ART ful style Autumn 2026
DESIGN ISSUE THE
ART
OF WHAT'S
NEXT
only MEMBERS
INSIDE AN EXCLUSIVE SCOTTSDALE CLUB
LETTER FROM THE
EDITOR Welcome to the Designer Issue of ARTful style. Full confession – we at ARTful style are crazy for design and spend a great deal of time discussing what makes a design enduring versus trendy, when is trendy the goal, and who gets to decide. It seemed like it was time to bring in the experts! With a dedication to the science and ART of interior design, we are grateful to such an esteemed collection of creatives for bringing insight into what they focus on when guiding their clients. Read more about how they approach their own highly personal and often unpredictable projects on page 8 – The ART of What’s NEXT. We also return to the discussion with Collectors Stacy Sadler and Tim “Skip” Dahlberg as they watch their dream home in Teton Valley, Idaho, take form, and the intentional interior design beckons – whether the art is there or not! Part 2 on page 20 brings us up to speed! Always endeavoring to bring new perspectives to our ARTful style readers, we are excited to debut a new collaboration with Clay Pryor, Principal and Creative Director of Clay Pryor Interiors. As one of the top firms known for hospitality and golf club interior design, we are thrilled to offer “Members Only” – a peek into the golf clubs CPI has access to. We can’t promise he will get you a tee time, but we can be assured that his exclusive insight and access will be worth the read alone! Finally, throughout these pages, we celebrate craftsmanship, creativity, and the enduring desire to make something meaningful. There is an invisible thread that connects every creation: the relationships that allow art and design to move from imagination into tangible experience. It is found in the conversations between artists and collectors, designers and artisans, galleries and makers, manufacturers and visionaries. It is a network built on trust, knowledge, and a shared appreciation for work made with intention. This exchange is the quiet force that carries creativity forward, ensuring that meaningful objects do not simply exist—they find their place, their purpose, and their people. We are grateful to everyone who contributes to ARTful style – from the team on the opposite page who collaborate to deliver the best experience possible, to our esteemed experts who give insight into the industries and cultural impacts associated with art, and of course, our readers. None of this exists without you. As you move through the pages, we hope you feel the same sense of awe and delight in reading them we do in creating them. Thank you. And as always… let’s begin with the art. 4 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
VOLUME III, ISSUE 2
EDITORIAL
Editor in Chief CARRIE FELL
CONTRIBUTORS Minds of ARTful style
Executive Editor DANA GIDDENS Creative Director & Design DANIELLE VONFELDT Contributing Member HEATHER CLANCY Photographers DON EASTBURN BRIAN BIRLAUF EMILY TAKACS
CARRIE FELL
editor in chief
Industry Contributors DANIELLE VONFELDT, VonFeldt Design LLC, VonfeldtDesign.com LAUREEN HOPKINS, Studio H by Laureen Hopkins, LaureenHopkins.com CLAY PRYOR, Clay Pryor Interiors CHEF RICHARD BAILEY, T5C, TASTE5Catering.com
DANA GIDDENS
executive editor
Printer PUBLICATION PRINTERS CORP. © Carrie Fell and Company, 2026. All rights reserved. For permission to reproduce or republish any article or content featured in this magazine, please contact inquiry@carriefell.com. A New Publishing Rhythm - We’re excited to announce our transition to a triennial publishing format, with three thoughtfully curated issues each year—each celebrating the distinct spirit, creativity, and inspiration. ISSUE 1 · JUNE/JULY – SUMMER; ISSUE 2 · OCTOBER/NOVEMBER – AUTUMN; ISSUE 3 · MARCH/APRIL – SPRING. Three seasons. Three distinctive issues. One year of art, design professional content, inspiration, and connection.
DANIELLE VONFELDT
creative director & design
Chief Executive Officer | CARRIE FELL Strategy/Operations | DANA GIDDENS Chief Design Officer | DANIELLE VONFELDT VP, Sales & Client Relations | HEATHER CLANCY
cf+home
HEATHER CLANCY
contributing member
(L to R) Danielle, Carrie, and Heather ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 5
Because perhaps the most interesting design direction isn’t a trend at all. It’s the moment when a space becomes unmistakably your own. – Carrie Fell What's next in design isn't always something new. Often, it's a fresh way of seeing what already exists—a different conversation between color and texture, art and architecture, history and personal style. For Carrie Fell, inspiration begins with looking closely. THE EDIT is a new series of impressions drawn from her extensive catalog and shaped by a simple belief: the most compelling spaces don't follow trends; they reveal a distinct point of view. A collected object, a particular hue, an unexpected material, a singular work of art, the character of a room—any of these can become the starting point for something entirely personal.
CHASING LUCK, 48” X 48”, ORIGINAL, ACRYLIC INK ON CANVAS RETROSYMBOLISM, BY CARRIE FELL
CARRIE FELL
From there, Carrie's approach is less about predicting what comes next than interpreting what is already present. She layers influences, embraces contrast, and lets individual pieces speak, creating interiors that feel considered without appearing overly resolved. That sensibility reflects a broader shift in design— away from chasing novelty and toward understanding what gives a space meaning. The most memorable rooms carry a sense of history while remaining open to reinvention: places where art, architecture, materials, and personal stories coexist with ease. 6 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
Available exclusively at Courtney Collins Fine Art in Big Sky Montana
WISDOM BRINGERS - AMERICAN HORSE, 25” X 18.75”, PIGMENT IMPRESSION ON 100% MUSEUM GRADE ARCHIVAL PAPER, BY CARRIE FELL
ART
THE
of
WHATʼS NEXT
ON THE WESTERN AESTHETIC
“The modern West isn’t a trend, it’s a point of view.” — Carol Moore Mink, ASID Professional Member
TREND IS A MOMENT. DESIGN IS AN ART. Great design rarely starts from nothing. It draws on what came before, reimagining color and texture, art and architecture, history and personal style, until the familiar feels entirely new.. ARTful style talked to four influential interior designers – Carol Moore, Cassandra Lohr, Ann Jackson, and Chris Sheilds – about how they approach what’s next, and their answers reveal a common thread: the best designers aren’t simply following the conversation; they’re shaping it. For these designers, inspiration can come from anywhere: a Western landscape, a vintage piece, a television series, a client’s personal story, or a material that simply feels right. While trends may shape the design conversation, these designers look beyond the moment, using architecture, art, materials, place, and the people who inhabit each space as muses. Their perspectives reveal that great design isn’t about chasing what’s next; it’s about knowing how to facilitate the discussion, make it personal, and deliver an enduring vision. It’s creating something that makes the trend feel beside the point.
8 | ARTful style Autumn Fall 20262026
A.S.: Why do you think people are drawn to the modern West today? Carol Moore: Television shows like Yellowstone have sparked renewed interest in the West’s landscapes, architecture, and lifestyle. The aesthetic combines natural materials, rich textures, craftsmanship, and a connection to nature with contemporary sophistication. More than a design style, it represents a lifestyle that feels authentic, comfortable, grounded, and aspirational. A.S.: How do you honor Western heritage without falling into cliché? Carol Moore: I start with a timeless foundation—neutral fabrics and classic furniture—and bring in Western character through art, rugs, textiles, and distinctive details. This captures the spirit of the West without making the home feel overly themed or predictable. A.S.: What makes a Western-inspired space feel authentic? Carol Moore: Original art and pieces with a story create authenticity. Artwork, textures, colors, and craftsmanship bring character and history to a space, making it feel collected rather than themed. A.S.: How do you balance contemporary design with Western warmth? Carol Moore: Keep the foundation clean and modern, then layer in Western-inspired rugs, textiles, leather, and original artwork. Neutral, classic furniture allows these elements to add warmth and personality without overwhelming the space.
A.S. How has luxury influenced Westerninspired interiors? Carol Moore: As more people move West and invest in the longevity and quality of their interiors, I’m seeing a greater appreciation for materials that are both beautiful and built to last. Leather upholstery has become more popular than ever. It brings a natural warmth and richness to a space while also complementing the relaxed, comfortable character of Western design. I often specify Garrett Leather because their performance leathers offer durability along with a refined look. Their leathers are designed to resist scratching and fading, making them especially well-suited to the way people live. To me, that is where luxury and Western design come together—choosing high-quality materials that not only look beautiful but can stand the test of time and everyday living. A.S. Which current design trends pair well with the modern Western aesthetic, and which ones don’t? Carol Moore: The modern Western aesthetic works best when authentic Western furnishings are balanced with simple, clean-lined upholstery. That contrast lets the Western elements stand out and gives the room a refined, contemporary feel. I avoid over-accessorizing: too many Western-inspired elements make a room feel chaotic or overly themed rather than thoughtful and sophisticated. The key is knowing when to edit and giving distinctive pieces room to breathe. A few wellchosen elements create a stronger sense of place than a room full of Western references. The result feels collected, authentic, and timeless rather than tied to a passing trend. MooreMinkinc.com
ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 9
ON DESIGN TODAY
ON THE EVOLUTION OF DESIGN
“I’m always aware of trends, but I’m not trend-driven. For me, trends can be interesting, but they should never dictate the design.” — Cassandra Lohr, Designer
A.S.: Are people becoming more intentional about the things they bring into their homes? Cassandra Lohr: Absolutely. People are becoming much more thoughtful about what they bring into their homes and, more importantly, why. Many clients already have a clear vision of what feels authentic to them and how they want their home to feel. Our role is to translate that vision into a cohesive, meaningful space—one that reflects their personality while feeling collected and intentional. There’s a growing appreciation for pieces with character, purpose, and longevity. A.S.: What overlooked design principle deserves more attention? Cassandra Lohr: Creating a sense of welcome and comfort. A home should feel inviting from the moment you walk through the door—beautiful, but also warm, comfortable, and genuinely livable. Good design isn’t simply about how a space looks; it’s about how it makes you feel. The most successful interiors balance beauty with ease and invite you to settle in and truly live. A.S.: What trend are people overlooking that deserves a second look? Cassandra Lohr: Blending antique and vintage pieces into contemporary interiors. They bring character, history, and individuality that new pieces simply can’t replicate. An antique chest, vintage chair, or collected object can add depth and contrast to a contemporary space, creating a layered, personal feel that evolves over time. A.S.: What are the biggest shifts you’re seeing in how people approach their homes? Cassandra Lohr: Rather than a dramatic shift, I’m seeing clients become more thoughtful about creating homes that truly reflect who they are and how they live. I especially enjoy introducing clients to the Design Center, where they can experience fabrics, rugs, and custom furnishings firsthand. Seeing and touching materials brings the possibilities to life and allows us 10 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
to thoughtfully layer color, texture, furnishings, and personal details. Comfort, quality, and individuality remain priorities. Clients increasingly want pieces they genuinely love rather than simply following trends. Ultimately, the goal is a home that feels beautiful, personal, and authentic.. A.S.: What trends are defining interior design right now, and which do you think will have lasting appeal? Cassandra Lohr: We’re seeing a return to warmer, more personal interiors. After years of minimalism and neutral spaces, clients are embracing richer colors, layered textures, and furnishings and art with character and meaning. That said, I’ve never been particularly influenced by trends. I’ve had the opportunity to work on a wonderfully diverse range of projects—from tepees and Victorian homes to modern city spaces and elegant estates. Each has its own architecture, personality, and story, and I believe those elements should guide the design. One of my tepee projects was featured on the cover of Architectural Digest and showcased on national television. To me, that perfectly illustrates why great design doesn’t have to follow a trend. The most lasting interiors are authentic to their setting and the people who live in them.. A.S. Do you think we’re moving away from rend-driven design toward more personal, curated spaces? Why? Cassandra Lohr: Yes, I certainly hope so. Every home and client has a unique personality, and the most beautiful interiors reflect the people who live there— their tastes, experiences, and lifestyles—rather than simply following trends. I love discovering what makes each client unique and translating those qualities into a space that feels personal, collected, and authentic. Trends come and go, but a home that genuinely reflects the people who live in it will always feel timeless. CassandraDesigns.com
“I think the evolution of design is a return to what matters most: creating homes that feel authentic, function beautifully, and tell the story of the people who live in them.” — Ann Jackson, Designer A.S.: What interior design trends are you most excited about right now? Ann Jackson: I am excited about the shift toward spaces that feel personal rather than perfectly curated. We see more layered interiors with natural materials, textures, vintage pieces, and meaningful objects that tell stories. There’s growing appreciation for craftsmanship, sustainable design, and homes that prioritize comfort over trends. Younger generations are acting as curators, discovering vintage and European sites that offer authentic furniture, accessories, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Instead of creating perfectly matched rooms, they collect pieces they love, adding depth and individuality. The most exciting trend is the move from “decorating" to "collecting," resulting in homes that feel authentic, lived-in, and reflective of their inhabitants. A.S.: Great design often feels timeless, even when it’s new. What gives a space or object that lasting quality? Ann Jackson: Timeless design begins with intention. It’s rooted in proportion, quality, functionality, and materials that age gracefully. When those elements are thoughtfully considered, a space can feel fresh and relevant without being tied to a particular moment in design. I think timelessness also comes from restraint and balance. Rather than chasing what’s fashionable, the most enduring interiors combine pieces, textures, and materials in a way that feels natural and considered. There should be a sense of harmony, but not necessarily perfection. In fact, some of the most memorable spaces have an element of surprise or individuality. Most importantly, timeless design creates an emotional connection. When a room is designed around how people live, what they value, and how they want to feel in their home, it becomes more than a beautiful setting. It becomes personal—and that’s what allows good design to remain relevant long after trends have changed.
A.S.: Which current design trends do you believe will endure, and which are simply passing through? Ann Jackson: Natural materials, sustainability, flexible spaces, biophilic design, warm neutrals, layered textures, and quality craftsmanship will endure because they support lasting needs for comfort and depth. Clients are also investing more intentionally in pieces built to last generations. By contrast, overly themed interiors, fast-furniture looks, and designs made for social media will likely fade. The strongest spaces prioritize quality, comfort, function, and personal meaning over trends. A.S. How do you balance honoring tradition while embracing innovation? Ann Jackson: Tradition and innovation complement each other. Timeless principles—scale, proportion, craftsmanship, and enduring materials—provide the foundation, while technology, sustainability, and evolving lifestyles shape how spaces function today. Old and new create a compelling balance when proportion and composition align. The goal is to respect the past while responding thoughtfully to how we live now and tomorrow. A.S. Are we seeing a return to craftsmanship over convenience? What does that look like today? Ann Jackson: Yes, it's a meaningful shift. More homeowners are investing intentionally in fewer, better-made pieces with longevity, character, and connection. Artisan-made furniture, custom millwork, handcrafted finishes, and locally sourced materials carry stories that outlast trends. Craftsmanship today doesn't reject technology: innovation enhances how we live, while artisans bring the human touch mass-produced pieces lack. People want to know how something was made and whether it will last. Convenience makes something easy to acquire; craftsmanship gives it staying power. a.m.jackson@comcast.net
ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 11
ON AUTHENTICITY
“While an enchantment might cause us to pause a few seconds more, I see true inspiration as a moment where we actually slow down, stop, and check-in with our hearts.” — Chris Shields A.S.: In a world filled with inspiration at our fingertips, how do you create work that feels deeply personal rather than simply fashionable? Chris Shields: As we scroll, we’re lucky to spend more than a few seconds on any image. I ask clients to pause and listen: What moves you? What does your heart say? These questions launch my Heartbeat Journey. Trends provide a framework, but like an art store filled with endless paint colors, we must slow down to discover what resonates. By exploring furnishings, fabrics, and finishes, clients identify their own style and taste. That is how we move beyond fast fashion to create deeply personal, timeless homes. A.S.: What details tell you that a home has been collected or curated rather than decorated? Chris Shields: Collecting and curating is a thoughtful process that evolves. I first notice a homeowner’s passion: treasured finds come with stories, often discovered by chance in unexpected places. That connection shapes how the collection is displayed and cared for. I like to reveal a special piece at the entry, offering guests an intimate glimpse of the homeowner. Purposeful furnishings, built-ins, and lighting distinguish a true collection from temporary décor, highlighting each object and preserving its memories. A.S.: How has the definition of luxury changed over the past decade? Chris Shields: Time is the biggest luxury. I think we have all learned that it isn't just time that matters, but what you do with it. Luxury has become synonymous with experience. Getting to know who creates your favorite artwork, who makes the perfect stitchwork on your favorite sofa, who puts their passion into objects that move you, or who delicately prepares an unforgettable meal - these connections create experiences that become life's luxuries. Being able to share these experiences with people through design is a luxury for me, and the joy of my work is to create an experiential journey for them.
12 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
A.S.: What does "authenticity" mean to you in interior design? Chris Shields: I'm Colorado-based, so to borrow an Old West adage, authenticity means sticking to your guns. I believe good design creates homes that grow love, and the energy we create with clients resonates with everyone invited in. Ideal clients connect with this idea and my studio's values, creating honest relationships open to new ideas. From that foundation, we curate deeply personal designs that transcend the ordinary and reflect each client and their home.
ACCESSORY
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A.S.: How do you help clients create spaces that feel authentic to them rather than driven by trends? Chris Shields: I help clients create authentic homes by taking time to know them upfront. My method blends my background and experience. I studied physics and interior design, then began my career at a fine furniture showroom in San Francisco, where I launched my design studio. Over time, I developed my own point of view: thoughtful design must evolve for each client. My heartbeat journey includes visits to galleries, artisans, and showrooms, plus "Chris's 20 Questions." Clients often say even their best friends don't know these important things about them. This work guides every selection, resulting in homes that call to clients when they are away, feel authentic when they return, and let them be fully themselves. A.S.: How do you incorporate your clients’ ART, heirlooms, vintage pieces, or locally crafted furnishings into your projects? Chris Shields: I prioritize clients' artwork, heirlooms, vintage pieces, and finely crafted furnishings, which bring rich stories and texture. These objects, their makers or original owners, and how clients found them shape the design. My evocative style mixes them into a feast for the senses. Each room blends new and storied pieces; the contrast makes it unique. I might treat an inherited antique as sculpture, pair a worn vintage table with a tailored sofa, or use artwork to draw the eye through the architecture and tell the client's story. ChristopherShieldsAndCompany.com
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POETRY OF BLOOMS
Photos courtesy of Emily Takacs, Don Eastburn Associates LLC
16 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
“Thank you for joining us for the 2026 SUMMER SOCIAL on August 1st!”
SHOW RECAP
ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 17
gift guide CARRIE FELL
carriefell.com
LITTLE SPREAD LUMBAR PILLOW
FINER POINTS LUMBAR PILLOWS
Featuring one of Carrie's iconic longhorns - "Big Spread" - in his smaller size. Custom embroidered on vintage Pendleton wool, "Little Spread" is perfect for adding a sense of Western whimsy to even the most serious interiors. Gold piping, down-filled insert included.
These beautiful lumbars feature two different Carriedesigned antlers, custom embroidered on vintage Pendleton wool with silk rope trim. Life is all about the finer points... Available in black & gold, down-filled insert included. 14” X 21” Black with Black piping | $295 14” X 21” Gold with Gold piping | $295
14” X 21” | $295
TEXAS PILLOW Art inspired pillow printed front and back on washable satin with invisible zipper with a flanged edge, down-filled insert included. 22"x22" | $425
BEADED FLEUR, GLASS ORNAMENT
THE ART OF CARRIE FELL BOOK
Curated by Carrie Fell, this 5-inch hand-blown glass ornament features a matte blush champagne finish with delicate beadwork and white accents. Its heirloom-inspired floral design brings an elegant touch to holiday décor and makes a beautiful gift to treasure for years to come.
More than 400 curated images, tracing her evolution from early pen and ink, watercolor and oils to her iconic Western works. A must-have for collectors.
5” Hand-Blown Glass | $105
18 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
Collector’s Edition | $695
Reserve Edition | $1545 featuring signed, limitededition lithograph
720.252.0990 | claypryorinteriors INTERIOR DESIGN
CLUBHOUSE PLANNING
PROCUREMENT
An ARTful Journey with Collectors Stacy Sadler and Tim “Skip” Dahlberg:
PART II Designing in
the Abstract: Building a Home Before the Art Arrives Designing a home is often described as creating a
backdrop for life… if only it were that simple. But what
happens when the very pieces that define that life, the
artwork, the antiques, the collected objects that tell your story, aren't physically there to guide the process?
For Stacy, designing a new home in Teton Valley, Idaho, has become an exercise in memory, instinct, and
trust. With much of the artwork carefully packed away throughout construction, every design decision has relied on an intimate understanding of pieces that
have been lived with for decades rather than viewed in the moment. The result is a home being designed not around trends, but around a collection that exists, for now, largely in the imagination.
The Teton Valley home did not begin as a blank canvas on a five-acre parcel of land. It began years earlier in
Colorado. As the ongoing discussion with Stacy unfolds, she laments “if we could have added 500 square feet and reconfigured our Colorado home, it would have been perfect. Initially, that is exactly what we set out to do."
However, rather than recreating their previous home, the goal became something more thoughtful, more
intentional: incorporating the idea of spaces that had
previously worked while refining the spaces that hadn't. Familiar proportions, favorite gathering areas, and
20 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 21
Equally important has been the relationship with their builder whose experience provides confidence during inevitable moments of doubt. "Our builder has constructed many homes throughout Teton
Valley, Idaho, and Jackson Hole. He has an exceptional eye and is always willing to answer questions or offer suggestions. Working with someone who truly understands both craftsmanship and design makes an enormous difference." The process becomes less about eliminating uncertainty than learning to use it productively.
Although nestled within the mountain landscape of eastern Idaho, the completed home will
intentionally resist the familiar language of mountain architecture. "As in Colorado, this won't be what people expect when they walk through the front door." Instead of rustic expectation, the interiors will
reflect decades of collecting, travel, and artistic exploration. International artwork will live comfortably beside inherited antiques. Historic furnishings will converse with contemporary pieces. Transitional
interiors will provide balance rather than contrast. The result will feel curated instead of decorated. "Our home is really a reflection of our history. The artwork won't only be hanging on the walls—it will
exist in the antiques we've inherited, the objects we've collected over time, and the stories attached to
each one." Outside, floor-to-ceiling windows will frame the Teton Range and Grand Teton herself rising to the east. Inside, generations of collecting will create a different landscape entirely. "I like to think of it as our own personal history museum." carefully considered circulation all became the foundation for an entirely new design. Throughout
the architectural process, functionality consistently outweighed modern trends. "We worked closely
with our design team to make sure we didn't fall into the trap of designing around what was trending instead of what was right for the way we live."
Perhaps the greatest challenge of designing around absent artwork is accepting that complete
certainty is impossible. No rendering can fully predict the experience of standing in a finished room. No digital model can perfectly anticipate how morning light will move across a painting or how
an antique piano will anchor a space. "'Getting it right' is something I think about all the time," she
One request surfaced repeatedly throughout countless meetings and revisions: generous wall space.
admits. "I've often joked that if I never do another remodel, it will be too soon." Every wall height,
of significant paintings remained close at hand while architectural renderings were revisited
can become overwhelming. Yet perfection
always part of the conversation. I wanted to be confident that when the artwork finally came out of
different for everyone. This house represents
walls, memory has become one of the most valuable design tools.”
and I have complete confidence that once
The team is currently immersed in one of the home's most nuanced phases: lighting design. Lighting,
what it was meant to be."
As collectors, large-scale artwork has always dictated the rhythm of the interior walls. Measurements
ceiling detail, corner, and proportion has been examined repeatedly. The sheer number of decisions
repeatedly, ensuring each piece would eventually have room to breathe. “Those dimensions were
was never the objective. "What feels right is
storage, it would feel like the house had always been designed for it. "Without artwork hanging on the
the collaboration of many talented people,
particularly in homes that celebrate art, is often underestimated. Too much illumination can flatten
everything is installed, it will become exactly
both architecture and artwork. Too little leaves carefully crafted spaces with shadows, thus feeling
In many ways, designing without the artwork
the lighting overwhelmed everything else, and others where there simply wasn't enough to allow the
requires remembering not simply what will
is being considered as part of the home's larger narrative—supporting both the artwork and the
matter in the first place. It asks architecture
Designing in the abstract inevitably creates moments of uncertainty. Instead of resisting them, they
shaped by memory long before they are
incomplete. "We're trying to strike that delicate balance," she says. "I've visited beautiful homes where
has become its own creative discipline. It
artwork or architecture to come alive." Rather than treating lighting as an afterthought, every fixture
hang on the walls, but why those pieces
atmosphere without drawing attention to itself. It's another exercise in imagining what isn't yet visible.
to anticipate emotion, allowing rooms to be
have become opportunities for refinement.
completed. Only when the final artwork returns
"Both Skip and I spend a tremendous amount of time revisiting the plans," she explains. "We'll walk
to the walls will the house truly reveal itself.
through the footprint of the house, measure spaces, stand in rooms, and ask ourselves whether
Until then, every decision is carefully
adjustments before the walls were closed in.
memory will ultimately become places where
something feels off." While construction was still in the framing stage, we could make thoughtful
22 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
considered trusting that spaces built from new memories begin.
ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 23
The desert provided the palette. The hacienda provided the history. Craftsmanship provided the soul. ART and color brought the story to life.
MEMBERSONLY With Clay Pryor, Principle, Clay Pryor Interiors
A Contemporary Hacienda: Art, Character and the Spirit of the Desert.
“Today’s luxury resort and private club experience is no longer defined by a single design style. Instead, the Clay Pryor most compelling destinations embrace a thoughtful layering of influences, pairing timeless architectural traditions with contemporary expressions to create environments that feel sophisticated, distinctive, and deeply connected to their surroundings.” – Clay Pryor
24 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
The vision for Scottsdale National Golf Club was rooted in creating a contemporary desert retreat with an unmistakable sense of place, one that honors the romance and authenticity of the Southwest while expressing it through a fresh, sophisticated lens. We called it the Contemporary Hacienda: seductive yet timeless, playful yet powerful, and grounded in the extraordinary character of the Sonoran Desert. Rather than relying on a predictable interpretation of Southwestern design, the interiors combine classic inspirations with contemporary forms, unexpected details, and an understated urban attitude. The result feels collected rather than prescribed, an environment with character, individuality, and, most importantly, a true sense of soul. Rather than following a singular style, the interiors are intentionally layered, balancing traditional hacienda references with contemporary forms and the rustic with
the refined. Stone, wood, metal, woven materials, and tactile fabrics create a natural foundation, their inherent texture, variation, and imperfection bringing warmth, authenticity, and depth. Colors and textures echo the surrounding landscape, while unexpected details, art, and moments of color introduce individuality and a sense of play. Throughout, the changing desert light and softened boundaries between indoors and outdoors connect architecture, interiors, and landscape, creating an experience that feels at once classic and modern, familiar and unexpected. Perhaps no element captures this philosophy more perfectly than Silver Tongue Devils by Carrie Fell. The piece was discovered and acquired from Aspen Grove Fine Art. Its vibrant color, humor, and spirited personality immediately resonated with the story we were creating. For the Chef’s Kitchen and Private Dining Room, we wanted an original work that could hold its own against the richness of the natural materials while introducing energy, wit, and a touch of irreverence. Silver Tongue Devils does exactly that: its bold composition feels distinctly contemporary, while its subtle “New West” character speaks naturally to the club’s modern interpretation of Southwestern design. In many ways, the piece embodies the spirit of Scottsdale National Golf Club itself, rooted in the desert and traditions of the West, yet confident enough to reinterpret them with sophistication and individuality. Because ultimately, memorable interiors are not defined by beautiful materials alone, but by the chemistry between the place, art, and experience. And sometimes, it takes a few silver-tongued devils to give a room its soul.
ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 25
STUDIO
Your Chef
by L AUREEN HOPKINS
Your Table
interior design
Perfectly Plated
Laureen Hopkins Caroline Menendez Bentley & Milly
STUDIO H is not just a showroom, it is designed to be a social living canvas, a place where color, texture, and form come together to spark ideas, invite creativity, and celebrate the art of living beautifully. Scan for more information.
Scan for an unrivaled dining experience
Chef Richard Bailey ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 27
BUSINESS OF ART
FOUR FORCES On How Art Becomes
Part three of our series explores how the art world functions as a business and the core ingredients required for lasting relevance.
The Art of Validation:
The Quiet Force That Shapes Value
When we think about the value of art, we often look first to the obvious elements: the
artist’s skill, the beauty of the work, the materials, or the emotional response it evokes. But beneath every meaningful valuation lies a more complex framework—four
forces that shape how the art world understands importance and worth:
narrative, scarcity, validation, and visibility. Among these forces,
validation may be the most subtle and perhaps the most
misunderstood. It is not simply about approval or recognition; it is about the collective
acknowledgment that a work, an artist, or a movement holds significance. Validation is
the bridge between personal appreciation and broader cultural understanding. It helps transform a compelling piece of art into one that occupies a meaningful place within
history, conversation, and collecting.Validation begins with expertise. Curators, historians, collectors, designers, galleries, and institutions all play a role in recognizing artistic merit and providing context.
Their knowledge helps place a work within a larger story—connecting it to artistic movements, cultural moments, technical innovation, or a distinctive creative voice. This informed
perspective allows viewers to see beyond the surface and understand why a piece matters.
Yet validation is not created by a single voice. It is built through relationships and reputation over time. 28 | ARTful style Autumn 2026
BUSINESS OF ART
An artist’s career is often shaped by the community that surrounds them—the galleries that represent them, the exhibitions that feature their work, the collectors who believe in their vision, and the professionals who advocate for their contribution.
T
his network becomes an ecosystem of trust, allowing meaningful work to gain recognition and reach new audiences. In the world of art and design, validation also comes through placement and association. A work displayed in a respected collection, featured in a significant exhibition, incorporated into a thoughtfully designed space, or recognized by respected voices within the industry gains another layer of meaning. Context matters. Where a work appears and who chooses to champion it can influence how it is perceived and remembered. For collectors, validation often provides confidence. Art is deeply personal, and the decision to invest in a piece is rarely based on aesthetics alone. Collectors seek a connection to the work, but they also value understanding its place within a broader conversation. Validation offers reassurance that their instinct aligns with a larger cultural dialogue—that the piece they have chosen carries both emotional resonance and lasting significance. However, true validation is not merely about popularity or trend. Trends can create attention, but lasting validation is earned through consistency, authenticity, and contribution. The artists whose work continues to resonate are often those who offer a unique perspective, challenge expectations, or capture something essential about the human experience.
P
erhaps the greatest form of validation is not immediate acclaim, but endurance. It is the ability of a work to continue inspiring conversation, connecting generations, and revealing new meaning over time. Like craftsmanship passed from one hand to another, artistic value is strengthened through the people who recognize it, preserve it, and carry it forward. In the end, validation is not about telling us what we should value. It is about helping us understand why something matters. It is the quiet force that transforms appreciation into legacy.
This is where validation connects deeply with the other forces that shape art value. Narrative gives a work meaning. Scarcity creates rarity. Visibility creates awareness. But validation brings recognition—it confirms that the story, the rarity, and the presence of the work have significance beyond a single moment.
ARTful style Autumn 2026 | 29
fresh thoughts...
Autumn has a way of asking us to notice
what we carry and what we are ready to release. As we turn the final page of this
issue, I find myself thinking about the quiet
symbolism of the horseshoe. Forged through fire, shaped by time,
and worn smooth by the miles it has
traveled, it has long been regarded as an emblem of good fortune.
But perhaps its
greatest gift is not luck at all; rather, it is the reminder that life is rarely
linear. It bends. It returns. It comes full circle.
In that quiet season of
change, the horseshoe feels
less like a charm for finding luck
and more like a reminder that grace
often reveals itself in hindsight. Its worn iron bears the marks of every road traveled,
every weight endured, every mile that led to this moment.
Perhaps luck is not the absence of hardship,
but the gentle realization that we have been shaped by it—that what once protected us now hangs above the threshold of who
we are becoming. In autumn's stillness, the
horseshoe becomes a symbol not of chance,
but of trust: that even as the world lets go, something steadfast remains, quietly holding space for hope. Autumn understands
this better than any season. It asks the
trees to surrender
what they no longer
need, embracing
that what appears to be an ending is simply another
beginning waiting
beneath the
surface. There is
beauty in this quiet
unraveling—a beauty
that creators and
makers know well. Every
finished piece is, in some way,
the beginning of the next idea. As this issue finds its place on your table or shelf, I hope it lingers with you as autumn
does: gently, thoughtfully, inviting pause
before the next season begins. Thank you for
joining us on this journey through art, design, and the enduring work made with intention, and for the quiet comfort of knowing
that every ending carries within it the promise of return. —CARRIE
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Carrie Fell's original horseshoe works transform a familiar Western icon into contempoary assemblage.
SAVE THE DATE meet at THE RIVER JANUARY 16
Mark your calendar and saddle up for an unforgettable Winter Soirée — an evening inspired by the beauty, spirit, and vibrant energy woven throughout Carrie Fell’s work. Join us for a spirited celebration where Western elegance meets winter revelry, with lively music, exceptional fare, and signature cocktails crafted to capture the warmth and character of the season. It promises to be an evening of good company, bold artistry, and timeless Western charm — a celebration not to be missed.
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