John Derian is one part Charles Dickens, one part Saint-Germain-des-Prés and one part East Village, but 100% authentic. His distinctive and idiosyncratic vision of the world is addictive and it is difficult to leave any of his shops without something in hand. Recently, Susanna Salk and I paid a visit to John in his studio to see his new line of gift wrap for One Kings Lane and discuss how presentation is an integral part of any gift.
Since 1989 John has been producing his handmade decoupage plates and platters to the delight of his legion of fans around the world. From the layers of inspiration in the studio emerge the beautiful pattern laden products synonymous with his name.
And in his adjoining emporiums in the East Village, he now also sells bed and table linens, stationery, lighting, art and one of a kind products, all made by companies, artists and artisans with a compatible aesthetic and hand made quality, such as Livia Cetti, whose whimsical paper flowers have become a cult favorite.
A collaboration with Astier de Villatte
and a line of furniture produced by Cisco Brothers
are further extensions of the brand which is ever expanding but maintains its grass roots and home grown feel. A visit to the main boutique is an overwhelming experience. The charm starts curbside
with a vision of rustic Christmas
leading to a cornucopia of holiday wonder amid the regular merchandise.
It is an ornamental array
from glitter galore
to the natural world
to the regal
and quintessential Derian.
And of course you can still buy all the decoupage your heart desires from the original paperweights
and platters
to lamps, bowls, switchplates
and even fireplace screens
But it’s all about John’s eye. He looks, he sees and then he makes (or buys). Even when he’s not officially looking, an open eye assures all opportunities can come his away. And come they do, as new finds are effortlessly brought into the fold of Derian’s growing empire. An empire that feels small, old and hand-made.
Stacey, Susanna, and John –
OK. Seriously. That was just madly delightful! I actually giggled out loud in the darkened silence of my apartment while watching!
Cheers – and Happy Christmas!
Scot
gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous. My favorite is the papers tied together with the string printed as found. I do hope you did some Christmas shopping while you were there!
Love anything and everything John Derian does, those papers are no exception. Ironically I was scouting antique aubusson drawings on Ebay yesterday and thought “hmmm, these would be stunning wrapping paper”.
Now…this is where MY Santa should be shopping!!! Wonderful, wonderful!! franki
Love this blog! Charming and beautiful and I am racing down to the shop!
Hi Stacey,
Jon’s designs and the papers are incredible! I could get lost in his shop for hours!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
He is so great!! And, the papers are divine! Every single one. Bravo!! ox
i love john’s work! He is so, so talented. What a beautiful showcase you put together today!
A pure treat!
Love this so much! I love the switch plates. What a delightful segment.
Obsessed. When you throw something into a gift bag, what you’re really saying is “I have more important friends and you’re just not worth the effort.” John so understands the art of presentation. All of them are amazing. Thank you!
Brilliant presentation Stacey !
I adore john Derians aesthetic, everything
Every market I find myself mesmerized and wanting to place a massive order for my shop, sadly my area will not support his line. In my home however John holds a place of honor
Debra
Adore adore this creative, whimsical gentleman who understands how to hold on to the Old World while moving towards the New. Thanks, ladies!