People long for inspiration, beauty and creativity in their lives. There is a place right in our midst that offers a taste of these often-illusive states. Exquisite Designs & Décor is worth a visit, if one is looking for a tranquil place to indulge in art's visual pleasures. Exquisite Designs embodies the owner's vision of contemporary art in society today.

The Gallery, which opened June 16, 2000, specializes in providing custom furniture and accessories designed and signed by nationally recognized artists. Patricia Shelton who owns the Gallery believes that contemporary designs are expressions of tomorrow's antiques and that collecting these works of art are investments for the future.

Equally as inspiring is the Gallery's soothing interior design, which incorporates principles of Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese study of the natural environment. The works of art provide the basic elements found in Feng Shui, which are metal, wood, fire, air, and water.

Exquisite Designs appeal to interior designers and collectors of handcrafted objet d' art and accessories who have distinctive taste for quality and uniqueness. Shelton personally works with customers to select custom pieces that can be integrated with more traditional items for their home. "We never get away from tradition." Says Shelton, "we just keep redefining it."

Exquisite Designs also sells to corporations who wish to purchase gifts for their clients and awards for employees. We have special artists who have the ability to design corporate awards from glass, metal, ceramics and wood. In addition, a handcrafted vase can be arranged with exotic flowers and delivered to the recipient anywhere in the Washington Metropolitan area.

All featured artists share common traits: originality, artistic integrity, stylist development and commitment to handcrafted artwork. Inspired by centuries old techniques, these crafters seek to preserve those techniques that have almost disappeared in today's technological world.

Exquisite Designs guiding principle is to use art to celebrate the many rituals of our daily routines. Art enriches our environment with their beauty by the atmosphere it creates while invoking personal and cultural memories. Rituals such as serving wine can be more meaningful, beautiful, and formal when the wine is poured into a hand crafted goblet and signed by its creator. It's a great point of interest to spark conversation among guests.

The Gallery also features new lines of clothing and fine art jewelry. Fiber art has come to town. Experience for yourself how hand dyed silk and woolens accented with exquisite jewelry can make your body come alive and feel wonderful!

The Gallery keeps its patrons informed and educated about contemporary artists by sponsoring in house lectures presented by featured artists and writers. Visitors to the Galleries Website will see photos of artwork and biographies of featured artists, allowing them to explore the crafters' vision, medium, and unique approach that separate their work from mass productions in the marketplace.

Patricia Shelton, a conceptual designer for 17 years, opened Exquisite Designs Gallery to pursue her love of contemporary art and provide a venue for others to share her passion. Exquisite Designs Gallery is opened by appointment only. Call 703-930-3682 or browse our online store.