WALKING MY WAYS
WALKING MY WAYS. Carmel-by-the-Sea has always had an abundance of talented and artistic women. Like Edi Matsumoto and her Art and Design gallery. Where Edi not only paints…especially otters and portraits…but also offers a wide assortment of fabrics, gifts and clothes. In addition to assembling her monthly Bohemian salon. And displaying other creative works.
And Nicole Cromwell, who has a working studio upstairs and a charming gallery downstairs. Where a hidden buzzer alerts her to any interested party, and she comes skipping down the stairs. And cheerfully shows off her serene and alluring paintings. And books. And Jennifer Perlmutter, who also has an amazing assortment of abstract art, and a variety of sculptures for sale. And an enlightening energy and liveliness. All of which she dramatically puts into her art.
And then there is Betsy Durnell, who has a different kind of gallery. Hers is her "Soiled Doves Bath House", where she has an exquisite line of soaps, lotions and specialty items. Along with distinctive nightgowns and other wearables. And enticing scents. And one can't forget Kristi Reimers, a 3rd generation Carmelite, who has owned Eco Carmel for 15 years. Where she sells a broad selection of kitchen, bedroom and children's goods, all specializing in "green living and natural health." And a marvelous source of organic items. All for sale.
And then, on a totally different scale, is Grete Pedersen, the uplifting conductor and leader of the Carmel Bach Festival. Grete may not have a shop or gallery. But she has a baton and an unusual amount of sensitivity towards that baton. And with it, she moves and delights both musicians and audience alike, in her unique and positive manner. And these six women are just the tip of the iceberg, when it comes to Carmel-by-the-Sea's remarkable women. I certainly don't know all, but surely we are surrounded with a group of talented and dedicated ladies. All of whom give a positive meaning to the Carmel community, in a vibrant and artistic way. Daily. Finis.
As always, Hans is the consummate bon vivant and makes life in our fractured world so much easier to take. This latest example shows his youthful, energetic, and charming opening of doors to vibrant young women who grace Carmel in so many ways, but who go largely unsung in a world that moves so fast for residents and visitors to simply take time, chill out, and appreciate them for what they are and what they do. Kudos to this elegant young man, who writes not only with gentle magnetism, but also with profound and loving thought! - Hugo N. Gerstl