The paintings in my “French Wallpaper Series” are intended to evoke the hand-painted, timeworn walls of a grand old Parisian mansion. Each piece resembles an aged decorative fresco panel adorned with birds and flowers, vines and leaves in a modern Chinoiserie style. I am inspired by the bright, colorful, fanciful imagery that made this unique style popular in the 17th and 18th century.
My art is influenced by the beauty and romance of old: vintage silky kimonos, hand-worked embroidery, lacquered little boxes, blocked wallpaper and panels from years ago, distressed with age, revealing a soft loveliness still…viewers see layered colors peeking out behind one another—pinks, blues, lavender—speckles of gold, a wisp of a faded blossom. Look for a small shy heart. A nestle of lovebirds. A French phrase. Each piece meant to be seen as part of a larger scene that’s been hidden away…until now.
I create a frescoed canvas and paint with acrylic and graphite. Aging and distressing are part of my process. I finish my paintings with a lacquered coating.
I live and paint on Bainbridge Island, Washington in a 100-year-old stone house by the sea.
There is something so romantic, etheral, and old world about your paintings. Evocative of chinoiserie with a bohemian vibe. I love them!
Your art is amazing. Thank you for sharing it with the world. God bless you.
Kathe, I don’t see any contact info on your site. I’d love to talk with you about doing some graphics for snowboards, please let me know the best way to connect with you, thank you!
saw your art on Pinterest, and love your work! I have been feeling the need to incorporate more flowers in my art work, and yours is a wonderful inspiration…