Behind the Texture with Rik Lazenby

Lazenby’s Decorative Arts Studio, Inc.

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Hello from beautiful, “Sweet Home Alabama.” I am Rik Lazenby, and I have been a practicing decorative artist for the past twenty-five years. As I approach eighty, I am probably one of the few seniors in the industry, still willing and able to work off of ladders and climb scaffolds. I am blessed, and you might hear a “y’all” every now and then.

Metallic ceiling and columns with champagne mica sheets added to wall areas

How did you get into the decorative arts?
My journey into the decorative arts world began many years ago. I was raised in a very rural area, but my uncle, John Thomas, who was also raised in the same area, left and become an internationally well-known artist. He was one of my heroes. After graduation, I attended The University of Alabama, where I earned a Master’s Degree with an emphasis in art education. I became a high school art teacher. This was very gratifying, but with a family to support, not financially lucrative. Two fellow teachers and I decided to open a residential/commercial painting company. Our concept was that we would continue to teach while painting on weekends, holidays and during the summer. Our company lasted for over thirty years.

After teaching art for seven years, I was asked to become a school administrator. For the next twenty-three years, I served as the principal of numerous elementary and high schools. I ended my career in education as the Director of Student Services for the Jefferson County School System.

Planning ahead for retirement from education, I decided to leave my painting company and enter a field that I could work by myself. I had been scoping out some of the industry giants in the decorative arts arena and decided to take the leap. Thus, I studied with several well-known decorative artists around the country. The Monday after I retired in 2000, I opened Lazenby’s Decorative Arts Studio, Inc. We are still in operation today.

Multiple decorative finishes in a beautiful home near Birmingham

Beautiful decorator white Venetian Plaster added to fireplace surround

Multi-layered glazed walls and ceilings using Golden Paintworks Metallic Paints

What influences do you think shaped your approach to decorative arts?
In my opinion, those you choose to study with always frame your perceptions. I am one who tries to learn, not only the basics from my teachers, but I always try to “pick their brains” and reach higher! Somewhere in my DNA is the need to carry the skills that I have learned to a higher level. Many of the skills that I have learned in the decorative arts industry also appear in many of my fine art works. I believe this is true for artists in general.

The most powerful influence on my decorative arts perspective came when I served as President of IDAL, (International Decorative Arts League). Being surrounded by many of our industry’s giants was so gratifying … and yes, so humbling. This was truly a gift, and I will forever be indebted to those who surrounded me with love.

Another influence on my decorative arts perspective was the week that I spent in New Berlin, New York, with Mark Golden and his wonderful staff. The IDAL Directors and I were gifted with a week of team building strategies, and observed them first-hand in the day-to-day operation of Golden Paintworks. I am forever grateful.

Rik refinishing the 97 year old Big Bertha Wurlitzer organ at the Alabama Theater

Rik working on the restoration of the historic Alabama Theater

Are there any projects that stick out most in your mind?
It is so hard for me to narrow down those projects that stick out in my mind, but I will name several.

My daughter, Jennifer (who is also my business partner) and I spent over a year on a project in Auburn, Alabama. The owner was replicating a French farmhouse and brought us into the project to apply over ten thousand pounds of hand-mixed plaster to the walls and ceilings throughout the house. Jennifer had to complete the final three weeks of the project by herself, as I was having cancer surgery.

Another memorable project was last year, when we worked with Greg Marsters in the restoration of the historic Alabama Theater, located in Birmingham, Alabama.

Still another honor was being asked to refinish the exterior of the historic “Big Bertha” Wurlitzer organ. This beautiful art piece has been with the Alabama Theater since its inception, ninety-seven years ago.

Another project that comes to mind is a large, domed church that we applied hundreds of pounds of texture in specific areas. One of the areas was a twelve-lane bowling alley, and another was the performance stage and surrounding columns and arches.

An elegant French Provincial music room created for one of our clients

Do you play music while you work and what kind?
I either play music (through my hearing aids, lol) or listen to audio books. Remember… I am old. My music runs the gamut:

Bob Dylan
Dan Fogelberg
Sarah Brightman
Josh Groban
Broadway Musicals
Alison Krauss
Alabama
Jimmy Buffett
Andrea Bocelli
Gordon Lightfoot
Annie Moses Band
Martin Simpson
Marty Goetz

Audio Books… Currently… Short Stories by William Faulkner

What advice would you give aspiring decorative artists?
First, realize that being a decorative artist is hard work and can be very demanding on the body. Be prepared to work many hours to reap the rewards. Our industry has declined in numbers, and I don’t see young people lining up to become part of the industry. I hope that I am wrong.

Now here comes the good part … this creates tremendous opportunities for the future! Here, in Alabama, there is very little competition, due to so many of the finishers having left the field. Where there is little competition, opportunities prevail!! I would find a niche, study with some of the super stars in our industry and become familiar with the many available products. In addition, I would recommend joining IDAL and interacting with other decorative artists throughout the world. Forge relationships with designers, decorators, builders, vendors, and architects. Become familiar with the business side of the industry and become proficient in marketing strategies. In the end … Believe in yourself! What you think, you can become. One of my favorite sayings in life is, “Trust your cape. Go for it!!”

What is your favorite thing about the decorative industry/community?
There is a bit of magic in knowing that your little world is an important part of a much bigger world. At the end of the day, you can look back and see where you have been, how it relates to others, and how it fits in with the grand design. You just never know who you will inspire or from where your next inspiration will come.

See more of Rik’s work at lazenbydecorativeart.com.

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Artworx by Audi

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Audi, of Artworx by Audi, is a lifelong learner and admirer of the arts who loves the challenge of creating a representation that reflects someone’s inner vision. Whether that’s on walls, canvas, or inside a paint store, Audi enjoys coaxing out what’s waiting inside someone’s head.

A serene cloud-like effect on the wall was made with GPW Metallic Texture, GPW Slow-Dry Fluid Acrylics, and GPW Glazing Medium.

Was decorative art a career you saw for yourself early on?
I have long adored the decorative arts and feel so blessed to be able to create in this way. My path has weaved in and out of the decorative painting business over some decades but I always truly looked up to those that did such exquisite works. As a residential painter back in the late 90s, I saw someone’s harlequin tone on tone finish in a dining room and I was awestruck by the precision and tonal qualities. I started looking up different techniques and soon had the opportunity to do a faux brick finish to match an existing fireplace that bridged two areas inside a house. I was enthralled. Physical challenges have sometimes guided me to make different career choices but I have always managed to stay adjacent to decorative arts in some way.

Currently, I manage a paint store where I get the opportunity everyday to help people give life to the aesthetic they envision in their heads and help them find inspiration to choose color, and sometimes texture. Accepting Life on Life’s terms has sometimes guided me to make different career choices but I have always managed to stay adjacent to decorative arts in some way.

This Orlando skyline mural was painted using hand-cut stencils and Golden Paintworks Metallics, then topped with GPW Glass Bead Gel.

What’s your favorite part about your job?
Carrying the Golden Paintworks line of products in our retail store has helped me expand my knowledge of products, techniques, and allowed me to bond with other artists and supply all kinds of people and contractors with new or updated information and options to add to their repertoire. I have such a passion for all things in the decorative painting realm and it gets me excited to talk about them and maybe inspire people to branch out and try something new.

What would you say is the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome?
I’m a fine artist at heart and sometimes my biggest challenge is to translate what I have made as a sample onto a full-size wall or room. I can easily become engrossed in the details and need to remind myself to pull back from the surface more to see the big picture. That and staying consistent with the application. I have to turn off the desire to “improve as I go” the way I would while doing a canvas work.

Using elements from the wallpaper, the artist and homeowners collaborated to create this ceiling design with elephants, gingko, and stars, all painted with GPW Metallic Paints.

How would you describe your artistic style?
I would say my artistic style is organic. My most recent paintings have been just for the joy of painting, which can really be liberating. There is so much angst going on in the world and the grind culture that we have historically ascribed to adds to that. Painting can be a cathartic way of just being present, where there is no worry, no problems. I hope that anyone who experiences my art, whether on walls or canvas, can feel that meditative and serene atmosphere.

If you had to pick just one color that represents you, what color would it be and why?
It’s hard for me to choose favorites but if I had to say what my favorite color is, it’s in the violet range, usually a bluish violet, slightly grayed down. I’m drawn to the tertiary enigmatic colors. Most of my works on canvas have a violet undertone or have tones of violet throughout. I like colors and works that make you linger and wonder and question.

Bespoke Tray Ceiling painted with Golden Paintworks Metallic Paints and hand-cast bespoke floral.

What are your interests outside of decorative arts?
For my spiritual and emotional wellness and grounding myself psychologically, being in nature is key. Relaxing at the beach, botanical gardens, butterfly houses, parks -especially ones with clear running water, are all serene spots to unwind and de-stress. Anywhere that I can appreciate Creation in all its wonders is where I feel most at peace. When I need to have fun, I like to participate in “the great escape” of going to the movies. I enjoy sci-if and superhero type fantasy the most. It’s really important to schedule play time into my life.

See more of Audi’s work at aswope.com.

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Artisan Factor

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I’m Jason Rosales of Artisan Factor, a Decorative Artist in the Central Florida area. I use only the highest quality products, such as Golden Paintworks, in order to achieve an endless array of finishes custom tailored for each client. I’ve been blessed to work in the decorative arts for many years now, and have expanded my repertoire to include decorative and faux finishes, such as stenciling, embossed designs, glazes, woodgraining, marbling, plasters, textures, gilding, cabinetry refinishing, furniture and more. I love using Golden Paintworks’ Slow drying Fluid Acrylics along with their Glazing Medium when I need a good open time for a finish.

How did you get into decorative arts?
Looking back, it was a fateful evening when my sister, Regina, a decorative artist, had called to see if I could help with a local café she was working on. We were painting an interior stone block finish and I thought that it was fun and interesting. From then on, I continued to help until it grew into my full-time passion, working with wonderful clients, both residential and commercial, and expanding our creativity along the way.

Is there a person in particular that has had a substantial influence on your style?
I’ve been blessed to work with many talented artists over the years, each with their own unique creative styles and gifts. I’ve also had the pleasure to learn from several artist teachers such as Mike MacNeil, Caroline Woldenberg and Eli Lucero to name a few, but my “style” was truly forged in the trenches with my sister, Regina. The hard work, dedication, planning and execution of projects coupled with the attention to detail, while providing the client with clean, professional service, has greatly influenced how I work to this day.

What are your interests outside of decorative arts?
As an artist, I enjoy a few things such as writing, wood working and physical fitness, but my favorite is creating music. I’ve recently been learning and enjoying music production and playing instruments like the piano, electric guitar and bass, among others. It’s another creative outlet that I’ve come to love.

What’s your favorite paint color and why?
There are truly so many to choose from, but if I had to only pick one, it would be gold. It’s timeless and so customizable. I enjoy incorporating it into my finishes whenever possible, whether it be gilding, embedded into a finish or maybe added as an accent, such as in a pinstripe. A close second would be silver and other metallic colors in general.

Variegated Gold Leaf Gilded Antique Mirror

If we came to your city, we shouldn’t leave without doing what?
You would have a lot to choose from if you’re visiting Central Florida. Theme parks, waterparks, International Drive. Maybe take the kids to Wonderworks on International Drive. As artists, you’ll enjoy just driving by the huge “upside down” building. Otherwise, maybe the natural springs for a refreshing dip, or the huge variety of great restaurants and eateries around town. For a truly exceptional Italian dining experience, be sure to make reservations at Christini’s in Dr. Philips. The culinary arts are one of my favorites as well.

Gloss White Lime Venetian Plaster Range Hood

What was something work related that you are particularly proud of?
Recently, I had the pleasure of working with a wonderful client who wanted Venetian Plaster in all of their 7 bathrooms. I was able to create unique variations of multi-colored finishes and even some textured marmorino ones as well. It was quite the undertaking for one person and the client and I were really happy with the results. This was the project that won Top Job 2023 for American Painting Contractor for my region. Another proud moment was when I was called to help a local artist who is working on “Versailles”, a 90K+SF home here in Central Florida. The architecture and design is a work of art and there’s plenty of gold leaf to play with there!

See more of Jason’s work at artisanfactor.com.

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Tim Glastetter Decorative Artist

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Hi my name is Tim Glastetter. I am a Decorative Painter and Design Fabricator. I began decorative painting in my youth, not knowing that this would later become a career path or even knowing what a decorative painter was. My official career in decorative painting started in the mid ’90s and later emerged into design fabrication as well. Just as I didn’t know there was a need for decorative painters, the same goes for design fabrications.

Where are you from? Where and what did you study?
I am from St. Louis, MO area and my 1st class in decorative painting was a trip to Chicago in 1998. I’ve since traveled to many schools and states as well as outside the US, always thirsting to learn more and keep current with design trends, colors, & techniques.

What influences do you think shaped your approach to decorative art?
My greatest influence came from my parents. My father was very handy with all things ‘HOUSE’ – building, remodeling, home maintenance and repairs. My mom was always ‘home project’ driven – painting, wallpapering, furniture refinishing, decorating, etc. They would often allow my input on home projects at a young age.

As an adult I attended school for IT and computer programming, never satisfied with the work that came from this path. It was an interior designer that I hired that prompted me to painting, particularly decorative arts and specialty painting. She had seen my self-taught projects in my home and urged me to take it further. Not liking my current career status, it was all the push I needed.

Dresser Before & After — This dresser was discovered just before it was heading to the dumpster. The added legs were salvaged from a discarded chair. I use metallic quite often as my base for projects - it adds so much depth, and dimension with a ‘subtle glow’. (Paint: Golden Paintworks Metallic Paint (Gold), Phthalo Green Yellow Shade and Ultramarine Blue. Glaze: Golden Paintworks Glazing Medium tinted with Van Dyke Brown and Carbon Black.)

Console Before & After — This console was a remnant lower half of a china hutch. The 2 piece hutch was badly damaged from an unfortunate moving disaster. The top was discarded, but I was able to reinforce the bottom before starting the revitalization/rehab. The piece was raised with legs and designed to be used as a TV/electronics console in a small modern home. Using metallic paint, I created a subtle detail enhancement and very modern finish. (Paint: Golden Paintworks Metallic Paint (Gold and Pearl) and Phthalo Blue Green Shade. Glaze: Golden Paintworks Glazing Medium tinted with Van Dyke Brown and Carbon Black.)

Do you play music while you work and what kind?
I almost always have music playing in the background when working, creating, designing … usually a form of folk rock, but I also enjoy other genres – instrumental, classic, and some old country.

Craziest paint spill you’ve ever had to clean up?
Fortunately, I have never had a memorable paint spill on any job site.

Bathroom Wall Finish — This bathroom design won St. Louis Homes & Lifestyles 2021 Bath of the Year, and I'm still painting this popular hand-painted finish today. (Photo by Alise O'Brien Photography)

What do you enjoy most about owning your own business?

I love how the use of paints, textures, color, and coatings can not only change a visual finish but often it will alter or change a particular style.
The creativity – helping people solve design issues with the use of paint, color, texture, etc. to transform and unify a piece of furniture or an entire house.
Through the use of design fabrication it gives me great satisfaction to create beautiful and sought after furnishings to folks whom otherwise would have purchased new. Not only are they 100% satisfied, but working, thinking, & designing in this manner means less waste for our landfills.
Working with repeat clients – this group of folks already know me and know my skills/talent and capability to deliver. This allows me to do my job with very little convincing or hand-holding along the way.
Being in control of my schedule and making the most of each day.

And what do you enjoy least?

Proposals / bidding
Clutter or cluttered working conditions
Marketing myself

What’s something you wish you could tell your younger self?
Always follow your gut. Create a job career path doing something you truly enjoy doing!

See more of Tim’s work at timglastetter.com.

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Rita Broughton Decorative Art Studio

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Since childhood, I’ve always enjoyed making things and painting. My teachers encouraged me to pursue a career in art, leading me to explore various fields that have shaped my design and painting techniques. Early in my career, I worked as a textile designer and associate art director for a magazine, eventually shifting my focus to family and reigniting my passion for painting. Now, I create decorative murals and faux finishes, while also painting the beautiful landscapes of Long Island and all the wonderful things that inspire me, skillfully infusing color and texture to create a luminous tactile quality.

tuscan mural — These murals were created to reflect a fresco style that glows with the golden colors of harvest and radiates the warmth of Italy. The rounded arch above the painting was rendered on a panel with GPW Sandstone to add dimension and replicate an architectural detail.

Where are you from? Where and what did you study?
I grew up in Queens, NY, and as our family grew we decided to leave the crowded city and move to Long Island, where we’ve lived for the past twenty-eight years. The ocean, nature, and unique Gold Coast treasures here continuously inspire me. My art education began with a scholarship to the Brooklyn Museum Art School during high school. I later graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology with a degree in Textile Design, studied Graphic Design at the School of Visual Arts, and earned a Bachelor of Technology from Farmingdale College, completing coursework for a business minor. I also honed my decorative painting skills by attending numerous IDAL (International Decorative Artisans League) Conventions and becoming a Salon member in 2017.

What’s your business philosophy?
My business philosophy revolves around prioritizing customer satisfaction. I begin every job by preparing samples in the exact color and style desired by the client, ensuring transparency and alignment before any work commences. This approach eliminates surprises and allows customers to know precisely what to expect. Over my twenty plus years in business, this dedication to customer happiness has not only led to satisfied clients but also fostered many meaningful friendships along the way.

Here is a recent mural project I created for a couple who wanted something personal and unique in their dining room. They met at Princeton University, and the husband's grandfather also attended Princeton, making it a very special place for their family.

I call these Legacy Murals, preserving your most cherished memories by bringing them to life on your walls. Let every brushstroke be a testament to the beauty of your experiences, turning your house into a haven of warmth and nostalgia.

Another view of the Princeton Legacy Murals.

I stood next to one of the murals to show the scale of the finished piece.

Is there a person in particular that has had a substantial influence on your style?
There isn’t one particular person who has had a substantial influence on my style. Throughout my art journey, I’ve encountered many influential figures. Various artists have inspired me over the years, notably Gustav Klimt, who, like me, started as a muralist and created paintings with intricate patterns and gilded applications. Edward Hopper’s atmospheric realist portrayals and William Merritt Chase, a fellow Long Islander and renowned instructor known for his mastery of color and brushwork, have also been significant influences. Their diverse techniques and approaches have contributed to the evolution of my own unique style.

What’s something interesting or surprising about you that most people wouldn’t know just from talking to you?
From conversation alone, you wouldn’t know about the vast influences and diverse projects I’ve successfully accomplished. Like a chameleon, I can adapt my style to transform any space. I draw inspiration from the interesting places and cultures I’ve explored and the wide range of artistic endeavors I’ve undertaken.

master bath mural — This project for a Master bath, features a multi-tone metallic strie background with GPW Glass Bead.

What’s something you hope to accomplish in 2024?
In 2024, I am expanding my reach to students and, in the fall, I’ve added some new venues to teach. Additionally, I aim to apply for a residency opportunity and secure gallery representation. These milestones would provide valuable exposure for my work and offer new avenues for artistic growth and collaboration.

What’s your favorite paint color and why?
Diarylide Yellow is my favorite GOLDEN paint color. Its vibrant hue adds a striking element to any painting, and when mixed with Golden’s Phthalo Blue (Red Shade), it creates a stunning teal blue that adds depth and richness.

The two pups in your profile picture are adorable, can you tell us a bit about them?
Now that my children are grown, my loyal companions Sonny (mini poodle) and Sammy (Shih Tzu) eagerly race to the studio to keep me company. They sit beside me, as I paint for hours on end, and we all cherish our time together.

See more of Rita’s work at ritabroughton.com.

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Behind the Texture with Janell Keneske

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Janell's Designs

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I am a decorative painter who is very fortunate to be enjoying my passion for art and all it has to offer. I’ve always been very creative at an early age and blessed with a natural ability to create something from nothing. After pursuing a career in business and fashion, I found myself empty and bored. I was always duplicating rooms I’d seen in magazines, and everyone was telling me I was wasting my talents. With no forethought, only 3 month’s salary in the bank, and one client, I quit my job and I’ve never looked back.

GPW Metallic Texture Pearl was tinted various shades and randomly troweled to create this finish.

Here's another angle of the metallic wall finish.

What are some of your favorite decorative trends?
What’s trending now is texture. My most popular finishes are on fireplaces and kitchen hoods. GPW Soapstone looks amazing on fireplaces and can be easily tinted by hand. GPW metallic textures are my favorite go-to and my number one seller. I am often asked to duplicate a wallpaper, as clients do not like seeing the lines. What’s really beautiful about the metallic textures is that they are timeless. They can be modern, as well as traditional.

GPW Metallic Texture was troweled on randomly for this finish, showing metallic paint in various colors peeking through.

The fireplace finish is Soapstone tinted black with a hint of gray.

What are your thoughts on Pantone’s color of the year Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz?
Color can transform a room from dull to dazzling. Pantone Peach Fuzz is a cozy color I love. I’m in the process of using a warmer version of it on two armoires, with GPW Metallic Pewter brushed on top. The pieces will be stunning!

What does a work day look like for you?
An average workday for me is non-stop, up and down ladders. There are constant changes and sometimes drama, but it all works out in the end. It is so rewarding when your client is amazed at what you’ve created for them. We always celebrate the end of a great project by going out for a great dinner and a good glass of wine.

When you’re not at work, what can we find you doing?
When I’m not at work, you can most likely find me outdoors. I’m an avid traveler – on the slopes in the winter and beach in the summer – exploring all the world has to offer.

If we came to your city, we shouldn’t leave without doing what?
I live in central New Jersey, so I’m close to NYC, Philly and the beach. I’d say you must visit the Jersey shore. There is nothing better than listening to the waves and smelling the ocean air.

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Behind the Texture with Decorative and Faux Finishes by Rafael, LLC.

Behind the Texture

with Decorative & Faux Finishes by Rafael, LLC.

Decorative & Faux Finishes

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We are Decorative & Faux Finishes, a company over 26 years ago that became a professional decorative painting and plastering company. We are happy to announce we have A NEW OWNER, Rafael Michel Cruz. Rafael brings 27 years of experience as a talented painter and sculptor in the field of applied arts. Combining his experience with 26 years of former owners, Dana & Cindy, the company is stronger than ever!!

What do you enjoy most about owning your own business and what do you enjoy least?
Being able to develop new creative options for all interior designers, clients and builders is exciting for us. No challenge is too difficult, and after fulfilling the need for a requested vision, we relish in the appreciation and satisfaction it brings others.

What influences do you think shaped your approach to decorative art?
Our team has studied under many masters across the globe. Rafael’s classic education at the El Alba Institute of Arts gave him opportunities to build his body of works in Cuba, Mexico and locations in the United States. He is influenced by many artisans that also push the limits with new materials and techniques.

Describe your team in three words.
Experience, talent and attention to detail.

What project sticks out the most in your mind, for good or bad?
All projects are important to us, but there are some that stand out. Plaster and murals are always favorites of Rafael’s, while professional athletes and teams we work for are always a crew favorite.

What advice would you give to aspiring decorative artists?
Decorative painting and finishing is a fulfilling field that always stays exciting because every project is different. For a new artisan, we suggest taking classes and working with a professional for a while before embarking on your own. Soak up all the creativity, and network at every possibility. Our community is like a big family, and we will have your back.

Explore more of Decorative & Faux Finishes’ work at decorativeandfauxfinishes.com.

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Behind the Texture with Beth Warnecke

Behind the Texture

with Beth Warnecke

from Classic Creations Painting

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Hi! I’m Beth, the owner and artist behind Classic Creations Painting, providing beautiful wall and ceiling finishes for commercial and residential spaces in the metro St. Louis, MO area. I also have a passion and love for fine finished furniture and cabinetry, which comprises half of my business. I cannot get enough of home magazines, designers’ socials and painting blogs. Always immersed in the latest design trends and gorgeous pictures, I have afforded myself the opportunity to travel and train around the world and I consider staying up to date with the latest design trends one of my top priorities when bringing timeless beauty into my clients’ homes.

Where do you live and what’s your favorite part about your town/city?
I live in the greater St. Louis area, across the Mississippi river in a smaller town called Edwardsville, Illinois. I love living here in the Midwest, and the Edwardsville area has that perfect little big-town feel. There is so much to do in St. Louis – we are known for great Blues and Jazz music, our famous St. Louis Zoo, several fun museums for the whole family, and miles and miles of beautiful hiking and biking trails. But my favorite pastime all year round? The sports! The St. Louis Cardinals baseball team and The Blues hockey team hold special places in my heart. So much so that I work part-time with both teams. I’ve been known to attend over 100 games a year! There’s nothing better than milling around downtown on a hot St. Louis summer day, seeing the excited fans, smelling the corner hotdog stands, hearing the crack of the bat and the cheers of the stadium.

What influences do you think shaped your approach to decorative art?
My mother was always updating our home as a child. The latest wallpapers, the latest window treatments – she took pride in making a wonderful home for her family. She instilled in me a passion to make my own adult homes as warm and welcoming as I could. Before the internet and before I even knew that the decorative painting world was out here, I would spend my free time immersed in bookstores, poring over decorator books and magazines looking for ideas for my own home.

Fast forward 35 years, now that I find my business front and center as one of the key components in client projects, my approach is the same – constant research for the latest trends in design. I am still a sucker for every home dec magazine out there along with Insta pages, design blogs, Houzz, etc. My goal still remains the same but with a twist – now it is to make my clients’ homes warm, welcoming and timeless. I still have the same approach, I stay abreast of the latest in products, finishes, and techniques with tons of training. I maintain a healthy budget for continued education in wall and furniture finishing classes; and with the availability of online networking, I can reach out to other artists across the country and world for advice while offering my advice and stay on top of what is trending in the world of decorative art and design. Just as art is timeless, decorative artists and our creations are continually evolving.

What’s the craziest paint spill you’ve ever had to clean up?
I honestly haven’t had too many large paint spills in my career – thank goodness. But I did have one project where I needed to hide my big oops, several of them in fact. I was working with deep blue venetian plaster on the focal wall for a new restaurant going into the top floor of the Four Seasons St. Louis.

I was the only female contractor on this very large project and was instructed to use the public (aka, fancy) women’s restroom during the workday. Several times I would forget to take my own work towels with me during a bath break and even after thinking I had scrubbed all of the blue plaster off, I would reach for one of their fluffy white cloths to dry my hands. Voila, inevitably blue plaster would show up on those fancy little hand towels. Ugh. I couldn’t just deposit them into the basket, every morning the hotel staff greeted me with “Hello Sexy Blue Wall Lady” so I knew that THEY would know who got blue all over the pristine white towels.

I would discreetly put them in my toolbox that went home with me every night, soak them, scrub them, and bring them back the next day. Never thought that I would be afraid of the laundry staff at a posh hotel, and yes, I may or may not have one fancy towel in my studio to remind me of that adventure. It only gets used on the finest of client furniture pieces now.

Bringing forgotten pieces of furniture to life is a love of mine. This piece is entitled 'Postcards from France ' and uses plasters and metallic paints to bring a timeless beauty to it.

The original Gentleman's Dresser was found in a home in St. Louis, about to be torn down due to expansion of a highway. It is dated circa 1895.

Up close you can see the subtle texture created from the Old World plaster used on this drawer. Vinyl stencils and metallic paints were also involved, along with many postcards hanging in my kitchen from my studying-abroad daughter as I dreamt up this finish.

If you had to pick just one color that represents you, what color would it be and why?
I love blues, I love greens. But the color that I am drawn to is the combination of very soft, faded blues and greens. I call it Spa Blue. I am entering the phase of my life where I want to slow down a bit, surround myself with a calm that was never there as I raised my 5 children, started my business, and was constantly going going going. Faded blues and greens, my spa blue, exude a sense of tranquility, depth and a finite vastness that instill a feeling of calm surrounding me. My home is a combination of creamy whites and earth tones, with touches of this quiet blue-green combination, and it makes me so happy to come home to.

What are your interests outside of decorative arts?
Well, I have mentioned my love of St. Louis sports. I enjoy going to games and watching them with friends when I am not at work in the stadiums. I also have been blessed with 5 beautiful children and will always choose to surround myself with them and their partners over anything else. I truly love having everyone home with me hanging out, cooking, and having my home full of noise, craziness, and laughter. To keep me grounded I escape into the garden, and yes, actually love to cut my grass! Last but not least I am an avid traveler, either signing up for artistic trips to Europe, planning beach escapes of my own, or traveling to see my out-of-town children and the love of my life, my 1 year old grandson.

What was something work related that you are particularly proud of?
As decorative artists we are in love with our creations and are proud of them. That goes without saying. What I am most proud of however is the personal growth I have experienced while being a member of a very special organization that gives back to the decorative arts community, the International Decorative Artisans League or, IDAL. I was very blessed to find out about this organization while taking a painting class and another student mentioned it to me.

I was excited, intrigued, and attended my first convention in 2008. During my first few conventions I was very shy and felt very intimidated – not worthy of being in the presence of so many artists that were taking the classes with me. I would volunteer here and there setting up tables, handing out goody bags, jobs that I felt were small and inconspicuous. After a few years of taking advantage of all that the conventions had to offer, slowly coming out of my shell, and making new friends, I was asked to run for a board position. Again, I did not feel worthy of such an honor but felt that it was time to give back to the organization that had done so much for my career.

Going from a scared-stiff girl that would sit in the back of class to not have to talk to anyone, to eventually serving on IDAL’s board of directors for over 8 years – one and a half years as president – is what I am most proud of. The personal growth, the confidence in myself to accomplish my dreams. And this experience has given passion to my desire to encourage new artists in their journey, educate them about the IDAL organization, and give them courage from a once-shy girl to another.

Explore more of Beth’s work at classiccreationspainting.com.

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Behind the Texture with Linette Pedigo

Behind the Texture

with Linette Pedigo

from Linette’s Painting and Fine Art

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I’m Linette Pedigo, an Indiana based artist and decorative painter. I own Linette’s Painting and Fine Art, where I specialize in custom murals, faux finishes, and original fine art. I do a lot of residential and commercial work of varying styles, with clients scattered around the United States. My artwork, which is created by a process I have coined “plaster painting”, is very textured and is inspired by nature and the various textures and patterns I find in it.

Where are you from? Where and what did you study?
I was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, where I still reside. I actually still live in my childhood home, though I’ve made it my own through and through. I attended Indiana University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art. During and after college, I fully intended on pursuing a career in graphic design, but sometimes, and thankfully, life has its own path for you.

What was your first job as an adult and what was that experience like?
After college, my first job was the one that set the tone for the rest of my life and started my career path into decorative painting. I got a position working alongside a local interior decorator who staged model homes for new housing additions. I started out mainly painting murals in the kids rooms, but it then expanded into faux finishing certain areas of the houses as well. This position taught me so much and ignited the fire inside of me to learn about all the products and techniques I could in the decorative painting industry.

What is your favorite thing about the decorative industry/community?
Hands down it is making people happy with my artistic endeavors. I love that I get to be creative on a daily basis and to help transform people’s spaces into what they’ve always wanted.

Movies or books? And what genres?
Definitely movies for me, and I would say it’s a toss up between horror and science fiction. I love visual effects and the opportunity to escape reality, and the crazy emotional turmoil these types of movies produce in me is surprisingly cathartic.

What’s your favorite paint color and why?
This one is hard actually, because it’s so hard to pick just one. But I will say magenta, but a deeper tone like quinacridone magenta. Payne’s Grey is a very close second though.

Metallic Paints and Fresco Wall Painting — Sculpted clay flowers with metal centers adorn a metallic gold tree, all against a textured plaster background. (Golden Paintworks Fresco, GPW Metallic Paints, GPW Glazing Medium)

Fresco mixed media painting — “Untangling Myself From You” Original mixed media plaster painting (Golden Paintworks Fresco, Golden Paints, and GPW Glazing Medium)

What’s something you wish you could tell your younger self?
Follow your dreams! You may fail, but definitely try again. I mean, we have just this one life, so make it your best life with no regrets.

Explore more of Linette’s work at paintingsbylinette.com.

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Behind the Texture with Annette Tyrrell

Behind the Texture

with Annette Tyrrell

from Annette Tyrrell Studio

Share this article

Whether exploring the great Pacific Northwest (PNW) or exploring texture and color in paint and plaster, Annette Tyrrell creates architectural finishes and fine art. Her love of nature heavily influences the materials, colors and designs used. Her aim is to create beauty that speaks to each client and collector, assisting them to express their unique style. Ultimately helping to create an oasis where they dwell.

Tell us a little about yourself. How did you get involved with the decorative arts?
I grew up in Eastern Washington, exploring forests, lakes and mountains always fascinated by nature. After high school, I moved around the US, living and experiencing each unique environment from deserts and oceans to farms and cities. I have always been inspired by nature and intrigued by the diversity each place holds.

In my mid 30’s, a friend invited me to a watercolor class. I had no confidence, because I had gotten poor grades in art, but I’m fearless to try new things. I have a deep love of learning.

The instructor was amazing, encouraging me to open my eyes and observe the way color, shape and composition define landscapes and how natural elements communicate depth and perspective. I fell in love with watercolor. I had found something that lit me up.

Just over a decade ago we moved to the PNW. I came home and got a job with a decorative finishing company. I was the “shop rat” always eager to learn from the amazing artisans who were creating beautiful finishes locally. Another world of artistry was opened up and I fearlessly made myself an apprentice. When the owner retired she encouraged me to continue in the decorative arts. Her advice was to take workshops from the industry’s best and explore the latest design trends. So I did. In 2016 Inspired! Surface Design was born.

A few years ago, a dear client asked me to create a HUGE (70” x 100) landscape painting for her home using the textures and mediums from my decorative arts skills. This project awakened in me an appetite to study and use my skills to create fine art. In 2021 I released my first fine art collection called Emergence and rebranded to Annette Tyrrell Studio. Last year I added giclée prints and art shows while still contracting architectural finishes.

How would you describe your artistic style?
My artistic style is abstract impressionism. In decorative finishing I tend to choose natural products to create unique colors and textures. In fine art, interpreting nature through landscapes fascinates me. I am always seeking the boundaries of my materials, watching how pigment interacts and flows across a canvas or plaster lays off a trowel. I love to play with color and texture.

What’s your business philosophy?
My business philosophy is to strive for excellence in workmanship and artistry creating bespoke finishes and fine art. I believe art speaks to us on a personal level and when I am designing decorative finishes for a specific client, I have to listen, ask questions and observe the environment their soul desires to live in. It is an honor to be a part of creating a unique oasis, an environment for people to dwell.

I listen for, “I love it”. Then I know I have done my job.

What can’t you live without?
I have found I cannot live without exploring nature and the arts. It is still what lights me up, sparks curiosity, providing rest, and filling my soul.

If you had to choose a different career, what would it be?
If I had to choose a different career, I would choose something where I studied and worked in the natural sciences.

What’s something interesting or surprising about you that most people wouldn’t know just from talking to you?
I am typically an open book but some things you may not know about me include:

I am a sucker for legal and cop drama shows and could probably cross-examine a witness or track down a suspect if I needed to. I could solve the crime!
Growing up I spent summers in Guam where my dad lived.
In my 40’s I fractured my wrist when I decided to join my kids snowboarding. We homeschooled and while all the other homeschooling moms sat inside, I just had to “hit the slopes.”

Explore more of Annette’s work at annettetyrrell.com.

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