In the same house The Band played
It started with a simple print request from famed illustrator John Cuneo.
Little did I know that this request would lead to an unexpected adventure, filled with history, beauty, and pure wonder.
As we chatted in my studio about our proximity to each other and the Bearsville/Woodstock area, John extended an invitation for coffee at his home which was once a “crashing pad” for all the talent coming through Albert Grossman’s Bearsville Studio and theater complex. Weeks later, I found myself parking in front of what could only be described as one of the most beautiful and enchanting homes in Woodstock, NY. Nestled amidst lush trees and blooming flowers, it exuded the charm of early Byrdcliff Guild houses. As we sat in John's kitchen, sipping black coffee, Cuneo shared photos and videos made inside his home. Below is a snapshot of The Band playing in the living room from The Morrison Hotel Gallery, taken by Norman Seef. Plenty of stories of the many who stayed in the house like Hendrix and Janus Joplin. Some freak running down the road who turned out to be Mick Jagger. All of this history happened right in this very house! I was truly awestruck.
Screen Shot of Norman Seeff’s image of The Band inside Johns home
With a sense of anticipation and curiosity, I followed John out of the kitchen through the doorway into what I thought was a the little white room.
What turned out to be the little white room.
As I passed through the white room with its low ceiling, I was taken aback by what lay beyond. A spacious and unexpected chamber revealed itself, boasting a stunning vaulted ceiling that was truly a sight to behold. The intricate details of the design and the natural beauty of the space combined to create a sense of wonder that I won't soon forget. I felt like I had been transported to another time and place, much like the time I stepped into a crumbling yet awe-inspiring 10th-century church in the desolate mountains of southern Greece. Seriously, I was speechless.
The living room with the lofted balcony above.
The interior was a symphony of earthy textures and sophisticated details, perfectly balanced to create a sense of harmonious tranquility. Everywhere I looked, there were elements of surprise, from the eclectic mix of furniture and the many framed illustrations hung like in a salon. It was a space that begged to be explored, and I could have spent hours taking in its magic.
The Brick Harth
In this moment, I knew that this was a story that needed to be shared. John's home was a true testament to the power of nature and the art of design. It was a space that honored the natural world, with elements of the earth woven seamlessly into the design. And yet, it was also a space that celebrated the human spirit, with each detail perfectly curated to create a sense of timeless beauty.
Artist - Photographer
