THE WATCH LIST: HAPPY MENOCAL
Happy Menocal, among many talents, is a great dog portraitist. Do not underestimate that skill! It requires sympathy with the dog’s nature, an assured touch and a sense of flair. She brings those skills to her illustrations for small work like emblems and stationery and large-scale murals (one adorns the lovely dining room at the Hotel Kinsley in the Hudson Valley). Her pieces are always funny with the right mix of classicism and irreverence. For her appearance on the Watch List she had this to add. First: She makes it clear that she doesn't have one. To be clear: “I just drop in from time to time, work myself into a lather over something, and Buy It Now.” So if you feel the inspiration Buy it Now, kids!
Vtg Native American Zuni Sterling turquoise Petit Point Bolo Tie No Cord, $180
Is there a more exciting look than topless with a bolo? If your coworkers are uptight, you might consider pairing it with a white oxford and white jeans.
Primitive Wooden Newspaper Magazine Rack, $20
This thing isn't quite right and the shipping far exceeds the cost of goods. But: I'm seeking a newspaper rack —ideally a stack of wall mounted wooden dowels—to Keith McNall-ify our apartment and create the convivial atmosphere of a fake French bistro, while neatly displaying our rotating cast of 7 million magazines.
Movlin a Papier D'Arches Watercolor Block 12x16, 140lbs, 19-Sheets, $10
This is the paper I use. It's so expensive, this is a great score. I'm moved by the fact that seller used 6 of the 25 sheets and called it quits.
PENELOPE CHILVERS WINTER WHITE PONY HAIR ANKLE BOOTS NEW, EUR 38/US 7.5 - 8, $350
The heart wants what it wants.
1998 Scott #3226 - 32¢ Alfred Hitchcock - Legends of Hollywood - Sht of 20, $9
These are great, especially when you need a lot of postage and can build a phalanx of Hitchcocks.
Planet Stamps I regret not buying more of the planets that dropped recently. Also getting my husband some Neil Armstrong ones, as he's obsessed with Apollo 11.
LAURA ASHLEY VINTAGE CLASSIC COTTON VELVET DRESS Gown Black Open Back sz 8, $100
Cotton velvet! Bury me in this thing. I’d have it tailored, and shortened a bit.
Nothing Agee, Jon Acceptable Book 0 Hardcover, $15
I love Jon Agee's spare but perfectly expressive illustration, and his off-beat humor. This is a children's book about the arbitrary ridiculousness of fashion and consumption. Buy It Now!
One of Happy’s dog portraits, for good measure. Artist photo: Lila Rice.
THE WATCH LIST is a regular series where friends reveal their auction obsessions.