Oxidized Opportunity

Oxidized

One of the best parts of being a craigslist addict is knowing that the ‘list is here, there, everywhere. For the uninitiated, craigslist is divided by state, region and city and offers virtually everything up for sale in each. When Paul and I are traveling out-of-town I usually check the ‘list for that area, utilizing keyword searches to see what’s on the block … this is especially useful when looking for something specific. Case in point: Last week Paul was attending a conference in San Diego but because of work I couldn’t go with him. Still, I checked the ‘list, searching for a metal garden bench — and, voila! I found my metal bench, and all the great stuff shown in tantalizing detail above. But not only did we get all these terrific-looking, functional items at a great price, but they come with a provenance, too! Turn the page to go green …

Opportunities

Before Paul left for San Diego, I called the seller to see if he’d hold the bench for us; he agreed, saying he might have more pieces we’d like. Boy, did we! The seller, Mark, and his wife, had owned a clothing shop at one time and they’d had all these pieces made for it by Julian, CA, metal artist, Patrick Brady. Brady, who creates amazing metal sculptures and furniture in Julian, is also ‘the steward’ of an U-pick apple orchard there called ‘Raven Hill’. Click here for his sculpture website. Needless to say I love the story and love the velvety-rusted-roughly-distressed finishes these pieces possess … and I can’t wait to use them in the Rancho’s garden. Here’s the break-down (not all shown):

A six-foot long metal bench with freeform rebar legs and an organic cut-steel top; two rectangular low tables made of rebar and perforated steel; two large tables with zig-zagged X-bases and distressed wooden tops (maybe we replace them with concrete?); three 4-foot tall metal letters that spell out the former shop’s name R-A-W. Total for all: $170!

Paul said the sellers were really sweet people and I’m sorry I couldn’t meet them before they move out-of-state … But, I thank them for such a great bargain and wish them the best. I’m also looking forward to traveling to Julian — which I’ve never been to — and visiting with Mr. Brady. Watch for that post …