1. I make a list of the Top Five Places I’d Like to Visit that incorporate decorative painting, architecture, museums and good food.
2. He then takes this List and does recon on sports stadiums to visit, sports games being played in our proposed time frame, hall of fame museums and good food.
3. A Winner bubbles up.

This pattern has never failed us — it helps that I enjoy sports and he appreciates great art! Do note that “good food” is on both our lists, hence our growing tummies. Sigh.

So came about our recent Christmas/New Years vacation in New Orleans.  We actually visited New Orleans prior to Katrina and were hoping to go back to add tourist dollars.  There is so much goodness in New Orleans that many blogs have been built solely to cover it. I’ll just do my personal biggest hits over time on Fauxology and we’ll start with the St. Louis Cathedral.

A landmark located in one of the busiest tourist sections, the St. Louis Cathedral is located right next to Jackson Square overlooking a fountain and a statue of Andrew Jackson on horseback.  Evoking the cathedrals found in Europe, it was built (and re-built several times) on a high piece of land and because of this, sustained far less damage from what Katrina exacted on other areas.

St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans

When you first walk in, you are greeted by beauty.

View towards the Cathedral Sanctuary.

Center Close-up

View towards the back of the cathedral.

Close-Up

Ceiling Close-up

Here are a slideshow with more images from our YouTube Fauxology channel.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Although there are some conflicting accounts as to who painted these murals, the overriding opinion is that it was Erasmus Humbrecht, an artist born in France and trained in Switzerland.  It was his first major work in the Americas. He charged $1,950 for the work above and $250 for the below mural over the sanctuary entitled “Sacrifice of the Divine Lamb”.  Here’s the best close-up I could get.

I came across stained glass windows depicting the life of Louis IX, whom the cathedral is named for.

Only in one invoice are the murals referred to as frescoes, in others it is simply called “decoration”. Conrad Schmitt Studios wrote a fascinating article on the $300,000 1995 restoration of Mr. Humbrecht’s work (here’s the PDF) — definitely worth the read.  There is more on the artwork’s history in Best of New Orleans (great info) and the cathedral’s site itself shares its fascinating history.  I hope you enjoyed my first New Orleans post — others coming up are on the French Quarter itself, the Garden District and how Mardi Gras floats are created.  My brother has previously written a guest post on his New “Awlins” adventures and the Miriam Ellner class he took on Verre Eglomise in case you’d like to dig in on those. Have a great day!

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Vinoy Renaissance

The Vinoy is a Mediterranean Revival-style hotel that is on the register of historical places.  Opened in 1926, it enjoyed much success until closing in 1974.  It was a dilapidated property when a $93-million renovation was undertaken in the mid-1990′s.  The Vinoy was brought back to its original glory while honoring the present.

During the restoration, the stenciled cypress beams above were removed, numbered, stored and ultimately replaced in their original location after new ceilings were installed. You can see how amazing they look with the contemporary design (below).

BTW, how gorgeous is this antique mirror? I must make one for my own home.

The spattering makes it so lovely. Love that rug it's reflecting, too!

Painted corbels abounded as well…

During the years it was closed, the property was occupied by the homeless and ravaged by insects, vermin and floods. The expertise of an army of craftsmen, fine painters and old-world plaster experts were required for the restoration.

A decorative painter working on the historic dining room ceiling. (Photo courtesy of the Vinoy Renaissance)

The dining room restoration above and below.

I must extend a huge Thank You! to the staff of the Vinoy Renaissance for taking the time to give me a tour and going over the restoration with me.  What a wonderful experience!  I do have some more finds that I’ve encountered during my recent travels and I’ll be sharing them soon.  Isn’t it great when you can discover something like this beauty unexpectedly? I bet we all love that!  Talk soon, gorgeous ones! – Regina

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The World Showcase has replicas of ten countries: Norway, France, Mexico, Japan, China, Germany, Canada, Italy, Morocco and the United Kingdom.

Map showcasing the country layout.

The country pavilions are located one right after the other and each has attractions, shops, artistry and of course, places to eat that focus on that country’s cuisine.  (I seriously cannot say enough of France’s pâtisserie…the Hubs and I visit it every.single.time.  I don’t even want to tell you the amount of goodies in the box we walk out with.) Most of the “cast members” working in Epcot are actually from that country and can answer any and all questions for you.  One of the best times to visit is during the holidays…

Gardens of Canada

(above) Nice “faux” glazes in the United Kingdom.

Norway (above left) and Germany (above right)

Below, you’ll first see a replica of the Itsukishima Shrine in Japan, then Italy, a market in China and finally France.  Photographer William Beem has a beautiful photograph of France, btw.

Replica of Itsukushima Shrine in Japanese Pavilion

Italy Pavilion (above)

Chinese Pavilion

French Pavilion

Last but not least, Morocco and Mexico.  As we enter Morocco, we catch a few beautiful glimpses such as columns and gorgeous “woodwork”. Hope you click on those last two links!

I didn’t take great shots of Mexico and so I used those provided by Walt Disney World below.  Mexico’s gorgeous exterior houses this beautiful interior…

Around the world in one blog post!

You can also catch holiday performances specific to each country and in the evenings, see beautiful light shows.  Although it might be a just a small showcase at Epcot Center, it has inspired a plan to see these amazing countries even more — travel is both a beautiful luxury and necessity, no?  Have a wonderful day, dear Reader!

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I have been a huge fan of Regina Garay and her exciting blog for many years now.  It has become a staple of mine as the “go to” place for inspiration and information about all things beautiful in our industry.  Her enthusiasm is intoxicating and her spirit is even more sincere and beautiful than the images she posts. Needless to say, I was totally delighted and thrilled when asked to be a guest blogger for Fauxology.

Before I entered the dynamic industry of decorative painting, I was a textile artist for an Indian fabric company, Star of India. I had the good fortune of working under the international fashion designer, Leslie Sutain.  I was responsible for painting repeat patterns on clear mylar, separating each color so that the printers and seamstresses in India knew how to make the colored screens and how the fabric was to be laid out on the garment.  It was a very fast-paced job but really perfected my hand as far as detail was concerned.  It also started my life-long infatuation with Indian culture, its colors and above all, its patterns. I wanted to share with you some new and exciting designers and trends that are coming out of India.

The exciting duo, Indian fashion designers Abhu Jain & Sandeep Chelsea are true artists and have a magic for all things beautiful. These photos were taken of their showrooms in London and Mumbai.

Wow. Now I could schmooze in this glam space all night long.

If you are not hooked yet, check out this next series of photos from some well noted Indian hotels and palaces that share that spotlight for their attention  to detail, ornament and luxury. Perhaps that is why Condé Nast Traveler has placed The Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai on their Hot List for 2011.  The simplicity and elegance of this ceiling and the design on the ones that follow are just breathless. Talk about über-luxury.

(above, below) The Taj Mahal Palace

Leela Palace Udaipur (above, several below)

Oberoi Amarvilas via Maison Marigold

Taj Falaknuma Palace

Lastly, two of my favorite blogs are DesignWali and Maison Marigold.  Both have a wonderful approach and enthusiasm for Indian design.  I especially love how Meenal Basinal of Maison Marigold has a runway to rooms segment where she blends fashion with a coordinating interior.  Sometimes a sari, sometimes a more contemporary outfit, but the results are always heavenly and rich in textures and colors.

Hope you all have enjoyed this little journey to exotic places and spaces.  Wishing you all a creative week!

Namaste,

*   *   *   *   *

I seriously love all the images, the links to the hotel galleries and the new blog discoveries!  Please note that you can keep up with Carmen on her Carmen Illustrates Facebook fan page where she posts not only her works, but also great links and cool images.  I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s guest post (Thank you, Carmen!) and I hope everyone has an inspired day.  Can’t help it after this post, right?

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To this instance, I like to read a lot about travel and a nice mag is Budget Travel. I learn so much about cool places and all within a reasonable budget. Here is where I had a peek at a vegetarian restaurant in Prague called Lekhá Hlava, meaning “light head”.

Coming upon Lehká Hlava...

Beautiful photo by Jeanette Irwin

One visitor said that it is “tucked around the corner in what looks to be an old alleyway. What I found was an old building with a tree growing right through it and stars painted on the medieval ceilings…”.

Hundreds of faux stars — and they twinkle and throb.  The purpose was to give the effect that you were dining outside on a starry night.  Love that!  I found more of their trippy decor.

Photo above by Žanda Gebauer

Love the inspired use of the ceiling and wall shape.

Oh, one more pic of the Starry Night can't hurt...

So, when I find myself in the Czech Republic it will be a place to visit because 1) It’s handpainted 2) I love vegetarian food (though I’m not vegetarian) and 3) Uhm. Prague.  The owners designed the restaurant like they would the interior of their own home and enlisted friends who were artists to come in and play.  Their web gallery has more images to see.  The restaurant opened in October 2005.

Hey, wait a minute Mr. Chocolate Fondue! You're not design related! How'd you get past the velvet rope and into the post? But while you're here, don't mind if I do...

Coincidentally, when I read their Project page detailing the renovation, I found that they were inspired to open Lekhá Hlava after experiencing the Zen Palate restaurant in New York City. I lived in NYC for many years and Zen Palate holds a tremendous amount of good memories for me.  I was in my 20s and in the music industry — my friends and colleagues would all congregate there before heading out to the clubs to dance or listen to new bands. Or, we’d sit and have great eats and talk the night away. Imagine – reading a translated Czech restaurant site and being taken back unexpectedly to those amazing times. Definitely worth a blog post. See you tomorrow, gorgeous ones!

Click here to view the embedded video.

The video is about 8 minutes long (I know, I know) but it’s fascinating to see all the surfaces painted — even refrigerators with murals. I think you’ll like it. The video has the most comprehensive images but in case you’d like to skip it, here’s a few…

Casa Vieja (translation: Old House) is an all-suite luxury boutique hotel.  There are 10 suites in total, each named after a different Mexican artist and all individually decorated but with the same feel and flavor of the overall design.  It was once a private residence and currently features the artistic work of local artists.

The property has a rustic stone facade, balconies overflowing with bougainvillea, wrought iron gates and antique-filled interiors. I like both a modern style as well as unapologetic properties that are colorful and have decorative elements to within an inch of their lives.  Both make the case for unique design. Even Frommers agrees. Do you prefer one type of design over the other? As always, have a great weekend!

Whistler's Peacock Room

We’re finishing up our graveyard-shift-hotel-commission this week (we’ve been on it for two weeks already) and my mind should return to its full functioning capacity next week at some point.  For instance, this weekend I found myself without any tops to speak of (save the one I wore on the flight) and had to do a quick shopping spree.  I couldn’t believe I hadn’t packed any of my favorite travel blouses.  As I packed to leave, I did my due diligence and checked the hotel room to make sure I wasn’t leaving anything behind.  There, in the closet, were all my blouses hung up — I forgot I had done that.  Sigh.  My mind, folks.  It’s leaving me.  Read Fauxology while you can.

We do a lot of hospitality commissions and it’s always an opportunity to do really creative finishes. Many clients also come back from a particular hotel and want that feel and look, albeit personalized to their lifestyle. The Hotel Chic blog gives a peek into many incredible properties worldwide  with beautiful commentary to boot.

Santorini, Greece

For instance, have you seen the stunning images of Santorini with the gorgeous blue paired against the expanse of white?  I’ve often wondered what some of the interiors looked like. Above is a look via the Splendor in Santorini: The Tsitouras Collection post.  Be sure to click on the hotel link in the post to see more images.

Nothing like a gorgeous Tadelakt finish...

Checking into Global Glamour: La Sultana Marrakech.  The post has great images including the incredible bath above.

We can always go with Celebrating Color at the Pantone Hotel.  Based in Brussels, the hotel was designed using the Pantone color model.

Or, see more of the iconic Dorothy Draper-designed masterpiece, the Greenbrier Hotel, via John Loecke Checks into The Greenbrier.  Love that ceiling and floor!

We’ll end our Virtual Vacation at the Borgo Santo Pietro in — where else? — Italy.  Plasters and gold leaf (above) as well as murals.  Yes, please!

~   ~   ~

There’s so much more to explore to Hotel Chic – I literally could not stop myself from scrolling through the archives. This’ll be one of my new favorite blogs, I can tell.  I love that the writer, Sara Bliss, includes the exteriors from each hotel in addition to their stylish interiors.  Plus, she showcases different types of design from hotels all over the globe as well as providing great information.  A definite gem.  Tell me, dear Readers: Do you have any favorite hotels whose design you love?

Aren’t they cool? Love how something so laid-back as a chalkboard blends in so beautifully with the upscale design of the restaurant.  Here’s two other views.

This one doesn't have as much going on but it works, too.

The restaurant is called La Cuisine and is within Paris’ Le Royal Monceau. The hotel was designed by Phillippe Starck — you can view more images via Yatzer. You also might have spied the paintings along the ceiling. Called “A Garden in Paris”, it’s the work of artist Stéphane Calais. It is difficult to pull off this artistic style with balance and panache. I think it’s unique, colorful and so visually satisfying. Below are a few more images so you can get the overall feel but see the Calais link for more.

The last image was photographed by Frédéric Simon and the rest by Philippe Garcia.   Hope you enjoyed these two ideas.  Have a wonderful day!

Iglesia de Santo Domingo ~ St. Dominic Church

To give you an idea of height, take a look at this Flickr image…!

The interior and exterior was stuccoed over the original Mayan stones and then incised with rosettes, flowers and geometric patterns.  The flowers were symbolic and meant to represent the peacefulness of heaven.  The ornamentation was painted with bright red, turquoise, yellow, green and off-white, symbolizing, among other things, faith, blood and progress.  It’s incredible to note that such a bright façade houses a building that has a tumultuous past filled with political intrigue and religious intolerance.

Here you can see an area prior to the restoration.

The Mayan stones and work are on the right. On the left you can see the stucco work that the Franciscan Order used to cover the Mayan temple.

A restored pulpit...

The Baptistry

Here’s another view of the nave above via a beautiful Flickr stream.

In the 19th century, the church was nearly destroyed.  Recent restoration efforts by the collaboration of the Adopte Una Obra de Arte organization (translation: Adopt a Work of Art) and INAH, the National Institute of Anthropology and History brought it back to its original condition.  The church officially reopened in November 2004.

Today, the St. Dominic Church is one of Uayma’s primary attractions.  I’d love to see it (and touch it!) in person — wouldn’t you?  I hope you’ve enjoyed this look into such an interesting building.  Have a wonderful weekend!

References: Mexican Architecture, Yucatan Living and Yucatan Today

Mr. Eastman is self-taught and has spent 40 years exploring the world looking for interesting architecture and finishes. He uses real film (no digital photographs) and prints all his images himself. Incredible.

The image is from his trip to Havana, Cuba — please do treat yourself and see more of his Havana photography and oh, even more than that.  To a decorative painter, seeing the architectural lines as well as the ornamentation and patinas he captures on film while traveling the world excite the heart.  A book based on this travels to Cuba is currently underway and I just discovered (!!!) that there is a great blog by book designer Mark Melnick, who chronicles the process.  I see a new addition to my library soon…

Mr. Eastman’s work has been covered in blogs galore as well as been featured in traditional media and various publications.  There are exhibits featuring his work around the U.S. frequently — I hope his work comes back to Orlando soon!  He also has a wonderful photo blog himself and a fan page on Facebook.  You won’t be disappointed. Until tomorrow!

Andree describes Puerto Rico as a "volcano of color". "From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in color. We are so accustomed to living in the grey of concrete, that when you are surrounded by so much color, you feel energized."

Wonderful sights, such as distressed ironwork and blue cobblestone roads, abound..

Mmmmm. Oh, yes, ahem. Pictures of the rich artistry of Puerto Rico. Right. Onwards.

(above, below) Puerto Rico is a multicultural nation where you can find a wonderful mix of venues and artistry.

(above, below) Colorful and fun finishes, both nature and man-made, abound in just about every surface.

Puerto Rico is 100 miles long and 35 miles wide and it lies between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.  It is also known as the “Island of Enchantment”.

Looking out over Fort San Felipe del Morro

It holds a very special place in my heart as that is where the love of my life, the Hubs, is from as well.  We plan to visit his family there next year — can’t wait to see some of the vibrant, kind people and locations I’ve heard about!  BTW, Andree wrote a wonderful post on his trip to Puerto Rico entitled The Fountain of Youth on his own blog, which I hope you do check out as it has more pics and impressions.   Here, he shares his philosophy on photography…

The ability to see something special and try to capture it creates the true photographer in all of us, no matter if you have a high-end Hasselblad or an old disposable camera.  So I say if you do not currently use your Nikon, Canon, iPhone, Android or whatever device you have for taking pictures, wipe the dust off and spend an afternoon somewhere beautiful.

Capture something special you can share with a friend and you will see the wonderful impressions you can make.

~ ~ ~

I’m all for that!  Thank you, Andree, for your thoughts and for sharing your photography with us.  Have a wonderful day, everyone!

If you are a fan of my Fauxology Facebook page, you’ve probably already seen the two notes I wrote on my IDAL experience.  I decided to write this one as well for those who do not have access to the fan page. I was truly excited to meet with many of the artists I correspond online with as well as see what the expo was all about.  The following are some of the images I took during the two days I was there.  BTW, brace yourself — this post is a bit on the longer side.

This is how most of the classes were set up. Nice, large rooms that were organized and well-protected.  This is the Faux Impressions class given by Ed Mattingly of Sherwin-Williams.  BTW, do you know about our contest to win $200 worth of product from Sherwin-Williams?  All it takes is a picture of a space you created that makes a great “Impression”.  Enter the contest here.  Deadline July 29th.

Live demonstrations were conducted throughout the conference.  Here, keynote speaker Pierre Finkelstein demonstrates his considerable skills with woodgraining.  He is very charming and gracious.

There were several faux studios who had fantastic booths at the show.  I didn’t get a shot of one of my faves, Dundean Studios, and a few others but here are some I came upon…

Gorgeous samples at Houston’s Wonderfaux Studios. That feather had crystals and was SO pretty – I’d love to do that one in a powder bath.

Had a great chat here — am considering taking a class by William Cochran.

THE Studio Destin. Fantastic samples all around and they had some of the best counter finishes I’ve ever seen.  (Ye Olde Jaw dropped. Not kidding you.)

Gary Lord’s Prismatic Painting Studio. Even though a “rock star” in our industry, he is totally approachable and friendly to everyone who comes up to him.  Wish I had better pics for you of those great samples in the back.  Totally dying to go to his Greece tour.

Sarasota School of Faux & Architectural Finishing is one of the studios I frequent the most.  Donna Phelps’ samples never fail to impress and I’ve sold quite a few.

Saying there were amazing samples at the Royal Design Studio booth is almost a given, no?  I took this pic before the expo opened — it was paaacked afterwards.

Patterned foils by V-Mask. We’ll be doing some cool stuff with them on the blog soon!

This is the philanthropic mural in progress during the convention.  It’s final home will be the Virginia Living Museum.

After the convention days, artists would gather for drinks and also to firm up dinner plans.  Here is a nice mix of newbies, up-and-comers and well-known Masters at the convention hotel, the Embassy Suites.

BTW, do you remember the gnome whose pic was taken all over the world?  Well, take a look at Faux Buddy…

Faux Buddy hanging out at the Chalk Paint booth...

We wanted everyone back home to get little glimpses of the IDAL convention so we gave him out so that he could travel with everyone and showcase little snippets of all the different classes and locations.  Imagine where Faux Buddy could go and what we all would be able to see with him!  The pics were to be shared on the Fauxology Facebook Fan Page but also on the IDAL page and personal pages, too, of course.  The bonus for our students is that each time they posted a pic, they would get an entry into our contest…someone is going to win their class fee back!   For those who were not in the class, there is a prize, too!  Robyn Story Designs out of Tampa, FL is a fantastic distributor of Chalk Paints and she is giving away a quart of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint to the person who can come up with the funniest caption for a Faux Buddy pic.  Plus, the pic taker wins a quart as well.  Yeah!

Here’s the cool Faux Calendar sponsored bag that was given out.  It’s fantastic to reuse as an extra carry-all for a jobsite or as a green bag for going grocery shopping.

What I love about conventions is that not only do your fellow peers provide inspiration but also just being around so many artists excited about the industry make it easy to tap right into the love and enthusiasm you possess for it.  Unfortunately, I had to head back early since I did travel via car and needed to head back over the weekend.  I did miss meeting so many but I hope to see them soon.  The attendance improved upon last year’s and many of us felt next year would be even better.  BTW, next year’s conference will be held July 25 – 29 at the Grand Sierra Resort & Casino in Reno, Nevada.  It looks fantastic!  Until tomorrow!

Palácio do Freixo

This is the Mirror Room of the Palácio do Freixo, a hotel in Porto, Portugal.  The hotel is actually referred to as a pousada, a historic inn run in collaboration with the Portuguese government.  Originally built by Italian architect and painter Nicolau Nasoni in 1742 in the Baroque style, it was intended as a palatial residence.  A century later it was sold to a wealthy merchant and then to a flour manufacturer who used it as a mill base.  It was declared a national monument in 1910 but it was really in bad shape by then.  How bad?  Below is the same Mirror Room prior to the renovation.

Before Restoration

After Restoration

The work was entrusted to Grupo Pestana and separate architects oversaw the restoration and the modernization.  Here is the restaurant. (!!!)

A view of the exterior.  What a beautiful light to see it in, no?  All the photography (except for the “before restoration” pic) is by Kees Hageman for Architectural Digest.

The following are more images of the decorative painting that I found via Arteh.

I tried to find a great YouTube video for you but couldn’t find one that really gave a detailed look at the decorative artworks.  (mock indignance)  Imagine that!  If you run a search, there are so many other beautiful photographs of the property.  I believe I’ll need to visit it in person, though.   Well, I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s post and that it’s inspired a beautiful day!

What are some of your personal favorite designs and styles?

Well the whole “modern movement” has been a bit rough for me because I’m a classics girl, all the way! There is SUCH a rich history of centuries of pattern that has been beautifully cataloged in design books, and I have tried to buy all of them!

A small portion of her bookshelf...

The classic forms and shapes of ornament that developed independently all over the world all come from nature and I believe that they speak to us at a deeper, more personal level and are a part of our collective creative souls. Other design trends come and go like fashion fads, but we keep coming back to the classics. You can see evidence of this in all the design magazines and blogs. Can I get an AMEN that the whole stripped-down, chilly modern look is fading away!  (Fauxology Note: AMEN!)

(above) Celestial Turkish Emblems, Tooled Leather, Fortuny Silk and Foiled Again (below)

The great thing about what we do is that we can recreate classic styles for artistic contemporary applications. I love using pattern as just one ingredient of surface decoration, and combining it with texture, patina, light reflection, color, etc. This is where we can really use our individual creativity and artistic exploration.

I am not so much into historical recreation…

…as historical reinterpretation.

When I am looking through classic pattern books or reference material, my eye sees an image of a pattern, but my mind is racing ahead to place it into a context that contains all the possible surface and combination of materials I might use to create a unique effect with it. I have always thought of stencils as just an ingenious means to and end; a simple tool to create a unique, artistic surface.

With my love of classic, European design, I am feeling super fortunate that I was approached this year by the licensing director for The Hearst Castle Collection to develop a series of Royal Design Studio stencils and Modello masking patterns from the extensive library of pattern and design that can be found at Hearst Castle. For me, this is like a beautiful gift! Hearst Castle is filled with exquisite antique ceilings rescued from palaces, villas, churches and monasteries from Spain and France, and I have access to the architectural drawings of the prolific Julia Morgan.

We will be offering both single layer and multi-layer (theorem-style) versions of the designs, as they lend themselves to some more intricate and ornate pattern work. I will be introducing these designs at the upcoming IDAL convention and also on my painting trip to Barcelona in June, where the students there will be the first to use them as we complete several complex panel samples during our stay in a former monastery just outside of the city.

I have also always loved Arabic and Moorish decoration and been heavily influenced by the 3 painting trips I have led to Marrakech, Morocco. To me, these are also classic patterns and I love the spiritual geometry behind the pattern development. The complex, interlacing designs have a special way of drawing you in, and they seem to have a universal appeal as well. I’ll be leading a fourth (and probably last) trip back to Marrakech this coming October.

Click here to view the embedded video.

It is a very special, inspiring place, especially for those who appreciate art and beauty the way that decorative artisans do. Being able to experience other countries and cultures with and through the eyes of fellow artists has been such a gift and blessing in my life that I am very grateful for.

Do you believe in destiny or choice?

Both. I believe that we are all here to serve and work towards a higher path and purpose, but WE make choices every hour of the day that affect how we travel quickly or with what degree of difficulty we travel on that path. Sometimes our choices lead us to detour and dead ends, but what we learn on those side trips helps guide us later on down the road. Or at least that’s the hope! I think the trick is to try to learn from our mistakes (which are really valuable lessons), but not to dwell on them. I try to live in the now but my focus is definitely always on what’s coming over the horizon!

~  ~  ~  ~  ~

Good words to live by! I do hope you have enjoyed our two-part chat with Melanie Royals.  Please be sure to also check out her Facebook Fan page for Modello Designs and Royal Design Studio as well as her Twitter profile.  Her blog, Design Amour, is a fantastic read and she does posts videos frequently on her YouTube page.  A big Thank You! to Melanie for e-chatting with us and sharing her story, insights and more about her businesses.  I hope you’ve been inspired as you go into the weekend!

The above is the shortened bio of one of the most prolific artists in our industry.  Chances are high that you know the name Melanie Royals, or at the very least, her incredible businesses.  A few years ago, I met her when I took a class in her lovely studio.  We’ve kept in touch since then, from e-mailing to showcasing at trade shows to attending a blog conference together.  She has been blessed with an almost otherworldly creative sense as well as keen business and marketing insights — a rare combination.  In person?  Witty, insightful and a girl’s girl — plus, one of the most fun people you could possibly spend time with.  Seriously — I’ve had tears streaming down my eyes in laughter from her stories!  We had an e-chat recently for Fauxology and I hope you enjoy both her story and insights over the next two days. We start today with her beginnings and inspirations and conclude tomorrow with all that’s coming up for her (and for us!).  Let’s dig in…

It’s been said that all incredible journeys start with one step.  How did yours begin?

I actually started on this journey with a trip to New England in 1983. We went to some historic places, like Sturbridge Village where I saw examples of historic New England stenciling. It wasn’t until we hit the Boston Museum of Art, though, where I picked up the book The Art of Decorative Stenciling by Adele Bishop and Cile Lord that the whole thing clicked for me. That book was filled with stenciled images that made me HAVE to learn how to stencil!

There were some more simplistic designs for sure, but it was the photos of intricately detailed and shaded furniture and floor screens that I kept going back to. They just looked so magical to me! I discovered that they were achieved with “theorem-style” stencils, where different parts of the design are cut on different layers. When all of the layers are completed, you end up with an image that looks as if it could have been hand painted, because there are no bridges or broken areas in the design.

I poured over the book, and spent many hours at my dining room table drawing and redrawing designs and then cutting them by hand with a Stanley knife! Unfortunately, these amazing artistic and pioneering women worked long before the digital age, and all that I can now find about them online is a photo of a very “now” stenciled graphic floor by Cile Lord in a House Beautiful magazine spread from 1970 and Adele’s obituary from 1996. It’s sad to think that two women who truly had a great affect on the resurgence of stenciling in this country and a lot of what we do today are not being properly honored, remembered or respected as they deserve to be.

In the late 80’s I was contacted by a very eccentric retired interior designer who had just move from Connecticut, named Evelyn Tasch. Evelyn had actually worked quite a bit with Adele Bishop and Cile Lord (Bishop & Lord) on residential and commercial projects in and around New York City. She even had some of their original pieces in her home, which amazed and intimidated me to no end! She had a vision and style like no other, and working with her over two of her houses fortunately pushed me to think outside the box along with her. I think that the challenges she presented me with (and she WAS challenging) had a huge effect on shaping my approach to pattern to this day.

What are some misconceptions about stencils and stenciling that you encounter?

Ha! I could write a whole book on that subject alone. Sadly, it seems that classic, oft-repeated misconception about stencils (that it’s all about crafty ducks and bunnies) has existed for almost 30 years now. Seriously! Those types of designs were popular for about 1 year back in the 80’s and people either overlook, or don’t have the knowledge, that stencils have been used elegantly and artistically for 1,000’s of years by both primitive and advanced cultures all over the world! I wrote a blog post on Design Amour just recently about a wonderful new book, Walls: The Best of Decorative Treatments, by Florence de Dampierre. Amazingly, it has a WHOLE chapter devoted to the extensive history of decorative painting. I was thrilled to see the poor, lowly stencil get its just due, finally! I highly recommend it as required reading. Of course, the stenciling photos are divine as well.

Another misconception I’ve heard over the years is that using stencils is “cheating” somehow. As if it’s an art “test”?! Of course, there are all kinds of mechanical means for transferring pattern, such as pounce patterns (used by the Renaissance artists), tracing, and projecting. Stencils are just a different, friendly tool for pattern transferring-with benefits, as you can create the transfer with paint in one fell swoop, or swirl, of the brush.

I don’t think that misconception is as common now as it was back in the day before stencils and decorative finishes became as integrated as they are now. There WAS a time when people drew lines in the sand as to whether they were stencilers, faux finishers or muralists. I am really proud to have been involved in that line blurring. I took one of The Finishing School’s first classes here in San Diego using the “new” finishing line from Faux Effects back in the 90’s. I took my activated glaze samples home and applied my new Damask and Free Form Fruits stencils to them. When I took them back to class the next day everyone went crazy over them. Bob Marx then asked me to develop a class to teach at TFS in New York and Extraordinary Stenciled Effects was born! Some notable students from that first class were Sean Crosby and Randy Ingram. After that I traveled extensively, teaching stenciled finishes at Faux Effects schools until I finally developed The Extraordinary Stenciled Effects home study program of videos, technique manual, and recipe cards.

One special thing that I have seen over the years is that stencils can be a gateway for beginning budding artists to grow and blossom in their skills. Stenciling can help ignite a passion for color, form, pattern and design.  I have seen many decorative painters start with stencils, and then go on to become highly skilled trompe l’oeil or mural artists once they discover their own innate skills and enthusiasm for decorative art.

Where do you see pattern and design headed in the future?

Well, the good news is that pattern is currently BACK in a big way and a whole new generation of young, trend-setting decoristas are discovering stencils as the hottest, “newest” thing! Can decorative finishes be far behind? I see the whole “glaze craze”, crackled finishes, distressing, etc. cycling through again-but with twists!  I think that this is a really important time for our industry to seize the moment and the conversation in this amazing digital Web 2.0 environment.

Unfortunately, many decorative painters, companies and organizations are on their heels with their backs to the wall from the housing bust and the ongoing recession, but I think that there is going to be a lot of opportunity in the future for artisans and companies who are willing and able to hang on and to rethink, re-strategize, and reposition themselves.

Beyond stenciling and decorative painting, I am most pleased with what we have been able to accomplish and offer with the introduction of our Modello decorative masking patterns 8 years ago. Trying to convince people to consider a one-time-use, custom pattern over a reusable, mylar stencil was a super tough sell for several years, but they have now become an industry standard. It’s been really gratifying to see the amazing work, artistic work our customers have done with our patterns. It was such a thrill to be able to honor THEM with our two Modello by Design books.

From flooring to walls to ceilings…Modellos make an impact.  Artists (clockwise from top left): Utah’s Metamorphosis, Nancy Jones, Jason Lucas and Lynn Smith

(cont.)  I think where Modello patterns continue to shine is for taking complex patterns and making them “doable” in a way that is time efficient, yet allows for over the top artistry and execution. I think a great, classic painted ceiling or wood floor can be an “heirloom” that gets passed down through generations of homeowners. Heirloom decorative painting. Now, there’s a nice thought!

~  ~  ~  ~  ~

Heirloom decorative painting — I’ll always like the sound of that!  I hope you’ve enjoyed Part 1 of our 2-part interview.  Tomorrow, we talk a bit more about her design leanings, her affinity for “historical reinterpretation” and see what is coming up (Hearst Castle, anyone?).  Please come back to read more — and of course, see more gorgeous images.  Have a wonderful day!

Villa Feltrinelli

It’s a beautifully restored 1892 mansion in northern Italy and on the shore of Lake Garda, one of the most pristine lakes in all of Europe.  It can only accommodate up to 40 guests at a time. Their 8 acres are planted with magnolia, orange and olive trees. Sounds heavenly, no?  Here are some interiors beautifully shot by Ottavio Tomasini.

A gorgeous ceiling and hand stenciled walls.

A ceiling fresco painted in 1892 in one of the guest rooms.

Each of the 21 guest rooms and suites are individually decorated and was once the summer home of the Feltrinelli family, wealthy due to their lumber business.  Requisitioned by the government during World War II, the last resident of the villa was Benito Mussolini and his family.  It was sold in 1997 and no expense was spared to bring it to its former glory — artisans worked around the clock to restore the murals, stained glass, flooring and more.

Villa Feltrinelli Library

The Feltrinelli family also had Palazzo Feltrinelli, which is now part of the University of Milan.  The Palazzo had the distinction of also being Mussolini’s headquarters during World War II.  Today it is used as an international conference centre, hosting students from around the world during the Summer. Unfortunately, I could find neither hide nor hair of the original artists who worked on the Feltrinelli homes.

Palazzo Feltrinelli

Love those colors...

Incredible the road of information one link will take you to, no?  Have a great day!

So, I  thought to start putting together a list of places around the world that one who thinks like me must see.  It’s a list that’s going to be  slowly built up by putting in all the destinations seen, found online and read about.

Hopefully, I’m not going to do this alone because I need YOUR help.

If you know of something (in your area or around the world) that one must see, please send it in to me or simply comment on this post. You can say a little bit about it or in the alternate, just point me to the link – having the link helps a lot. I’ll put it up on the list and credit/link to you for sharing it.  (Be sure to send me your web details!)  This way, we can all have an area to double-check right before we leave on our adventures.  Does that sound good?

It would be a shame to miss the Library of Congress while in Washington, D.C.