In an effort to showcase other artisans in the design industry, I created the series Faux-cus on the Pros. This week we get a peek inside Authentic Environments, owned by Richard Winget. The company is based out of Huntington Beach, CA and they replicate and create worlds of nature — including structures that have been built, carved and painted to simulate the look of collapse and decay. His clients usually find themselves surround by the exotic mystery of ruins, waterfalls and strange rock formations.
Authentic Environments has won a slew of awards and been widely featured in the media. Mr. Winget (below) actually traveled around the world as a freelance artist before he began his own company. Through his travels, he was able to work in large aquariums, major theme parks, zoos and hotels. He was kind enough to take a bit of time to sit down and chat.
Q: Well, this is not a business one stumbles into by accident. How did it all begin?
A: There was a company building faux rockwork and one of my first jobs was mixing cement. I met some good people, especially one man who became my friend and mentor. He took me with him to do an internship for the next two years at the Mirage in Las Vegas. He has since passed away. I learned a lot from him and still miss him greatly.
Q: I’m so sorry to hear that. You must have received some wonderful guidance and advice from him.
A: The best piece of advice I ever received was “Don’t be afraid to try new things.” You have to push the envelope in this industry. I would repeat that advice to anyone.
Q: What has been your most creative work?
A: My most creative act so far has been the reproduction of a Roman aqueduct. (See below)
I think there are few products that can transcend design styles like Venetian Plaster – they can either be distressed, adobe-like or even smooth and sleek for contemporary styles. One of the best suppliers in the country for lime-based products is located in Seattle: Stucco Italiano. I thought I would take a moment to speak to owner Aaron Cohen and get his thoughts on this most versatile of materials.
Aaron: “About 25 years ago, before I moved to Seattle, I remember seeing this really shiny stuff a couple of guys were applying in the entry of a brownstone in Brooklyn. I was on a paint job and that was my first exposure to Venetian Plaster. I think these guys were getting something like $35 per square foot – they were flown in from Italy – and it was very exotic. Everyone was oohing and aahing.” He continues, “Jump forward 25 years. Now, you can buy a reasonable rendition of that shiny stuff at Home Depot. We, however, import lime plasters, shiny and otherwise, from a manufacturer in Italy. You should see the manufacturer’s face when he sees all the distressed finishes we do with his materials – he really can’t believe all the crazy stuff we Americans do with their materials. He’s somewhat horrified I think. It must have something to do with the fact there is so much old world look in their part of the world already. It doesn’t look fancy there, it just looks old and in disrepair.”
Q: What’s hot in plasters?
A: For us, Lime exteriors. Tadelakt showers. Low-sheen interior “Intonachino” lime finishes throughout homes and businesses as an alternative to gypsum and clay based materials. From a design perspective it seems that simpler contemporary finishes are becoming more in demand. I think the distressed look may have peaked a few years ago, though we still teach it and produce it when it’s desired.
Q: Intonachino? Is that a new product?
A: Intonachino is a uniformly rough lime plaster with slight variations in color. It is intended for either interior or exterior surfaces. It is highly breathable, naturally mildew resistant and has an excellent drying capacity.
Q: Why do you prefer lime plasters?
A: Lime plasters are naturally green. Their manufacture is carbon neutral and they contribute to a healthy interior environment. We’ve really been reaching out to the more traditional installers to show them the benefits of working with a lime-based material instead of acrylic or cementitious ones.
Here are some more pics, all courtesy of Stucco Italiano:
Mmmm, that tangerine plaster sample is definitely one of my faves. Aaron shared that they used to do installations but now focus solely on supply and training. Their core customers tend to be paint, plaster and stucco contractors, as well as decorative finishers. However, if you are a DIYer – they do have a one-day course called PIY: Plaster-It-Yourself. I regularly read their blog and follow their exploits on Twitter. One of my very favorite posts on their blog was Fact of Fiction: Five Things You’ve Probably Heard About Venetian Plaster. I hope you get a chance to peruse their informative and recently updated website, Stucco Italiano. Maybe you might even stumble onto their plastering videos. It’s a good site to get lost in. Below, you’ll find a wall in progress and a company pic. I hope you’ve enjoyed our latest Faux-cus on the Pros!
Full Link: www.stuccoitalianoinc.com
I remember reading the Winter 2003 Faux Finisher magazine and coming across an article about the Richmond, VA-based Sunny’s Goodtime Paints. Launched in 2001 by Sunny Goode and her partner, they were introducing a line of pre-mixed glazes — which I thought was great for DIYers and those pros who were looking for a quick, great color with no mixing involved. They even have a line of Deck-o-rator cards which feature said glaze colors on clear acetate so that you can hold it up to your base paint and see the result immediately. Today, through selected retailers and online, they sell stencils, removable designs, colour washes and specialty paints along with releasing two Paint Can! books. Their website is elegant and extremely easy to navigate. They have a Get Inspired area with great photographs and a Learn How area with clear and concise instructions. It’s truly a DIYers dream…and the pros could find some cool inspiration there as well.
I wanted to talk to Ms. Goode about her beginnings and what she sees down the pike for the decorative painting world. She was very gracious with her time as we chatted online recently. (Here’s a photo of the team – LOVE the oversized graphics.)
What ideas were behind the creation of Sunny’s Goodtime Paint?
I have always LOVED color ever since I was very young. I was lucky enough to discover decorative painting could be a career right out of college. Sunny’s Goodtime Paints, Inc. was created as non-intimidating, approachable introduction into decorative painting for anyone who is interested. We want to be the first step in understanding decorative finishes. I want people to get comfortable and confident with how they work, to try new ideas, layers, patterns and colors without having to guess while they are learning. In fact, the Deck-o-rator cards were created for this very purpose: to see how a base color can effect a glaze and vice versa.
…and now you have two beautiful Paint Can! books…
With the books I like to show ideas like what a large stencil can do over or under a glaze or what vertical and horizontal stripes do to a room. I waited to find a publisher who would write underneath each photo exactly what we used from base coat to glaze color to stencil size, so the reader would not have to guess.
The more customers we have that try this themselves have a greater understanding of what goes into a decorative painting job. They love what they are learning. The ones who do it then NEVER complain about a price [from a professional] afterwards. Whether they choose to do it or not in the future is up to them, but at least the know what goes into it. It is like watching the TV show How It’s Made – once you see it, it helps justify the price.
Where do you see the decorative painting industry heading in the future?
I see decorative artist as a whole service industry. More and more people have grown up with decorative painted walls and will want them in the future. It will not be a luxury, more of a necessity and expectation. My goal is to help the average person understand it and help consumers find good decorative artists everywhere.
What are your favorite designs, finishes or colors?
Graphic painted floors. Any punchy color with a muted neutral gray or brown. White on white designs.
Who are some of your inspirations?
Kelly Wearstler, David Hicks, Wolf Kahn and Matisse.
I think my love of Kelly Wearstler is well documented! I like how, on Top Design, she helps aspiring designers with their careers. Speaking of, how did you start yours?
I was fortunate enough to apprentice for a Washington, DC decorative artist who had been in business for 12 years, Nancy Baker. She also was the daughter-in-law of James Baker, the Secretary of State at the time. She was extremely talented and we worked in a lot of really neat homes in DC. She had a large family and decided to stop decorative painting, and literally dropped her business in my lap. I was shocked but had to hustle. I immediately took as many classes as I could from the Isabel O’Neil school to make sure there was not a finish I could not do. It all started in 1992 and has evolved from there.
What has been the most positive and/or fulfilling project you’ve been involved with?
Two years ago I got a group of volunteers and we painted the Center for Alexandria’s Children. We warmed up a very institutional space for children who were being removed from their homes to be placed into foster care. It really meant a lot to me that these kids not feel scared when they came here. My sister played a large role in raising the money to create this center. The center houses a police precinct, social workers and medical care so kids do not get shuffled around the city from one place to another getting help during a very scary and stressful time. If I could do this all day every day I would- it was VERY rewarding.
It is the most rewarding feeling to give to others selflessly. Thank you, Ms. Goode, for sharing your time and thoughts with us. I hope you, dear Reader, will check out her company’s website – it’s so visually pleasing and informative. One of my faves is the Deck-O-Rator cards — so easy to immediately see what direction you’d like to go in with a color glaze. Until next time — have a safe weekend!
Reference Site: www.SunnysGoodtimePaints.com
The Stencil Library is generally regarded as the being the world’s leading stencil design company. The stencils are made in Northumberland, England and shipped worldwide. Helen Morris is one of the forces behind The Stencil Library so imagine our good fortune when she agreed to be interviewed by Fauxology. An exciting event for all of us! Do you know how The Stencil Library’s name came about? Well, let’s all sit down by the fire and find out about that and more!
Tell us about how it all started, Helen.
My career was fashion, both wearing it and selling it. The Stencil Library was originally an idea that I formed with my husband, Chips. He designed stencils for screen printing and also used them in large scale to create the exciting interiors that were transforming the bar scene in our city nearly thirty years ago. He decorated our home with them in 1981. I did not really know what stencils were until he asked me to cut some for him. I realised how accessible the tool could be for home decoration and no one was making anything like it in the UK. I asked around to see if there might be an outlet for them. The two top interior companies in the city said they would like to sell our stencils. They never did, but their enthusiasm was enough to get us started. We chose mail order as our main sales method so that we could reach a wide audience and have few cash flow issues. Our stencils were hand cut to order and priced accordingly. To help people afford the less simple designs, we offered a hire service. When the stencil was returned promptly and in a suitable condition for re-hire, we would refund half its cost. Hence the name “The Stencil Library”. We started with 250 stencils and now offer four thousand. The collection that we are working on now is fabulous.
Four thousand, wow! Would you be able to pick a favorite design?
My favourite stencil designs are often the ones that we are working on at the moment, but if I had to choose my all time favourites they would be the Chinoiserie panels 1 to 4. They were inspired by handpainted wallpapers at the Royal Palace in Brighton England. We had special permission to visit and photograph the private rooms there. I have used this stencil to decorate one of my guest rooms. I used the same design for the British Interior Design Association show house some years ago. Armourcoat, a UK specialist plaster company stencilled it in polished plaster studded with hundreds of crystals. The effect was sparkly, carved marble and looked delicious. I am fond of the Larger than Life Designer Blossom. It’s a stick and dot design inspired by an Erte graphic from the 1930’s. We have some fabulous patterns formed around dots in our forthcoming collection and I have already chosen a new best friend amongst them.
I do love all the designs you’ve mentioned! What jumpstarts your inspiration?
Half a pint of cappucino with four shots of expresso!
Me, too, Helen! Professionally, who are some of your inspirations?
My inspirations last inspirations last year were fashion designers such as John Galliano and Alexander McQueen and photographer Tim Walker.
Here’s a pic of Helen on the left — wearing her stencilled designs on a mock cover made for her by her husband. On the right, stencilling wrapping paper. Her book and company’s DVD are pictured as well.
Are you excited about any cool items you’ve come across?
If we are talking just stencil related stuff, The Gridfinder by The Stencil Library and I’m quite taken by the Mushroom tool from Buon Fresco, the Vele mitt from Adicolor and oh I’m still a fan of The Woolie.
What are some misconceptions that you encounter about stencils?
Unfortunately prejudice against the stencil still exists amongst those that can not see past the gingham duck phase of the late eighties (in the UK the grapevine was ubiquitous). Stencils have been used to replicate pattern for two thousand years, some some of the most fabulous lavish interiors have been created all over the globe with them. Get over the decade of the duck! Vinyl stickers and transfers get mistaken for stencils. We get asked “Can I order my stencil in a different colour?” Another misconception is that the stencil can only be used once.
I’m going to have to use that getting over the duck decade motto, Helen! What other advice would you offer to our readers with regards to stencilling?
Stencils are a tool to help you create lettering and pattern easily. There is a myriad of paints and other mediums that you can use with a stencil to create a wealth of colours and textures. Since the beginning of this century a few pioneering stencil companies have become more daring and varied in their offerings, oversized pattern, bold designs, even graffiti style stencils are available now. Modello Designs has revolutionised the stencilled decoration of ceilings, always a tricky surface. They are doing amazing things with concrete, too. The Stencil Library launched the Big and Bold decorating masks and the Print Room range which combines stencilling and photocopies. I love to see photographs of our customers work as their imagination is inspiring. Magazine stylists come up with some fab applications too. Read blogs to see what is happening out there.
Speaking of blogs, what are some of your favourite websites, blogs or forums on the internet?
I love an evening free to surf blogs and forums. I’m probably just nosey but kid myself that I’m garnering insight into the zeitgeist. Blogs are now the fastest way of getting new stencil related news to an audience, if that is your interest. I would bookmarking some of them such as my own Design Inspiration, this one Fauxology which is one of may faves (and no, I’m not grovelling). I regularly enjoy Design Amour by Melanie Royals and both Stencil Talk and Painter Girl by Carol Leonesio. Carol tells me that she prints pages from these blogs to show to clients and it results in commissions for her. I have learned a lot from being a member of IDAL, not only visiting their annual convention but by conversing on their on line chapters. Thank goodness my TV rarely interests me.
I’d like to thank Helen for her wonderful interview and taking the time to share a bit of herself with us. It’s a bit American but I’d like to let you know that You Rock! Here are some pics using the amazing Stencil Library Line.
I LOVE reading blogs — especially design related ones like Design Inspiration. If you don’t read it regularly already, please check it out. The Stencilled Home was one of the very first stencil books I purchased and still among the very best. I’m happy that they have released a DVD of The Stencilled Home, which includes a tour of their home. Since their home is constantly changing, it features designs that were not in the book. It’s the closest thing we have until we holiday in England and visit The Stencil Library shop! I hope you’ve enjoyed our chat with Helen and been inspired to create something magnificent with stencils!
A little bit ago, we did a two-part Faux-cus on the Pros interview with Sisters Hands, a group of ten artisans who came together due to their passion for decorative painting. (Click here for Part One and Part Two.) They formed a strong sisterhood — sharing ideas, working together and networking.
Back then, they talked about their plans to expand that idea to include all artisans by providing a beautiful and resourceful website and an info-packed newsletter. Those plans have come to fruition! Their website has Class Info, Recipes, Fauxplay Product Reviews, and…oh, just click in to see it all. (Plus, I looooooooooooooove how on the home page you can click on their shadows and it brings up their bios. They’re all wearing the same colors, too — very cool. Whoever thought of that idea: kudos!) If you hurry, you can still enter to win a beautiful Tapestry Portfauxlio Bag by signing up for their newsletter. The premiere issue comes out on January 1, 2009…can’t wait to check it out.
I really enjoy being friends with women — I call them the Power Girls — who are all about entrepreneurship, breaking new ground and being forward-thinkers…and still being oh-so-chic and good to others every step of the way. I find that balance of equal parts generosity and ambition to be very inspiring. I hope you do, too!
[...although that may go out the door if it's between you and me for that paisley tapestry bag, LOL... =) ]
Reference Site: Sisters Hands - www.sistershands.com
Thank you for coming to Part Two of our Faux-cus on the Pros interview with Sisters Hands. If you haven’t yet read Part One, please click here.
What is wonderful about Sisters Hands is that they are planning to continue sharing their decorative painting knowledge. Their website, recently launched, will soon feature great articles, recipes and a Q&A area. A newsletter will also launch in the Fall. They will also have product reviews, fun stories and a few more surprises in mind for all. How cool is that?!? I’ll definitely be visiting often — I’m going to nominate myself as a long-lost cousin, LOL!
Here’s Part Two of our interview with the “sisters”…
Professionally, who are some of your inspirations?
Patty Henning says: Early in my career I was inspired by my first FE Instructor, Julie Robinson, who opened my world to professional finishing products and just a hint of what could be created with them. Where else do I find inspiration? Other creative artists. Being an avid web user, I have a natural tendency to seek resources there. With so many fellow artists on forums such as Murals Plus or Talk Faux, I find it a great source of inspiration to see their work, be it a photo of a room just completed or a new finish in the creation phase. Often, when I feel a connection with an artist’s style, I will check out their website or blog, bookmark it and revisit it in the future. It’s a great way to get the creative juices flowing. Professional businesses that offer new and exciting products, tools or design ideas, such as Royal Design Studio, Modello Designs, and Faux by Kathy motivate me. Lastly, it’s not so much who as a what. I love looking through printed literature that focuses on home design and style. My favorite author is Betty Lou Phillips. Magazines and books are a great source of inspiration for me, and a great tool to help a client envision just what I can offer for their space.
What is the most positive/fulfilling project you have ever done?
Judy Norman says: My most positive/fulfilling project I have ever done was working with a designer who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Denise and I had originally met at a local bible study and worked together for several years. Her cancer had progressed and she had been extremely ill right before Thanksgiving two and one half years ago. I went to visit her when she came home from the hospital and I asked her if there was anything I could do for her thinking she would ask for meals, housecleaning, etc.. She said her 11 year old daughter wanted her room painted and would I have time to do that before Christmas. I said we need to do something more than just paint and together Denise and I came up with a color scheme for her daughter. I pushed other work to later dates as I was convinced that she would not live to see Christmas. I gathered the products and went to work painting neon green walls with large black bagged flowers and hot pink centers. I painted the ceiling fan hot pink and used the three colors to create some unusual patterns on the ceiling. Her daughter chose 3 designs from about 10 different samples I had made for her. I also found a picture frame in hot pink and neon green so she could have a picture of her mom close by. It was such a bright room I imagined the little girl might having some trouble sleeping at night, but she was thrilled with how it turned out and said she sleeps well. Denise wanted to pay me for the room and I said absolutely not! This is a gift to you and your daughter and it is my pleasure to do this for you. We visited quite a bit over the next 18 months before Denise lost her battle with breast cancer. I can’t express how much joy she gave me in my life and this was such a small thing that I could do for her. Even though it isn’t a fancy high end finish, it is the most fulfilling project I have ever had.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you have received?
Elaine Castronovo says: I chose to answer this question with somewhat of a twist. Some of the best advice I have received about my career came from outside of the industry, from individuals and sources that were unexpected but welcome nonetheless. Sometimes if you take a moment to really listen to what people have to say, it can change your course or keep your head above water. Before attending my first professional class, I ran into a neighbor/friend at a local grocery store. We stopped to talk briefly. I don’t know that she will ever know how much her words of wisdom affected me then and how they still ring true. When I told her how I was second guessing everything, business decisions and dealing with the guilt of leaving my family to further my education she simply said to me: ”Being a Mom and staying home with children, making them your focus, your world becomes very small. Go away to your class – you will never regret it.” And oh how right she was. That first class lead to many more and a whole new me, and a much bigger world.
Another piece of advice came from a meeting that my husband had at work that was meant to pump up the employees for the benefit of the company. The man speaking to the audience made a simple statement that still makes me stop in my tracks and I remind myself of this all the time. He asked the audience, “What is the definition of insanity?” His reply: ”Doing the same thing over and over…and expecting different results.” This small statement keeps me in check every time I want to complain about work or the results I am getting. And another is a quote from Connie Reeves, a cowgirl: “Always saddle your own horse. Always know what you are doing. Go in the direction that you are headed.” To me, these are words to live by. Although none of these came from professionals within the industry, they have all been the best advice that has encouraged me to keep steady, not be afraid to grow and know that I will always be learning – thoughout my career and in my life.
What is the best thing that has happened to the faux industry in the last five years?
Julie Young says: To me, the best thing that has happened to the faux industry is two-fold. The first being all of the cool, fun textures – whether it is a smooth Venetian Plaster, Marmorino, Versiplast or PlasterTex. No more sponging or ragging a colorwash to mimic texture. Most of our clients do not want to attempt a textured finish so we are in high demand. The textured finishes are so hands-on that they sell themselves… whether they are metallic or matte in color. Embossing with stencils or patterns is another asset in design. Small thin trowels are great tools for application for folks with petite hands.
The second most exciting thing to happen to the faux industry is the networking and camaraderie. You can go to any class and meet friendly willing partners in the industry. You can network thru message boards. You can go to SALI/IDAL conventions to find like minded souls. The creativeness in our industry brings people together to collaborate and it is an awesome accomplishment.
Where do you see faux finishing heading in the future?
Renee Holder says: There are many professionals in our industry, including our group, that are making it a mission to educate the public and I believe that people are listening. I believe that the awareness of faux and decorative painting is currently more acute than in any other time in our recent history. I also believe that the client is more tolerant of prices now that decorative painting has become more popular and the fact that they are more educated in the time that it takes to not only apply these finishes, but all of the work that goes into a project prior to application. Not only do we now have designers, architects and builders using our skills, we also have other trades who refer us to their clients as well, such as plumbers, electricians, tile, granite and flooring installers. Look in any major publication and you most likely will see a decorative paint finish displayed somewhere, if not on walls, then on backdrops in advertising. It’s basically everywhere!
For the past several years I’ve repeatedly heard that faux is on it’s way out and wallpaper is making a big comeback. Although I keep hearing this, I’ve yet to see it happen. What I have noticed is that the wallpaper manufacturers are now trying to mimic the finishes that we apply to walls everyday. Don’t get me wrong, I know that wallpaper will always be around, but I don’t believe it is a competitive worry. The consumer would much rather prefer a certain look without the seams showing and the labor entailed with hanging and removing wallpaper. They also take into consideration the fact that they can have custom color in their finishes, which is limited in the wallpaper selections. I truly believe that the future for our industry is going to continue to grow and be a strong influence in residential and commercial settings. (End)
Well, I had a tear in my eye reading Judy’s story — what a tremendous opportunity to do something wonderful for Denise’s daughter! I bet it meant the world to her. Elaine said something really important as well: so many accomplished women never take the time to do something for themselves…when in actuality, it may be just what their own soul needs the most. Well, it’s been a pleasure for me to transcribe this interview – I hope it’s been an enjoyable read for you! They reinforce how rewarding it is to reach out to your fellow artisans and create a group filled with trust, respect and friendship. In fact, the group as a whole reminds me of that famous quote: “Sisters are different flowers from the same garden.” Please be sure to check out their individual sites as well as their Sisters Hands site…it looks to become a wonderful resource! Have a great day!
While looking over House of Faux, I found out about artists who formed Sisters Hands, a networking and supportive resources group. I was truly inspired by reading their story. The ten artisans came together (nine nationwide, one abroad) by believing in “faux karma” – that if you lose your competitiveness and the fear of sharing, you will not only grow personally but your business will blossom as well. Wow — I completely agree with this philosophy! In our industry, some artists choose to be secretive about their techniques, their creative process or let jealousy/fear run rampant. These artisans knew instinctively that sharing the joys of this field (along with its stresses) helps one grow, evolve and reach higher levels of artistry and camaraderie. I had to stalk them talk to them and hope they would share with us how they came together in 2006 and how they work together today. ;)
In what was a first for our Faux-cus on the Pros series, almost the entire group was involved in the interview and tackled specific questions. Normally, I take about five interview questions but each answer was so touching and/or had such a great message, that I decided to leave them all in and create a double-header. So, this is Part One of our interview with Sisters Hands. Before we get into our interview, I want to take a moment to let you know who the ten members are (in abc order) and have the chance to get to know them better by visiting their websites and seeing their outstanding work.
Susan Bickford of Singing Walls (Nashville, TN), Marti Carroll of Fauxscapes (Baton Rouge, LA), Elaine Castronovo of Creative Lane Finishing (Pittsburgh, PA), Cindy Everett of Designer Finishes Studio (Olive Branch, MS), Patty Henning of Fabulous Finishes (Detroit, MI), Renee Holder of Artistry in Faux (Little Rock, AR), Judy Norman of Decorative Illusions (Atlanta, GA), Krista Vind of Ufauxrea (Destin, FL), Cait Whitson of Carte Blanche (Scotland) and Julie Young of Julie Art (San Diego, CA).
Here we go!
How did you meet and begin this networking path?
Marti Carroll says: This question can be answered in many different ways depending on which sister the question is being directed to. The answer is as diversified as the group members! This has been an accumulation of friendships that has been formed over time. Our beginning was based on a personal desire. I have never been one to be in the public eye, especially on public forums and I had no local finishers in which to network with. Although I would lurk on the public forums daily, I rarely posted. What I was looking for were finishers who would be interested in a more personal setting in which to share ideas and support. I had made many friends in the industry through classes and conventions and decided that it was time to reach out and try to design a support network that was more intimate than a public forum. I called a couple of friends who are respected finishers that I would like to have join in on this idea and they were very excited about it. I set up a private message board for us to chat on and we set down a few simple rules and that was the beginning. We are usually in contact with the rest of our group on a daily basis, discussing everything from pricing projects to how to handle a kid crisis! We love taking classes together or taking classes from members who are teachers! We get together once a year for our annual “faux play”, which is a fun and exciting time to share ideas and play with new products! And when we have a project that requires a few extra hands, we know that we have our group to help us out. Over the last three years we have supported each other both personally and professionally….we truly are sisters at heart!!
Please describe working with your Sisters. How do you prepare and execute a commission together?
Krista Vind says: Working with other members of Sisters Hands has been a tremendous blessing in both my personal and professional life. I love what I do, but I enjoy it even more on a daily basis when I share the work, the challenges and then the beautiful results.
One of the really empowering things about being a member of a group of extremely talented and experienced artists is that I now actively seek very large projects. In the past I was reluctant, and I am sure it showed in interviews and consultations, because very large projects were just SO much to bite off for one person. A concern for me was that when taking on jobs that could last months on end, I wouldn’t be actively marketing and my business would suffer after that one project was done. I did learn this lesson firsthand early on in my career. I was really starting to enjoy some success and recognition and was so pleased when I got my first really big job. I worked on that job for 8 months and when it was over, even though I was so proud of all the work that I had done and my high profile client was ecstatic, I found myself out beating the street trying desperately to find business. In essence, everyone had forgotten about me while I was away. Those concerns are not an issue any longer. When I take on large projects, I try to bid them so that no job will take longer than a month to complete, so the size of the job dictates how many Sisters are needed to complete it in a timely manner.
You may wonder about how this obviously affects the overall cost of a project. When I bid Sisters projects, I include funds to cover travel expenses and labor. Generally, we call in others from the group based on the type of experience required for a particular job, the individual talents of each member as well as the geographic location of a member to the jobsite. Most often large projects are commercial (a store with an opening date) or a very large residence (someone is carrying a construction loan), so time is of the essence. The actual project price is not much different for group vs. single; it is just concentrated into a smaller time frame. When you are able to complete projects quickly, the constant change of project and scenery keep your outlook really fresh. Less time in the “execution phase” allows more time for the “design and creative phase”.
We have had the opportunity to bid projects as Sisters Hands, but for the most part, we are led by the Sister who secured the job and completed the preparations (bid, samples, etc). We are comfortable traveling anywhere to complete a commission. Beyond the business aspects, it is not a job but a true joy to work with the talented ladies in this group. We have so much fun in all the projects we undertake, from work to “faux play” (our yearly gathering). We support each other no matter what life throws our way…..good or bad. I have no biological sisters, but I do have real sisters!
What are some misconceptions about faux finishing that you encounter?
Cait Whitson says: The misconceptions I encounter in Scotland are various. I chose to answer this question because I thought it might amuse to see attitudes that are 5,000 miles away and yet many of you will find them familiar. First of all, the word “faux” is almost never used to describe decorative finishes. A faux finisher is referred to as a “specialist decorator” or a “decorative painter”. In this tiny country that is smaller than Maine and with a population of only 5 million, there is actually very little awareness of what in the USA is termed “faux” and we as a company are continually educating our clients. We have a panel van that has a description of our business on the side: Carte Blanche, Decorative Painters – Graining and Marbling, Paint Effects, Murals, Hand Painted Furniture. Despite all that information we come across people on weekly basis who will say “I’ve seen the van often……and what is it you actually do?” I am not sure what more we can say to explain it. The terminology is misconstrued and misinterpreted regularly. I visited a client only today who said he wanted graining when he in fact wanted strie, I am asked alarmingly often if I do murals, I have been asked for dippling in the past, asked if I disturbed walls and had a designer ask if I could “do some blobby stuff”. We are often asked if the paint just does that when it comes out of the tin.
Many clients believe that good finishers can only be found in London. We constantly surprise people when we tell them that we are home grown. We even have the converse of this happening – clients who tell their friends that the work they have in their home, carried out by Carte Blanche, was actually done by a company in London. We, like all the best finishers the world over, are still fighting the sponging and bad rag-rolling image that has haunted the industry since the 80’s and the word “stencilling” is virtually a swear word. I always think that Melanie Royals was so clever to invent the word Modello, a new word for a stencil, and I am thinking I might do the same in Scotland just so we get the opportunity to use them more often.
I think the biggest misconception is amongst the tradesmen that we work with…they are all convinced we earn an absolute fortune. I do little to dispel this as perhaps their belief, whilst at times misconceived, will turn into reality if we believe, too.
What are some of the coolest items and/or products you’ve come across together?
Susan Bickford says: One of the most fun things we do as a group is get together once a year just to play with product and be creative. All of us have a history with FE products, but we’ve also introduced each other to some other great product lines including Perfetto and Blue Pearl, Pro Faux, Texston, Wood Icing, American Clay, and Rosco Scenic Paints. At last year’s gathering, we were fortunate to have some companies contribute products for us to play with. Kathy Carroll shared some of her great Bella products as well as other products that she carries. Misty Heath of Perfetto shared some of the new Villaggio, as well as Shimmered Suede and Portofino. We were introduced to Blue Pearl’s great metallic glaze, and their Wood Gel Stain. Rosco, a scenic arts company, shared their new acrylic paint line, and our favorite in that line – Crystal Gel – a great adhesive medium for a variety of thing including glass beads. American Clay shared their Loma with us, as well as Manda Mudd, who shared their great 3 step textural product. We all come away from our play time invigorated, producing and selling new finishes using all the new products we get to share and try out.
…to be continued…
Phew!!!! I myself am inspired by their thoughts and heck, all those great products to look into! Thanks, Susan! I found myself laughing at Cait’s designer asking for “blobby stuff” — and have also been asked if the product comes that way out of the can. Um, no…. (Don’t even get me started on the “OH! You do sponging!” Sigh.) I hope you tune in to get Part Two of our interview with Sisters Hands, including their future plans and what they say is the best thing that has happened to the faux industry. Until then!
I really do love the Faux Finisher magazine. Every time it appears in my mailbox, I do the happy dance all the way to my desk and sit down immediately to read it. :) It premiered in 1999 and it has kept a great pulse on our amazing industry. I thought it would be great to have Diane Capuano, the Executive Editor of the Faux Finisher, walk us through the creation of each issue with the bonus of getting to know her a little better.
Ms. Capuano has been with the magazine since its inception. She also is the executive editor of a monthly magazine, Paint & Decorating Retailer, which is a retail trade magazine. Both magazines are published by the Paint & Decorating Retailers Association (PDRA). She writes many of the articles in the magazine (particularly the profiles of artists) and also works with the contributors in making assignments and editing the content. Let’s start our e-chat with her…
Please describe your ideal issue for the Faux Finisher. How do you go about putting together an issue?
My ideal issue is one in which I notice an overriding theme emerge and I can use that theme for the cover and my editor’s column. For instance, for the Summer 2008 issue, I profiled John Alan, who has done restoration work in churches and cathedrals, and Katt Ellis, who does natural and rustic-themed decorative art. We also had an article from Melanie Royals, who had just returned from a trip to Morocco, where she had done work in keeping with the Moroccan culture. It occurred to me that all of these artists each had a different source of inspiration that contributed to their work. So, I was able to run with that theme and use the word “Inspiration!” on the cover in large type and then talk about the potential sources of inspiration in my column. That issue is fresh in my mind because I just completed it, but I really enjoyed the cohesiveness.
I also enjoy having a balance in each issue between what I would call the artistic articles, such as the ones described above, and the business/practical articles. Rebecca Parsons has been with us since the beginning, and she does a fabulous job every issue with her Faux Biz column. I also enjoy the Mike Cooper column, which is not only informative but fun and entertaining. Plus, the ideal issue also will have contributions from some of our regulars, such as Melanie Royals, Victor DeMasi, Randy Ingram/Brian Townsend, Debbie Ellison, Ed Mattingly and Martin Alan Hirsch. If we have contributions from two or more of that core group of talented artists or writers, in addition to the aforementioned columns, I consider it a successful issue.
How far in advance do you prepare the issues?
Since we are a quarterly, I can do a little bit at a time over a three-month period. Because I’m also the editor of a monthly magazine as well, the intensity of The Faux Finisher doesn’t start until about one month before production. At that point, I make sure I know who the featured artist(s) will be and arrange to do the interviews (usually over the phone), I send out reminders to all the columnists and regular contributors, and over the course of the next couple weeks, I do writing and arrange for photos. There is about a week of intensive writing, photo selection and page design. We have artists who do the feature layouts, and I then I do final edits and outstanding pages such as contents, product news pages and the editor’s column. Then, we do final checks on proofs and release the issue to our printer, at which point we start the cycle all over again!
One kind of interesting point: I work from home. I have a (very cluttered) home office, but thanks to the magic of email, cell phones, FTP sites, remote computer locations and fleet-footed courier services, I can work from home, get my job done and still be the chauffeur that my kids need me to be for all after-school activities!
How did you begin this career path?
I went to the University of Missouri School of Journalism and originally expected to be a newspaper reporter, and I did work on a couple different newspapers but on the copy editing desk. But it got to be a bit routine every day was the same as the one before unless a major story was breaking. Then, I discovered the world of trade magazines and liked the diversity of writing, interviewing, editorial planning and working with artists, photographers and other creative people.
Any industry books that you recommend for us to read?
Ina Brosseau and Alan Marx’s new “Furniture Restoration” book: great photos, well-written text…just perfect! They are an amazing couple, as nice and warm and genuine as can be! I’m so thrilled that they recently contributed an article to The Faux Finisher on the subject of furniture restoration. There is also a new book by Gary Lord on Mural Painting in which he has contributions from many of the top muralists in the industry. These are big, big names, so it was quite an achievement to put a book like that together. Of course, The House that Faux Built, another great collaborative effort. I’m also anxious to see the new book by Michel Nadai (it’s bilingual, French and English), and Pierre Finkelstein has one of the industry bibles with the “Art of Faux”.
What are some of the best spaces you’ve seen designed?
Now, that’s a loaded question, because there have been so many great artists that we have featured in the pages of The Faux Finisher. At the risk of leaving out someone whose work I’ve really enjoyed and then slapping myself on the forehead later for my forgetfulness, I will venture naming a few. I will just limit myself to the artists we have featured in the magazine and/or whom I have seen do demos in person.
I always enjoy the projects of Randy Ingram and Brian Townsend because the murals they design are just out of this world in terms of their scale and their detail. Mike Cooper has provided articles on some amazing mural projects as well a couple that involved overpasses or retaining walls along highways, so he gets extra points for having to paint while dodging traffic – well, not literally, but you get what I mean. If anyone could do Extreme Mural Painting and make it look easy, it’s Mike.
What also sticks in my mind are the fantastic murals designed by international muralist Gez Taylor. He’s done work for five-star hotels, palaces and mansions in many of the world’s most exotic locales. And the work of William Cochran, featuring some of the most realistic trompe l’oeil I’ve ever seen, just blows me away! Speaking of being blown away, I also recall a great project done by Dave and Pam Schmidt done with a lightweight concrete to create an unforgettable home theater room with a “Stargate” theme.
I’m also blown away by the great restorative work of George Zaffle (who has done work for movie stars and government officials). And I have been impressed by the classical themes used in the work of Cynthia Borman. I also have enjoyed the innovative wall and furniture finishes that Sandra Lassley can do with a bit of metallic paint and some imagination. Similarly, the fun embellishments that Ann Snipes adds to her furniture projects definitely make them memorable.
In person, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing the artistry of such legends as Leonard Pardon, Sean Crosby, Michel Nadai, Pierre Finkelstein, Pascal Amblard and Nicola Vigini who have generously demo’d their skills at such industry events as SALI, Salon, The Faux Event, Meeting of the Masters, Fauxcademy, etc.
And I’d also like to give a nod to John Catalanotto and Greg Frohnapfel of Pro Faux, who allowed me to tag along on a couple of projects that they spearheaded at our PDRA headquarters building. Having worked for several years in an office that they Venetian plastered (not only the walls, but the desk to match), I’d like to heartily acknowledge that they made the concept of staring at the four walls around me (as I sought writing inspiration) a lot easier to take!
I really wish space permitted me to name more of the memorable spaces and projects, but we’ve been publishing for nearly 10 years, and that means we’ve probably profiled (or published articles from) about a hundred or more artists!
But what really excites me is that there is so much great work being done and so many great artists who I would still like to feature! We have a couple exciting artists who we expect to be profiling in upcoming issues, so stay tuned to future issues. That’s my one unadulterated plug!
What is the best thing that has happened to the faux industry in the last five years?
The Internet! Now, there are so many ways that artists can communicate with other artists online via forums, photo galleries, social websites, YouTube, etc. And what a great thing to be able to show a visual portfolio of your work merely by giving clients, colleagues, friends or whomever else your Web address! As an editor, I love it, because if someone is proposing an article to me, all I have to do is ask for his or her Web address, and I can immediately see the caliber of work they do. Sure beats snail mail!
Here’s a few pics of a some of the decorative painting disciplines you can find covered in any issue: murals, faux finishes and furniture.
Furniture by Ann Snipes
Mural by Sean Crosby and Faux by Elaine Castronovo
It was very nice of Ms. Capuano to take the time to ”chat” with the Fauxology readers — thank you! I hope you found it a pleasure reading about the behind-the-scenes magic that happens with putting each issue together. Please take a bit of time to click on the links above and not only find out more about The Faux Finisher, but also have a beautiful stroll through the websites of some of the most talented artists alive today. Until next time!
The Faux-cus on the Pros section of our blog is where I introduce you to professionals involved in various aspects of interior design, not just decorative painting. Case in point: Jason Champion, whom I met at the Robb & Stucky: Unexpected Style event a few months ago. He was with textile designer, Laurie Jenkins, and it was such a pleasure to meet and speak to them both about their craft. I firmly believe it is important to understand the artistry involved in all aspects of the design world since it provides a well-rounded approach to putting together a cohesive yet visually exciting space.
Jason has worked to realize his vision of fashion infiltrating functional outdoor design through his line of furniture and outdoor accessories, Jason Champion OUTDOOR. Prior to the company’s launch in 2006, Jason worked with design powerhouses Stark Carpet and JANUS et Cie. His reconnection with the outdoors occurred when designing for the KOLO Collection, where he was inspired to push the envelope of outdoor product offerings. He single-handedly designs his own collections and also works as an independent designer for HANSEN, designing three collections to preview July 2008. His pieces can be found on the cover of the Frontgate May 2008 catalog as well as posh hot spots such as The Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego, Green Valley Ranch Resort in Las Vegas and The Grand Hyatt in Singapore. Jason has won awards such as DIFFA’s “Best in Show” in Atlanta, 2003, and a ADAC Design Excellence award. He has been featured on Trading Spaces as well as publications and radio such as The New York Times, SIRIUS Satellite – Martha Stewart, NY Post, Miami Home, Elle Decor and House Beautiful.
I’m not surprised he has been so busy and well regarded. I’m glad he was able to take the time to do an interview for Fauxology and inspire us to a higher creative level. Enjoy!
Where do you see furniture design heading in the future? Versatility and durability. The lines of outdoor engineering are being blurred for interior use.
What are some of your personal favorite design and/or finish styles? I love the Circa 50 – Diamond Chair by Harry Bertoia. I also love a life finish or patina on metal.
How do you go about creating a new piece of furniture? What jumpstarts your inspiration? 1) History, 2) My Interpretation; and 3) Follow thought. Concepts also come from me not finding things I’ve wanted to use on projects for clients.
What are some of your favorite websites, blogs and/or message forums on the internet? Girl Meets Glamour and Apartment Therapy.
How did you begin this career path? I have a degree in Applied Arts (Interior Design). I’ve worked with clients to develop the perfect space within their budget that encompassed the entire house. I fell in love with the outdoors, which have no limitations in color, size or material.
Any interior design books and/or magazines that you recommend for us to read?
Met Home, Dwell and Domino.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you have received? Get it in writing! Contracts protect and lay out expectations for the clients. When “selling” IP intellectual property, it must be clear on what the finished product will be.
What are some of the best outdoor spaces you’ve seen designed? WYNN Hotel – Vegas, Central Park New York — and of course mine!
What are some of the coolest items and/or products you’ve come across? European design for outdoor products typically are more sleek and contemporary. Viteo’s Swing!
What advice would you offer our blog readers in regards to furnishing as a whole? Take care of what you have regardless of where it came from. All furniture needs care to last in any environment.
Isn’t his work sublime? Clean, unpretentious yet still modern, hip and striking. Recently, we were at the Grand Bohemian (Orlando) discussing some upcoming projects and there we saw part of his collection in the pool area. Good coincidence! I hope you’ve enjoyed Jason’s interview and his works. Please visit his website, Jason Champion OUTDOOR, to read more about him and see more of his collection in detail. Until next time!
A little bit ago, we were asked to provide an estimate for an awesome exterior commission. A very posh hotel wanted their name, logo and other mural/trompe l’oeil elements to be painted very elegantly on the side of their building. A building whose side was 60 feet wide and 15 stories high. What a rush!!!! (As excited as I was, I didn’t give my hubby too many details – if he knew the height and scaffold situation, he would Not Be Pleased.) Although we were up to the challenge, I also knew it would behoove me to partner up with a firm that does this type of work frequently. After several inquiries, I was led to the gregarious Michael Cooper of Nashville-based Murals & More. His work is extraordinary and I thought it would be great for you to get a peak into his mind and his incredible art. He and his wife, Mickie, also write a regular column for the Faux Finisher magazine. Let’s corner him and ask a few questions!!
Tell us a little about yourself, your company, its philosophy and style. I have been painting murals and finishes professionally for almost 20 years. Murals & More LLC has a reputation for quality. We are not the cheapest but we are certainly not the most expensive either. My murals tend to lean towards the more realistic style. Not necessarily photo-realistic, but I definitely want people to look twice before they figure out it’s painted!
Where do you see your field heading in the future? I think that there will be more and more talented people in the field, with customers settling less and less for sub-standard work. There will always be a market for the beginners and hobbyists, but I think that the ranks of the professionals will swell.
Professionally, who are some of your inspirations? Richard Haas, John Pugh, Kent Twitchell. Awesome artists. Very inspiring. Gives me some pretty heady goals.
What are some of your favorite color and/or product combinations to work with? I like working with silicates as well as Porter Paints.
What has been the most positive and/or fulfilling project you’ve worked on? I really like doing projects for fitness centers, because of how it affects all of the kids. I also love doing large exterior projects, because of the influence it has on different people almost every day.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you have ever received? From my wife, Mickie: even if you are busy, still make five “calls†a day because you need projects to paint once you are done with the one you’re on!
Over the course of your career, what have been your favorite products? Hate to be self-serving, but I love the brushes I’ve developed. Best I’ve ever found.
If someone had asked you when you were a child “What do you want to be when you grow up?†you would have answered: A doctor. I was going to be a doctor all of my life, right up until my first week of college when I took chemistry. Immediately changed my major to Interior Design. My parents were…ahem…thrilled.
What would you be doing if you weren’t in your current profession? Maybe a photographer, maybe in advertising, maybe in music promotion, but more than likely, I’d probably be dead.
That’s someone who loves what they do. And, isn’t he funny? Well, here’s some of his work for you to see:
How cool is this? The water detail alone must have been insane quite the challenge!
Hello, 911? There’s some big cats on the side of the road…
Oops…there goes the paint…(*shudder*)
Before (drab, drab, drab)
…and AFTER! (Love how those three lights were worked in.)
…and just ’cause it’s so pretty…
We haven’t heard if the exterior project is going forward but I do hope we have the chance to work together. Either way, I was glad to have the opportunity to make Mike’s acquaintance. I hope you take the time to see the Murals & More website and check out the classes and products available — you won’t be disappointed!
