Artist Cheri Blum dead

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 11/10/2003 12:00:00 AM

Woodstock, VT — Cheri Blum, an artist who's floral and nature motifs are prolifically portrayed in home textiles in several categories, passed away suddenly on Nov. 4.

The cause of her death has not been released.

Wild Apple Licensing, which represented Blum, has posted a brief announcement on Blum's web site, www.cheriblum.com.

Blum's home textiles licensees were shocked and saddened by the news. New York City-based Croscill Home was Blum's licensee for bed and bath products for the past three years.

"She was a young girl, a talented artist and this is just a shame. Success came easily to her," Carl Legreca, vp, merchandising and marketing, bath products and decorative accessories, told HTT. "We loved her a lot, and we've been very successful with her work. The industry will miss her."

Added Merle Johnson, vp, marketing, Sugar Valley, GA-based Mohawk Home, which has been Blum's licensee for rugs, mats, throws and pillows for the past three years: "Her artwork has been an inspiration for design and decor in the home furnishings industry. Her legacy will live on through her artwork."

Other licensees include American Blanket for blankets and throws, Avanti for embellished towels, Hedaya Home Fashions for handmade quilts, pillows and throws, The Rug Market for area rugs and doormats and Tweel Home Furnishings for kitchen textiles.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Cheri Blum Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o St. Mark's High School, 2501 Pike Creek Road, Wilmington, DE, 19808.