“Sienna Cloud” has been assisting in the creation of a MCM booth within Troy’s “Burlap & Silk Store” in downtown Troy. It has been branded as the “V - ROOM” because it exhibits vintage, vinyl, and vibes from this era. It has been a blast (from the past) for me! Subsequently, I’ve been bombarded with lots of questions from the community about the very meaning and nature of “mid-century modern”.
Although “Sienna Cloud” is my personal art studio, it is not limited to simply painting and design. In fact, there has been a flurry of creative activity lately in acquiring and preparing to showcase this interesting period of art, design, and architecture to the locals in Pike County as well as those passing through.
So, let me try my best to address the common questions posed in this blog title.
1) What is Mid-Century Modern (MCM)?
The “period” referred to as mid-century modern (MCM) follows WWII, from about the mid-1940s to the late 1960s. During this time, America had a booming economy as well as “booming babies” (baby boomers?). Many young families were growing rapidly and their new homes were enjoying a new—more modern look. This was reflected firstly in architecture and then interior design, home decor, and art/fashion in general. New materials were also being explored like plastics and laminated woods. Here is a small gallery of examples:
2) Why is MCM Making a Comeback in Style?
Ironically, I grew up in this era, but my family did not fully embrace the “modernity” of the times. My parents (actually, most folks that I knew in rural Oklahoma) pretty much decorated in a more traditional Americana style full of highly decorative motifs and scalloped edges instead of clean lines. Heavy window coverings and ornate decor was the norm for my visual upbringing. MCM as a style was far more common in other urban areas and some suburban regions. There is definitely a timelessness to the MCM aesthetic. Somehow, it always feels contemporary and fresh.
Eight seasons of MCM revival…
Many millennials associate the style with the popular TV drama, Mad Men. Without a doubt, during the years that Mad Men was airing the style exploded in popularity. Simple and clean lines, well-made, curved contours on both furniture and decor, great lighting from windows and lamps, intentional consideration of spatial rest areas, fun but tasteful use of bright colors, these are just some of the qualities that give MCM a classic and timeless presence with any generation. At times, MCM can even seem futuristic (ie. the Atomic Age). We have to consider the rise of the “space age” and cartoons like The Jetsons.
Left: Furnishings inspired by the Space Age; Right: The futuristic and lovable Jetson Family.
3) And, Why in south Alabama?
The past decade or so we’ve seen a huge surge in Shabby Chic or Country Chic as a decorative style. If we back away and take a wider gaze at these two “styles” we can sense some commonalities with MCM—a certain intentional use of positive and negative spaces, an infatuation with contrasting textures, and interestingly— pieces in both styles are currently popular priorities for thrifters (potential money savings) in bringing charm and joy to their living spaces. So, why not, Alabama? Let our love for creativity and passion for nostalgia abound! Hey, let’s make cool spaces in HOT places like the deep South! Perhaps we could even consider doing a Shabby Chic / MCM mashup? Enjoy and express.
“We will certainly better enjoy the spaces we inhabit with that sort of mindset.”
Take a step “Back to Your Future” by visiting the “V–ROOM” upstairs in Troy’s very own “Burlap & Silk” downtown on the square. Enjoy a broad array of reasonably priced vintage MCM items as well as more current items that carry the same retro vibe! From furniture to lighting to kitchen to artwork. There is also a wide assortment of 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s vinyl records (ever changing) as well as some vintage postcards (that gift for friends and family far and wide).
“Burlap & Silk” is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10AM until 5PM. The inventory of the entire store is extremely eclectic so there is something for everyone. “Sienna Cloud” is a creative studio in downtown Troy that hosts a booth on the first floor near the entrance and also assists with the “V–ROOM” upstairs. We would love to have you visit us!
Below are some visual snippets of the product in the “V - ROOM”:
If you have questions about anything related to art, design, antiques or more, don’t hesitate to contact me—Jerry Johnson—at Sienna Cloud Studios (334) 268-1304 [send text please] or email at jjkees@gmail.com.