Visual Essay 13 — Pam Morris & Dane Tashima

What inspired this Visual Essay?

It was dreamy to be able to play with a bunch of Mud pieces and make some pretty pictures with Dane Tashima, who is a really talented photographer and frequent collaborator.

To prepare for this shoot I visited the new Mud Australia store in New York City's Nolita neighborhood. At the shop I was inspired by the many beautiful blue shades of Mud porcelain.

When I prepare for shoots I love to work with specific color palettes, layering tones of a single color and different textures as well. For this shoot I wanted to bring in different shades and textures of blue and mix it with other rich tones.

Whenever I can I like to include beautiful bits of food, flowers and pieces of ephemera and art. I walked through the Farmer's Market, some food shops and bakeries and a beautiful flower and garden store called GRDN. While wandering I kept in mind the shapes and blue tones of Mud pieces I wanted to include.

You’re a Mom, how do you like to spend Mother’s Day?

On Mother’s Day I get breakfast in bed which I love! And usually a handmade card or two from my daughter and husband (James Gallagher, who is a collage artist).

What is your favorite thing to do with your daughter?

My daughter is a busy teenager so I really appreciate when we can get quiet time together like getting our nails done or chilling and watching a movie at home. I also like travelling with her and my family. We have been missing that and hope to plan some trips in the near future.

How did you discover styling?

I realized that styling was a job when I worked for the photo department of a magazine. I was an assistant and often had to deliver items to shoots and at one of them I met a Prop Stylist named Denise Canter. I was fascinated by her and her job and ended up assisting her eventually!

I learned the most about styling and visual ideas when I worked at Martha Stewart Living Magazine under Eric Pike and Ayesha Patel. It was a dream to work with so many kind and talented people and I love seeing my old Martha colleagues today!

Do you have any other creative outlets?

I love collecting ceramics and reading about and cooking food. I like yoga and trying other practices like sound baths, Korean scrubs and meditation.