Date: December 30, 2015 | Photography: Rett Peek |
The owner and creative director of Angelfish Studios Faux Finish and Artistry gives plain walls, cabinetry, and furniture an exciting—and often colorful—new life with her decorative painting techniques
HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START WITH DECORATIVE PAINTING?
After completing my studies in interior design and art at the University of Central Arkansas, I studied under two faux finish artisans in Arkansas and spent some time painting murals in Mexico. I was working in the commercial and residential design field and began to learn techniques so that I could have my hands involved in the projects. Soon, I found there was a niche for me to share my art and experience in Little Rock, and in 2001 I made the leap and began taking on painting jobs while waiting tables on the side.
HAVE THINGS CHANGED A LOT SINCE THEN?
From my first studio on Woodlawn in Hillcrest—where I had two painters and could take on only a few projects per week—we’ve grown to today’s 2,500-square-foot studio in West Little Rock where we have a team of seven skilled and educated artisans and an amazing management staff as well. With these artisans working beside me we have reached our highest level of artistry and creativity. It’s so important in our small region to make sure every wall and design is specific to the home and the client. Repeating is not custom and custom is what we do.
WHAT ABOUT THE NAME? ANGELFISH HAS A UNIQUE RING TO IT. My Dad nicknamed me “angel” when I was young. When I started swimming in college he then added the “fish.” So, it seemed like a natural fit.
Angelfish Studios Faux Finish and Artistry, Little Rock, (501) 960-4826, theangelfishstudios.com
