Wanderlust, Midcentury Style
There comes a point in every family downsizing project when decision makers fondly remember their 1969 trip to Puerto Vallarta but also realize that the colorful, hand painted Mexican tile purchased as a souvenir of that trip just has got to go. In actuality, there may be dozens of such points in a family downsizing project. All those souvenirs will likely end up in thrift sales, in estate sales or at thrift stores. That’s good news for lovers of midcentury modern.
Not that all old travel souvenirs make for good MCM decorating. But some of them will. Here’s why:
- Some of them are good world art. Some of them are good folk art. Both pair well with midcentury modern.
Peace, Prosperity and a Seriously Upgraded Road System
Before the middle of the 20th century, travel was exotic. It was for the wealthy or the shanghaied. With the prosperity of the 50s, travel became feasible. Many families owned cars. So, even if they couldn’t afford train or plane travel, middle class families could often afford car trips. All across America, people and provisions were wedged into station wagons. Children were instructed not to touch their siblings, not to breath at their siblings and not to ask, “Are we there yet?”
Peace and prosperity made this possible. That, and the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956. Before the Highway Act, there was no system of limited access roads around the country. There were a lot of two lane highways that passed through as many cities as possible.
If you’re even a little nerdy, you might enjoy this informative video.
Midcentury modern homes aren’t limited to art and accessories that are specifically MCM. The spare feeling created by a modern aesthetic is perfect for showcasing pieces that are beautiful or intriguing — just because they are. Examples of beautiful and intriguing are everywhere; they’re often reminders of travel taken long ago.
Spaced Out focuses on Midcentury Modern and Vintage Industrial furnishings, with a retail storefront in Eau Claire, WI. More at SpacedOutFurnishings.com.
