LYST 98

The Lamp Show, Train Dreams, Tastemaking At The Getty, Fun & Games With Friends & Enemies and more.

THE SILVER BOOK

I’ve been eager to read Olivia Laing’s The Silver Book (which releases next week) since finishing The Garden Against Time. This one trades English gardens for 1970s Rome and the worlds of film directors of the time, Fellini and Pasolini. At its center is Danilo Donati, the visionary costume designer behind Casanova and Salò, caught in a story of love and power. Set against the lingering shadow of fascism, it feels especially timely, asking what kind of illusions we build to survive dark times. The title itself nods to the silver cover design but also to the novel’s themes of mirrors and the artifice of cinema. I can already imagine this book as a beautiful film with a mesmerizing soundtrack. But for now, I am going to add this to my (growing) TBR list.

ALICE’S COLLECTION

On my bucket list: a meal at Chez Panisse. I could also add a kitchen makeover inspired by Alice Waters—hers is just so effortlessly beautiful. Drawing from her own home, Alice’s Collection is an ongoing collaboration between Permanent Collection and the celebrated chef. The pieces are exactly what you’d expect from her world: heirloom quality, functional, and simple but stunning. Weak at the knees for a dish rack? I know, it sounds ridiculous, but the latest release—a replica of Alice’s own, crafted by her longtime farm partner and woodworker Bob Cannard—is worth a look. Permanent Collection was founded by Alice’s daughter, Fanny Singer, and Mariah Nielson, daughter of artist JB Blunk, which explains the balance of art, utility, and grace. Explore the full Alice Collection here.