the ferry - now her office and sewing room!

Their living room is lovely...so is my pal Jo Packham! (I will be reporting more on her new adventure with Stampington to Launch "Where Women Create" this November 1st...stay tuned to this blog...)

Here are some images of Victoria and Richard preparing for the festivities...pictured with them is Where Women Create photographer Ryne Hazen.

The second level will soon be filled with music and the glow of all those lights...

If you think you can make it to the ball and want to be a part of their not so secret, Mild Zanie CheckSociety …here’s a link to their site. Keep and eye on the works and creations of their design company now called Victoria and Richard Emprise. As ever, their works are pure whimsy -- yet utterly balanced -- laden with lush details and texture, and packed with juicy color. http://www.victoriaandrichard.com/

These friends have my full support and I do hope you'll keep a keen eye out for their new desings and fabulous creations...the jewelry is particualrly divine....more on their art soon...

I'll be on the boat this Saturday for the Ball and I promise to share images.

Xxoo Jen

Earth Angels