Two years ago on May 9th, 2023, I underwent a lumpectomy for breast cancer. This month, I’m working on the largest commission of my career. Life unfolds in the most unexpected ways.
From Hell to the Heavens
Modern Chinoiserie- How We solved a design challenge
I was contacted by designer Heidi Dripps to create a finish that was inspired by a wallpaper that the client loved. The wallpaper was beautiful but there were certain things that didn't work for the client. One, the colorways weren't quite right. And two, the composition wasn't just so. The designer and client wanted me to recreate the feel of the contemporary imagery but create more of a mural.
On the Water
I am so excited to share this project with you! Recently Christie Leu of Christie Leu Interiors called me up because she had a realization that I would be the one to solve a design dilema for her and her client.
Originally she had specified a wallpaper for a feature wall in the foyer of her client's bay front property in Ocean City, MD. But because the wall was so tall (19' to be exact) the cost to have it custom made was way over budget. Then it dawned on her that I could create a finish inspired by the wallpaper, and stay within the budget! A win-win!
Christie sent me the sample and I went to work creating a painted version of it. I wanted to keep the grasscloth texture like the original so I decided to go with a plaster ground. Once dry, I layered glazes, wiping back and adding more, until the desired effect was achieved.
I think the final product is a showstopper and really compliments the stunning design work in the home. The house was remodeled from top to bottom and Christie really did a beautiful job. I hope the clients have many happy years there.
Do you have a design dilema we could help with? Contact us today!
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Past, Present, and Future: Pete Pappas & Sons Corporate Mural
Earlier this summer I completed a large scale mural depicting the family business Pete Pappas and Sons in Jessup MD.
I was asked to show the history of the company from the first packing warehouse founded by their great grandfather in 1942 who immigrated from Greece to Washington D.C. Also shown is the current facility and in the center are the three generations of Pappas family owners. The two figures in the center are passing a crate of tomatoes, symbolizing the passing of the company's leadership from father to son.
The mural was completed on canvas in the studio and installed on site by Shelly Wilkins of Walls Etc. Learn more about how we create murals on canvas.
I love creating meaningful work and get such a joy out of bringing client's idea to life. Do you have a space that could use a special work of art?
Raving about the Ravens
Recently I was asked to paint some murals for a library renovation being funded by the Ravens Foundation for Charles Carroll Barrister Elementary in Pigtown, Downtown Baltimore. I was thrilled! I was able to paint four areas, all on canvas, and help create a warm and inviting environment for the students of CCB to read and learn. Special thanks to Nancy Pascale and Warren Wunder for having faith in me to accomplish this project in such a short amount of time. And special thanks to Mary Landavere for helping paint all those stadium seats! Oh, and I can't forget Shelly Wilkins and Larry Stroup for their work hanging the murals.
