by Bob Graham
The phrase “creative expression and passionate pursuit” is a fitting description of Unearthed, a treasure trove of the unusual in Madison, Wisconsin. For eight years now, owners Heidi and John Anderson have gleaned the unpicked sources near their home to find “objects of character” that speak to you as you weave them into the character of your home.
Varied items from Unearthed in a mantle display
After many combined years in marketing and copywriting, John and Heidi decided that the curious objects they had collected for themselves should have some public exposure and started by exhibiting some of them in a local art gallery. The response was tremendous and Unearthed was born. Heidi’s mother had taken her to every barn, basement and antique store to bring character to their home so the talent for finding great objects was second nature to her.
A view of Unearthed’s unique merchandise
One advantage of living in Wisconsin is that the countryside has not been “picked” like the coasts and John and Heidi continue to find wonderful industrial and agrarian objects that ooze patina and charm that is not reproducible.
Today, they are the favorite of interior designers, home furnishing retailers, home décor catalogues and individuals with an artistic and urban aesthetic.
Among their vast inventory that is currently housed in their retail space and warehouse is a large collection of late 19th century wallpaper rolls that John and Heidi repurpose into a number of objects including lamps, pedestal tables and vases. Each is unique with a great story that customers appreciate.
Lamp made from vintage porcelain sink leg at Unearthed
“There’s no short cut to character”, says Heidi, “The world is full of repros, so enjoy these discovered objects that speak to you with their one-of-a-kind stories.”
In spite of the economic times, Unearthed continues to grow and John and Heidi see a burgeoning group of savvy young people who may not have big budgets yet but have the right appreciation for style and represent great potential to the future market.
Unearthed’s merchandise has found its way into many interiors over the years. Their eclectic items work in both country and urban settings. The patina of use lends a charming air to each piece and their juxtaposition with sleek, modern furnishings strike just the right note.
Rustic child’s chair from Unearthed used as a towel holder in a modern bathroom.
Unearthed has also been part of some large commercial decorating ventures. Both The Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee, WI, and a men’s clothing store called Context in their home town of Madison have used items from Unearthed as an integral part of their decorating scheme.
Unearthed is located at 2501 University Avenue in Madison, WI. Their inventory can be seen on VandM.com at http://vandm.com/Unearthed or at their website http://www.unearthedgallery.com/ .
Their phone number is (608) 441-1993 and their email is heidiruthanderson@gmail.com
