One of our favorite challenges is translating an artist's work into rugs. It’s not easy, especially when the artwork is a painting. The dimensionality of paint on canvas is an expression. The blending of pigments is a harmony. The quiet detail of a brush stroke is a sixth sense. How does one communicate all of this in a series of knots? How does one mimic a subtle flow of colors in dyed wool and silk?
When Lily Banning visited us, late on a Friday afternoon, to ask us if we ever took on projects like this, we were immediately taken by her. Lily is clearly passionate about her work, but seemed equally as energized by the medium of rugs as an outlet for her creativity. It’s a fine distinction, but an important one. When the artist can possess a love for both mediums, the result is better. This was absolutely true for the Banning Rugs.
The first step in custom rugs is always the same: selecting colors, materials and construction. Lily's paintings, being complex and nuanced, demanded a fine, hand-knotted construction with wools that allow soft shifts in tone.
We felt that raised silk would be an important ingredient as a way to convey the painting’s play with light and shadows. We specified several different ply techniques to convey the texture of brush strokes. And we integrated subtle color tweeds to suggest the flow of pigments.
The artisans in Nepal possess legendary weaving skills, and imbue every rug they create with an artist’s rhythm. Their deep experience with custom work makes it easy to navigate complicated projects like this one. We start with computer renderings-- maps which specify each knot. From approved drawings, we ordered samples, which are treasures all on their own.
After approving the samples, Lily was ready to move on to full size pieces. Weaving took several months, and we were updated by our team in Nepal with regular progress shots. These progress shots are consistently wonderful and remind us of the history of rug weaving- its importance in the world.
The finished rugs, shown below, are magnificent. Shimmering jewels, full of emotion and movement, telling the stories of artists on opposite ends of the earth.
We are honored to have partnered with Lily Banning to produce these remarkable rugs.
Banning Rugs may be ordered direct through the artist. Check out these rugs and her other work here.
Sometimes the perfect rug, is a round rug.
There are two easy ways to generate round options for your space. Kush can re-scale and edit a design from our catalogue, or create a bespoke design. Here's a striking example of a custom round piece.
Custom design | 9' Round | 6mm pile, wool and silk.
Timeless interior design by
Maison Inc. The installation features a custom oversize Khotan rug in soft colors.
A custom geometric rug for an entryway. Designed by Bright Design Lab.
Two custom rugs of the same design for Abode Design in Portland. We love the oversize scale of the design, it makes the rugs feel open and welcoming.
A flat woven kilim with a custom, tribal motif.
When a client can't find the perfect rug, we make them the perfect rug. Our in house team collaborates with clients to render the design, choose colors, and suggest the best weaving quality for each project. Creating a custom rug for residential and commercial installations has never been easier!
Meet the new Bohemians! These Turkish beauties have just landed and they are crazy GREAT! Made from pre-1960’s era recycled Turkish textiles, each one has a truly one-of-a-kind flair.
Imagine unraveling old nomadic tents, wild Tulus, and vintage rugs by hand. Now imagine spinning those unraveled fibers into fresh yarns, and then knotting a whole new rug by hand. The dedication, devotion, and vision behind these modern vintage rugs is awesome.
We stan. Check out more of our Tribal and Bohemian rugs.
Reserve a complimentary
ticket here.
When: Tuesday, April 21, 2020 6:00pm–8:00pm The panel discussion will begin at 6:30.
Where: Kush Rugs 1225 NW Everett st. Portland, OR 97209
What does it take to make a living through your creative talents? What are the highs, lows, and wins of an artistic life? Join Kush Rugs and our distinguished panel for a lively discussion of life lived through art.
The panel discussion is comprised of three working creatives. Chip Miller is a director and producer, currently in the role of associate producer at Portland Center Stage at The Armory. Jen Jako of Fix Studio is an activist, filmmaker, interior and industrial designer. Leland Duck of Revive Designs specializes in vintage re-upholstery, mid-century, antique, and commercial furniture design.
The panel will be moderated by Ann Smith, the founder of award winning A. Wordsmith marketing and PR. Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in a Q & A session at the conclusion of the panel discussion.
Drinks & nibbles provided by Kush Rugs. Come early and stay late! We look forward to seeing you there.
Timeless interior design by 
A soothing and dreamy interior designed by 
A flat woven kilim with a custom, tribal motif.
