House of Faux

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 13:46:00 +0000

There are several key differences between solvent-based and water-based liquid metals:

Solvent-Based Liquid Metals

- Can be polished to a higher sheen than water-based

- More durable formulation, like enamel vs. acrylic paints

- 3-part mixing system, short working time after combining

- Extremely long lifespan - 25+ years outdoors, unlimited indoors

- Some find solvent-based easier to spray

- Allows thicker coatings in one coat

Water-Based Liquid Metals

- Little to no odor, depending on brand

- Long working time after mixing

- Leftover product can be reused

- Easier clean-up

- Slight softening in heat, which is not necessarily a bad thing.

- 2-part mixing system

- Fast curing time

- Low VOC emissions

- Long shelf life

- Easier patina creation

Quality varies between brands of both types. As with any product, research is key to find the best formula for your needs and climate. Some binders offer better quality than others. Some also perform better in cooler climates, then hot climates. Companies also use different types of ingredients to make their binders. Just a few are urethane resin, polyester, acrylic.

Additionally, each metal has its own unique properties to take into account. Thoroughly test products before use and a large product investment.

For more information and classes go to www.liquidmetl.com

Why a Certification Class or any class

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 15:08:00 +0000

Simply stated, taking a class that gives you a certificate is mostly for the benefit of your clients. It tells them that you have completed a course on how to use a specific tool or product correctly. It can distinguish you as a professional and not a diyer.

I think anyone who has been in the decorative (faux) finishing industry for many years can remember in the early 2000’s when the diy shows came out and gave the people watching the shows a sense of, decorative finishing is easy and anyone can do it. Sure, to some degree anyone can. But there is a vast difference between the quality of their work and the quality of a professionals work.

Epoxy is another example. When I first learned how to use epoxy it must have been around 2007. I had to take a class before buying any epoxy product. I’m glad I did. I can imagine I would have spent more money on product then on a class trying to figure out on my own the proper way to use it. Nowadays, anyone can buy it and I read a lot of posts people make saying “______ is the worst epoxy. Look at all the bubbles and there are sticky spots.” The majority of the time it is not the epoxy brand, but error with the person using it. They have just spent hundreds on product only to have to redo the surface and now they have also given the epoxy brand a bad name.

What made me write about this topic is because of a post on Instagram from a liquid metal distributor. In his post he was saying he has never taken a class and questioned classes and companies that give a certificate. I found this both funny and a little irritating since he teaches classes. Way before I started teaching I have been a supporter of classes and the many benefits, including advancing your knowledge and skill level and networking. I started Faux Retreat and ArtFusion Event mostly to be able to promote other instructors. (full discloser, Faux Retreat is a for profit business and ArtFusion is a not for profit.)

Most of the time when you cannot buy a product unless you take a class. It is not a get rich scheme, it is so people use the products correctly and as such protect the products from people that don’t know how to use them properly. I think most instructors would tell you that they make very little money from teaching and even less when they are taught remotely.

Adieu

My favorite sanders....so far

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 18:29:00 +0000

Updated January 2, 2022.

For over a year I have been teaching a liquid metal class. At each class I have tried to arrange to have a representative attend from one of the top rated sander companies. Mirka, Festool, and SurfPrep so far. Below are my thoughts on each one. If you are thinking of purchasing a new sander, reach out to the class attendees to hear their thoughts as well. Keep into consideration that these have been used to sand/polish metal. I should also mention that all 3 have great sanding adhesives.

If you also do a lot of sanding on wood, you may want to inquire with the manufacturer to find out which of their systems is good for both metal and wood.

SurfPrep SPESS3X4CV

Price: $300+ depending on size and accessories.

Pros: Small unit that is super easy to hold

Virtually no vibration

Fast sanding

Square design is great for corners

They have attachments for most other extractor brands.

Fantastic on wood. In a test, it sanded a cabinet door in a breeze.

Cons: Their "too many" ordering options are very confusing on website.

Confusing abrasives. They are named fine, super fine, etc. instead of by grit number. Makes it hard to figure out what to use/buy.

Abrasives: Their foam abrasives are fantastic. They conform to the areas being sanded. They beat out the Mirka and Festool abrasives and in my opinion they last longer.

Update April 2021: I just spent a few days at the SurfPrep headquarters in Lake Elsinore and without a doubt these are the hand sanders I recommend for both wood and metal surfaces. They are also in the process of relabeling their abrasives and will have the grit number printed on them.

If you are interested in purchasing a SurfPrep product use discount code artfusion10 at checkout.

Festool Rotex90 and 150

Price: $475+

Pros - Edge protector is great feature

Low vibration

Sander and polisher in a click of a button.

Gear driven

Comes with systainer

I think this is an excellent sander, however it was way too heavy for me.

Cons:

Harder to hold if you have small handsShould use holding with both hands

Expensive

Abrasives: Great abrasives, but most expensive.

The only way to get a discount on Festool is through a retailer.

Mirka Deros 5” & 6”

Price: $625+ just for the sander.

Pros - powerful

Quiet

Low Vibration

Great extractor system

Cons - Expensive

Heavy

Can only use with extractor

Extractors are expensive

Hard to hold if you have small hands

Abrasives: Great abrasives

With the exception of SurfPrep, you can go to an Acme, WoodCraft or Rockler store and check out the sanders. Find the one that has the best weight and fit for you.

I would love to hear from others who have used these sanders.

How Creatives Should use Linkedin

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 13:47:00 +0000

Linkedin can be an effective tool in your marketing, engaging with professionals all over the world.

Creatives can use LinkedIn to meet architects, artists, interior designers, potential clients, and other successful art professionals. This can greatly extend your reach.

Become Active Groups:

Join in and participate in group discussions.

Be sure to “Like” discussions, posts and comments.

You Are Networking Not Selling:

Networking online isn't much different than networking in person.

I am immediately turned off when someone comes into a group and starts trying to sell something. Even worse is when they try to sell to me through my message box. I like to get to know what someone is like first.

Build a network:

Contacts from past jobs.

Your customers

Your suppliers

Members of groups you belong to.

People in the art and business worlds who you would like to be connected.

Don’t look at LinkedIn as a venue to shout “Buy my stuff, buy my stuff…”, think of it as an opportunity to build a valuable network and relationships.

Golden Circle

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 00:27:00 +0000

Products

SetCoat Off White

MoonGlow Silver

Pale Metallic Paint

Proceed Transparent Glazing Gel

Exotic Roller

Retreat Stencil

Base with off white SetCoat
Trowel on MoonGlow Silver covering 85.4%
Trowel on second coat about 65.5%
Mix Pale Gold Metallic paint with Proceed Transparent Glazing Gel.
Apply mixture with trowel covering at 75.2%
Using Exotic roller, lightly roll over the surface. Let dry
Position stencil (Retreat Circles) and trowel MoonGlow Silver through stencil. Let dry
Alternating between iridescant blue and gold wax, use a flat sponge to apply over surface.

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Sat, 21 Mar 2020 15:35:00 +0000

We’re operating in a time of uncertainty and fear due to the coronavirus. Schools have been closed, as have countless businesses.. Many, if not most, public events have been canceled.

Obviously this will impact our national and local economy. The question is, how much and how long will it last? What’s the new normal look like? How can we get through this period of uncertainty?

Relative to the human element, small businesses will bear the brunt of this situation. We must do what we can to stay strong. Soon we’ll be entering a new normal. But until that happens, and things level out, you might be wondering, is it appropriate to market your business during the coronavirus crisis? And, how to do it.

With the right approach, it’s not only appropriate to market your business, but you should!.

Here are things to consider when marketing your business during the coronavirus crisis:

Show how you’re providing resources, education and support to your customers. Maybe offer reduced or even free design advice via FaceTime or Skype, or color consultations.
Provide consistent updates on your progress and also share your business continuity plan. It could be helpful to others.
Provide tips and insights into what you’re seeing in the market, relative to your business.
Check your pre-scheduled social media posts. Make sure they match the tone of the current environment.

Featured Company...Color Atelier

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Thu, 13 Dec 2018 00:31:00 +0000

COLOR ATELIER is a San Francisco-based paint company owned and operated by wife-and-husband team Burju K. and Olivier Garnier.

Olivier, a former paint chemist, started his career at early age in France, and comes from a generations of artisans family who produce, and install decorative finishes in Europe. Olivier is exceptionally talented with finishes, and worked with a long and impressive list of clients around the globe. He founded Color Atelier with his wife Burju, with a passion to create the finest U.S. made natural finishes. Burju has a master degree in International Business and a trained eye for interior design and color. She oversees the brand and all things business.

We believe in the beauty and power of pure, honest, and authentic materials, and techniques. Our line is a small batch paint and plaster available in a curated palette of pre-mixed colors each with hand-crafted depth and texture. We have invested in the finest ingredients, and practiced traditional European techniques to create these natural and timeless artisanal finishes. Our finishes bring an unparalleled distinction to surfaces via old world methods designed for today’s modern aesthetics and health criteria.

We produce some of the most environmentally friendly paints and plasters available anywhere in the world today. Our products are all mineral or water based and have zero to very low VOC. Our mission is to help people to rediscover the beauty of natural paints and plasters by creating artisanal products that respect and sustain our natural world.

Color Atelier will be teaching an exclusive Tadelakt class at ArtFusion Event April 2019.
Tadelakt is a traditional Moroccan plastering technique that creates a waterproof surface for walls and ceilings.

All Color Atelier paints and plasters are made in the U.S.A.

https://www.coloratelierpaint.com/

5 Reasons You Should Attend an Event

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 12:48:00 +0000

In our busy lives and social media crazy world we often forget the importance of being in a live face-to-face setting with others from the business community.

Being active in your industry trade associations can bring with it many benefits. There is a sense of pride and accomplishment in being connected to other people who are active in your line of work, but it can also be easy to talk yourself out of committing to that annual event year after year. To get the most return on your investment you need to be engaged and participate.

As business owners we are busy, so the thought of taking a few days away from home and work to participate in an event, conference, or trade show can seem like a waste of time and money. However, these live meetings might be just what you need to find new ways of growing your business.

Some think that being around potential competitors can be a chance for others to steal their ideas. But not everyone is a competitor, many can be allies and friends. The mindset you choose about participating in events will impact your results.

Here are just five of the reasons to attend an industry event:

Educational opportunities. No matter how experienced you are at your business, instructors included, everyone can learn. Sometimes we work so much that it can be isolating, and we can miss new ideas and trends that can help grow our business. The classes, speakers and activities at an event can expose you to new ways of conducting your business and help you discover new techniques and decorative finishes.

Networking with peers. Industry events provide a great opportunity to network. Often people from other parts of the country can become valuable resources for referrals, business ideas and helping with jobs. Avoiding peers for fear of others discovering your competitive advantage can actually limit your own success. Collaboration is the way to approach networking. While there are those whose intentions can be questionable, most people can help each other uncover ideas and spark inspiration when they get to know each other on a personal level.

Encounter new vendors and suppliers. Too often people shy away from the trade show/expo at events. Sometimes they fear that they will have to talk to the salesperson, but these industry suppliers are some of the best people for you to get to know if you want to learn more about the current business trends. Discovering innovative products and services for your business is necessary to stay competitive. Invest time with the sponsors at the event and turn them into your friends and allies.

Position yourself as an expert. When you are active in your industry, you can develop a reputation as an expert to your clients. Clients feel good about doing business with those that attend industry events and continue their education. Put an event logo in your portfolio, website and blog. You will be missing a valuable opportunity if you remain your communities best kept secret.

Have fun. Being in business should be not only rewarding, but fun. All work and no play can make you stagnant. Industry events can add a layer of enjoyment to managing your business growth by mixing a social aspect into your learning. Many events schedule fun activities where the event is hosted. Taking an extra day at the beginning or end of the trip to explore the area is also a great way to maximize your investment in travel. Never underestimate the power of a little fun mixed with some interesting people!

Many believe that since they can now access information via the Internet that the days of the live events are gone. The truth is, events are more important than ever. The value in events comes from the face to face connections that occur. Often people cite the serendipitous “hallway conversations” that they have with other attendees as the most valuable parts of attending an event. While these are not on the schedule, or mentioned as learning objectives, when two or more people begin to discuss topics on a deeper and personal level, the success of the event to those involved becomes irreplaceable.

There are several annual and semi-annual industry events.

Kathy Boyd
www.ArtFusionEvent.com

Concrete Decor Show
National Hardware Show
Epoxy Underground Expo
Plein Air Convention
IDAL Convention
World of Concrete
ArtFusion Event

Jo Packham

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Mon, 14 May 2018 11:50:00 +0000

Jo Packham, currently the creator/Editor-in-Chief of best-selling magazines: WHERE WOMEN CREATE — Inspiring Work Spaces of Extraordinary Women; WHERE WOMEN COOK , The Heart & Soul of Cooking; WHERE WOMEN WORK, A Passion for Success; and her newest publication: WHAT WOMEN CREATE, Inspiration for Your Imagination, has been a leading innovator in the handmade publishing market for more than 35 years.

A successful entrepreneur, Jo began her career with THE VANESSA-ANN COLLECTION which published paper-back how-to publications selling millions of copies. This led to her publishing companies, CHAPELLE Ltd. and later WWC PRESS, which packaged more than 1,000 titles for most major publishers in the industry including: Sterling, Time Warner, Oxmoor House, Meredith Corp. (Better Homes & Gardens), Rodale Press, Random House, Chronicle, Barnes & Noble, and others.

In 2010, with Nancy Soriano, the editor-in-Chief of Country Living for 10 years, Jo co-founded THE CREATIVE CONNECTION – Women, Passion, Business. TCC was a national conference and market celebrating creative women and entrepreneurs. Bringing together the creative process of handmade goods and food with the marketing savvy of business and social media TCC included over 150 industry experts, 800 attendees, and 50 best selling authors. Hands-on workshops joined with social networking and business panels which addressed the practical details of setting up, running, and marketing a business, as well as leveraging its impact through blogging and other social media. But most important were the Pitch Slams presented by preselected attendees to top industry experts culminating in new opportunities and contracts for over 50 designers, authors, and artisan entrepreneurs.

Currently, Jo has created the URBAN STUDIO, on Historic 25th Street. The URBAN STUDIO is uncommon and extraordinary. US is the perfect stage with 2,500 square feet of urban aesthetics including a professional kitchen designed for make-it & cooking classes; business meetings, gatherings & retreats; parties, celebrations & holidays .. almost everything! The expertise of US is the ability to incorporate the finer touches to enable clients and patrons to be outstanding and still enjoy their time as host, teacher, student, or guest. From the moment you step inside, your imagination and expectations meet.

Her life has been a journey that seems as if it were taken straight from the pages of a storybook … the “Once upon a time” beginning”, the tragedies lived through the middle chapters, and hopefully the “ Happy Ever After” ending. She looks forward to the promises of tomorrow and is proud to say that every single day she is blessed to be able to do what she loves, that she is surrounded by family and friends whom she adores and respects, and that she is trusted enough to represent those whose passion is to create with their hands … whether it be food, art, or business. She resides in Ogden, Utah.

Jo will be the featured speaker at the 2018 ArtFusion Event in Estes Park, Colorado on October 3. www.ArtFusionEvent.com

SESSION 1
I HAVE AN IDEA!: THE SECRETS AND THE REALITIES OF BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR. HOW TO START AND BUILD YOUR OWN SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS.

Starting your own business - the proverbial living the dream - can quickly become a nightmare if you are unrealistic about and unprepared for the steps that are necessary to make your dream both profitable and successful ... on every level.

In this workshop you will hear the stories to inspire you to begin, receive the handouts to help you plan, study the guidelines to keep you focused, and share the secrets to help you be successful.

SESSION 2
SUCCESSFUL MARKETING STRATEGIES FOR THE ARTISAN SMALL BUSINESS ENTREPRENEUR

In this workshop you will learn the secrets of successful entrepreneurs who understand what is essential to market themselves and their businesses each and every day. Techniques, strategies, and secrets that will take you from the mundane to the extraordinary without substantial monetary and time investments. As we all know and understand … it is the little things in both life and business that make a difference!

Bring with you to the session your business cards, your sales sheets, or your promotional flyers to learn how to make each a valuable tool in your marketing strategies. Also, send in your website link to jo@WhereWomenCreate.com and I will select a few to analyze, critique, and share with your classmates.

https://www.wherewomencreate.com/

Farewell to our friend and colleague

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Sat, 14 Apr 2018 12:49:00 +0000

I know I am feeling like a lot of you who knew Ron Hansen, numb with disbelieve that this gentle and extremely talented man is gone from us.

Although I had known Ron since the late 90's, I first met him in person when he taught at a Faux Retreat in 2012. Ron didn't think he had anything to offer as an instructor and it took some pestering on my part to convince him how interested people would be in a class with him. When Ron arrived at the retreat I was struck by how soft spoken he was and how generous he was with the others at the retreat, answering questions about his finishes and techniques.

The first evening of the retreat Ron received a phone call with devastating news. While various plans were being discussed on how to get Ron home, he ultimately decided that he wanted to stay at the retreat for the time being. Being at the retreat with two Nebraska natives and friends Jan Joyce and Joyce Nelson, and rooming with Jay Lewis, as well as being around the other loving and supportive retreat group, seemed to be of comfort to him and we formed a new family.

I don't know how Ron had the strength to do it, but for two days he taught a wonderful class, complete with several one time use stencils that he had designed, printed and cut for all of us. The memory that I will remember most fondly however, is how that man managed to sleep through all of us around his bed singing Christmas carols. I don't think he ever did believe any of us that it really happened.

Ron was a source of help and inspiration to so many people in the decorative finishing community. I know we will all cherish our memories and time with him.

You will forever be in our hearts Ron Hansen. Thank you for sharing your incredible talent with us, and may you and your family find peace.

Kathy B

One of the beautiful finishes that Ron did on a job. The design was his own creation that he cut.

This was one of the beautiful designs and finishes Ron created for the Faux Retreat group.

Ron hanging out and relaxing at the 2012 Faux Retreat.

Ron's infamous rabbit.

Painter Hourly Rate

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 11:28:00 +0000

New for 2018 ArtFusion Event

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 07:00:00 +0000

Geode Walls with Audra Lynch

Re-thinking Alcohol Inks with Pat Jelen

Elegant painted furniture-restoration with Sarah Hines . Mets Schilstra

Cabinet Refinishing with Yanni Fikaris: How to complete the highest profitable finishes and the business of running a profitable business

Zen Painting with Gabriela Sánchez

PLUS.... Lots more!

www.ArtFusionEvent.com

The Search for the Perfect Plaster.

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Wed, 15 Nov 2017 21:12:00 +0000

I am a huge fan of wall plastering! Anyone who knows me, knows that I was a huge fan of the now defunct Safra products. I started using the Safra products in the late 90's. It was a sad day for me and many others when they decided to stop manufacturing the plasters. Hard economic times had hit Europe. For years I have been looking for a replacement plaster. Some came close to the lime and resin plasters I used from Safra, but not close enough for me to stop trying new ones. Well, not until I tried Cadoro Plasters that is.

I should back up and say that I use a lot of different plasters and brands depending on the job/decorative finish I am doing. For some jobs the need for a very high quality plaster isn't needed. Maybe it is something I am going to glaze over or my clients want a lower cost alternative, aka lower quality product. Different plasters can and do achieve different looks. However, for a mid to highly polished plaster, a Marmorino or Tadelakt, I would definitely use Cadoro.

Cadoro Plasters was developed by Darrell Morrison of Vancouver. Darrell was first introduced to plaster finishings during a plastering apprenticeship in Phoenix, Arizona. He was immediately taken with plaster’s artful quality and endless creative potential. Fast-forward Seventeen years and over 500 masterpieces later. From luxury, multi-million dollar penthouses to retail outlets and doctor’s offices, Morrison’s artistry can be seen throughout the Lower Mainland at locations like Versace (Thulow/Alberni), Chambar Restaurant, Hope Hospital and many more places. Because of his own hands-on experience with plasters, Darrell had the expertise to create the finest plasters.

I was fortunate to have recently taken a class with Darrell in Italy as part of Faux Retreat. Although Darrell has been using plasters for many years, has numerous YouTube "how to" videos, this was Darrell's debut class. Overwhelming success was echoed by each of his students. I have taken many plaster classes, but I can honestly say that Darrell brought to the class information that I have never heard an instructor give. You can teach an old dog new tricks!!!

For more information on the Cadoro Plasters go to www.cadoroplasters.com Darrell is also a distributor of CO.ME Tools. The maker of the finest stainless steel trowels.

The art of Parget

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 20:28:00 +0000

Someone recently told me about a class they took many years ago with a woman by the name of Diana Durand. The more she told me about her art, the more curious and fascinated I became. I started to research this woman and found among other things, that Diana was a modern innovator of plastering and mold making, having started almost 40 years ago. Very rare for a woman back then.

Diana has designed, sculpted, and pargeted her way across California and beyond. Working as an independent artisan, a union shophand, and a journeyman plasterer and with noted craftsmen Michael H. Casey and RFJ Meiswinkle Co., she has completed over 30 private commissions including original parget ceiling designs and restored portions of significant historical buildings. Diana's work has taken her to Hollywood where she worked with plaster and fiberglass resin in the staff shops of movie studios. She installed the parget ceiling in the Executive Suites Lobby at the Wynn Casino in Las Vegas and designed and installed a four-walled botanical mural in a dining room in a private residence in Nassau, Bahamas. Diana was one of the highly skilled artisans that restored the parget ceilings and friezes from remnants and old photos at the California State Capital.

I have recently written her and requested more information about her and her art for this blog post. I will add the information when I have it. Diana lives in California and on occasion does still teach.

Secretary of State building.

ArtFusion Event 2017

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Wed, 10 May 2017 22:48:00 +0000

The hippest International event of the year for Decorative Finishers, Artists, and Designers is back, and this year scheduled for September 20 - 24, 2017 in Black Mountain, North Carolina.

Join us for four days of workshops, product and tool demonstrations, exhibitors, public art sale and event parties. The best part is exploring the latest trends and tools in the industry while meeting and connecting with others in an atmosphere of friendship, sharing and learning.

Although this event was created for Professional Decorative Finishers, this is the fusion of multi art forms and artists, in the hope that we will all grow our skills, portfolio, and most importantly, ourselves. Professionals as well as interested newcomers are welcome to attend.

www.ArtFusionEvent.com

We are going to stir things up with over 20 workshops!

Wednesday, September 20

Day classes

Ellie Ellis – Bas Relief - day 1 of 2 $350

Ali Kay - Painting with Reactives - day 1 of 2 $400

Ande Crenshaw and Henri Menendez – Cabinets - day 1 of 2 $475 Technique/Spraying/Production finishing

Morey Dunbar – Rollers and foils $180 Decorative painting

Evening Classes

Igor Turovskiy – Art Resin (day 1 of 2) $250 Epoxy resin art

Beki VanMeter - Flo-Fusion $150 Acrylic flow techniques

Lora Murphy - Oil and Cold Wax (day 1 of 2) $195 Encaustic

Thursday, September 21

Day Classes

Ellie Ellis – Bas Relief - day 2

Ali Kay – Painting with Reactives - day 2

Ande Crenshaw and Henri Menendez - day 2

Debbie Hayes - Reverse Psychology: Painting On Glass $250 Metal reactives+ glass techniques

Sandra Gonzalez – From Walls to Canvas $210 Decorative painting

Evening classes

Igor – Art Resin (day 2)

Shauna Gallagher - Multi-Media Abstract Landscape $150 Canvas art

Lora Murphy - Oil and Cold Wax (day 2)

Trish McKinney - Wanderlust Watermedia $175 Watercolor

Friday, September 22

Day classes

Bryan King – Mural Painting $250 Beginning mural techniques

Sheri Zeman - Modern Finishing $225 Decorative painting

Beki VanMeter – ArtScapes by Beki $200 Art Resin

Lora Murphy - Encaustic, a whirlwind trip $240

Friday Evening Festivities

Exhibitors and demos

Fauxtini Party - Live music - and surprises!

Saturday, September 23

Cindee Lundin – World Class Concrete Tile and Innovative New Concepts in Concrete- day 1 of 2 $450 Carved concrete

Dean Sickler - Mastering Plastering $250 Italian/Venetian plaster

Patti Halstead - Coastal Coordinates $225 Cabinet and wall finishes

Oscar Urruela - "Scagliola" from the Italian baroque to the present day. $375 Wet plaster techniques

Saturday evening

Michelle Simpson - Think outside the ink $100 Alcohol ink

Trish McKinney – You Should be Gellin $175 Gel stains

Saturday evening entertainment

B I N G O Come dressed as your favorite artist. Prize for best costume!

Sunday, September 24

Cindee Lundin – World Class Concrete Tile and Innovative New Concepts in Concrete- day 2

Camille Caballero – Cali Love! $175 Decorative painting

Cynthia Davis - Stunning Canvas Art with Unusual Stencils $255 Canvas art

Aliya Riaz - Way Beyond Gilding $225 Gold leaf techniques

Instructor and business development for creatives

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 13:38:00 +0000

We offer a personalized approach, specifically focused on your individual needs. We are impartial, and can honestly give you an appraisal of your current business, class or product line, the market you are pursuing, what is working in your business and what needs more development.

DIGITAL MARKETING
Social Media Marketing for decorative painters and artists.

STRATEGY TRAINING CONSULTING
We offer one-on-one training and consulting sessions to small business owners and staff which is specific to your decorative painting or art business.

CUSTOM RETREATS
Custom retreats for instructors wanting to put together their own group of creatives. Do it yourself at one of our venues or you can hire us to creative, implement and market your retreat or event for you.

WEBSITE DESIGN
We design and create websites for artists, decorative painters, photographers and other creatives.

INSTRUCTOR AND CLASS DEVELOPMENT
We mentor and help both new and seasoned instructors with developing classes, marketing, pricing and more.

Contact us for more information.

Bryan King

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Sun, 19 Mar 2017 17:54:00 +0000

Bryan King the owner of Artifice Inc. graduated with a B.F.A. from Carnegie-Mellon University in 1979, and an M.F.A. from Cranbrook Academy of Art in 1981. He has been working as a decorative artisan and muralist since 1986. As well as the thirty years of experience Bryan has acquired in the decorative arts, he has a passion for mural and trompe-l’oeil work which has allowed him to further a lifelong interest in a representational style of painting and architectural perspective.

He has been a past instructor of mural painting for the Smithsonian Institution’s Resident Associate Program and a member of the Salon, an international organization of the finest decorative artisans working today. Additionally his decorative painting work has included many prestigious projects including the intricate faux finishes for the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. Bryan promises to be personally engaged with all commissions that Artifice Inc. is hired to complete.

Bryan will be teaching a mural class at the 2017 ArtFusion Event in North Carolina. www.ArtFusionEvent.com

Painting after Gericault, 40in x 24in.

Trompe-l’oeil coffered ceiling, Grand Central Restaurant, Washington, DC.

Camille Caballero

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Sat, 04 Mar 2017 14:40:00 +0000

Do you know Camille Caballero? Camille has been teaching with Faux Masters, a Faux Effects, Inc. distributor and training center since 2007. Camille says, "It started by accident—I really just fell into faux finishing but sometimes that's the way life works when it directs you to your passion. I really love what is possible with this specialized type of painting. My passion is creating new finishes, exploring new ways of using the classics or just thinking outside of the box. I have dedicated countless hours to product research and developing new techniques by staying informed and educated with the ever-evolving design trends."

Stemming from a strong background in ceramics, Camille has a detail-oriented and hands-on approach to all her projects, which has only helped her thrive in faux finishing & decorative painting.

Camille's work has been featured in published literature (Author Jeanette Fisher, Design Psychologist), television (Flip That House, TLC Network), galleries, and many homes all throughout the U.S.

Social media: http://instagram.com/fauxmasters

Website: http://fauxmasters.com

Camille will be teaching at the ArtFusion Event for the first time September 2017.

Why scagliola is better than marble

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Wed, 22 Feb 2017 18:06:00 +0000

Left: Elisabetta Bianchi and Silvia Berlincioni in the workshop; Right: Alessandro Bianchi, master scagliolist, uses a chisel and mallet to engrave a centrepiece © Michele Borzoni/TerraProject

APRIL 22, 2016 by: Jonathan Foyle

Scagliola, or “scal-yo-lah”, is a fine word, with all the flourish of a flamenco dancer. Yet the ancient technique of creating this imitation stone is very much Italian, having re-emerged from workshops in the centre of the country centuries ago. Ever since Giorgio Vasari wrote Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors and Architects (1550), Florence has been sold as the crucible in which the Renaissance was stirred, reviving the arts of the classical world. Yet there is no doubt that scagliola makers are at home in this city of grand medieval buildings with marble façades.

Just east of the city, in Pontassieve, is the workshop of master scagliolist Alessandro Bianchi. Scagliola was described by Vitruvius in the first century BC, and its revival was a later achievement of the Renaissance. The finest ancient Roman columns were of genuine rose marble, purple porphyry and green serpentine — finite supplies that had been lugged at huge effort from Egypt and Greece — and many of these columns were chopped up in the middle ages. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the best available blue stone, Afghan lapis lazuli, was more expensive than gold. So Italians carved a market in pietra dure, the craft of cutting and cementing small pieces of colourful marble for tabletops and cabinets. In Emilia, artisans found a way of making ground marble dust into pastes that would set firmly into precisely cut holes in stone furniture and fittings. Scagliola had returned. A late 17th-century scagliola fireplace can be found in Ham House, Richmond upon Thames, south-west London. Though diverse examples were exported across Europe, its patronage and manufacture held a special relationship with Britain. The man credited with transforming the craft into an art form was Enrico Hugford, a monk of English extraction from Vallombrosa, an abbey 20 miles south-east of Florence. He experimented with crushed stones and powders of coloured oxides, mixed with clay and glue to depict landscapes and scenes, four of which were exhibited in 1737 in the Florentine church of Santissima Annunziata. His pupil, Lamberti Gori, took the technique into the city, beginning the tradition that Bianchi upholds today.

Bianchi’s father, Bianco, founded his eponymous business in the early 1950s after war had racked Florence but left its prime monuments and art collections fairly intact. Bianchi, now the owner of Bianco Bianchi, explains how his father was “absorbed” by the display of Hugford’s work in the Museo Opificio delle Pietre Dure in Florence and the monastery in Vallombrosa. “He studied the 18th-century materials and techniques, then opened a workshop to make tables and panels inlaid in marble and scagliola,” he says.

Bianchi remembers well his father’s workshop, where he spent time out of school drawing, carving and incising “graffito” patterns into tabletops, panels, fireplaces and decorative floors. He retains his early appreciation for the material’s qualities. “Scagliola is a warmer material than marble and stones,” he says. “It is possible to make detailed and intricate patterns that cannot be made with marble. And to create many gradations of colours.”

The warmth he mentions is literal. Scagliola is a compound material with much greater thermal insulation than natural marble. This makes it well suited to floors and bathrooms, but it is also an easy way to touch-test what at first sight appears to be cool stone. The raw material Bianchi uses is selenite, a gypsum that is ground to a powder and mixed with natural coloured oxides and earth from a range of yellow ochre, terra di Siena, natural yellow oxide, warm red ochre, Pompeiian red and ultramarine. The tinted stone powder is bound with fine clays and casein (a protein derived from milk) or gum arabic from the acacia tree, following his father’s recipe.

So far, Bianchi’s explanation of materials and methods respects the traditions of scagliola that found favour during the age of the Grand Tour in the century after about 1715, when the British milordi trundled across Europe in search of antiquities. Beholding the great marble columns of a lost golden age, tourists demanded reflected glories in their own hallways and dining rooms from Scotland to Cornwall.

Oscar Urruela

Scagliolists achieved the look of ancient Roman marble monoliths by spreading a gypsum base around columns of brick or lath-and-plaster, adding a coloured layer with chips of alabaster and further colour or veining effects by wiping a web of silk threads dipped in pigment, polished to a glossy finish. Some effects were improbable: John Nash had blue columns imitate cylinders of lapis lazuli in the Music Room of Buckingham Palace. Nor was he the first. Such commissions encouraged not just Florentine pride, but a university chair in scagliola techniques at the city’s Accademia di Belle Arti.

Bianchi sees history and tradition as very important, but no less so than innovation because scagliola is still relatively unknown outside Italy, and the company’s marketplace has changed. Some of his own work can be found in a tabletop at Kensington Palace, it is true, but other pieces were commissioned by fashion houses such as Versace and Céline. The Sultan of Brunei is also a client, plus numerous architects with site-specific commissions. To evolve the craft, Bianchi has recently juxtaposed scagliola with other materials such as wood, Plexiglas and gold. Bianchi’s aim is to produce pieces that are detailed and more refined than those of his workshop’s competitors. “[A lot of scagliola] is made with synthetic resins, not natural materials, using cheap workers with a very poor artistic value,” he says. He leads by example: “We have a very important collection of antique scagliola works dated between the 17th and 19th centuries that can be visited by appointment — a unique museum in the world.” Take that as an invitation.

Oscar Urruela will be traveling from Spain for a demonstrative class on the art and method of Scagliola. Saturday, September 23, 2017 www.ArtFusionEvent.com

The Decorative Painters Event

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Sun, 12 Feb 2017 04:50:00 +0000

ArtFusion Event founder Kathy Boyd (me), had been saying for years that she wanted to have an industry event. Back in 2003 Kathy's dream was to have a Woodstock for the faux painting industry and call it FauxStock. Some 10 years later the idea of camping out in a tent was not as appealing anymore, but the idea of an event never was forgotten. In 2014 when an existing industry event for Decorative Painters announced at their convention that it would be their last, Kathy thought the timing was right and announced plans for ArtFusion Event to be held in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The plan for ArtFusion Event was simple enough, in theory anyway. Create an event that would bring together Decorative Painters in a more affordable, and relaxed environment. Create something that would inspire and reawaken our passion for the industry. I have half jokingly pondered the idea of a retirement home for Decorative Artists. It seems that the majority of us fall between the ages of 45 - 65, and a lot of us are looking for something that will help ease the aches and pains of climbing ladders. I imagine it would be hard to retire from this business completely. What other job do you get to express your artistic and creative side so thoroughly? I remember thinking about this at a 2009 Faux Retreat. One of the instructors brought a canvas that everyone applied their leftover product on and the at the end of the week we had created a beautiful canvas that I took home with me and submitted to an area charity to auction for their fundraiser. For subsequent Retreats I gave everyone their own canvas and encouraged them to use their leftover products from jobs to create works of art that they could then sell. Many really took off with this idea and have ended up having gallery showings. A great way to supplement your income!

The theory of ArtFusion Event is to not only have the decorative painting classes (faux finishing, fine plasters, bas relief, cabinets, floor and countertop finishing, etc.) that we want and need to keep our portfolios fresh, but to incorporate other art mediums where we can learn something new. The classes chosen to be included in the Event must have something about them either in style or technique that could be incorporated into our Decorative Painting business, and give us another set of skills that we can use to create works of art for individual sale. These "new" class types have been encaustic, gel, alcohol ink, resin art, mixed media, and cold wax to name just some of them.

So what makes ArtFusion Event different?

1. Although I have some instructors in the Decorative Painting industry that have taught at other industry venues, I like to bring in "new" industry instructors and "out of the norm" class types. I also don't want instructors that teach at a lot of other studios and venues, especially within two months prior or after the ArtFusion Event. This will help in filling up their class to their student maximum.

2. We promote other artistic events. Every year I offer other industry convention/expos, etc. and associations a free vendor table to help promote their own event.

3. Open to all artists. The Event was created for Decorative Painters, but the longer we have the events, the more we are branching out to other mediums. There is so much we can learn from other art forms, most of which can be incorporated into our own decorative painting work and art.

3. Unique event activities. We have a lot of competitions, and fun activities including Iron Faux, a play on the Iron Chef show, live auction, bingo, flying frog contest, speed networking and lots more.

4. ArtFusion is a not for profit event. For every event we form an alliance with a charitable foundation and after instructors and expenses are paid, any additional money will go to that foundation.

5. Unique venue. Every venue is chosen for not only its beautiful location, but also because it offers very affordable lodging, including meals and offers a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

There are plans for some more great events in the future, including the debut of Artist's Underground and RE.Vive.

Kathy Boyd

www.ArtFusionEvent.com

That face you make when the power goes out.

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 01:59:00 +0000

So the crazy storms with their 90+mph high winds hit Wednesday night, and I am without power for going on 4 days. Now, I wasn’t totally cut off from the world, my phone and iPad were at 6% and 18% charged respectively, so I was able to post photos on Facebook of the massive trees downed over my drive and elicit sympathy about being trapped. After cutting, hauling and cutting again for a couple of hours starting at the dreaded 5am, I got a ride from a friend and was able to buy one of the last 3 chain saws at Home Depot. They said it is the worst storm to affect its electrical system in the Duluth area in 15 years, with about 41,000 customers without power and massive trees were down everywhere you looked.

Did I mention it was in the 90's and humid? I don't do well in the heat. I really don't do well chain sawing and hauling wood all day in the heat. I really really don't do well chain sawing and hauling and forgetting to drink water in the heat. So the first night I really didn't have a problem going to bed at 7PM.

The second day without electrIcity also went relatively well. Kind of like camping except with this kind of camping the back of my legs get stuck to my leather sofa because it is so hot. This might actually make a great Instagram photo (with someone else playing my part.) Me, sitting on the sofa in shorts using a spatula to un-stick the back of my legs from the sofa so I can get up and drink some warm, soon to be hot water. Oh my dear refrigerator....I did so take you for granted.

7pm decide to read. Crap! My books are now on the uncharged iPad. 7:15pm found halfway working flashlight and start reading an actual hardcover book. 7:21pm the batteries die. 7:30pm decide to take a shower in the dark. 7:32pm the hot water is out. Did go out and got some dinner at the closest grocery store that still has power, but made the mistake of bringing it home to eat. Cold curry chicken is not good. Curse you non-workable microwave oven.

Let's look at the positives. I have been wanting to clean my fridge so now I got the chance. Everything got thrown out and it has been scrubbed down. If the power outage hadn't occurred, I probably wouldn't have found that shriveled up lemon on the bottom shelf for another few months.

Not being able to use the AC or fan has been great for sweating out the toxins in my body.

My next electric bill should be noticeably lower.

I have stopped procrastinating about getting the BBQ propane tank filled up.

I can live without my weekly doses of Andy Griffith and Gunsmoke. Someone will tell me how Festus and Opie made out.

Without having the distraction of the stereo I have more time to listen to the Paw Patrol theme song going through my head.

Now I can really listen to those voices in my head.

Tomorrow, day 5 without power I will be channeling my inner Little House on the Prairie and washing clothes in the creek, and for the third morning in a row I am now the reining champion for getting to the coffee shop as it opens and making a beeline for the "special" table with the 3 hidden outlets so I can charge my "stuff".

Leslie Sinclair of Segreto Finishes

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Sat, 25 Jun 2016 00:26:00 +0000

The world of decorative painting is limitless, ever-changing and richly complex. Finishes for walls, ceilings, floors and cabinetry are crucial to the embodiment of a home’s character. Segreto Finishes’ niche in the world of design motivates owner Leslie Sinclair to constantly explore new techniques and finishes that appeal to a vast multitude of styles and personal tastes.

Leslie lives by the philosophy that upon entering a room, your eyes should not draw a distinction to one element or finish but should see the surroundings as a whole. By developing a palette that complements a home’s architecture and design, surroundings are given a new perspective.

Graduating from the University of Texas with a business degree, Leslie, mother of three, left her corporate job in 1995 to start Segreto Finishes, naming the company after her husband’s family. Segreto, which means secret in Italian, rolls up all of Leslie’s passions — architecture, interior design, art, people and business– into her idea of the perfect job. Leslie’s talent for color, bringing innovative products to Houston, hiring and training a quality staff and working with people on their individual needs, built Segreto’ s reputation.

With a staff of over 35 artisans, the company has become a premier finish design firm with work featured in numerous publications including Architectural Digest, Veranda, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, Country French, Elegant Homes, Beautiful Homes and Beautiful Baths, to name a few. Leslie also regularly contributes to Antique Shops and Designers magazine.

Inspired by all aspects of artistic painting, she owns an art gallery, Segreto Studios, and writes a blog, Secrets of Segreto, about interiors, art and finishes. She has written two books, Segreto: The Secrets to Finishing Beautiful Interiors, and Segreto Style, and is working currently on her third book Segreto Vignettes.

Join Leslie at the ArtFusion Event in Estes Park, Colorado October 28 and October 29, 2016.

Beyond Technique: The Consulting Side of Fine Finishes

$150 Includes a signed Copy of either Segreto Style or the Newly released Segreto Vignettes 85$ value.

Two class choices. Friday, 7pm or Saturday, 1pm Class will not be more than 2 hours.

This class will explore how to walk into a home and advise clients on the way certain finishes can impact the overall allure of their space. You have an entire toolkit of finishing techniques, but knowing which finish and which color to use for different situations can be tricky. Rather than cover how to create a specific finish, this class is all about how to decide which finish to create and, more importantly, how to discuss those finish options with the client.

We'll talk about the latest finishing trends and the various ways you can enhance or downplay the architecture of a room, integrate old surfaces and fabrics into a new design scheme, and tweak or transform existing elements with finishes. Each participant will take home a signed copy of Leslie's newly released design book, Segreto Vignettes, so you'll have a resource to continue learning about the topics discussed in class.

Darlene McElroy - Mixed Media Queen

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 11:45:00 +0000

As philosopher Joseph Campbell has told us, the saga of the hero in myth and folklore traditions across time is a journey of discovery leading from the real world into the primal depths of the unknown. Along the way, obstacles present themselves, challenging the hero to rely on training and instinct. At the point of revelation, it is the job of the hero to return to the real world and share this newfound understanding with the rest of the community—to give vision to the union of head and heart.

Throughout her career Darlene Olivia McElroy has combined head and heart in her journey of creating evocative mixed-media paintings. Trained as a painter and illustrator, she has an obsession for materials, passion for dreamlike imagery, and love of new technologies, which she uses to immerse herself in richly textured surfaces, mixtures of old and new, and brilliant and subdued tones. And always, there is a face or symbol of humanity that serves as a guide into mysterious layers which challenge reason and draw upon emotions.

Trained in the fine arts at Cal State University Fullerton, McElroy added illustration, graphics and design skills at Art Center College of Design, Pasadena, CA. Throughout her career she has made art for herself, while creating award-winning illustrations, packaging, and collateral for small companies to large corporations. Never content in withholding her knowledge, she continues to teach art, design, and computer graphics across the country.

Her books, which are published by F&W Publications, are testaments to her inherent need to experiment. Working with co-author Sandra Duran Wilson, in Image Transfer Workshop, McElroy explains the image transfer process and offers tips for fixing mishaps. Her second book, Surface Treatment Workshop, outlines the mixed-media techniques that add depth and texture to her own artwork. Her third title, Mixed Media Revolution, due out in December 2012, examines ways to evaluate and reconfigure a work of art, taking it to the next level.

McElroy's exhibition record, which began in the early 1990s in the Bay area and Newport Beach, CA, includes numerous solo and group exhibitions. Among her suggestive show titles are Stigmata, Odd Thoughts, Scattered, Beneath the Temple, Novellas, Modern Myths, and Lost Thoughts and Ancient Cultures. A participant in Santa Fe's annual juried Contemporary Hispanic Market since 2002, she received the Best of Show award in 2010 and continues to serve as a CHM board volunteer, as well as for other arts organizations. Her work is represented at La Posada in Santa Fe, NM, and Muse Gallery, Columbus, OH. McElroy has lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, since 1995.

She works in a great-room-turned- studio with large windows that let in New Mexico's ubiquitous sunshine, while looking out to a rustic yard, complete with ponds, waterfalls and wisteria-covered arbors. Her "casa de chaos" overflows with furniture parts, antique frames, ephemera, and cabinets filled with what she identifies as "S.H.I.T. (second-hand interesting things)."

You can find any of Darlene's numerous books, DVD's and artwork on her website, book stores and galleries throughout the country.

Darlene will be teaching at the ArtFusion Event in October 2016. For more information you can go to www.ArtFusionEvent.com

http://darleneoliviamcelroy.com/

SALON

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 19:53:00 +0000

Do you know about SALON?

The SALON is a world wide gathering of some of the top
artists and decorative painters. It is an exciting and unique
Art show of masters from different counties who exhibit their work; teach master-classes; discuss old and new techniques; products and information in the field.

The Salon is non-profit organization, which began in
1992 in Belgium with a small gathering of professionals,
reconvened in 1996 and has been coming together in
growing numbers every year since.

The Salon is now recognized as the most important and
significant gathering of decorative painters in the world.
Participants of The Salon include owners and teachers of
Art school, businesses, independent and commercial
companies. The Salon is a way for some of the most unique
traditions within the field of many styles of arts and to be
shared amongst one another and ultimately, passed onto
participants’ students and future generations.
Salon is an opportunity to enhances and extend the level of
communication and cooperation between professional
artists and masters-craftsmen from many countries. As
well as great source for designers and architects: of ideas,
styles and options of artistic designs for walls and ceiling in
private houses or offices.

The Salon is also a great way for visitors to experience the
high quality of work present and meet true masters of this
craft. Everyday ongoing demonstrations and exhibitions
allow visitors and participants to view paintings
specifically created for Salon as well as during Salon.

This is a very unique event and a great opportunity to
discover the International world of artists and masters-
craftsmen at it's best.

http://www.salonforever.se/

Countries of Salon members are:
France - Great Brittan - Norway - Sweden - Canada-
Germany - Italy - Belgium - USA - Denmark - Spain -
Japan - China - Austria - Russia - Holland - Netherlands -
Ireland - Libya - Israel - Greece - Latvia

Previous Salon Exhibitions:
1992- Salon founded
1996 Quimiac/France
1997 Utrecht/The Netherlands
1998 Alexandria/USA
1999 Norrkoping/Sweden
2000 London/Great Britain
2001 Paris/France
2002 San Antonio/USA
2003 Bruges/Belgium
2004 Oslo/Norway
2005 Philadelphia/USA
2006 Utrecht/The Netherlands
2007 Aarhus/Denmark
2008 Chicago/USA
2009 Bergamo/Italy
2010 Versailles/France
2011 Atlanta/USA
2012 Hamburg/Germany
2013 Tokyo/Japan
2014 Seattle/ USA
2015 Lecce/Italy

For information on the 2017 SALONhttps://www.facebook.com/Salon-New-York-2017-257726774582079/?fref=ts

Dean Sickler

noreply@blogger.com (BrainCreative) — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 14:47:00 +0000

Dean Sickler runs a successful and well-respected contracting business that specializes in architectural decorative finishing, both residential and commercial. From restoration of 18th century murals to the application of decorative veneer plasters, his expertise has taken him and his artisans around the world restoring and developing finishes in any style from Antique to Contemporary.

Dundean Studios Showroom, Classes and Store

Dean has a degree in Art & Art History from the University of Toronto and has worked/studied with a multitude of masters such as Emilio Cianfoni (Chief Conservator-Vizcaya, Miami), Yannick Guegan (Handbook of Painted Decoration-France), Patrick LaHeyne (The Power of Illusion-Belgium), Pierre Lafumat Joanne Day (Day Studio, San Francisco), Grace Darby (Isabel O’Neil Studio) and many others.

With over thirty-five years of work in the decorative field, Dean has been teaching workshops and lecturing across the country in color, design and finishing. He is proficient in the crafts of woodgraining, marbling, gilding, painting and restoring murals and glazing.

With contacts in most of the major cities in America and many foreign countries, this enables him to find the resources and artisans to work virtually anywhere. He does, however prefer to work in the Greater NY Metro area.

He has a special interest in the restoration of aesthetic and/or historically important projects. A recent commission involved finishing 12 250 year old bleached, carved white oak panels originally from Fontainebleau palace to match existing panels. An on-going commission(2013) involves stabilizing, repairing and restoring 55 painted-on- plaster panels of faux marble with trompe l’oeil moldings. These were originally painted in 1857 and had been covered in wallpaper for over 100 years.

He has been helping the profession by taking leadership positions in the PDCA, the PDPA, and belongs to other trade associations like IDAL and ICAA.

Dean is the author of the book: The Keys to Color: A Decorators Guide to Coloring Paints, Plasters and Glazes.

Dean’s expertise in wood finishing, plaster and color design are very much in demand but he is always interested in challenging commissions and projects. Dean is certified as a Master Installer/Instructor of Texston Venetian Plasters.

Dean will teaching a Marble and Woodgrain class at the September 2016 Faux Retreat and two classes (Business and Metal Leaf and Patination) at the 2016 industry ArtFusion Event.