It is one of the most anticipated summer events in all of Southern California. Its formula of fine art and antiques shopping in a beautiful setting, has made it the destination for designers, collectors and home decorating enthusiasts on both Coasts.
The 12th Annual Redondo Beach Antiques Fair returns to its home at the Performing Arts Center, July 23-25. And that’s good news for a public that is now viewing antiques not only for their design beauty, quality and functionality; but as a smart investment in uncertain times and a stylish new way to go green.
“The care, love and craftsmanship that has gone into the design and execution of a beautiful antique piece ensures its longevity and value,†says show management, Art International/OSAT, of Beverly Hills. “Much of today’s new furniture may look finely crafted when first purchased, but does not hold up to wear. Antique furniture and accessories on the other hand, are full of luster and life for years to come. And, their value only increases with time.â€
It is this fact that has made the Redondo Beach International Antiques Fair a must for connoisseurs with high standards of beauty and quality. It is the one show that satisfies the most experienced antiquers and those who are just getting started as it delivers antiques at prices that represent real value in today’s new economy.
It is also where show goers can spot the very latest in vintage home décor trends. A perfect example is the 1940s to 70s British trolley car signs that are taking the textile market by storm – so in demand that resource, Dwayne Lumpkin of Home Economics, can’t keep them in stock.
In England, bus route signs were once printed on rolls of calico cloth. Bus drivers used to turn a crank to show the stops on top of the bus. Now these calico signs are used to upholster pillows, benches, wing chairs and as bold graphic wall art. Lumpkin will debut a new line of lamps with fabric shades made from these route signs at the Redondo Beach show– tangible pieces of Britain’s past and ultra-fashionable fabrics for modern day living.
Equally fashion-forward in the world of home design is the incomparable Louis Vuitton steamer trunks and luggage which has found a new purpose in the home as one-of-a-kind end and coffee tables and blanket trunks. These stunning reminders of a luxurious past when wealthy families made the Grand tour of the Continent are just as distinctive and held in as much esteem as they were years ago. Marco and Adrienne Astrologo of Branded Luxury Unlimited have amassed a valuable Louis Vuitton collection that will be available at the Redondo Beach Show. Adrienne also has her own company, Ladybag International, that is considered one of the foremost resources for designer handbags. This is where you will find the Chanel, Judith Leiber, or Hermes bag you have always coveted at a kinder price. Adrienne has written a book on vintage handbags, “High Fashion Handbags†that she will be selling and autographing at her booth.
Always popular among Redondo regulars is the outstanding collection of lighting and art glass from Philip Chasen, a known specialist in Louis Tiffany Favrile, Nancy Daum, and Emile Galle glass, as well as the rare books from P.J. Hayden and David Fendetta of Hayden & Fendetta, and Asian Antiquities from Alexander’s Antiques.
The show is unarguably the best place to find porcelain, silver, sculpture, rare paintings, prints, antique and estate jewelry, art glass, pottery and such popular items as costume jewelry, vintage clothing, country antiques and newly coveted mid-century items—all in one location.
Fair hours are Friday 12-7pm, Saturday 12-7pm, Sunday 12-5pm, and general admission is $10. The Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center is 15 minutes from the Los Angeles International Airport and just five minutes from the 405 Freeway, Inglewood Blvd. Exit. The Center is located at Aviation and Manhattan Beach Boulevards, where Manhattan Beach and North Redondo Beach meet. Free parking is available. For information visit www.artinternationalfair.com. Media contact: Leigh Infield Associates, 212/691-7297, infieldlia@aol.com.
