Midwest-CBK signs home decor license with artist Julie Ueland

Midwest-CBK, a leading designer and manufacturer renowned for its design, style and sparkle in home décor, gifts, holiday and candles, has signed an exclusive license with artist Julie Ueland to create and sell her Tradewinds home décor collection to independent retailers. The new collection will debut during the 2010 winter markets, available in Midwest-CBK showrooms across the country.

Inspired by the restful, relaxed environment of waterfront and tropical destinations, the Tradewinds collection features a casual, elegant style with Ueland’s trademark twist – a splash of personality and sense of humor. Designed to complement a broad range of home décor styles, Tradewinds features a subtle tropical theme with a warm palette and splashes of bright colors, multiple textures and mixed media, and icons inspired by warm-weather and waterfront settings such as bamboo, banana leaves, birds, seashells and fish.

The initial Tradewinds collection features 28 home décor and gift designs in glass, metal and ceramic including wall décor, tabletop and serveware, vases, candleholders, and table lamps. Suggested retail prices range from $10 to $150.

“I’ve had the privilege of getting a taste for all sides of the business as a designer, educator, independent retailer, manufacturer and marketer, which has given me great perspective and insight into what customers are looking for - something unique, something beautiful and fresh in home décor, yet also affordable and of exceptional quality, and that’s the sweet spot that my collection speaks to,” said Ueland. “I like to bring something a little unexpected to each design – something that makes you smile, that you want to dwell on for a moment. I’m excited to partner with Midwest-CBK’s talented product development team, sales force and everyone in between, to do that - bring independent retailers something fresh and different to share with their customers.”