Guest Bedroom Series, Pt 3: Custom Artwork

Artwork is one of our favorite accessories, bridging the gap between emotion and substance. Don't get us wrong, the architectural features of a space are incredibly important, after all, they create the foundation of any room. However, it is the accessories are the support that holds a concept together, providing layers of rich story telling, giving a room reason.

To me, choosing artwork that appeals to you is like choosing what to have as a favorite meal. It's all up to personal taste and truly, there are no wrong answers. But what if you can't find anything you really love? Or what if you found it but the attached price tag makes your eyes water? Well, I create what I see in my head, allowing me to make something customized for every space. That way when you walk into a room and feel like the artwork was made specifically for that space, well, it's because it was.

We created this painting specifically for this guest bedroom to connect the strong colors in the space.

But how does a piece of art become a (self-proclaimed) masterpiece? How do you go from a blank white canvas to layers of paint that evoke emotion? Well, I can't speak for every artist, but I can show you mine.

I love color and usually try to play off the existing vibe that exists in the space. This guest bedroom had plenty of soft gold pieces and a dark blue accent wall so I chose blue-green and soft gold for the painting - it's similar but doesn't compete. I paint the first layer to get the color (and any texture I might be adding) down and inspire myself before sketching my outline in pencil.

Base color down with pencil sketch to guide.

Then, I paint the main shapes mixing paint to create the colors I need.

Using acrylics paints I use the sketch as a guide to paint the large shapes.

This is a mixed-media piece of art, acrylics with pastels used to add vibrant detail and outlines.

Pastels are used to add definition and texture.

I love adding strong lines to my work - much like the design of a room, I feel like it adds an extra dimension. I like the contrast between the softness of the brush strokes and the strength of the constrained airbrush work.

Painters tape gives you control, letting you create perfectly straight lines.

Accents of mustard and ochre bring depth to the painting.

The main painting is done! Now for a few final touches...

Finally, I add the finishing touches - paint splatter, concentrated airbrush work, a few last detailed outlines.

Moving the canvas out to a well ventilated space that can get dirty is the final step!

Airbrushing and spray painting is an interesting way to add - and NOT add - paint to certain areas.

Acrylic paint dries very quickly but I still like to let it sit overnight before moving the artwork to it's new home.

This piece is the focal point of our guest bedroom, tying the accent wall and headboard together in a beautiful collection of brushstrokes.

Finished painting in it's new place of honor.

The painting elevates this room to something truly special.

I love the way this whole space came together! The rich colors grounded feed off one another all connected through this bespoke painting. It really is the accessories that make the space! If you haven't seen the whole space, check out the reveal...and if you love the headboard, you're in luck! We posted a tutorial so you can fabricate your own.

Do you paint or are otherwise creative? If so we'd love to see your work! Tag us on IG @reddesignedinteriors.

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