THE QUINTESSENTIAL CHARLOT TE MAGAZINE
Preserve Carolina Meet the champions of our storied sporting heritage, from the makers and purveyors to the conservationists and collectors.
The Sporting & Conservation Issue november 2017 no. 44
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THE EXCLUSI V ES no. 44 november 2017 features
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Honor Your Wild Buffalo Jackson Trading Co.
Sun-Raised Sheep and Solar Panels
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The Heritage Of Canoeing Oar maker Fritz Orr
Calling Mr. Bobwhite Marc Williams on Conservation
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The Rod Maker Hollifield Fly Rods
Photo by Jamey Price for the article entitled “Calling Mr. Bobwhite” on pg. 158. Cover image of the grasses and dock near Pawleys Island by Jamey Price.
The Waterman’s Hobby A Duck Decoy Collection
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THE DEPA RTMEN TS
50 THE CULTURE FINE ART / PERFORMING ARTS / STYLE / WELLNESS
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An Homage To Home Damian Stamer captures a universal sense of home in his very personal renderings of North Carolina
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Cyrano Experience the three act performance from Opera Carolina this fall
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Southern Gems The beautiful handcrafted pieces from AddisonWeeks
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Johnny Fly Co. The Cornelius-born fashion company that became an international brand
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FineTuned Charlotte native Chris Capozzoli crafts instruments from reclaimed wood
THE SPREAD RESTAURANTS / CHEFS / RECIPES / COCKTAILS
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Dot Dot Dot Stefan Huebner’s new Park Road speakeasy wants to give you pause
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Cellar’s Bone-In Ribeye A conversation-starting cut of meat
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Bistro La Bon’s Paella A delicious seafood dish from a Plaza Midwood institution
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Little Spoon’s Livermush Mushy pork never tasted so good
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Stoke Fashioned Whiskey on fire at Stoke
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Kindred’s Drama 101 Another good one from the good folk in Davidson
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Master Control Date Automatic Calibre Jaeger-LeCoultre 899/1 219 components, 28.800 beats per hour
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128 THE FOLIO DESIGN / DECOR / SPACES / FEATURED HOMES
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A Finished Thought Together, architect Ruard Veltman and interior designer Julia Wood craft homes from the inside out
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Making A Statement Rug Culture provides some of the finest hand-knotted rugs to the Queen City
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Chiott Family Room A bright, modern rustic space from the renowned Charlotte builder
THE EXPLORED RESORTS / TOWNS / DESTINATIONS / SPORTING / ADVENTURE
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Hotel Domestique Recharge at South Carolina’s Hotel Domestique where there is something for everyone
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An Old Tradition, Anew Israel Matson hones the craft of falconry with a fresh twist
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Pawleys Pursuits Fly fishing with Jeff Lattig and other island sporting pursuits
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Classic Retreat A beautifully rustic, restful retreat from Charlotte’s own Lauren Nicole Designs
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Dining In A chic and functional dining space from the talented designer Anne Buresh
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Dilworth Contemporary Architect Greg Perry and Lauren Harkey of HodgesTaylor design a stunning Dilworth bungalow
THE NOTE
Editor Jon-Paul Grice and publisher Brett Barter atop the Chimneys above Linvillle Gorge
P R E S E R V E
CAROLINA photo STEPHEN PHILPOTT
RETRACTION In our last issue, “Portrait of a City,” in a profile of several of Charlotte Symphony Orchestra’s instruments, “Unstill Life,” we provided an inaccurate history of Kurt Riecken’s bass. Former principal bass Ivan Zugelj had played on the bass for 40 years, not 4, as previously stated. In addition, Charlotte Symphony Orchestra did not purchase the bass from Zugelj’s son; the Cincinnati Bass Cellar purchased it, and Riecken bought the bass from the Cincinnati Bass Cellar before he moved to Charlotte.
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Our sporting and conservation issue is always my favorite edition of the year. That’s probably because we get to enjoy some time in the Carolina wild while we make this issue, experiencing a variety of sporting thrills, from hooking a brown trout in a meandering Blue Ridge stream to watching a covey of quail rise in a golden Piedmont field. And those things get my heart pumping. But this year’s sporting issue is a little different. That’s not to say that we didn’t get outside and play a little, because we did. We poled the grasses of Pawleys Island, spent some time in the upstate of South Carolina at a cycling institution, and walked amid the towering Carolina Pines talking quail conservation. However, for the most part, our time preparing for the launch of this issue was spent inside with the makers and the preservationists of the Carolinas. These dedicated individuals carry the torch for our region’s rich outdoor tradition and advocate for its future. People like John Hollifield, a maker of fine bamboo fly rods in Western North Carolina, and the aptly named Fritz Orr, a National Open Canoe Champion and crafter of paddles, not only create beautiful, functional wares but also champion their sports. Conservationists like small business owner Marc Williams of The Sporting Gent are on the ground level—in his shop, in the field, and in his waders—fostering the growth of upland game and waterfowl populations and promoing the health of our streams. Historians like Robbie Smith—a collector of and storyteller on the art of duck decoys—pay homage to our heritage while folks from the new generation, like Buffalo Jackson’s Xan Hood, encourage you to honor your wild. With that in mind, we hope you enjoy this issue while appreciating their wonderful stories, and celebrating their many efforts to preserve Carolina by getting out there. Best, Jon-Paul Grice, Editor
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September 9, 2017 - SOCO Gallery is pleased to present In Luminous Flux, an exhibition of new works by Jackie Gendel. For her first North Carolina exhibition, the Houston-born, Brooklyn-based artist will display new works that feature groups of women side by side and arm in arm within compositions of shattering luminosity, prismatic atmosphere, and a scalene choreography. Gendel’s latest work explores women of action on gilded splinters—in moments of vulnerability and emergence as they dissolve into walls, dance through floors, and walk off the page. Within this framework, individuals matter less than the overall impact of their collective presence. Each piece is a glimpse into a dynamic excerpted from a narrative begun elsewhere and left unfinished for the viewer; from a train scene by Honoré Daumier, a suffragette march staged in early 20th century Vorticism, a nursing scene from a long-since lost illustrated Women’s Digest Magazine. At once decorative, poetic, and subtly impolitic, Gendel’s works refuse the contradictions. For more informaiton: soco-gallery.com
32 | Soul of the South 34 | Modern Home Tour 36 | Slam Charlotte 38 | UB40 40 | Barefoot Gala 42 | Oktoberfest
JACK I E GEN DEL’S I N LU M I NOUS FLU X Soco Gallery
30 | Leah Rosenberg
THE EV EN TIST november 2017 editor’s pick
THE EV EN TIST
November 2017 EDITOR’S PICKS
Anouk Krantz at Soco Gallery | November 11, 2017 | soco-gallery.com MOZART/BEETHOVEN
JESSICA LEA MAYFIELD
ON YOUR FEET!
10/27/17 – 10/28/17 – Experience the beauty of Mozart and Beethoven with this special concert starring conductor Hugh Wolff and pianist Robert Levin. Together, Wolff and Levin will blend Mozart’s Concerto for Piano No. 23 and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 into an unforgettable performance at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center’s Belk Theater. blumenthalarts.org
10/28/2017 – See the talented singer/ songwriter Jessica Lea Mayfield perform her new album, “Sorry is Gone.” Her lyrics are unapologetic in their quest to bring the listener an honest snapshot of her life. The band Blank Range will also perform, so don’t miss these two lyrical powerhouses at the Stage Door Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. blumenthalarts.org
10/31/17 – 11/5/17 – This hit Broadway play is coming to Charlotte to share the inspirational story of two musical icons and their rise (and fall, then rise again) to stardom. See their journey unfold at the Ovens Auditorium as part of the PNC Broadway Lights season. ovensauditorium.com
NPC MID-ATLANTIC CLASSIC
10/28/17 – Known as “the premier contest in the region for bodybuilding,” the 9th Annual NPC Mid-Atlantic Classic Competition will be here in Charlotte as a lead-up to the final qualifier of 2017. As the region’s top men and women compete, enjoy local vendors and photo ops with athletes from across the country at the Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts. blumenthalarts.org
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THE BEYOND: COMPOSER’S CUT WITH LIVE SCORE BY FABIO FRIZZI
10/28/17 – Maestro Fabio Frizzi’s composer’s cut of the horror cult classic The Beyond paved the way for a new movie watching experience. Experience this reimagined film as Frizzi’s music gives the scenes new perspective at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center’s Booth Playhouse. blumenthalarts.org
CYRANO STUDENT NIGHT
11/2/17 – Watch this classic literary work transcend to the stage for a final dress rehearsal at a special student night for families and K-12 school groups. This one-of-a-kind French musical projects English song lyrics onto the stage, and will be held at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center’s Belk Theater. operacarolina.org FAHRENHEIT 451
11/2/17 – 11/11/17 – Based on Ray Bradbury’s literary dystopian classic,
THE EV EN TIST
November 2017 Charles LaBorde brings the story to life as he directs it for the stage. Playing at the Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square, don’t miss this harrowing drama of fireman Guy Montag’s battle between a sense of security and the freedom to think. blumenthalarts.org RICHA SHARMA
11/3/17 – Born in Faridabad, Haryana, Richa Sharma soon became a Bollywood powerhouse, lending her hit songs to multiple movies. Now the winner of several vocalist awards, Sharma is bringing her Sufi-style singing talent to the Knight Theater. blumenthalarts.org OPERA CAROLINA’S CYRANO
11/4/17 – 11/9/17 – Experience the classic French opera and its timeless love story in its original French, complete with English subtitles projected onstage. David diChiera brings the play to the Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. operacarolina.org
Location Sophia’s Lounge
BUMPER JACKSONS
11/10/17 – Bringing folk music into the spotlight with their unique vocals and bold, traditional sounds, the Bumper Jacksons have become one of the region’s best folk bands. See them in concert at the Stage Door Theater at the Blumenthal performing Arts Center. bumperjacksons.com STEEL PAN ORCHESTRA
2902 Selwyn Avenue 28209 | Charlotte, NC 28207 www.tinyclt.com | @tiny4children www.maisonette.com
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11/10/17 – Inspired by Rome’s Pantheon, experience the unique sound of a steel pan orchestra playing Beneath Lighted Coffers. Conducted by Christopher James Lee with composer Andy Akiho on the steel pan, this concert will be held at the Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts. charlottesymphony.org GOBSMACKED!
11/11/17 – Don’t miss the UK’s latest vocal sensation, Gobsmacked!
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THE EV EN TIST
November 2017 Featuring reigning world champion beatboxer Ball-Zee and world-class a cappella vocalists, this break-out group will perform at the Knight Theater at the Levine Center for the Arts. blumenthalarts.org SIMPLY THREE
1 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 7 throug h
4 FEB R UA RY 2018
11/11/17 – Glen McDaniel, Nick Villalobos, and Zack Clark create the electrifying trio of Simply Three. See them perform live at the McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square as they introduce their audience to the timeless sound of string instruments with the unique music of artists like Gershwin, Adele, and Michael Jackson. simplythreemusic.com ANOUK KRANTZ AT SOCO
E x hi b i ti o n o rg a ni ze d by Th e M in t M u s e u m & p re s e nte d by PNC Fin a n cia l S e r v ice s .
#TheMintMuseum | MintMuseum.org
Jason Wu, designer (Canadian, born in Taiwan, 1982–), Jason Wu (New York, 2007–). Evening gown (ready-to-wear), 2015, silk. Collection of Alex Holleman.
WHENEVER WHEREVER & HOWEVER YOU WANT US WE’RE THERE FOR YOU
11/11/17 - SOCO Shop will host a book signing with French photographer Anouk Krantz for her upcoming release of ‘Wild Horses of Cumberland Island’ on Saturday, November 11, 11AM – 1PM. soco-gallery.com JESSE COLIN YOUNG
11/12/17 – Experience Jesse Colin Young’s timeless music at the McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square. With over 50 years of musical experience under his belt, Young will take listeners on a journey through the tumultuous 60s, 70s, and 80s to reach today’s contemporary sounds. jessecolinyoung.com CELEBRATING BIG DREAMS
Water & Coffee Home | Office | Anywhere www.diamondsprings.com 800.715.2286
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11/14/17 – Join Hamilton star Leslie Odom Jr. and an array of special guests as they kick off an original show to help realize the dream of building a performing arts center in Charlotte. Enjoy the live orchestra and talented entertainment at the Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. blumenthalarts.org TASTE OF THE MINT
11/15/17 – Wine and dine on three small plates at the Mint’s top-rated
THE EV EN TIST
November 2017
restaurant. After the meal, embark on a curator-led tour of the museum’s latest exhibit, Develar y Detonar: Contemporary Mexican Photography. mintmuseum.org MODERNISM AND FILM
11/16/17 – Join The Bechtler Museum as they continue their Modernism and Film series with a screening of The Human Scale. As cities around the world continue to grow, urban planners must adapt to the influx. See Danish architect Jan Gehl do just that as they study urban life. bechtler.org FALL IN LOVE WITH ART
11/17/17 – Enjoy an after-hours night at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and kick off the holiday season with handmade decorations and Thanksgiving thank-you cards. Continue the evening with two of their Mexican photography exhibits and rekindle your love of the arts. bechtler.org
BEETHOVEN VIOLIN CONCERTO
11/17/17 – 11/18/17 – Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, conductor Christopher Warren-Green leads the symphony and guest violinist Benjamin Bellman in Beethoven’s complete Violin Concerto. The evening ends with Beethoven’s Overture to The Consecration of the House, and Brahms’ Symphony No. 4. charlottesymphony.org CHOREOGRAPHIC LAB
11/17/17 – Experience the talents of the Charlotte Ballet dancers in this one-nightonly showcase. Designed for aspiring choreographers to display their work to eager audiences, the Choreographic Lab will be held in the Patricia McBride and JeanPierre Bonnefoux Center for Dance. charlotteballet.org
his Figurative Pop Up Show to Charlotte’s Shain Gallery. shaingallery.com SLAMCHARLOTTE
11/17/17 – Enjoy a night of poetry from local and world renowned poets at the McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square and see who wins this month’s slam competition. blumenthalarts.org HARVEST DAY
11/18/17 – Watch cooks and bakers at work as they prepare a traditional holiday feast in a spirit of thanksgiving for the season’s harvest. Visit with craftspeople and farm folk as they demonstrate early American skills and crafts of the Carolina backcountry. schielemuseum.org RIDE AND SEEK
JOSH BROWN
11/17/17 - Join in the opening night for popular artist Josh Brown as he brings
11/18/17 – Challenges await you and your teammate around jump and berm at Ride & Seek, the USNWC’s second
435 South Tryon Street, Suite 110 Charlotte, NC 28202 704.373.1464 @thenewgalleryofmodernart @NGMACharlotte @thenewgallery
www.newgalleryofmodernart.com
“Infinite Savage” Stephen Wilson
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Constructing Modern Master pieces
5960 Fairview Rd, Suite 400 | Charlotte, NC 28210 | (704) 293-9362 • drew@artisticcontractorsnc.com
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November 2017
annual mountain biking adventure race. Teams of two ride their way through various challenges aiming to complete all the checkpoints as quickly as possible. The first team to complete all the required challenges throughout the 35+ mile trail system will be crowned champion. usnwc.org CREATE A POLLINATOR PARADISE
11/20/17 – Do your part to help save the bees by attending this talk by North Carolina Cooperative Extension Agriculture Agent Debbie Roos, where she’ll show attendees how to make their homes bee-friendly. mintmuseum.org
YOUTH ORCHESTRA
11/21/17 – Support the local music scene and Charlotte’s young performers in their annual fall concert at the Halton Theater, CPCC. charlottesymphony.org NOVANT THANKSGIVING PARADE
11/23/17 – Families, friends, and neighbors are invited to enjoy a classic tradition with a modern twist. See it all, up close and personal: larger-than-life floats and balloons, nationally known recording artists, marching bands, dance teams and plenty of surprises. novanthealththanksgivingparade.com RONNIE LAWS, WALTER BEASLEY, AND WILLIE BRADLEY
BRITISH CERAMICS AT THE MINT
11/21/17 – Hear about the Mint’s British ceramics collection with special guest Dr. Brian Gallagher, Curator of Decorative Arts, at Mint Museum Randolp. mintmuseum.org
11/24/17 – Experience these three legends live as they perform at the McGlohon Theater. Ronnie Laws shows off his cross-over success with the soprano sax, while Walter Beasley takes the stage with smooth jazz. Willie Bradley joins
the night as a special guest trumpeter, making this an unforgettable night. blumenthalarts.org THE SOUND OF MUSIC
11/24/17 – 11/26/17 – The classic musical comes to Charlotte in a brand new production. Held at the Belk Theater at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, this timely and timeless tale is ready to bring the hills of Charlotte to life. blumenthalarts.org CHEF DRIVEN DINING UPTOWN
11/25/17 - Experience the masterful techniques of uptown’s best chefs and a bounty of high-quality ingredients provided by local farmers and international culinary artisans to create the flavors which define Charlotte’s culinary culture. Explore the city’s burgeoning craft beer industry, learn about wine and food pairing, and discover the intricacies and different cocktail flavors of our city’s craft mixology scene. feastfoodtours.com
Susan Grossman City Moments Nov 18, 2017 - Jan 6, 2018 Although Susan Grossman most often depicts scenes of her native New York City, this exhibition of new cityscapes also includes work inspired from a recent visit and tour of Charlotte.
ARRIVING, 2017, Charcoal and Pastel on Paper Mounted on Board, 51 x 60 inches
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625 South Sharon Amity Road Charlotte, NC 28211 704-365-3000 gallery@jeraldmelberg.com www.jeraldmelberg.com M-F 10-6 Sat 10-4
Storey Home 1235 East Boulevard:Suite A : Charlotte, NC 28205 www.storeyhomedesign.com : 704-496-9902
THE EV EN TIST
November 2017 MAGIC & MYSTERY
11/25/17 - Experience a miraculous world of magic, mind reading, and hypnosis from world-class “Astonishment Artist” Mat LaVore. Performing at the Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square, LaVore’s dazzling show will leave wide-eyed audience members no choice but to believe in magic. matlavore.com AMERICARNA LIVE CAR SHOW
11/25/2017 - Ray Evernham’s fifth annual AmeriCarna LIVE car show presented by Ingersoll Rand and MSC Industrial Supply Co. will be held Saturday, November 25. The show will again be open to all cars and held at Ingersoll Rand’s North American Corporate Headquarters in Davidson. americarnalive.com MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
11/30/2017 - 12/02/2017 - Experience the spectacle this holiday season: the Magic of Christmas. Gather your loved ones and join us for a festive evening filled with soloists, sing-alongs, Santa, and, new this year, special guest violinist and Artist-in-Residence Mark O’Connor and his family band. charlottesymphony.org
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In Focus/EnFoquE: c o n t E m p o r a ry p h o t o g r a p h y I n m E x I c o Exhibition extended until January 13, 2018 www.l acaproj ects.com | i n fo@ l a c aproj e c ts . c om
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Damian Stamer captures a universal sense of home in his very personal renderings of North Carolina words SUNNY HUBLER photos JAMEY PRICE or courtesy DAMIAN STAMER
43 | An Homage To Home 48 | Cyrano 50 | FineTuned 58 | Southern Gems 62 | Johnny Fly Co.
T H E C U LT U R E
A N HOM AGE TO HOM E
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Musings
“I needed to be in North Carolina to be true to the place in my art. I was recalling memories by being there, and I wanted to be as genuine as possible.”
Damian Stamer has always felt the pull of North Carolina deep in his bones. The professional painter, who was raised in Durham County and first honed his craft by attending UNC School of the Arts, didn’t set out to make The Tar Heel State his muse. But what Stamer, now a prolific oil painter, did know from an early age was that he wanted to make a go of it in the art world. It’s the type of rare, youthful certainty that sets in motion a whole life. “I had a couple great teachers who really pushed me, and, really, I just had no other back-up plan,” Stamer explains.
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He also had his twin brother, Dylan, alongside him, encouraging his every step. Dylan, who works in a very nearly oppositional field (finance), took the charge to help Damian sell some of his first pieces of art ever. “I’ve always loved to draw, loved print-making and loved working with the printers, but I suppose what I have always preferred is monotypes and painting,” Stamer says. “Working in two dimensions can be incredibly complex.” Indeed, his paintings are finely detailed oils, marrying abstraction with realism in a truly captivating manner.
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Musings
“I had a couple great teachers who really pushed me, and, really, I just had no other back-up plan.”
Stamer’s talent was clear early on, and so, like most young people, Stamer felt compelled to take that talent out and see the world. A traveler by nature, he lived for a period in Budapest and then settled in New York City. It was in this time period that he began painting the images of homes that would come to define much of his work. Stamer often paints agrarian landscapes and abstracted structures—barns, houses.
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A national grant drew him back to UNC for grad school, and this time, he knew he needed to stay. “I needed to be there to be true to the place in my art. I was recalling memories by being in North Carolina, and I wanted to be as genuine as possible.” Today, Damian splits his time between a studio in New York City’s Williamsburg and his home in the quiet woods of Durham. His work has shown
at galleries worldwide, from Berlin, to Santa Fe, Philadelphia and Tokyo, and he has drawn increasing critical acclaim. Worldly pursuits aside, it’s the memories of his childhood, the old barns and overgrown fields and farms, that truly define Damian Stamer. His art is a universal homage to the home that you can never really leave. info damianstamer.com
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THE CULTUR E
Marquee
CY RANO Experience the three act performance with Opera Carolina this fall words SUNNY HUBLER photo courtesy OPERA CAROLINA
Opera Carolina has served Charlotte for nearly seven decades, standing today firmly in the community and its arts scene. Cyrano de Bergerac is the opera’s latest addition to Charlotte’s arts scene, and it’s a show that shouldn’t be missed. Never heard of Cyrano? That’s only what you think—in fact, it’s a timeless tale, and one that’s been played out through the ages under a variety of different names: The films “Roxane” and “Hitch” both were based on Cyrano de Bergerac, as have been several modern books and TV show episodes. The show asks, “What’s a beautiful young woman to do when she’s being wooed by two— one of whom knows just what to say but is too afraid to address her face-to-face?” In director David DiChiera’s interpretation of
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Edmond Rostand’s tragicomic opera, this three act show reminds us that falling for the wrong guy can have heartbreaking consequences. Dr. David DiChiera, founder and artistic director of Michigan Opera Theatre, has a prestigious opera legacy: He was named chairman of the board of OPERA America and served in that capacity from 1979 to 1983. He made history in 1986, when he became the founding general director of Opera Pacific in Orange County, California, becoming the only general director in the nation to have founded and led two opera companies. For a healthy dose of Carolina culture, get yourself tickets to this fall Opera Carolina performance—it’s both comedic and heartbreaking. info operacarolina.org
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THE CULTUR E
Handmade
FI N ETUNED
In the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Charlotte native Chris Capozzoli crafts world-class instruments from reclaimed wood words SUNNY HUBLER In an age when so many of our goods are produced through automation, when the things you own are one of, say, a million others just like it, seeing something handcrafted can quite literally stop you in your tracks. To find that level of detail, or a piece with a singular nature, has become a real rarity. Perhaps what such a find tells you first is that there’s a story behind what you’re seeing. It was found, used and discarded, and then lovingly restored by someone who could see a potential all along. Or perhaps it was created
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photos JAMEY PRICE
late at night in a cozy, low-lit little shop under the eye of someone who pursues their craft with abandon. Chris Capozzoli is that someone. He believes, first and foremost, in music: “Music has the power to heal, the power to bring together cultures, to bring together the young and old.” Born and raised in Charlotte before he retreated to the Appalachian Mountains, Capozzoli is entirely obsessed with guitar-making. He crafts his instruments from reclaimed wood in a Sugar Grove, NC shop. We had the plea-
sure of stopping by one late Summer afternoon to talk music, woodworking, and motivation. Certainly, choosing to make a livelihood by handmaking guitars couldn’t have been the easiest way to earn a keep? “I love a good challenge,” Chris explained. “It helps expand my mind and abilities. You'll never know it all, and you’ll never get close to it if you don’t continue to challenge yourself and work harder than before. If you’re not climbing up the hill, you’ll never make it to the top.”
THE CULTUR E
Handmade
“Making guitars is my way of connecting with the world.” What sparked your initial interest in music and, in particular, the guitar? I began playing guitar at 11 and haven’t stopped playing it since. I can’t put it down. Music is recreation, therapy, science, history, income... I’ll be playing music as long as I can hold a guitar in my hands. When did you start crafting guitars? I built my first guitar my senior year in high school. It seemed simple enough and
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after having played one for many years, I thought it was time to build one myself. It instantly consumed me and was all I could think about. It was an event that sparked a small fire that would grow into a roaring, raging blaze—I was addicted.
like play. I wake up in the morning and say, “I get to go to work today” instead of, “I have to go to work.” Ten years had passed working in the custom woodworking industry when I decided I was ready to venture out on my own.
What then made you decide to pursue this as your career? I decided to build guitars for a living because I love it, and when you do what you love it becomes less like work and more
How would you describe the technique you’ve developed since? I would have to describe my technique as a mixture of self-learned innovations and well-studied traditional techniques.
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Handmade
I am constantly shifting and molding the look, feel and function of my guitars. I like to sprinkle my aesthetic with influences of the past while creating something fresh and new to achieve a guitar that is familiar yet timeless. What actually makes a great guitar? Quality wood aged to perfection, durable hardware and electronics, accurate set up, a pleasing design, love and attention to detail, to me, are elements that make a great guitar. A guitar that feels good in your hands, doesn’t let you down when you need it the most, and is reliable time and time again... I put into my guitars attention to detail and elements that will hopefully with-
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“I wake up in the morning and say, ‘I get to go to work today’ instead of, ‘I have to go to work.’”
stand the test of time and will one day be the subject of admiration from music makers around the world. Tell us about using reclaimed wood—that is clearly important to you. I love giving new life to a piece of wood that once kept the weather out or kept the livestock in at night… a piece of wood that has seen more sunrises and thunderstorms than I’ll ever experience in my lifetime. We need trees, standing tall to breathe in our carbon waste. Using reclaimed lumber gives me a small sense of stewardship towards the preservation of our precious global resource.
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THE CULTUR E
Handmade
“I love giving new life to a piece of wood that once kept the weather out or kept the livestock in at night… that has seen more sunrises and thunderstorms than I’ll ever experience in my lifetime.”
What have been the challenges managing your own business? Absolutely everything relies on me. I’m responsible for it all. But one of the biggest rewards in having my own small business is knowing I’m making an extremely high-quality guitar for someone who is going to love and cherish it for their lifetime, and when they’re done it will be passed on to last another lifetime. The guitar symbolizes a lot. It’s more than just an instrument, it’s a lifestyle. Tell us about your logo… it’s striking. I get asked about it a lot. It all stems from the Appalachian Mountains where I live—it’s the cross-section of a narrow gauge railroad track, specifically the piece of track that used to be the Eastern Tennessee / Western North Carolina railroad. Making guitars is my way of connecting with the world. The railroad is in many ways a metaphor for strength, power, stamina, stability, punctuality. info capozzoliguitarcompany.com | @capozzoliguitars
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THE CULTUR E
Crafted
SOUTHERN GEMS The handcrafted pieces of Addison Weeks by ANNIE GIBBS photos JAMEY PRICE Katherine Weeks Mulford and Lee Addison Lesley have been friends and business partners for 15 years, bridging the gap between classic and modern through their locally handcrafted gemstone jewelry. The pair’s pieces incorporate striking gemstones like turquoise, quartz, moonstone, and others, fixed within versatile gold and silver settings. The southern designer duo met in Atlanta, working as web designers for large corporations until they began making jew-
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elry in their free time. Their creations were used as charming gifts for their friends and family until the pair decided to take their craft to the next level with their initial 10-year venture, Turq Jewelry. In 2013, Kat and Lee rebranded and relaunched their business as we know it today, Addison Weeks. Now, with their office located in the South End area of Charlotte, Kat’s hometown, the company is growing rapidly out of their roots. The pair went from shipping a few dozen orders a
THE CULTUR E
Crafted
day to a few hundred after their Clockwise from top Whitten Stud earrings were left: Addison Weeks Gibson drawer pull, deemed one of Oprah’s Favorite Bendall Bangle, Things in 2016. The collection Middleton corksrew, and is also expanding to include Addison Weeks studs. more than just jewelry: They are launching a Southern-vintage inspired home decor collaboration with Barrie Benson, along with introducing a new line of Hardware that boasts over 20 designs. Throughout their dual venture, Kat and Lee have epitomized Southern values, melding together their passion for their craft with their longstanding friendship. “The South has been our home,” says Kat. “We have both been very into the history our families hold. We want our jewelry to be around for the next generation, so our friends can pass them down to their daughters.” info addisonweeks.com
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THE CULTUR E
Style
JOHNN Y F LY CO.
The Cornelius-born fashion company that became an international brand by LIZA CARASQUILLO photos JAMEY PRICE With a market as saturated as the fashion industry is, it can be hard to find something unique and innovative enough that it brings the excitement back to getting dressed in the morning. What fashion accessory can tie an outfit together? What gives its wearer a unique sense of style? What will immediately make a statement? For John Freeman, a Charlotte native and former race car driver with a love of fashion, the answer was simple: sunglasses. It was something he’d found on the faces of everyone from rappers to racers, so John knew the accessory had potential. If done right, he could bring a fresh appeal to what he felt was a stagnant look. Through craftsmanship and hours upon hours of experimentation, he ultimately found the medium that would become the centerpiece of his brand: real wood. After assembling thousands of wooden sunglasses by hand in a dining room in Cornelius, John took his old racing nickname, engraved it on the side of each pair, and began Johnny Fly Co. With a commitment to sustainability and creativity, John and Tara, his wife, built their brand of highquality, high-fashion sunglasses. As they were celebrating the opening of their new store in Charlotte’s historic art district NoDa, John and Tara sat down with us to share their story and how they continue to bring improvements, innovation, and individuality to a beloved accessory.
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THE CULTUR E
Style
Where did your knowledge of wooden craftsmanship come from? J: I’d say I love all the wooden stuff and I’m very handy, but I’m still not a shaper, a craftsman. I can execute a vision well, but you really need the best people and pieces to make it really all come together. You need a love for something natural and unique, and with wood you can’t make it twice, so your pair is your pair and your item is your item, which is kind of the DNA of the brand. How did you become involved in the business, Tara? T: I came in just before the eyewear— he had little plastic eyewear then—and I came in to help with some brand stuff
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and to do some modeling on the side. We just collaborated from there. I do branding and graphic design, so I got more and more involved.
then we started getting orders from Europe, North Africa—all over. All of a sudden, we were shipping way more internationally than we were domestically.
J: That’s when eyewear really took off, with her coming in. She was really the clean aspect to my chaos. I would still be making 45 different products and I’d be doing a good job at them, but I wouldn’t be doing a great job at them.
I know sustainability is a big aspect of the business. Where is your wood sourced from? J: The wood comes from all over the world, depending on the species. We’ve got about 14 or 15 species of wood now that we use. For some of the more exotic stuff, we work with grow houses that ethically grow specifically for harvest. The majority of our woods are what I call “weed woods” because they grow so fast. They’re easy to harvest and species that continuously grow.
So you all blew up in the European market first. How did that come about? J: That’s where we learned how small the world was: I remember the day we figured out how to accept international payments on our E-Commerce. We turned it on, and
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THE CULTUR E
Style
T: It can be from South America, it can be here, it can be Asia. Our eyewear is really a global effort. Each piece along the way is made from the best of what’s available to us, and that’s really what we focus on. We partner with several eco-friendly organizations to ensure the wood and leather are ethically-sourced. And through the non-profit One Tree Planted, we plant a tree for every pair of sunglasses sold. So, where do you see the business going from here? J: We have a lot of room for our product to grow. We’ve got a lot of new things happening; prescription eyewear is something that’s launching now, actually. As far as the brand goes, we still have a lot of the US market to tap into. And on the store side, I’m really interested to see where this goes. In my heart, I love retail, I love customers, and I’d love to see another one of these in a different location. info johnnyflyco.com
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78 | Cellar’s Bone-In Ribeye 80 | Bistro La Bon’s Paella 82 | Little Spoon’s Livermush 84 | Stoke Fashioned 86 | Kindred’s Drama 101
words COREY MILLER photos KYO H. NAM
69 | Dot Dot Dot
Stefan Huebner’s new Park Road speakeasy gives you pause
T H E S PR E A D
DOT D O T DOT
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Restaurant
“We want people to experience cocktails the way they’re meant to be.”
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Stefan Huebner has the physical presence of a doorman whose singular glare placates even the rowdiest of crowds. He’s also got the projective bellow of a man who’s used to yelling over throngs of people, all of them pining for something from behind his bar. At Dot Dot Dot, he won’t need either of these barkeeping assets. That’s because Dot Dot Dot is a different kind of bar. The name of Huebner’s club is an ellipsis for a reason: Wherever we find them, three dots indicate some kind of omission, something implied but not stated. In this case, they indicate an out-of-the-way place for drinks, small plates, and privacy. That’s right: Dot Dot Dot is members only.
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“A lot of what we’re doing is exceptionally traditional, at a time when everyone seems to be pushing the envelope.”
The new speakeasy, a joint venture spearheaded by Huebner and Foxcroft Wine Company’s Conrad Hunter, hides in a brick corner in the thriving-yet-somehow-still-quiet back lot of Park Road Shopping Center. This decidedly not-Uptown locale seems odd for a bar, but it’s perfect for a speakeasy: Besides, all notions of geography flee your memory with the first step inside its dimly lit corridor entry. Golden pressed tin coffers maintain a low-ceilinged feel, ornate wallpaper negates all notions of location, darkened leather booths beckon, and a 37-foot marble bar guards an all-too-covetable liquor selection. “I love it, but this space isn’t everything,” Stefan says, eyeing his new digs with the look of a man who’s finally home. “We’re a private club. That means hospitality is vital. Our level of service, paired with our food and cocktail selection, will keep people coming back.”
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Liberty Bridge at Falls Park on the Reedy in downtown Greenville
Named one of the Happiest Cities in the United States, we’ve got something that will bring a smile to every face and every heart. Embrace a little soul-restoring R&R, savor the local flavor at one of our renowned restaurants, or hit the trails on foot or bike to turn vacation into exploration. Whatever your pleasure, one thing is for sure, it’s hard not to feel happy in a place where even the bridges wear a constant smile. To learn more, call 800.717.0023.
INSTANT GETAWAY PACKAGE Make the most of any occasion STARTING AT $134*
The best things in life are free. At Hilton Greenville, that includes a complimentary drink upon arrival and in-room breakfast for two. So grab your friends or significant other – it’s time to get away in style! Call 1-800-HILTONS (1-800-445-8667) and use plan code RP* or visit our Special Offers page online. *Subject to availability; advanced booking required. Blackout dates may apply.
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THE SPR E A D
Restaurant
He’s certainly not wrong on the food front: The small plates are tasty, quickly delivered to the table, and eminently shareable. Fried and true quick bites like the arancini di riso (taleggio-stuffed risotto fritter, spring peas, and tomato sauce) swiftly disappear from their dishes, while decadent options like the roasted bone marrow—complemented by shaved parmesan,
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pickled mushrooms, toast points, and mixed greens—will have you returning periodically throughout the evening for just one more taste. Stefan’s craft cocktail menu, on the other hand, will show patrons a slightly more selfish evening: When The Hot Box—a smoking chest offering Kentucky bourbon, islay scotch, sweet vermouth, and hellfire bitters, all imbued with
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THE SPR E A D
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pecan notes—arrives in front of you, don’t share it. You deserve this, for any reason of your choosing. This bad boy is just the start of an inspired list, but most of the drinks are classic because Stefan insists on them being so. “We’re going to make an Old Fashioned that tastes the way it’s supposed to taste,” Stefan explains. “We’re going to make a Manhattan taste exactly the way it’s supposed to—it’s been tasting that way for decades. A lot of what we’re doing is exceptionally traditional, at a time when most everyone seems to be pushing the envelope. We want people to experience these cocktails the way they’re meant to be.” Stefan Huebner wants to ensure the classics get their due, not unlike some of the most time-tested dens in The City that Never Sleeps. In a speakeasy, cocktails are king, and Dot Dot Dot seems poised to deliver drinks that surprise us with their resilient simplicity, drinks that make us hesitate—drinks that make us slow down. And that’s the idea. The three dots also suggest a significant pause, a concept the denizens of New York’s underground have understood for decades. Dot Dot Dot isn’t just a break in the usual line—it’s an intentional, necessary one. info dotdotdotcharlotte.com
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“We’re a private club. That means hospitality is vital. Our level of service keeps people coming back.”
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Plated
TH E CEL L A R AT DUCK WORTH’S
BON E-I N R I BEY E words COREY MILLER photo KYO H. NAM
There’s not a whole lot that can be written about this thing... It’s a visceral experience, and we don’t want to spoil it for you. The Tomahawk (as we affectionately call it) is 32 ounces of Certified Angus Beef, grilled for just a few minutes in The Cellar’s 1800-degree broiler, and seasoned only with kosher salt and fresh-ground black pepper. Chef Fred Quinones ensures that the steak is brushed with softened butter before it arrives tableside.
The process is seemingly so simple, yet there’s something truly special about this steak. Maybe it’s the perfect pairing of the speakeasy ambiance, or the sheer novelty of sharing the best steak in Charlotte with the right group of people. Or maybe it’s the taste of the meat right off that massive rib bone. Actually—yeah. It’s definitely that. info thecellaratduckworths.com
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THE SPR E A D
Plated
BISTRO LA BON’S
PA EL L A
by SUNNY HUBLER photo JAMEY PRICE Bistro la Bon’s take on the classic Spanish paella does exactly what you’d hope it would: it takes the staple elements of the dish — aromatic saffron, fluffy, buttery rice, perfectly cooked meat — and does them beautifully, but it also puts an original, fresh twist on the finished product. Bistro la Bon went the seafood route with this plate, called Spanish Saffron Rice in house, using a combination of lobster tail, littleneck clams, shrimp, mussels, octopus, and calamari… in
other words, all the shellfish and seafood you could possibly hope for in one place. Some paella lovers insist each meat should be pulled from the dish and enjoyed separately, on its own. Others love the mixta element of paella, combining flavors and textures for the ultimate experience. Either way you choose to dig into the dish, it makes for a refreshingly worldly meal. info bistrolabon.com
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NOV 2017 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 81
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LITTLE SPOON’S
LI V ER M USH by COREY MILLER photo JAMEY PRICE This ain’t your daddy’s livermush. Little Spoon Eatery updates the classically Carolinian breakfast with a bit less farm and a bit more game. Instead of all the piggy parts no one wants, Little Spoon throws in all the parts you do: Rabbit liver forms the base of this mystery meat, while the incomparable richness of pork belly binds it all together. As if this protein heaven weren’t hearty
enough, the Myers Park kitchen plates it atop fluffy toasted brioche and their deviled egg yolk...before topping it all with a sunny-side duck egg. It’s a morning meal fit for the outdoorsman, to be sure. Fortunately, Little Spoon has a lovely patio. info littlespooneatery.com
NOV 2017 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 83
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Poured
STOKE
FASH ION ED Stoke’s Old Fashioned is not just a drink—it’s a lavish experience. by SARAH GALLO photo JAMEY PRICE As one of Charlotte’s most luxurious hotel kitchens and bars, Stoke doesn’t disappoint with its fresh take on food and drink—in particular, the classics. Among these, of course is their Old Fashioned. Stoke’s rendition on the time-honored beverage—also known as the “Stoke Fashioned”—blends Knob Creek Single Barrel, orange bitters, demerara syrup, and Angostura bitters to craft what is now deemed one of the bar’s signatures. Finished with a fresh orange zest, the fire-colored (and generally fiery) drink is as visually pleasing as it is tasteful. info stokecharlotte.com
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NOV 2017 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 85
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KINDRED’S
DR A M A 101 The man behind Kindred’s bar shares one of their popular twists on a classic rye cocktail. by SEAN MCCREEDY photo JAMEY PRICE Like many of the cocktails here at Kindred, this drink represents our own twist on a couple of classics. When I created the Drama 101, I wanted to come up with a boozy rye cocktail that had some depth to it while introducing a touch of sweetness, and, lastly, a bitter element. The Drama 101 is a combination of rye whiskey, Cocchi Dopo Teatro (which translates to After Theater in Italian), Punt e Mes, demerara sugar, and Peychaud’s Bitters. The name Drama 101 is the theater version of bitter introduction. This
drink is a perfect marriage of an Old Fashioned and a Manhattan. The Dopo Teatro is a fortified wine that has elements of both a sweet vermouth and amaro. The Punt e Mes translates to “point and a half”—one part sweet to one half part bitter. The addition of rich syrup, gives the drink its caramel and molasses notes. Garnished with luxardo cherries, the “Drama 101” is a great sipper or nightcap. info kindreddavidson.com
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T H E F OL IO
words COREY MILLER portraits JAMEY PRICE photos of spaces MICHAEL BLEVINS
98 | Making A Statement 102 | Chiott Family room 104 | Classic Retreat 106 | Dining In 108 | Dilworth Contemporary
Together, architect Ruard Veltman and interior designer Julia Wood craft homes from the inside out.
89 | A Finished Thought
A FI N ISH ED T HOUGH T
THE FOLIO
Foundations
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Julia Wood came to Ruard Veltman over a decade ago with a proposition: “You need me,” the interior designer told him confidently. The architect, in his way, offered a simple response: “No, we don’t.” Ruard was wrong.
These days, Julia Wood’s touch can be found in most every Veltman design—whether that’s a color palette underscoring the structural minutiae of a space or a piece of custom-designed furniture filling an otherwise unfillable void in a room. Together with Ruard, Julia now heads up Veltman Wood Interiors, an offshoot of the greater Ruard Veltman Architecture business. Considering their backgrounds, these two eventually encountering one another must’ve been inevitable: They preoccupy themselves with all the same things, but they each bring different things to the table. Ruard, for one, has always begun his architectural designs with their inner workings, constructing a house around a home as opposed to the reverse. He’s expressly concerned with the role interiors play in the constitutional design of a space.
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THE FOLIO
Foundations
“Julia understands space and proportion. She understands how certain colors and the scale of furniture affect a room.” “My upbringing and my experience with my previous employer was very much interior-focused,” Ruard explains. “I tend to design from the inside out. But as far as the actual fine tuning, choosing finishes and fabrics and so forth, I’m less knowledgeable than Julia…and with my personality I often just don’t have the patience for it.” Julia, on the other hand, has rarely been content to simply choose a few patterns and furnishings for a room. She relishes those things, of course, but interior design is, for her, also interior architecture. “I’ve always been interested in design from the ground up: starting with a floorplan, a shell, and really manipulating a whole space—not just the trimmings.” In other words, Ruard is an architect who cares about interiors, and Julia is an interior designer passionate about architecture. They’re an efficient team, not least of all because of each designer’s admiration for the other’s various talents. Julia, for example, appreciates Ruard’s deliberate design because it paves the way for purposeful interiors.
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THE FOLIO
Foundations
“I’ve always been interested in design from the ground up: starting with a floorplan, a shell, and really manipulating a whole space—not just the trimmings.” “Ruard resolves things,” Julia explains. “Some of the more sculptural architectural features come about because Ruard incorporates details in a clever manner. He is a genius with the scale of rooms; within open spaces, Ruard intentionally compresses certain areas by using varying architectural elements to differentiate spaces. And I think that’s one thing that sets our interior architecture apart, resolving one space with another.” In other words, that curve in the wall isn’t just there to be there: It serves a purpose, spatially, and Julia crafts her interiors in much the same way. “Julia understands space and proportion,” Ruard says. “She understands how certain colors and the scale of furniture affect a room.”
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THE FOLIO
Foundations
“Veltman Wood Interiors is really just about seeing a thought all the way through.”
Ultimately, they’re both designing space. Julia’s presence at Ruard Veltman Architecture means finished designs, and lots of them. And when Veltman and Wood finish a space, they finish it—down to furniture designs, if that’s what the clients want. They begin with a floor plan, like any architectural job, but this firm has the capacity to curate a home down to the finest details. “It’s really just about seeing a thought all the way through,” Ruard says. Veltman Wood Interiors is just that— a finished thought. info veltmanwoodinteriors.com
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Statement
M A K I NG A STATEM EN T Rug Culture provides some of the finest hand-knotted rugs to the Queen City and beyond words CHANAHRA FLETCHER Every home needs a statement piece. Whether that be a chandelier hanging regally in a foyer, or an assortment of flowers meticulously picked and arranged as a centerpiece to a table, each space needs a work of art to highlight its character. According to husband-andwife owners Behzad Safarian and Nasrin Robinson of Rug Culture in Charlotte, North Carolina, that piece of art comes in no better form than a stately rug. After first opening the doors to its Dilworth showroom in 2016, Rug Culture has served as a prime location to find beautiful, intricately designed rugs embodying the art and essence of Middle-Eastern culture.
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photos JAMEY PRICE
Each of the hand-knotted rugs displayed at Rug Culture exemplify elements of the Persian, Turkish, Indian, Pakistani, Nepalese, or Moroccan cultures that they come from, and are meticulously crafted over the course of many months. Owners Behzad and Nasrin take special pride in sharing these special pieces of art with the Charlotte community that they have been a part of for over 20 years. Behzad uses the generational knowledge he has gained over the years of his family’s experience in the rug business to personally work with each client or interior designer in the showroom to ensure the right rug is found for any given space.
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THE FOLIO
Statement
Rug Culture tackles all stages for their clients: If the showroom does not house a specific rug that a client is searching for, Rug Culture searches from a myriad of resources until the rug is found, and if you’re struggling with which piece to choose, Rug Culture happily delivers rugs to homes and lays them so that cli-
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ents may have the time and ease to make a decision from the comfort of their homes. Finally, after a purchase is made, Rug Culture offers cleaning and repair services in order to help maintain the brilliance of their valuable pieces. Rug Culture continually strives to bring the best options from top interna-
tional producers in rug furnishings to the Charlotte metropolitan area, and with the attention to detail and dedication to excellent service that they provide, it is easy to see how Rug Culture has been one of the top providers of rugs in the city they love. info rug-culture.com
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CHIOTT FAMILY ROOM words SUNNY HUBLER photo JOE PURVIS Chiott Custom Homes designs and builds in some of Charlotte’s most sought-after locations, from Myers Park to Waxhaw. The founder, Jonathan Chiott, a third-generation realtor and a second-generation builder, has more than 25-years of experience guiding his approach: with careful attention to detail and a desire to sustain client relationships over the long-term. With this in mind, each Chiott project can capture unique facets of the homeowners to provide them with a truly one-of-a-kind space. This open floor plan family
DETAILS
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room, from Tara and Jackson Hughes’ Charlotte residence, is one of the most important rooms of the house. Designed by Westbrook Interiors, it features the same focal design elements as the adjoining kitchen and dining area with its reclaimed ceiling beams and shiplap walls. The warm white pallet and plush furniture gives the space a cozy feel, to make sure the family room truly lives up to its name to bring everyone in the house together. info chiott.com
Surround and Hearth by Caprecast | Wall color by Benjamin Moore: Overcast OC-43
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A CLASSIC RETREAT words SUNNY HUBLER photo JIM SCHMID Lauren Clement of Lauren Nicole Designs has been designing her signature spaces for nearly a decade. This space, for a client with a new baby on the way, embodies Lauren’s ability to take a functional space and create a beautiful design. A calming master bedroom retreat was just what this family needed, which was achieved with a heavy focus on neutrals and cool colors. For an all-neutral room to be a success, and for it not to become boring, Lauren added in just the right amount of
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patterns and textures. The lighting, mirrors, and bedding are detailed without becoming overbearing. “We’ve achieved the look with a mix of different sizes of patterns -- even in the lamps and wall decor,” she explains. She also added dimension to the room with textures, brought out in the furniture and area rug. The end result is a restful retreat that can be used by the whole family. info laurennicoleinc.com
Mix master. Versatile. Eclectic. Curated. STUDIO by STICKLEY brings you a modern mix of materials in a unique way for a beautiful result. Introducing the sleek metal ribboned Addison Dining Table and Addison Console. A walnut and metal masterpiece.
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DINING IN words SUNNY HUBLER photo CHRIS EDWARDS Over the past years, design trends started to dilute the importance of a dining room in a home. Replaced by great rooms and sprawling kitchens, it seemed the era for “dining” was on the way out. However, recently, interior designer Anne Buresh found families are again wanting a space to gather and share a meal without all the distractions of technology. In this home, the dining room became the focal point upon entering, and a place the homeowner was ready to elevate, not only for those intimate family meals, but also for entertaining. Challenged with striking a balance between chic and usable for this busy family of four, Anne chose sleek, comfortable chairs
DETAILS
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to foster casual conversation and lingering at the family’s table after a meal. To blend the style with the rest of the home, she upped the ante with a resplendent conversation-starting light fixture, a mirror to expand the space visually, and custom sideboard to finish off the classic, yet timelessly stunning design. Anne loves creating a sanctuary at home for her clients and truly believes a relaxing environment does not mean it is void of elegance and style—exemplified perfectly in this beautiful dining room. info anneburesh.com
Chandelier by Aerin Lauder for Visual Comfort | Console by Tritter Feefer | Rug by Stark
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DI LWORT H CON TEM POR A RY words LIZA CARRASQUILLO
photos MICHAEL BLEVINS
Architect Greg Perry, with the help of homeowner Lauren Harkey of Hodges Taylor, designs a stunning and artful Dilworth bungalow.
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When Lauren Harkey, a partner at Hodges Taylor Art Consultancy, was ready to create her first home, she knew above all else that she wanted to move to the charming Dilworth community. With the neighborhood’s approachable atmosphere, unique aesthetic, and the addition of a short commute to work, Harkey had found the perfect spot for her home. The historic neighborhood also provided her with the opportunity to invite contrast. Opposite the low-vaulted ceilings and wide front porches of the neighborhood’s signature bungalows, Harkey’s home takes advantage of her narrow lot and features high ceilings with a clean, rectangular exterior. The smooth, white brick of the walls against the tall, dark windows extends this modern look into an eye-catching dwelling that stands very much apart from its neighbors. Originally taking over the home while it was already under construction, Harkey trusted the prior owner—founder of the renowned real estate developer Manor & Park—and continued the contract with Charlotte architect Greg Perry.
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“I’ve followed Greg Perry’s work and am a fan of his seamless blend of style and approachability,” says Harkey. “Each of Greg’s projects is unique to the owner’s needs, personality, and aesthetic.” With Perry, who tackles all kinds of projects from traditional to contemporary, using locally-sourced vendors and craftsmen and guiding the modern exterior look into a cozy, family-oriented interior, Harkey found a home that not only fit her style, but gave her room to grow and invite guests. “I come from a small family and parents who always enjoyed entertaining at our family home,” says Harkey. “I love living in a home where people feel welcome and where I can entertain.” After walking up the neat brick steps to the home’s door—a space tucked away on the side of the building—visitors enter a wide foyer with unique, Edison-style lighting, light hardwood floors, and small, simple furnishings. Bringing the exterior indoors, the white walls are as clean as the brick outside, save for the artwork lining the walls. The eye-catching art quickly becomes the focus of the room, adding the elegance of an art gallery to a space that still somehow feels homey. Just past the
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foyer, this 3,248 square foot home opens up into a kitchen, dining room, and seating area. Boasting an open range stove top and a spacious island, the kitchen is complete with white cabinets. The windows allow natural light to filter through the space and draw the eye to the bold, rustic dining table across the way. The open floor plan continues into the living room with comfortable seating and a calming atmosphere. This atmosphere is anchored to the space with natural colors for the furniture and the continuation of light hardwood floors to complement the white walls. With clear sight lines to the backyard, the room’s natural aesthetic is enhanced against the backdrop of the yard’s greenery. The style of the first floor continues upstairs into the house’s four bedrooms and three bathrooms, giving each of them a modern yet comfortable feel. The rooms nevertheless keep their individuality by featuring unique furniture pieces and artwork. Beautifully balancing modern, minimalistic design with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this house gives Harkey the perfect space to entertain guests and enjoy the comfortability of a true home. info hodgestaylor.com gregperrydesign.com
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words SUNNY HUBLER photos courtesy HOTEL DOMESTIQUE
The statement lighting at Restaurant 17, the world-class eatery inside Hotel Domestique.
124 | An Old Tradition, Anew 128 | Pawleys Pursuits
Relax and recharge at South Carolina’s Hotel Domestique where there is something for everyone.
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DOMESTIQUE
T H E E X PL OR E D
HOTEL
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Weekender
When planning a weekend getaway, finding the perfect place to stay can prove a daunting task. Thankfully, South Carolina’s Hotel Domestique has it all—a turquoise saltwater pool, a renowned restaurant and cafe, a modern, yet effortlessly cozy atmosphere, and many more amenities that represent luxury at its finest. Part of Hotel Domestique’s charm is that it was designed by a cyclist, for a cyclist, as George Hincapie’s cycling expeditions and extensive travels inspired much of the hotel’s worldly charm. Located at the base of the serene Blue Ridge Mountains, the Spanish villa-like hotel boasts all the amenities one could desire while on a much-needed weekend hiatus in the Carolinas.
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Weekender For those seeking action-packed outdoor adventures, Hotel Domestique regularly rents out Canyon bikes to guests to ride their custommade routes. These are for cyclists of all skill levels. Guided routes are also available, for a more challenging experience. Although cycling remains a popular activity for guests, one does not have to travel far for a memorable experience at Hotel Domestique. The hotel’s European-style breakfast features three courses of tasteful fuel for the day, with fresh, flaky pastries and coffee on the daily. For dinner, Restaurant 17, the hotel’s premier eating arena, features innovative plates that seem more like edible art. Utilizing local ingredients from nearby streams and farms, Restaurant 17 marks a critical point of interest for those looking to experience all Hotel Domestique has to offer.
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THE EXPLOR ED
Weekender
For maximum relaxation benefits, venture into one of the hotel’s yoga classes to clear the mind and soothe the soul—top it all off with a deep tissue massage and you’re set. Furthering Hotel Domestique’s reputation as a hotspot for all that is R & R are the bedrooms themselves. With rustic hardwood floors, velvety throw blankets, and romantic lighting, there only lies one problem: You won’t want to leave. Whether it’s for a family weekend full of adventurous endeavours, or for a best friend’s bachelorette celebration, Hotel Domestique is a one-stop shop for all occasions. info hoteldomestique.com
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THE EXPLOR ED
Adventurer
AN OLD TRADITION,
A N EW Israel Matson hones the craft of falconry with a fresh twist by WILHEM DIEHL photos ISRAEL MATSON Israel Matson can be described in many respects: outdoorsman, crafter, falcon tamer. At just a young 20-something, Israel has walked many paths and mastered more trades than most; the way he approaches his work, with both dedication and creativity, paints a picture of not only a serial hobbyist, but an artist. Falconry just happens to be the arena in which Israel’s many crafts tangle, with artistic flair and a keen eye toward the future. He’s the young keeper of an old tradition. The pursuit began with a clearing and a calm bird, sitting between Israel’s brother and his quiet hunting stand. Curious why
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the bird wasn’t repelled by his presence, he decided to step out of the way and examine it, believing it to be injured. Matson got so close he could have thrown his coat over the raptor, so he did just that. One pickup ride later and the hawk was released in the family’s study for what they thought would be a recovery effort. Most people would find the presence of a hawk in their living space to be somewhat threatening, if not unwelcome, but Israel didn’t approach the bird with fear. Instead, he let his hospitality go unblemished and casually took down a squirrel with an airgun for his guest. Content with a hearty meal and a soft couch, the bird was right at home and didn’t seem to be bothered whatsoever.
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Adventurer Instead of recovering, it appeared as though the bird was purely seeking an adventure of its own. The hawk was released from his vacation and ascended to the piney branches above, but it did not escape Israel’s fascination. Over the next year, Israel immersed himself in the world of falconry. That’s no easy task either—falconry is an ancient art with a dictionary’s worth of definitions and concepts and interpretations. Israel took it all in stride though, picking up leathery on the side to craft his own gear as well as seeking out an apprenticeship from a local falconry guild. Israel was an apprentice for two years before he was able to pass the state’s inspections. That included inspecting all the gear he had crafted and the ‘mews’, or hawk houses, he had created himself. As you should expect by this point in the story, Israel passed on his first attempt. Within a few short years, Israel had honed the art of falconry and come out the other side a pioneer. Falconry is an ancient sport, dating all the way back to 2000 BC. It has trickled down many generations and adapted continuously since it was in the hands of Atilla the Hun. Today, it’s in the hands of Israel. Rather than conquering a third of the world, Israel’s vision has instead brought falconry to a new frontier. info @israelmatson
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Replacement and New Construction Full Service Sales & Installation 3034 Griffith Street • Charlotte, NC 28203 • 704.987.0777 • www.clarkhalldoors.com
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Sporting Destination
PAW L E Y S
PU RSU ITS Fly fishing with Jeff Lattig and other island sporting and leisure activities by SUNNY HUBLER photos JAMEY PRICE On the south end of the Grand Strand sits Pawleys Island, a picturesque seaside destination that’s beloved by locals and visitors alike. It’s all lowcountry island vibes, with pristine marshland, palmettos, and Cypress cottages. The food is phenomenal, from the quaint Chive Blossom cafe to the fresh seafood dives that abound, and the nightlife is quintessentially Carolina, with live blues and plenty of beers at places like the Island Tavern and Clubhouse Pub. The real draw is a little quieter,
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however. Pawleys is place where, if you appreciate the land and sea, you can hardly make yourself go inside. Only 30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach, Pawleys is a whole different world: an untouched escape that outdoor enthusiasts sing the praises of to no end. And here’s the thing: Pawleys has it all, from rolling dunes and wide beaches to sea duck hunting and the type of fly fishing you can’t get out of your head the rest of the year. Here’s five outdoor activities to fully soak up all this place has to offer.
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Sporting Destination
Fly Fishing There are several opportunities for guided and solo fly fishing in Pawleys, including Living Water Guide Service’s many offerings. The experts like guide, Jeff Lattig, tell us there’s been a run of big redfish lately. You’ll want to be on his flats boat to get the most out of the fly fishing experience, and so you can fully explore all the waterways in the area. Deep Sea Fishing As plentiful as the fly fishing is, the deep sea fishing opportunities abound here as well. It’s a chance to experiment with different types of fishing tackle and gear, and there’s a dozen charters that all cover inshore and deep sea for Pawleys. The seasoned fishermen are founts of knowledge for newbie and expert visitors alike. Sailing Charters The sailing charters are perhaps one of the most picturesque ways to enjoy the outdoors of Pawleys. You can choose from full and half days, and
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Sporting Destination
sunset sails. The view of the island from the sea is unbeatable. Golf For the more leisurely side of sporting, Pawleys has gorgeous courses, including the Pawleys Plantation Country Club, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, and River Club. They provide lowcountry scenery aplenty and all the golf amenities you could desire. Barrier Island Duck Hunting The guides have been charting the waters of South Carolina for over 25 years, and the guided sea duck hunts are a (seasonal) adrenal rush you simply can’t find everywhere. The opportunity to bring down a duck or three from a charted boat off the coast is quintessentially lowcountry. info pawleysisland.com
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Romantic Hiking Hideaway 2300 Swag Road, Waynesville, NC 28725 • (828) 926-0430 • (800) 789-7672 • www.theswag.com
With enticing dancing flames, you can feel the warmth of the new RH Peterson Real Fyre G52 Radiant Fyre Gas log systems. Molded with an exclusive fiber enhanced refractory ceramic mixture, these handcrafted logs showcase the crisp Charred Evergreen Oak &Charred Evergreen Split Oak bark detail. They glow and radiate like burning wood.
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4332 Monroe Rd., Charlotte, NC 28205 | 704-332-4139
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T H E RUG GED GEN TL EM A N How the Buffalo Jackson Trading Co. combines the class of a Southern gentleman with the grit of the outdoors by LIZA CARRASQUILLO
photos JAMEY PRICE or courtesy BUFFALO JACKSON TRADING CO.
“A [Buffalo Jackson] man is someone who embraces adventure, hard work, and pioneering, a man who knows honoring the past doesn’t necessarily mean repeating it.”
In the heart of Historic Downtown Matthews sits the flagship Trading Post of Buffalo Jackson Trading Co., a men’s apparel store that somehow manages to feel old and new at the same time. Built upon the history of the area, new customers walk through a door as old as Matthews itself before being faced with a full-sized buffalo in the center of the floor. The scent of their cured leathers will bring back memories of when men pioneered the great outdoors, while their sleek button-downs and
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“Buffalo Jackson conjures up the images of tradition, camaraderie, and character that is true to our heritage and America.”
silk bowties pull you right back to the present. The Buffalo Jackson Trading Co. seeks to dress the modern man, but with a nod back to the imperfect, adventurous pioneers that came before them. “What you wear or carry can define and shape you,” explains founder Xan Hood. “Buffalo Jackson began with this goal in mind, to create a brand that fits a man who knows honoring the past doesn’t necessarily mean repeating it,” Xan explains.
“Not only does this city lend itself to our Southern roots, but being so close to the Appalachian Mountains allows us to stay connected to our rugged Western way of doing things.”
Inspired by iconic men of the past like Teddy Roosevelt, Ernest Hemingway, Abraham Lincoln, and John Muir, Xan believes these men “fully embody the grit and hard work that define [his] brand” and personify what it means to “Honor Your Wild,” which is also Buffalo Jackson’s motto. The company was actually first founded back in 2009 in Colorado, when Hood saw the need for a brand that could fill the disconnect between the ideals of the past and the style of the future. In 2013, Hood moved that brand to Charlotte, the perfect place to meet his ideal customer. Buffalo Jackson’s clothing—flannels, jackets, fleeces—are all made with highquality fabrics and can be used on a night out just as easily as it can be used on a hike through the Appalachian Mountains. The unique use of bison and elk leathers give their footwear and bags a balance between beauty and durability, and have combined the leather-making techniques of old with the technological advancements of today. Their many accessories, such as leather Apple Watch bands, field journals, and luggage tags, allow customers to carry a little bit of the wild with them wherever they go. “We like to find the old and bring in the new,” says Hood. “A tension between the two.” With a thriving online store and their Downtown Matthews Trading Post, Hood and his crew welcome anyone to come in, shop around, and find their rugged gentleman within. info buffalojackson.com
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TH E H ERITAGE OF
CA NOEI NG
Fritz Orr’s handcrafted wooden canoe paddles by SARAH GALLO photos JAMEY PRICE
For Fritz Orr, summer camp brought about more than just bothersome poison ivy rashes and a newfound knowledge of caveman-like survival techniques. It ushered in what would become not just a passion, but a profession, in the unlikely field of canoe craftmanship. The wood craftsman’s long-standing relationship with canoes began with those two summer camps his family owned, which in turn also lead to an eight-year run on the US Canoe Kayak Wildwater C-1 team. An extensive background in canoeing adds to Orr’s ability to design carefully crafted canoe paddles, featuring his signature curved blades and hollow shafts, which benefit canoers of many varieties. Orr and his father built composite canoes and kayaks onsite at the family’s Camp Merrywood during the mid-1900s. Orr explains, “the only way to get a deck boat was to build your own.” Eventually, he transitioned to work for Dagger Canoe Company, and then Perception, shaping masters for new boats. Since 1980, Orr has been making 100-150 handmade canoe paddles a year. Orr’s thriving business, Fritz Orr Canoe, is known for producing paddles that, though breathtaking to look at, are made to truly be used.
“Even the ones that I know are going to go on a wall are built the same as the ones that will get used,” Orr says. “A lot of people don’t like curved blades, but I think they’re super efficient,” Orr shares. “But when you think about it, the blade is stationary. A really good, efficient stroke is when the blade goes in and you’re traveling forward, then the blade comes out.” Orr takes pride in using the finest woods, which results in a product that can only be fairly called a work of art. “I mainly use Appalachian wood,” Orr says. “Then I’ll mix a tad bit of tropicals in occasionally but I like to use Appalachian wood, so I’ll use walnut, maple, cherry, and aspen.” The easier-to-make paddles require about 15 hours of labor, while the more intricate designs can take 40 hours or more to craft. The result is a ready-to-use paddle that blends the fine woods to a finish as smooth as silk. Orr notes that fully teaching an apprentice the “Orr way” would take about a year and a half, but after six months one could begin getting their hands dirty as Orr claims, “it’s more about them not cutting their finger off.” In the slightly dangerous business of making canoe paddles, battle scars are part of the job.
“ Even the ones that I know are going to go on a wall are built the same as the ones that will get used.”
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In Orr’s eyes, what classifies a paddle as easy or hard to make depends on three key elements: the intricacy of the wood, the time it takes, and the paddle’s finish—the finish being a task most paddle-craftsmen don’t take on. Falling into the “hard-to-make” category are the rich white walnut paddles, which require a lengthy process of harvesting the luxurious material. “The reason that it’s hard to get [white walnut] is because the tree stump is probably the diameter of about the size of that wall right there,” Orr explains, pointing to the large wall ahead. “It takes a year for the water to drain out after they cut it before they can run it through one of the bandsaws.” Due to the immense amount of water in the stump, the blade can dull before it reaches two or three feet. As a result, Orr waits another year for it to dry for a second time. Fritz Orr Canoe offers three general paddle classifications for customers to choose from—quiet water, artistic, and river. For the more particular canoe-connoisseurs out there, Orr works with the customer to develop a more specialized design. “I’ll hear, ‘I want to hang it on this wall,’ and some
people will actually send me a picture,” Orr shares. “Sometimes they get an interior designer involved. They’re telling me what they want. At that point I just remain real flexible and it gives me an empty palette to go with.” About 50 percent of Orr’s sales go toward a customer looking to display the work of art in his or her home. The company’s logo, “F.O.C” is embellished on each and every paddle, characterizing the product as a Fritz Orr original. The more artistic designs, like that of the “Artistic Silhouette” paddle, allow customers to submit a picture to be turned into a silhouette. The result is a customized paddle with the buyer’s silhouette of choice gracefully weaved into the design. It’s clear that Fritz Orr Canoe has something for everyone. Whether you are a canoeist looking for that perfect paddle for your next exhibition, or an appreciator of the wooden arts, Orr’s handmade canoe paddles are nothing short of high-quality gems.
“An extensive background in canoeing adds to Orr’s ability to design carefully crafted canoe paddles featuring his signature curved blades and hollow shafts which benefit canoers of many varieties.”
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info fritzorrcanoe.com
T H E ROD M A K ER North Carolinian John Hollifield makes some of the finest bamboo fly rods in the world. by SARAH GALLO photos KURTIS MILLER and JAMEY PRICE
photo by Kurtis Miller
fishing memorabilia and rows of colorful rod-wrapping threads fill John Hollifield’s modestly-sized workshop, but one abundant material stands out amongst the rest—bamboo. When Hollifield first began tying flies (the process of making an artificial fly to catch fish) at eight years-old, after his dad gave him a fly tying kit that he himself didn’t have the patience for, the Western Carolina native had no idea it would lead to a lifelong pursuit crafting signature bamboo fly rods. Today, Hollifield Fly Rods has orders coming in from across the world as more and more fly fishermen have come to appreciate the custom engraving and utmost quality that make a fly rod a Hollifield. And if you know anything about fishing, you know any fisherman worth his salt is all but obsessed with the perfect rod. Hollifield crafted his first fly rod while in college, using a kit from Cabela’s—a feat that required about 60 hours of work and participation in a fly rod making class. Clearly, it paid off, as he’s been making fly rods ever since. More recently, circa 2011, Hollifield has been making solely bamboo fly rods for customers looking for a fly rod like no other. They are rare and artful, a product of the impassioned man. And when it comes to Hollifield Fly Rods those impassioned
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men seeking the ultimate custom fly rod have a variety of options. To start, anglers can choose from either a deep brown colored cane or a golden blonde-colored cane. They can also custom-pick size and shape, guide wrap colors, and grip materials, not to mention special add-ons like artfully-designed engraving and Rattan grips.
photo by Kurtis Miller
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Hollifield has become a master at utilizing bamboo, an often underestimated wood, to create fly rods that are not only visually pleasing, but useful in their strength. “People don’t realize that, as far as toughness goes, bamboo is often tougher than graphite fly rods because it’s most often solid,” Hollifield shares. Setting Hollifield Fly Rods apart from other notable fly rod brands is their intricate engraving, which Hollifield does himself. As an avid appreciator of engraved guns, Hollifield has always had an appreciation for the artistic flair engraving brings about. Now, Hollifield has engraving down to a science. He begins by drawing the proposed design on the
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computer, and shrinks it to fit its designated area. Next, he uses transfer fluid to transition the impression onto the bamboo rod and, lastly, Hollifield begins the delicate process of engraving the impressed by hand. “I seldom ever draw anything on the material that I’m going to be engraving,” Hollifield explains. “It’s so hard to do that on such a microscopic scale, because your heartbeat’s going to get you.” This year alone, Hollifield plans to make around 15-20 bamboo fly rods. But that’s not all: In addition to making his famous bamboo rods, the craftsman also hosts six-day crash courses in the art of bamboo fly rod making. During a typical class, eager students learn how to do ev-
erything from straightening and tapering the strips to applying varnish coats. At the end of the class, Hollifield’s students will take home their very own rod and, often, a newfound passion for the craft. Although making fly rods is not the most cost-friendly of creative passions, Hollifield insists that it is far worth the investment, as any passion one is serious about pursuing will likely present some initial setbacks. In short, Hollifield pays tribute to a deeply beloved sport and also acts as a refreshing reminder that one truly can fulfill lifelong passions through unwavering dedication to one’s craft. info hollifieldbamboo.com
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SU N R A ISE D
North Carolina’s very own Sun-Raised Farms is at the forefront of the sustainability movement in the South. by XENIA FONG photos JAMEY and EMILY PRICE
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As the importance of sustainability becomes more evident each and every day, technology looks to keep pace—new companies are revolutionizing ways to better the environment and promote healthy living in the most sound manner possible. North Carolina’s very own Sun-Raised Farms is at the forefront of the South’s sustainability movement with their mission to provide developers, owners, and operators of solar farms with a grounds maintenance solution that uses livestock—specifically, sheep sourced from local farms. Sun-Raised Farms prides itself on working in a way that not only aids the community, but the environment as well. By uniting livestock and solar panels, Sun-Raised Farms came up with a solution that can do several things: They can provide a quality grounds maintenance solution for solar companies, develop opportunities for North Carolina farm families to grow their farms, and are able to reduce the need to import lamb from Australia and New Zealand by promoting pasture-raised lamb produced by North Carolinians for North Carolinians. So, why sheep and solar panels? Using livestock makes it easy to maintain vegetation on the solar farms, which eliminates the demand for mowing and herbicide applications, thus minimizing emissions of harmful chemicals in the air and in our food. It is also low-impact, sustainable, and integrates the local
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community into the project, while solar farms provide pastureland for grazing, shelters livestock, and provides shade for the animals. Sheep are used in particular because, according to the minds behind Sun-Raised, they “thrive entirely on a forage-based diet” and their “small size prevents them from damaging panels and other equipment.” Plus, the team has found farmers are a lot more open to using the panels when they understand the usefulness through the livestock first—something familiar to ease into the new technology. There are currently 17 local families within the Sun-Raised Farm network who contribute livestock to the company. Sun-Raised also offers training sessions, access to insurance, a network of other farmers, and most importantly, a market for local farmers to sell their humanely-raised, hormone-free livestock. As for their future plans, Sun-Raised hopes to provide a steady supply of NC products for the high-end restaurant and retail market in the state and region and yield a source of revenue for North Carolina farm families. You can already purchase Sun-Raised Farm’s pasture-raised meat at Whole Foods, and will soon be able to find their product at local farm-to-table restaurants in Charlotte including Heirloom, The Asbury, Rooster’s, Aix en Provence, 5Church, and Aria Tuscan Grill. info sunraisedfarms.com
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CALLING
M R . BOBW H IT E The fall and hopeful rise of the Bobwhite Quail words MARC WILLIAMS photos JAMEY PRICE
D
uring my years as the proprietor of The Sporting Gent, I’ve heard countless stories of customers’ kin, reaching back generations, hunting for bobwhite quail along what are now Charlotte’s major commuter thoroughfares. I’ve been presented with old black and white photographs of our finest sporting gentlemen after a successful outing, all standing in a familiar pose; a stoic stare and upright stance, four-legged companions at their sides. Charlotte was a different place back then. The burgeoning skyline of our “Uptown” was still just a developer’s dream. Reach back 60 years and quail were as prevalent in the area as the cardinal, enough so to name a renowned golf course and club, Quail Hollow, after the now elusive bird that once filled its grass fields and forest edges.
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From the Coastal Plains to the foothills of the Blue Ridge, the Northern bobwhite quail was a sporting staple, no different than the now abundant whitetail deer or wild turkeys. As time passed, other game species thrived as their habitats improved, statewide agencies imposed season limits and dedicated gamelands to lend Mother Nature a helping hand as the developing world began to encroach. But the bobwhite, a small, ground-dwelling bird, saw its habitat dwindle. A bird with a naturally high mortality rate, quail require a specific combination of ecological factors for their broods to thrive. Rows of native grasses, lined in messy edges along crop fields, provided the cover and protection needed to shield the bobwhite from its predators. But as America’s population grew, and as farmers planted more and raised greater number of cattle to try to keep up with the increasing demand at market, the bobwhite’s decline was as certain as death and taxes. Populations began to decrease with an almost systematic efficiency. Studies conducted by both South and North Carolina Wildlife Resources agencies recorded a steady year-over-year decline in not only wild quail coveys but in the number of hunters participating in the once ubiquitous regional activity. Tales of flushing coveys were becoming legend as time and generations passed. Fast forward to the present day. With farming and forestry practices headed much in the same direction as they were post World War II, the bobwhite’s habitat has yet to see the resurgence required for a natural resurgence of the bird’s breeding, nesting, roosting, and food source needs.
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Private lands owners, in cooperation with both nonprofit and government agencies, have begun to instill conservation policies and practices at great cost to the landowner. The battle to bring back the bobwhite will need to be as hard fought as any conservation skirmish seen before. Massive amounts of acreage, resources, and (as usual) money are essential to the resurgence of our beloved game bird. Stocking programs, similar to those instituted by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission for trout streams along the Blue Ridge, are what some consider an impracticable and short-term solution to a seemingly longterm issue. But according to experts from the fields of biology, environmental science, forestry, and a host of other specialties, the true solution will always lie in the resurrection of suitable habitat on a large scale. In the interim, we will continue along the path, listening to those stories and memories that brought us to the field in the first place. It’s the basis of the sporting lifestyle. Within this generation, we hope to soon be making our own memories in the fields of the Carolinas, instead of solely relying on those of generations before. info thesportinggent.com
Marc WIlliams of The Sporting Gent on Selwyn Avenue is a lifelong outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman, and conservationist who spends his time sharing his love of the Carolinas with his loyal clients and avidly promotes the importance of our state’s wildlife and wild spaces.
THE WATER M A N’S HOBBY An introduction to Carolina duck decoys with local collector-historian Robbie Smith words COREY MILLER photos JAMEY PRICE
Waxhaw’s Robbie Smith is a family man, operator of his own business, and an outdoors enthusiast. He grew up in this area hunting game birds and fishing with flies, and he knows the land and story of this state better than just about any Carolinian you’re liable to come across. He’s a normal enough guy…aside from the fact that he owns an ungodly amount of wooden ducks. Yes, Robbie collects old duck decoys. In recent years, he’s amassed a library of relics from all over the state, carved by immensely talented artisans who had no clue they were artisans, these North Carolina watermen who called our coasts home. And he’s not alone in his obsession: Decoy collecting is more than a hobby for some of Robbie’s peers. At the right auction, the right bird can go for hundreds of thousands. That’s not hyperbole. Wild waterfowl provided an abundant source of food for settlers of the North Carolina coastal regions, and early residents were known to make these decoys to lure the birds within range of their guns. But why, today, is there such acute interest in these old wooden things? Well, like
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“For some people, this hand-carved wooden duck was the foundation of their existence, what kept them alive.”
anything made necessary by the demands of a tougher time, they have something to share. “The decoy is a handcrafted tool,” Robbie Smith explains. “It was used to create a living for somebody, whether it put food on the table or allowed these coastal folks to cater to hunting parties. For some people, this hand-carved wooden duck was the foundation of their existence, what kept them alive. And they just happen to be incredible pieces of art: The patina of a 120 year old bird that has the original paint, the form and the sculpture of it… There’s not much like it in our state.” They are beautiful, each duck varying in size and shape and material according to their varying origins. They’re usually small enough to hold in one’s hand, but counties like Currituck and Dare yielded bigger and blockier birds: Because of the enormity of the surrounding sounds, hunters needed large, obvious decoys. The carvers of Hyde County, meanwhile, used the limited mediums available to them in their swampy region, crafting beautifully crude, organic-looking pieces known to collectors as “root heads.” Some areas along the coast are even known for their
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shorebird decoys, tiny beach robins and willets designed to be staked in the sand, though these are exceptionally rare today. Some of the most striking decoys in Robbie’s collection are the wire frames, decoys whose form is stretched and painted canvas: These things have a geometric quality to them that makes sense to the eye—maybe the wire skeleton is an attempt to mimic nature’s frames. It’s odd: When a bunch of these things are collected together, they betray a kind of history that isn’t written down anywhere. It seems Robbie Smith isn’t just collecting beautifully rendered pieces of wood. As he sought out the underbelly of decoy collecting—to the dismay of his wife Leslie, who’d just found some small mercy in his fly-rod-collecting lull—something sparked. With every new acquisition, the decoys seemed to lose their woodenness. “At some point, it all came to life for me,” Robbie recalls, wide-eyed. Well, the ducks didn’t. They’re made of wood. But each of their roughly hewn lines and battered tails and buckshot-ridden heads started to show distinct character. They started to reveal their makers, and in turn, their makers’ stories. Every new decoy brought with it some tale of a time before now.
“In the 1920s, you needed something to do. If we were those guys, we’d just sit on the front porch and carve some decoys. We’d talk, sip a little liquor, and then carve some more decoys.” “I started to want to know things about the carver,” Robbie says. “Where was this guy born? What did he do for a living? Did he serve in any wars?” Robbie can tell you a hell of a lot about a man who lived nearly a century ago by looking closely at one of his birds. Like any collector, he’s got his preferred artists. Lee Dudley of Knotts Island is known for his majestic canvasbacks. Dudley was one of few North Carolina carvers to use glass eyes in his designs—a trend common among New Englanders—and most collectors can spot a Dudley duck a mile away. No respectable history of decoy carving excludes him. Stacy, NC’s Mitchell Fulcher seems to have had the steadiest painting hand of all Carolina’s carvers, as his pintails are some of the most stylish, graceful birds in the state. Like many of his ilk, Fulcher was so poor he could rarely afford brushes. Fortunately, the chewed end of a gum tree branch usually did the trick. Robbie’s personal favorite, James Best, carved some of the most beautiful fowl decoys found in Kitty Hawk or anywhere. Widely considered the finest carver from North Carolina, the man was a veritable classics sculptor: With the cleanest of lines and symmetry that appears to have taken days to perfect, these birds
are true fine art. Ironically, this duck-carving prodigy didn’t hunt many ducks. Robbie’s favorites often tend to be the hardest to find (and purchase), but that’s the nature of any obsession with antiquities. A lot of factors inform a duck’s value, from the skill of the carver to the date of its making. The combination of original paint (decoys were often repainted to reflect which fowl was in season) and an original head (these were known to disappear often due to, well, 10-gauge shotgun blasts) fetches a hefty sum. They were used and abused, so a largely undamaged bird is extraordinarily valuable. In large part, though, these things hold such value because of their rarity. They’re not really made anymore. The practice of decoy carving all but ceased in the latter half of the 20th century, and there’s no real consensus as to why. Industries evolved, and automation in manufacturing may have played a role, but Robbie thinks people just
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“The patina of a 120 year old bird, the form, and the sculpture of it… There’s not much like it in our state.”
got distracted. Television and radio came along. But when you weren’t working in the 1920s, Robbie says, “you needed something to do.” “If we were those guys, we’d just sit on the front porch and carve some decoys. We’d talk, sip a little liquor, and then carve some more decoys,” Robbie grins, as if he knows he’d be welcome on that porch. What is a collector? Robbie Smith doesn’t carve decoys. He’s not an artist, but he understands an art. He sees in an old thing value where others may see only gathering dust. He even sadly admits that he’s not sure what will become of his collection when he’s gone. But it’s not just the learners, the studiers, and the curious among us who give these old things their worth: Their value is ingrained. North Carolina is part of these wooden birds, and they have stories carved into them. And when Robbie’s no longer here, someone else will care. info @rosrunreel
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VENTURE OUTSIDE Whether you are seeking a sporting adventure or just a trip outside the city, these business are here to help you prepare for and enjoy the journey. photos provided by ADVERTISING PARTNERS section photo by JAMEY PRICE
Featured in this section: Due South Outfitters | The Blowing Rock | Rock Barn Country Club & Spa Champion’s Retreat Golf Club
SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION
SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION
OUTFITTER
DUE SOUTH OUTFITTERS
Boone, NC
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atives of Boone, NC know that there are few places as perfect for fly fishing as the Appalachian Mountains in fall, and no place in Boone knows fishing better than Due South Outfitters. Run by award-winning fly fishing guide Patrick Sessoms, this professional guide company takes fishers of all experience levels to the greatest waterways in the area. Founded in 2012 while Sessoms was attending Appalachian State University, Due South Outfitters quickly grew into a renowned guide service, now with five fully trained guides. “As a youngster,” says Sessoms, “I always had a passion for the outdoors
1082 East King Street, Suite 6
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and for fishing in general…I began guiding friends and family and quickly realized that guiding was my true calling.” After opening their first fly shop in February, Sessoms’ company became the only one in the area to be owned and operated by a full-time guide—a characteristic that has elevated his services due to his sheer knowledge of the waters. As thousands of trout enter the rivers this fall, take advantage of their expertise. With wade fishing in Boone and Montana-style drift boat trips in the nearby rivers of Tennessee, Due South Outfitters offers the perfect kind of trip for every fisherman.
Boone, NC
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828-355-9109
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duesouthoutfitters.com
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@duesouthoutfitters
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SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION
ATTRACTION
THE BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock, NC
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s North Carolina’s oldest travel attraction, the Blowing Rock remains an integral piece of the Blue Ridge Mountains’ identity. An immense cliff 4,000 feet above sea level, the rock overhangs the Johns River Gorge, a mere 3,000 feet below. Known for its picturesque beauty and stunning views, the Blowing Rock grants views of Grandfather Mountain and Mount Mitchell to the West, with the Blue Ridge chain surrounding the gorge. From the rock, you can also see Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock. The most peculiar aspect of this attraction is the way in which the Northwest wind sweeps up the rocky walls of the gorge,
Highway 321 South
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Blowing Rock, NC
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828-295-7111
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creating a phenomenon which will return whatever light objects are cast over the void. For this reason, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not has called it ‘the only place in the world where snow falls upside down.’ An attraction since 1933, the rock itself formed with the Blue Ridge mountains hundreds of millions of years ago. Today, a popular venue for weddings and festivals, including the annual Blowing Rock Music Festival, the Blowing Rock is open year-round, weather permitting. The attraction includes nature trails, overlook observation decks, picnic areas, a garden, and a waterfall. Visit The Rock’s website for seasonal hours and upcoming events.
theblowingrock.com
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Open Daily
SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION
COUNTRY CLUB
ROCK BARN COUNTRY CLUB
Conover, NC
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estled in the foothills of Western NC lies Rock Barn Country Club and Spa, a community built on relaxation, exceptional service, and enjoyment. Enjoy a vacation weekend in their comfortable lodging, or even consider purchasing your own home, to take advantage of Rock Barn’s exemplary amenities. Boasting two award-winning golf courses, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and eight tennis courts, Rock Barn is dedicated to fostering an active lifestyle of recreation. Its seclusion offers guests and members an environment as serene as its Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop, and it cultivates that serenity with beautiful walking trails and a 20,000 square foot
3791 Club House Drive
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Conover, NC
European day spa. Blending the lost elegance of Rome and the treatments of the East, the spa promises to ease the worries away with a full day of bliss. Finish the night with premium food at any eatery you choose. Savor the fine dining of the awardwinning Champs Bistro or indulge on the casual, classic fare of Rocker’s Lounge and find world-class service at every turn. Looking to host an event? From their luxurious clubhouses for corporate events to their elegant ballrooms for weddings, Rock Barn offers a venue for every occasion. Book your next stay with the Rock Barn Country Club and experience the tranquility of Western NC for yourself.
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Clubhouse • 828-459-1125
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Spa • 828-459-9150
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rockbarn.com
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GOLF CLUB
CHAMPIONS RETREAT GOLF CLUB Evans, GA
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he Champions Retreat in Evans, Georgia is just that—a complete golfing escape reserved only for those who wish to be treated just like the greats that came before them. Members of the retreat will have access to exclusive events as they relax in the resort’s luxury homes. With the option to visit or own their cottages, guests and members will always find a package that works for them. With 13 green jackets, 34 Major victories, and 159 tournament wins between them, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Jack Nicklaus stand as three of the most decorated players in golf history. Combining their years of experience and unique perspectives, the three players
37 Champions Parkway
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Evans, GA 30809
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706-854-6960
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worked together to create the retreat’s iconic course around the natural island, bluff, and creek of the former timber plot. For those looking to book weddings and even corporate events, the retreat offers The Barn, a celebration venue that combines classic elegance with Georgia’s rustic, Southern charm. Enjoy the staff’s world-class service in their restaurant, the Grille House, and experience true Southern hospitality. The Champions Retreat seeks to elevate everything about their resort—from their perfect service to their ingeniously-designed courses—to the absolute highest level possible. They don’t just strive to be great; they strive to be champions.
info@championsretreat.net
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championsretreat.net
IN DEX Acquisitions ......................................126 Amina Rubinacci .................................22 Arcadia Custom Homes ......................51 Artistic Contractors .......................37 Ascent Uptown ..................................119 Baku ......................................................85 Barrington’s .......................................87 Beads Incorporated ..........................63 Bedside Manor ....................................89 Blackhawk Hardware ......................177 Blue Ridge Mountain Club ...............121 Bruce Julian....................................... 122 Buffalo Jackson ...............................125 Cadenza ................................................77 Carolina Sculpture......................... 66 Clark Hall Doors .............................125 Classic Attic ......................................107 Clean Catch ........................................83 Clear Smile ..........................................67 Cococo Home .....................................103 CosmeticDentistryoftheCarolinas..19 Cottingham Chalk Hayes .................33 Couture Knots ....................................93 David’s LTD .............................................2 Design Centers International ........81 Designia Landscape ..........................129 Dewoolfson...................................... 120 Diamond Springs ................................34 Diamonds Direct ................................179 Donald Haack Diamonds ..................27 Elite Design Group ............................101 Elizabeth Bruns, INC. .........................23
Engel & Volkers ...................................57 Evoke .....................................................81 Fahrenheit ...........................................10 Ferguson ..............................................79 Gerrard Builders ...............................28 Good Food On Montford.................87 Good’s Home Furnishings ................95 Grande Custom Homes .....................68 Grandfather Homes ..........................59 Hearth & Patio ....................................133 I.C. London ...........................................67 Infinity Medspa & Wellness .............65 Insight Automation ...........................49 Ivey’s Hotel .........................................24 J. Landon ...............................................97 J. Sams................................................... 40 Jas Am ....................................................55 Jerald Melberg ...................................38 KBN Interiors .....................................105 Karen Kettler Designs ....................107 Kingswood ...........................................47 Laca Projects .....................................40 Lake Norman Realty ..........................45 Land Rover Charlotte .......................15 Lauren Nicole Designs .....................99 Lucy & Company ....................................31 Majestic Bath .....................................91 Metrolina Auto group .........................6 Mint Museum .......................................34 Movement Mortgage ........................53 Myron Greer ......................................132 Nestlewood .......................................116
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Plan your next getaway, and experience a fun-filled stay packed with amazing amenities, including complimentary access to the Charlotte Athletic Club, as well as fine dining and much more! 704-377-0400 • omnihotels.com/charlotte
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New Gallery Of Modern Art ..............36 New Life Building Supplies ..............131 Omni Hotels & Resorts ....................178 Peppermint Forest ............................123 Picture House Gallery ...................35 Piedmont Town Center .....................75 Pink Hanger .........................................32 Premier Sotheby’s ................................8 RK Motors ............................................25 Rare Roots Hospitality .....................83 Remax Exclusive ...................................4 Rooster’s Wood Fired Kitchen .........71 RugCulture......................................... 67 Sally’s Optical Secrets ...................61 Satin Med Spa.......................................26 Sea Level ..............................................85 Shea Custom Homes ...........................42 Simonini ................................................41 Smoke BBQ Grille ...............................87 Stagioni ................................................87 Stickley Audi & Co. ............................105 Storey Home ........................................39 The Bramble .......................................179 The Sporting Gent ..............................12 The Swag............................................. 133 Theory Design Studio .......................100 Tiny ........................................................32 Visit Greenville ..................................73 Walker Zanger ....................................21 Windsor Jewelers............................... 17
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