Color Secrets Revealed
My Process for Creating Rich, Nuanced Artwork
One of the compliments I never tire of hearing is:
“Your pieces are so colorful—but your use of color feels so refined and intentional.”
Whether it’s in my interior design work or in my paintings, this sentiment always resonates.
After nearly fifteen years as an interior designer—selecting finishes, color-matching textiles, and working with clients to shape beautiful, livable spaces—my eye for hue, value, and visual balance has become second nature. That experience directly informs my fine art prints and original paintings, where color takes center stage.
My Painting Process: A Peek Behind the Curtain
While I’m often asked if I work in watercolor or gouache, I actually use acrylic paints. I love thinning them down to a silky, fluid consistency that allows for layering and depth. The result? A creamy, translucent finish with a luminous, almost atmospheric quality.
Layering is at the heart of my process. I build up dozens of translucent coats to create a rich, complex color story in each piece. The final effect is vibrant yet sophisticated—bold enough to hold space in a room, but nuanced enough to reward a closer look.
Another signature technique I use is underpainting. I begin each piece with a solid background color, often inspired by the light or mood I want the final work to convey. This base layer infuses the piece with energy and prevents those distracting white canvas flecks from peeking through—an often overlooked detail that makes a big impact.
Why Color Matters
I’m not particularly trend-driven in my work—but I do love that we’re seeing more color (and more personality!) in interiors right now. If you’ve followed my work, you know that my pieces are anything but shy. They’re meant to bring color, warmth, and personality into the spaces you love most.
Whether you’re styling your upstate home or your Manhattan office, my goal is to create artwork that feels personal, timeless, and deeply considered—just like the homes I design.
Stay Connected
I hope this gave you a deeper look into how I approach my art and what makes each piece special. If you're curious to see more of my process—sketches, studio shots, works in progress—be sure to follow along on Instagram. I love sharing the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into each painting.
And if you're ready to bring a piece home, you can explore my latest limited edition art prints, original paintings, and artful housewares in the shop.