Summer 2025 – Lark Artisan Market

August 20, 2025August 21, 2025

Q+A with Genevieve Williams of GW Contemporary | Laguna Beach, CA

We are thrilled to share the other half the dynamic duo that makes our next pop-up location double down on the good vibes!

Enjoy these Proust inspired questions with Art Advisor Genevieve “Gen” Williams of GW Contemporary and/or come on a lark with us!:

In brevity, how would you describe your upbringing?

I was raised in a close-knit family of four – my parents, my older sister, and me. My dad was an air force pilot when I was born, later becoming a commercial pilot for Qantas, which took us to a rural town just south of Sydney. My parents chose small-town life over the city, giving us the gift of nature, community, and a slower pace.

My mum, a teacher and later a librarian, sparked my love of learning. I spent hours in libraries as a child, poring over National Geographic magazines and encyclopedias. Thanks to my dad’s career, we also traveled widely – I have vivid memories of early trips to Paris, Frankfurt, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

It was a wonderfully balanced childhood: rooted in the simplicity of small-town life, yet expanded by the richness of global travel. My parents gave us opportunities, but just as importantly, they instilled resilience, curiosity, and a strong work ethic.

Is there a moment in your youth that, looking back, inspired you to become immersed in the art world?

I always leaned toward creativity – as a child I loved drawing, reading, and writing, and in high school I thrived in art, English, and history. Still, I never felt I truly belonged in the art world because I wasn’t “good” at making it. That shifted in my final year with my teacher, Mr. Aldis, who encouraged me to experiment beyond painting and drawing. I created a conceptual video work (an uncommon medium at the time), which earned top marks and was exhibited at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Walking into the museum and seeing my work on the wall at 18 was electric. It showed me that belonging in the art world didn’t have to mean being the artist – there were other ways to contribute: to shape, curate, and champion the work of others. The following year, traveling through Europe, from the Tate Modern in London to the museums of Berlin, deepened that realization and led me to pursue a degree in Art History & Theory.

What characteristics would you use to describe your partner Taylor O’Sullivan?

Taylor is a ray of sunshine – generous, kind, hardworking, and endlessly enthusiastic. Her energy is contagious, and she has a beautiful way of seeing the world, both in life and through her lens.

What makes this partnership work so well?

Taylor is the yin to my yang. We were friends first, which built a strong foundation for working together. We communicate with honesty and transparency, and we share the same eye for detail and commitment to quality. Our values are aligned, our visions are in sync, and we genuinely enjoy sharing the space. We each get to do what we love, but it’s amplified and more joyful because we’re doing it together.

What perspectives or unique understandings have been gained from being immersed in Art?

That art truly is for everyone. It makes us think, it makes us feel, and it challenges us to see differently.

What is it that you most want people to know about collecting art?

The joy of living with art is incomparable. Every piece tells a story and becomes part of your life’s journey. Collecting can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t need to be. I started young – the gallery I worked for offered discounts and payment plans, which made collecting accessible. I never imagined owning a $4,000 painting at that age, but soon I had several works – and I was hooked.

I always advise clients to buy what they love, not just what they think will be a good investment. Art should move you, bring you joy, and enrich your daily life.

What is your most treasured artwork?

An Auric Field painting by Lita Albuquerque.

Are you the chef at home?

Not at all! My husband is the phenomenal cook in our household – the pandemic especially became a time of amazing creativity in the kitchen for him.

If you could dine with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

I admire countless artists and creators, but part of their magic lies in the mystery. Honestly, if I could share one more dinner with anyone, it would be my Nan. I’d love the chance to tell her about all the wonderful things that have happened since she passed. I know she would be so proud of her family.

What is your idea of happiness?

Happiness is both who you spend your time with and how you spend it. For me, it’s the little moments: hearing my daughter’s raucous laugh, walking in nature, singing in the car with my husband, or sharing a meal with friends on a summer night.

★★★

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Read about Taylor O’Sullivan of Culterra on the following BLOG !

August 18, 2025August 20, 2025

Q+A with Taylor O’Sullivan of Culterra | Laguna Beach, CA

Meet Fine Art Photographer (and much more) Taylor O’Sullivan founder of Culterra with whom we’ll be setting our next communal table in the gorgeous etherial art gallery in partnership with Genevieve Willams of GW Contemporary in Laguna Beach.

The beauty of lark is that everyone can easily come along and gain insight + inspiration from all the people we meet along the way! Come with us, on a dive below the surface, with this Proust inspired questionnaire:

In brevity, how would you describe your upbringing?

I was raised in Southern California. As the oldest girl, I was independent, curious, and always eager to understand how things worked. I was always creative and loved being outdoors. I guess not much has changed.

Is there a moment in your youth that, looking back, inspired you to become immersed in the art world?

Looking back, the moment that set everything in motion was when I was 13 and unexpectedly placed in a video production class. I fell in love with it instantly. That early discovery led me to study documentary filmmaking at Chapman University, and from there, my path unfolded. After graduating, I spent over a decade traveling to more than 60 countries, working on films, television, and photography projects. Documentary filmmaking became the vehicle through which I experienced the world — and I always brought a film camera with me. Those years behind the lens shaped how I see, feel, and move through the world. They laid the foundation for the fine art photography I create today.

What makes your partnership with Genevieve Williams of GW Contemporary work?

This partnership works so beautifully because it’s built on deep mutual respect, aligned values, and genuine friendship. Gen is not only an extraordinary curator with an impeccable eye —she’s someone I trust implicitly and love spending time with. We bring diﬀerent strengths to the table, but share a common vision for creating meaningful, intentional art experiences. Our working rhythm feels eﬀortless and energizing. Whether we’re hanging a show or sharing a late-night laugh, it never feels like work. That sense of ease and joy is what makes this collaboration so special. I feel incredibly grateful to be building something together that feels both creatively fulfilling and truly aligned.

What characteristics would you use to describe Genevieve?

Gen is very bright, she has an incredible eye and she’s funny as hell. She is genuinely such a joy to be around!!

What perspectives have been gained from being immersed in Art?

Art has taught me how to truly see. To notice subtle textures, the way light moves across a surface, the relationship between form and feeling. It has shown me that beauty often lives in the in-between moments, in stillness, and in some cases, in imperfection. Being immersed in art has also deepened my trust in my own intuition. So much of my photography process is about following a feeling rather than a formula. Following an inherent draw. That kind of listening shapes not only how I create but how I move through the world. Art has become my way of slowing down, connecting more deeply with the natural world, and in turn connecting more deeply with myself.

What is it that you most want people to know about collecting art?

Collecting art is deeply personal. You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to pay attention to what resonates with you and only you. The best collections aren’t built overnight or based on trends. They’re built slowly, with care, piece by piece. Art has the power to shift the energy of a space, to evoke feeling and reflection. When you find a piece that moves you, trust that. That connection is the whole point.

What is your most treasured possession?

Is it contrived to say my camera??? For real though. My camera has traveled with me through so many stages of life and has shaped the way I see the world. It’s how I observe, how I connect, and how I create art. My camera has helped me slow down and pay attention to the subtle details that often go unnoticed. It feels less like a tool and more like an extension of how I move through the world.

Are you the chef at home?

Absolutely! I love to cook. I’m Italian, so feeding people has always been a love language in my family. Gathering around a meal, sharing stories, and making something from scratch feels like one of the purest forms of love.

If so, what is your most prized ingredient?

Garlic. I truly think the limit does not exist when it comes to garlic.

If you could dine with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

Slim Aarons. An iconic photographer of the 60s and 70s, his work captured that era with a distinct style and an insider’s perspective that never felt invasive. I’d love to hear the stories behind the images and the fascinating lives they portrayed.

What is your idea of happiness?

My idea of happiness is presence. Being deeply rooted in the moment, surrounded by beauty, purpose, and people I love. It’s a quiet kind of fulfillment that comes from a life of creation connection, and living with intention.

If you could enjoy another profession, what would it be?

I feel like it would always be something in the arts. That’s always felt like the most natural place for me. I never say never, but it’s hard to imagine a life where I’m not creating, not taking photographs, and not sharing my art with the world. It’s more than a profession, it’s truly the thing I love most in the world.

Who are your heroes in real life?

My grandma. She’s a total powerhouse. In the 1960s, she broke glass ceilings at the LA Times, rising through the ranks at a time when very few women held leadership positions. She traveled all over the world for her work, which was incredibly rare then, and she always did it with grit, style, and integrity. She was the one who first introduced me to the idea of travel and showed me what it means to live a bold, curious, and purpose-driven life. She’s been one of my biggest supporters and cheerleaders, and I have endless love and admiration for her.

Have you watched or read anything interesting/inspiring lately?

I’ve been watching Li Ziqi’s videos. She’s a Chinese creator who documents a meditative, traditional way of life with incredible beauty and care. Whether she’s making tea or preparing food, everything is crafted by hand and rooted in nature. There’s something calming and inspiring about the way she moves through the world. It’s a reminder that slowness can be powerful, and that everyday rituals can become art when done with intention. You must give it a watch: Li Ziqi

★★★

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Open invite. Limited seats.

July 22, 2025July 29, 2025

Q+A with Lyla Moll of Jo & Rose | Huntington Beach, CA

It’s always about the people you meet along the way!

Meet Designer Lyla Moll, Owner + Chief Curator of Jo & Rose whose amazing eye for objects of style + vibe elevates any home. You may remember her original downtown Huntington Beach. shop, Milk Money, which carried the same essence…emanating from a place of creativity.

We are honored to share a glimpse below-the-surface with this Proust inspired questionnaire:

Lyla Moll & her mother, Olga captured by @theprimalsoul on a super fun (& delicious) lark at Jo & Rose

★★★

Where did you grow up, and where do you live now?

I was born in Queens, NYC, and later moved around various parts of L.A. County. I also spent some of my childhood summers in Costa Rica, which holds a special place in my heart. Eventually, we settled in Huntington Beach during my high school years. As a young girl, I always dreamed of living by the ocean—I’m grateful that dream came true.

What is your favorite childhood memory?

I loved spending time cooking and cleaning with my mom. Homemaking brought me so much joy even as a child—it felt creative, grounding, and full of love.

Was there a moment or person in your youth who inspired your path into design?

Definitely my beautiful mom. At the time, I didn’t realize I was falling in love with design. She constantly reimagined our home—moving furniture from one room to another, bringing outdoor elements inside, all on a tight budget. Somehow, she always made our house feel fresh and warm. I learned early on how to be creative and resourceful.

Any funny or memorable early-day stories from your design journey?

Oh, yes! In the early days, I loaded a dresser into my truck for an install, thinking I had packed it up perfectly. When I arrived at the job site, I realized all the drawers were missing. I hadn’t secured them properly—and later found them scattered along the street, right near where I started. Lesson learned!

Have you always dreamed of having your own shop?

Yes—and I have my husband to thank for believing in me from the start. He’s my number one fan and biggest supporter. Years ago, I worked as a merchandiser at Anthropologie in my late 20s. That role opened a whole new world for me—I fell in love with storytelling through visual design, pairing vintage with modern, high with low. Two years ago, the opportunity finally came up to open a shop, and we took the leap.

Why the name Jo & Rose?

I wanted the name to carry a piece of my heart. Jo & Rose is named after my daughters’ middle names Nina Jo and Georgina Rose. They are everything to me—my heart, my muses, and my greatest joy.

What unique perspectives have you gained through curating your shop?

I’ve learned that beauty lies in intentionality. The most meaningful spaces aren’t filled with things—they’re filled with soul. Curating has taught me to look for pieces that tell a story, evoke emotion, and spark connection.

What’s the most important thing to remember when collecting for your home?

Stay true to yourself. Trends come and go, and it’s easy to get swept up in them. When I bring something home—whether it’s from a trip or a day out with my girls—I ask: Do I love this? Will it last? Is it functional? I’m not a fan of clutter or novelty items. Thoughtfulness matters.

What are your most marked design characteristics?

I love mixing high and low—an antique next to a flea market find, or a luxe textile paired with a handmade piece. I don’t believe you have to spend a fortune to create something beautiful. A home should feel like you—approachable, warm, and soulful.

What is your most treasured possession?

My photo albums. I have boxes of them in the attic and love flipping through them. I stopped printing photos once the iPhone came along, and honestly, I miss it. I’d love to get back to printing and preserving those memories in a tangible way.

Are you the chef at home? If so, what’s your secret ingredient?

Yes, I love to cook—especially with my mom. We add cilantro to just about everything. We rarely follow recipes to the letter—we always add our own spin and cook from the heart.

What’s your favorite part of a dinner party?

It’s pure joy for me. I love setting the table—choosing flowers, candles, linens. I want every guest who walks in to feel loved, welcomed, and inspired.

If you could dine with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

Frida Kahlo. She’s endlessly fascinating and deeply inspiring—raw, creative, bold, and unafraid to be herself.

Artist Frida Kahlo

What is your idea of happiness?

When I’m with my daughters and my husband—traveling, cooking, laughing. They are my inspiration and my center.

If you could try another profession, what would it be?

A singer! Unfortunately, I have the worst singing voice. In high school, my choir teacher actually asked me to lip-sync. (I won’t name names!)

Who are your real-life heroes?

My mom. She’s an eternal optimist who always finds the good in everything. She truly makes lemonade out of lemons—always.

Have you read or watched anything inspiring lately?

Notes to John and anything by Joan Didion. Her writing is thoughtful, raw, and timeless.

★★★

We are honored to collaborate with Designer + Shopkeeper Lyla Moll on our super fun (& delicious) lark communal dinner party—Saturday 7/26/25—at the cool + moody Jo & Rose in Huntington Beach w/the humble Chef Matthew Roberts.

We kicked off the evening with you-shisho-cutecumber cocktails… mingled amongst the curated objects , connected with friends old + new (oooh my family knows your family!), delighted in the carefully assembled farm to table culinary offerings, and—best of if all—partook in the (lost) art of conversation.

We are grateful to the curious + adventurous who made their way to our communal table — taking the opportunity to connect / restore / replenish — to make this an evening to remember. We can’t wait to do it again!

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Thank you for coming on a lark with us!

★★★

July 19, 2025July 19, 2025

Q+A with Chef Matthew Roberts | Long Beach, CA

It’s always about the people you meet along the way! By design, we get to collaborate and learn from the coolest people. With Chef Matthew Roberts, we have grown our appreciation for kitchen preparation. He takes extraordinary care and effort with his ingredients, seeming to praise and honor their very essence. To watch him at work is meditative. To enjoy his meals is an honor. Thrilled to offer this dive below the surface with this Proust inspired questionnaire:

Chef Matthew Roberts on a super fun (& delicious) lark w/Artist Cyndi Finkle in Hollywood, CA. Image captured by Tyler William Parker.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now?

I grew up in San Diego and currently reside in Long Beach.

We know you have an all-around relationship with food; what is your earliest childhood memory related to food?

Smell has a way of transporting you back in time. I can vividly remember the summer garden of Teresa, our Italian nanny. Tomatoes ready to burst by the kiss of the sun and the lingering smell of basil as we played.

Is there a moment in your youth that inspired you to become a Chef?

There were many moments scattered throughout my young life that contributed. It was a slow build until the massive leap at 25.

I had worked in the Photography Industry for 7 years prior and up until my arrival in L.A., my food experience had been rather limited. As a boy, celebrity chefs and competitive cooking shows were non-existent. This was before social media. I watched quite a bit of Yin Can Cook on PBS (aired after Bob Ross) on sick days from school.

At 18, I began to travel throughout California on long road trips at and eventually settled in L.A. at 19. Having a base, I began branching my travels throughout the United States. I immersed myself in communities and cultures, soaking up all I could. I recognized the power of food. It spoke to me in a different language and emotion.

After several years working as a high-end photo retoucher in fashion, I was burnt out; Creatively drained. This led to cooking consistently for friends and family. People seemed to really enjoy my food. After quite a bit of encouragement, I signed up for Le Cordon Blue in Pasadena and never looked back. I knew I could always return to photography. Having spent time as a breakfast line cook in high school, I was not disillusioned by what lay ahead and set my mind to it. My culinary path has been unconventional to say the least. That being said, I would not replace the experiences and exposure one finds outside the confines of four walls for anything.

Fields + Farms to Kitchens + Plate, what do most people miss about the process?

Covid brought us closer to our food sources but we have quickly settled back into convenience. Food is medicine, plain and simple. There is a saying I hear often, “You can pay your farmer (rancher, fishermen, etc.) or you can pay your doctor. Food for thought. Pun intended.

Any fun/funny hard won kitchen stories to share?

Those stories span 20+ years and would probably justify a book!

What perspectives or unique understandings have been gained from being immersed in the culinary world?

The Hospitality Industry can chew you up and spit you out. It calls upon a certain human conditioning. It is nice to see quality working conditions and mental health coming to the forefront in the last 10 years or so.

I left the confines of restaurants in 2017 and set my gaze across California, hosting live fire dinners and food and wine pairings. I was able to connect directly to the source from that point on and foster strong relationships wherever I landed.

Dinners began to develop an educational component to them. I wanted to tell the story of the hands that feed us to the best of my ability. The focused became narrowed, intention ever present, and the food more refined.

Throughout this process I realized I am one cog in the wheel and best not to take myself so serious.There has been many lessons in humility and grace.

We see your path in the culinary world constantly evolving, what currently inspires you?

The two worsts questions you can ask a chef, what is your favorite thing to cook and what is your specialty? I will be a forever student and am very fortunate to cook in the capacities I do with the freedom that I have. I am still very much inspired by the seasons and new ingredients I come across in my travels.

Where do you want to “steer the ship” next?

The next chapter is unknown and has been a conversation amongst friends and peers. I have not been cooking in the same capacities and have considered venturing into food styling. I’m also contemplating a more educational mentorship roll.

Pork Jowl bermuda onion | ramp | ramp & bluefoot mushroom tare | trotter demi. Food + Photo by Chef Mathew Roberts

Do you have a culinary idol?

The usual suspects… Alice Waters, Marco Pierre White, Anthony Bourdain, anyone who denounces their stars!

What are your most marked characteristics?

Another hard question to answer. I have been told I possess qualities of patience, compassion, curiosity, and determination. Often leading with my heart while providing a sense of calm. When creating and preparing a meal, love is always at the forefront.

What is your go-to meal at home?

I am not attached to a restaurant; I essentially cook as I do for any dinner. Always inspired by the seasons and what I come across in my travels.

What is your go-to meal outside the home?

I am all over the place.

What is your favorite tool in the kitchen?

I have a wooden spoon that was passed on to me from our childhood camping equipment. It is nearly as old as I am. I have been cooking with it since I was 18. When I stop to think of the thousands of people it has fed over the years it is humbling. The patina is something of beauty.

If you could dine with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

Would come down to a choice between Escoffier or Carême.

Culinary school, yay or nay?

Depends on the individual. If you have a clear vision and drive, it is a great way to fast track your skill set. For others, climbing the ranks at a restaurant is best.

What is your idea of happiness?

I think the question, “where do I find peace” is more attainable. Finding and maintaining the middle ground. There cannot be light without darkness. In essence, I practice mindfulness on a daily basis to the best of my ability. When I can manage to set ego aside and be present, I am most at peace.

If you could enjoy another profession, what would it be?

I have been recently fixated on free diving and spear fishing. Could also be ceramics / pottery or bonsai.

Who are your heroes in real life?

Those striving to be the best version of themselves.

Have you watched or read anything interesting/inspiring lately?

Obsessed with “The Taste of Things”. A wonderful French period / culinary piece. I am currently re visiting several books from my young 20’s. An interesting process into past perceptions and assumptions!

# # #

Fortunate for us, Chef Matthew Roberts, will be taking the helm of our upcoming lark communal dinner party next Saturday—7/26/25—with Designer Lyla Moll at her expertly curated boutique known as Jo & Rose in the seaside Town of Huntington Beach.

Amuse:
Steamed & Chilled Scallop
+ shish & juniper tea | preserved meyer lemon, cucumber
paired w/welcome cocktail by mixologist Eric Kassel

Arrival:
Melon Gazpacho
+ calamansi crema, garden herbs
paired w/2023 Main & Geary Pinot Grigio, California

Start:
Yellowtail Crudo
+ stone fruit, tomato water, basil oilpaired w/2023 Raymond Sauvignon Blanc , North Coast California

Middle:
Smoked Costillas
+ a mole of cherry & morita, chickpea succotash
paired w/2023 Heritage Vineyards Pinot Noir, California

End:
Strawberry & Buttermilk Panna Cotta
+ saba pearls, pink peppercorn, pistachio
paired w/Wilson’s Organic Cold Brew Coffee

Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.

Come on a lark with us!

Purchase Ticket: Let’s Go On A Lark!

Open invite. Limited Seats.