Isabel Bloom LLC

About

Isabel Bloom was a woman who lived by her own advice... “know what you want and follow it.” The popularity of Isabel Bloom sculpture has spanned over five decades; its simple style and original design have made the art of Isabel Bloom some of the most recognizable and collected pieces in the country. Rich in texture and patina, filled with soul and inspiration, Isabel Bloom sculptures beautifully portray the emotions of everyday life... joy, love, happiness, success, support - even sorrow. The sculptures are appropriate for a wide array of special occasions including birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries. Born in 1908, Isabel Scherer began modeling in clay as a young child. Creative and curious she briefly studied painting at the Art Institute of Chicago before studying at the Stone City Art Colony under American Master, Grant Wood in the early 30’s. It was there she met a gifted artist, John Bloom who would later become her husband in 1938. In the late 40’s and 50’s, Isabel began experimenting with her art, replicating the bronze sculpture of the Victorian era using a concrete or cast stone. She developed the technique of “greening” by mixing blue and green dyes with water and fine white powdered cement to resemble the bronze and green shades of Victorian garden sculpture she so admired. It was then when she developed her own technique which is the same basic process still used by the company today. In recent years, the selection of finishes has expanded to include weathered bronze, traditional green, vintage rose, garden moss rose, multicolor and vertigris. While Isabel Bloom originated and established the business that continues in her name, the present and future is defined by the designs of Donna Young. Since Isabel’s death in 2001, Donna has created a number of smaller versions of Isabel’s designs as well as produced designs that are uniquely her own. In keeping with her heritage, new designs are introduced each year at Isabel Bloom. Although many designs are Donna’s inspirations, other suggestions are taken from customers, employees, management and design group. Once the design has been approved, sculptures are then produced and released according to a seasonal or event-based schedule. The sculptures are given as gifts to express friendship, support, and love. Many individual sculpture collections are started by a gift from a friend or loved one. Collectors range from children to great-grandparents and in many families, giving and receiving Isabel Bloom sculptures has become a tradition spanning generations. Isabel Bloom studio stores are located in The Village of East Davenport, John Deere Commons in Moline, Northpark Mall in Davenport and West Des Moines (Valley Junction) Iowa. For more information, please call (800) 273-5436 or visit our web site at www.ibloom.com.