We had some major tree-chopping and trimming done over the weekend. The oleander that runs along the west side of the house had grown out of control – nearly 15 feet tall! – and blocked the living room windows to the point where the room felt like a dungeon. I had the gardeners chop them down to about six and a half, maybe seven feet tall. What a difference! When the sun came in Sunday afternoon, I was almost blinded by the light. It was great.
Initially I was at a loss as to what to design for today; then it hit me. The light coming through the windows was like a starburst. A Margaret Braun starburst.
Before I really felt comfortable decorating cookies, I studied how other masters of cookie and especially cake design practiced their craft. Although I eventually found myself reading mostly books on fine art and graphic design, there was one book that I returned to time and again, Margaret Braun’s gorgeous Cakewalk, which I think is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever seen. More than a collection of how-to’s on baking and decorating amazing cakes, Cakewalk is about discovering ideas in everyday life and transforming those into beautiful creations that have to be experienced with all of the senses. It is, really, a book that shows how cake decorating is truly high art. If you come across Cakewalk, you won’t be able to put it down.
About the cookie: deep chocolate sugar cookie, hand-piped royal icing design. Gold and silver lustre dust painted on top.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Ohhh! Ahhh! I likey! Definitely reminiscent of the fireworks for the 4th AND the burst of sunlight you’re now experiencing at the side of the house. Very cool!
I have to come back and check out the links you’ve posted.
Happy Monday!
Paz
That book does look INCREDIBLE. (“Looked Inside” at Amazon.) This cookie is too. Your range of decoration is mind-boggling! Comparing this one to last week’s.
Paz, Yeah, this design has some kind of firework quality to it. You should definitely check out Braun’s site and book. OMG. She’s the queen of cakes.
Linda, the book IS incredible. Margaret Braun rocks!
you’ve out done yourself on this one mari! You’ve managed to make a chocolate cookie look bright & sunny.
Braun’s website is amazing to look at, what an inspiration!
Mari I LOVE this, you are so creative!