The Art of the Urn

Blue Sky urn by Timothy Foss, exclusively at Lundgren Monuments

Just look at these handcrafted, designer urns available at Lundgren Monuments; the brainchild of my talented friend of many years, Seattle's own everywhere man and multimedia artist Greg Lundgren who is also the co-owner of two popular lounges on First Hill: The Hideout and Vito's (with another friend; business partner Jeff Scott). Greg's history as a cast glass designer and artist eventually lead to him creating the most stunning glass memorials imaginable. If we could see a cemetery filled with these creations, we might be blinded by the light.  To see what I mean, be sure to check out his photo album on the Lundgren Monuments Facebook Page. 

He has certainly filled a void in what is historically a desolate grey granite landscape. 

Thinking of interiors though, I am focusing on these local urns created by artists, artisans & architects willing to bring innovation, beauty and sometimes a bit of fun to this otherwise stagnant field. They are works of art that would fit into any home regardless of their purpose. Of course, there's no denying that in actuality, these are intended for the ashes of real people who were loved, cherished, and taken care of by any one of us though. With the probability of it being the most emotionally charged item in your home, who would want anything less? I give a special nod of appreciation to the artists who've created such possibilities even.  

Of note, I've found that if you spend one minute in a traditional, conservative funeral home, you will likely be appalled by your lack of choices. From rectangular wooden containers that look like cigar humidors, to (I kid you not) a giant scalloped shell made of a biodegradable material meant to be tossed into the water, you will quickly see that this is typically an uninspired industry filled with sad looking options.

But these ones, OH, MY! They are extraordinary, and at the heart of them is the belief that we are all diverse, exceptional individuals. If only for the sake of viewing great art, take a look at these stunners:

Large Fir Heart Vessel By Arne Pihl, exclusively at Lundgren Monuments

Lego urn by Greg Lundgren

Wood and glass urn by Greg Lundgren

Future: by the architecture firm Chadborn+Doss

Leather wood & bag urn by Ian Butcher

Glass House urn by Greg Lundgren

All photos used courtesy of Greg Lundgren