Tag Archives: painting

From The Studio of Ruth Fromstein

Meet one of Third & Wall’s newest artists, Ruth Fromstein! While currently residing in San Diego, Ruth has had a close relationship with art since picking up a brush and canvas while a child in small-town Wisconsin. Creating has been the only constant in Ruth’s life and an important form of self-expression.

While her Bachelors degree is in Vocal Rehabilitation, it was the various art classes that inspired her. She experimented with drawing, design, art, metals, and weaving. Her art took inspiration from her love of dancing, hiking, backpacking, and nature, imbuing her work with movement, life, and a palate as varied as an expansive field of wildflowers gracing the horizon. Ruth is constantly experimenting with new materials and techniques striving to embody in her work the beauty and excitement of the world she sees around and within herself. Creating images that dance and play in the viewer’s imagination, her abstract paintings have been described as anything from tranquil and relaxing to thrilling and startling. She embraces her brush as her dance partner, and, with it, swings across the canvas in a chorus of control and spontaneity. While Ruth paints with a goal, she is always excited to stumble into new territory as the materials she experiments with lead her in unexpected directions!

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

I take a deep breath and evaluate what I had done the previous day, looking at my work with fresh eyes.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I like to work on multiple paintings at one time, usually at least 4.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

It would be cool to paint a mural.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Oh my goodness… who to choose? A master like Monet or Angus Wilson, or a painter I would like to take a class with? How about my incredibly talented friend from high school, Leslie Stewart? I choose them all!

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

I frequently get inspired when I go hiking. I am influenced by my surroundings as well as my own thoughts and feelings.

How has your art evolved over time?

My work continues to evolve as I experiment with new techniques, colors, and tools. I enjoy learning from other artists who introduce me to new processes then I like to take the information and apply it to my paintings in interesting ways.

What do you like most about your work?

I like that my paintings pull the viewer in and take them on a journey. I enjoy looking at my paintings, and every time I do, I see something different.

I like the variety of work that I create. I am attracted to color, texture and movement.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Only ONE? Contemporary

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

My head is exploding with ideas, however, I need to see if these concepts will successfully translate onto my canvas. Follow along and see what emerges!

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

My mind is fresh in the morning, and I like the natural light that shines through my windows.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so what do you do?

Oh, yes! Sometimes I need to tuck a painting away and pull it out another day, or rotate the orientation. Other times, it is best to simply “paint over”.

What is next up on your easel?

I have one of those “tucked away” paintings waiting for fresh inspiration, as well as an abstract landscape and floral.

The images featured here are available in our Print-On-Demand collection. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

Color Trends: Going Green

**featuring “Easy Street” by BethAnn Lawson**

Are you looking for a way to freshen up your space? Incorporating shades of green can do just that and add a natural element to your interior. Bringing the outdoors in has become a popular design trend, and adding some green is one of the easiest ways to infuse vitality into your room. Cool green tones can be relaxing and nourishing, while warm tones can add personality and energy to a space, and they don’t always have to come in botanical form. Having green hues in your furniture, accent pieces, and on your walls can be resting or energizing, and with such a wide range of green tones to use, it is easy to find the perfect one for your space. Since there are endless possibilities, we are highlighting different ways to incorporate this versatile color trend into your decor and design to help you go green!

Greens as Neutrals

Cool, muted greens that take on more of a gray or brown tone, such as sage, are great for acting like neutrals in a space. Paler greens that verge on the point of gray are a great way to keep a space light and serene, but they can pair easily with sharp, bright colors. Khaki, mossy, and olivey greens can give a design an earthy feel, especially when paired with warm tones and natural textures. It’s easy to switch out your wall décor in these soothing, neutral green tones because of their versatility and ability to work with what you already have!

Rich & Saturated

Bold, saturated green tones, such as jade and emerald green, add a rich and regal element to any interior. Whether paired with other dark accents to create a moody space or offset with neutrals and metallic accents, deep green tones can add personality and elegance. These dark, nature-inspired colors are great in furniture, accent pieces, or on your walls!

Light & Bright

Light and bright green tones help to soothe and enliven rooms. Soft, pale greens colors with blue undertones, such as mint and sea-glass green, can brighten up a space in a calming way. Yellow-greens are fresh and inviting and more reminiscent of botanical hues. Using more lively and vibrant green colors, such as a shade of lime green, is great for social spaces because they can energize a room. If you go bold with bright green on your wall, balancing it out with neutral tones and light accents can keep it from feeling overwhelming. Decorating with light & bright greens in décor accessories and upholstery is a great way to add some calming and natural elements in smaller doses.

With a wide variety of shades and undertones, green hues can seamlessly complement other colors and unique textures, and find a home in any design style. From traditional styles to modern elements, green tones freshen up a space and bring the natural healing of the outdoors in. Whether it’s the focal point of a room or an accent color, pops of this nature-inspired color can create a chic and relaxing space!

Art Highlight: Giclée Canvas Embellishment

So you’ve found the perfect image for your wall and determined it will be printed on canvas, but you just wish it had a little more texture or metallic shine like an original painting. Well, you’re in luck! At Third and Wall, we have the ability to add hand embellishment to your giclée canvas print. We offer several different embellishment options, which does mean that you will have one more decision to make. But, not to worry, we are breaking down the different types of embellishment to help! From gel brushstrokes for added texture to metallic leafing for extra shimmer (or both!), we want to help make your art work for you and your unique style!

Brushstroke Embellishment

With a clear gel medium, we are able to hand-apply brushstrokes that follow the image of your print. This embellishment option will give your printed piece texture that can mimic an original piece without compromising the image. From fluid lines to geometric shapes and from thick gel to thin, the gel embellishment can highlight the movement of any piece.

Pigment Embellishment

We can also hand-paint canvas prints with pigment, including metallic and pearlescent colors, to add extra color and texture! Combined with the gel embellishment, added pigment can help the colors of your image truly pop. We use different paintbrushes and palette knives to apply the right color pigment and match the artistic style of the image, making the giclée come to life. We can use gold, silver, or bronze metallic and pearlescent paint, which adds a light shimmer to highlight the metallic shine that an original might have. The hand-painted texture and added color is a perfect way to elevate your giclée and really make it pop!

Metallic Leafing

For a bold metallic pop on your canvas print, we can hand-apply silver, copper, or gold metallic leafing. The leafing can also be combined with the traditional gel embellishment to add that painterly texture with the burst of shimmer. No matter how much of the image you decide to add the metallic leaf to, it is sure to pack a golden or silvery punch!

No matter what you decide, having a canvas giclée embellished is a great way to customize an art print and create a truly unique art piece that is perfect for your wall!

Contemporary Coastal Decor

**featuring “Toward Shore I” and “Toward Shore II” by Lisa Ridgers**

As we get ready for the long sunny days of summer, it can be a great time to refresh your space with new colors and furnishings. One popular design trend that can help keep you cool and relaxed during the warm months is the modern coastal theme. Light & neutral hues, shore-inspired imagery, and natural textures & materials can add sophisticated beachy vibes for a serene styled space. Incorporating the coastal theme doesn’t mean you have to completely transform your room. Adding some contemporary beachside inspiration to your space can be as easy as decorating with some neutral and blue accent colors or switching out your wall art. Abstracted seascapes, contemporary boat imagery, and coastal photography are great pieces that will add a modern seaside touch to your walls!

The contemporary coastal trend is perfect for creating a calming atmosphere, no matter how close you are to the shore. And for more coastal inspiration, check out this previous blog post!

The images featured above are available in our Print-On-Demand collection. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

Go With The Flow: Fluid Abstracts

***featuring “Silver Storm” by Laura Van Horne***

A big abstract image hanging on your wall can add the perfect modern touch to your design. But with so many different styles of abstract artwork, it can be hard to find the best one for your space. One style that can add contemporary detail with soft lines and organic shapes is fluid abstract imagery. Reminiscent of water reflections or rising smoke, abstracts with these flowing qualities can bring some soothing style to your space!

We love how hanging fluid abstract imagery can complete your stylish design with a calming and modern finish!

Sharp Design: Decorating with Geometrics

***featuring “Land Schematics II” by Michael Lawrence***

Crisp lines, bold patterns, and vibrant colors; what’s not to love about geometrics?! Bold, shape-based décor can create bright and modern interiors, particularly in commercial design spaces. Geometric imagery can instantly add visual interest to a wall and printing it on alternative substrates such as acrylic or metal will add unique texture. Geometry can help balance and harmonize a space, making simple shaped patterns and prints perfect for a wallcovering. Want to add a pop of color? Geometric wall art with clean lines is an easy way to make it happen or help keep your space cohesive and monochrome. Whether you are designing an office space or a living space, geometrics are the perfect modern trend for a chic design!

From an eye-catching focal point to subtle and sleek accents, there is lots of ways to incorporate geometric shapes into your design!

“Squares of the Past” by Brooke Borcherding

Adding Abstract Art To Your Walls

***featuring “Back Pocket I & II” by Kippi Leonard***

Finding the right art for your wall can add the perfect finishing touches to your design. But with so many art styles and imagery to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming. Abstract artwork is a popular décor trend that encompasses a wide range of imagery and styles. And although it seems like they would work best in a contemporary styled space, abstracts can add interest, color, and invigorating energy to any design. So whether you have a totally modern space, a traditionally furnished room, or somewhere in between, abstracts can find a way on your wall!

Modern Design

Abstract art can give a contemporary and eclectic space some bold and dramatic flair. A large-scale piece will create a beautiful statement in your room and draw your eyes to your wall. Abstract imagery is also a great way to add a pop of color, and it can complement different textures and patterns to complete a maximalist design style.

Traditional Design

**featuring cropped alt of “Rising Veil” by Scott Brems**

Opposites attract with modern abstract art and traditional furnishings! If you have a neutral and traditional space, a colorful abstract painting can create an eye-catching focal point or a neutral abstract can add interest to a monochromatic look. No matter the size, abstract artwork can help tie in the different colors of your room as “classic” meets “contemporary. Even just changing out the artwork on your wall can freshen up your space, and contemporary artwork can enhance your existing traditional furnishings.

Transitional Design

**featuring “Annual Journey” by Ruth Fromstein and “Attraction I &II” by Kippi Leonard**

As more spaces blend modern and timeless elements, these popular transitional styles can reflect individuality and personal touches in the design! Whether you gravitate towards minimalist and neutral spaces or maximalist and bold design, hanging abstract artwork can be the perfect way to complete your transitional space. From encaustic art to acrylic paint on canvas, and from abstract photography to mixed media pieces, you are sure to find the perfect abstract for your wall!

Make Your Space Bloom: Tips for Decorating with Florals

After a cold winter season, we are so ready to welcome the warmer days of spring (anyone else?) and are continually inspired by the statement florals making a big impact in interior design trends! Adding floral prints to your walls, couches, rugs, or anywhere else in your space is a perfect way to refresh your interiors, especially with spring on the horizon. Florals can bring some life and natural beauty into your design (without worrying about watering it!) and we are excited to share a few tips for incorporating some blooms in your space!

Find Your Style

Whether you prefer modern & contemporary or classic & traditional interiors, florals can work with any design style! Because floral prints can be as unique as flowers themselves—from delicate blooms to abstract petals—incorporating blossoming imagery doesn’t always mean your space will be too feminine or traditional. Modern florals can bring a bold energy to your design, and classic patterns can add the perfect vintage touch to a space. No matter your style, floral images can add a cheerful note and wake up a relaxed space.

Mix & Match

Floral imagery is a great way to add splashes of color to your space, in small or large doses. From pillows and rugs to small accessories, there are many ways to mix and match floral prints. If you have one floral focal point, such as a sofa or statement wall, try offsetting it with clean lines, modern elements, and a neutral color palette for a chic and eclectic space. And pairing prints and patterns can add even more playful notes to a design, but unifying color palette is key to making sure your vibrant space stays cohesive.

A Wall of Flowers

Framing some floral artwork is a great way to freshen up your space, especially if you want to ease into the floral decor. For those who want to go bold, a luscious wallcovering or wallpaper can create an elegant statement, whether you do a whole room or just cover one wall.

However you choose to incorporate florals into your design, they are sure to bring the warmth and cheer of spring to any room!

Decorating with Landscapes

*featuring “Sunny Desert Floor” by Liz Jardine*

Do you want to have a beautiful view in your space but don’t have a picturesque scene outside your window? Landscape artwork can be the perfect addition to the design of any space to bring the serenity of the outdoors in. From coastal to desert to forest landscapes, it is easy to add the right art piece to your wall in many different artistic styles!

Hanging landscape paintings can create a “window with a view” for your interior, no matter where you live. Beachy landscapes can add “ocean views” to complete a coastal-inspired space, and imagery of a beautiful green pasture can bring countryside living to urban spaces.

Landscape photography is also a great way to add a touch of nature to your interiors and liven up your walls. Photographs in black and white can give your space a chic, classic touch and are also great for adding landscapes to a monochromatic look. We love how landscape imagery can bring calming energy and natural inspiration to your space and transport you to a far-away destination!

From transitional landscapes to abstract or representational, you are sure to find the best piece to fit your design style!

Making A Statement With Warm Neutrals

**featuring “Rocking The Trail” by Ruth Fromstein**

There’s a reason warm neutral colors are as popular as ever! The soft and subtle tones can brighten up any space, keeping it classic and elegant. Although decorating with neutrals can seem daunting, since an all-neutral space can sometimes sound stark and boring, it can be more visually rewarding than you’d think. Using a variety of light and dark neutrals with warm undertones will create depth in your space, and incorporating lots of texture will make your space anything but boring!

The simplicity of the tones makes them easy to pair with other colors, textures, and materials. Layering your neutral space with different textures and materials like wood, leather, and metallic accents will add dimension and warmth to your design. If you have neutral toned walls, try incorporating different bespoke textures to make your space even more inviting and eye-catching. And you can even create the illusion of texture with the right imagery in warm earth tones and embellished or metallic wall art!

With a pared-down palette, patterns and shapes can help create more interest in a soothing space. Decorating with neutral colors doesn’t mean you have to play it safe! Boldly patterned wallcoverings are great for making a statement, even with a minimalistic color foundation. Patterns and shapes on rugs, pillows, and wall art will keep your space engaging, while the neutral hues keep it light. For a cohesive and harmonized space, make sure all of your colors have the same neutral undertone, either with warm neutrals or cool neutrals. Whether you are decorating an all-neutral space or adding light earth-tone elements, we love the comfort and freshness these warm colors bring to any style!

Décor and Design Trends of 2019

Have you been wanting to try a new interior design style or change out your décor? The start of a new year can be the perfect time to refresh your space and redecorate. As 2019 begins, new design trends are forecasted and interiors are transformed with fresh colors, textures, and accent pieces. The prediction is that this new year will bring bold walls, bright hues, and lots of personal touches! For some revamping and redesign inspiration, here are some interior design trends that look like they will make a big splash in 2019.

Black and White

While always a timeless color combination, black and white furnishings are at the top of trending decor items you’ll want to incorporate into your design. The contrasting tones will keep your space balanced yet bold, especially when incorporating dramatic black elements. For more inspiration on decorating in black and white, check out this post!

Patterns & Prints

Large-scale prints and patterns will be making a big impact this year, especially in wallpapers and wallcoverings. Ornate walls in geometric patterns and floral prints are a great way to get a wow effect in your room. And check out this post for more ways to decorate with prints and patterns!

Warm Neutrals

Light and neutral spaces are still going to be popular, with warm earth tones such as sand, ochre, and terracotta keeping spaces fresh and cozy. Cool grays are being replaced with warmer hues in wall colors, furniture, wall art, and more!

“California Coast” by Brooke Borcherding

Figurative Imagery

In this new year, home furnishings and decor pieces will be straying away from the abstract and taking concrete and recognizable forms. Imagery of animals and figurative art are expected to become more popular to add as focal points or accents pieces, and can easily be incorporated in any design style.

Bright and Bold Hues

This year, color is in! We are welcoming 2019 with bright, bold, and saturated tones. Spaces with vibrant color, lots of texture, and maximalist design styles are expected to dominate interior trends and bring new energy. Don’t be afraid of deep-hued walls, jewel-toned furniture, and colorful decor, and check out this post for more jewel-tone inspiration!

Although trends rise and fade, the key to adopting new styles and ideas is to personalize your space, and don’t be afraid to make a statement! And however you decide to shake up your design, we hope you have a wonderful and successful year!

Pantone Color of the Year 2019: Living Coral

Last week Pantone announced their highly anticipated Color of the Year, and their pick for 2019 is Living Coral. In their description and explanation of the “vibrant, yet mellow” color, they acknowledge that this pick comes as a response to the influence of technology and social media in our daily lives. They explain, “Sociable and spirited, the engaging nature of PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral welcomes and encourages lighthearted activity. Symbolizing our innate need for optimism and joyful pursuits, PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral embodies our desire for playful expression.” This vibrant color also recalls the “energizing aspects of color found in nature” and life under the sea.

There are lots of ways to include Living Coral in your space, whether you lead with this cheerful color or use it in accent pieces. If you are not ready make a big coral splash on a large scale, like painting your wall(s) or front door, try using this warm and playful color in your upholstery,tableware, and other home accessories. Balance out this happy coral color with neutrals and white for a light and fresh space, or complement it with deep blues and greens for a vibrant room. And finding the perfect wall art and decor can help tie in Living Coral with the rest of your design, keeping your room bright and cohesive!

How would you decorate with Living Coral?

And check out or Pinterest Board for more Living Coral Inspiration!

Art Highlight: Impressionist Art

**“Impression, Sunrise” by Claude Monet 1872**

Even after 150 years, we continue to be inspired by Claude Monet, Camille Pissaro, Renoir, and other founding Impressionist artists! When the Impressionist movement emerged in late 19^th-century France, some artists began breaking away from fine finish and detail of the traditional paintings of the time, and instead, capturing momentary glimpses of an everyday scene with thick paint and quick brushstrokes. This major shift moved artists outside of the studio to depict their impressions of the world around them, focusing on the effects of different light and colors on landscapes, buildings, and common subject matters.

**“Jalais Hill, Pontoise” by Camille Pissarro 1867**

19^th-century Impressionist artist Camille Pissarro said of Impressionism, “Work at the same time on sky, water, branches, ground, keeping everything going on an equal basis… Don’t be afraid of putting on color… Paint generously and unhesitatingly, for it is best not to lose the first impression.”

This movement has had a profound impact on the art world since it began in the late 1800s and is often regarded as a catalyst of modern art. Its style and technique continues to influence many artists, including some of our artists at Third & Wall. Julie Devine’s work “communicates a spirited appreciation for the outdoors and for the tradition of painting, in particular the impressionist, post-impressionist, and abstract expressionist styles.”

Today’s artists are interpreting and showcasing Impressionism in new ways, painting in the thick, bold strokes and capturing the moment, light, and color around them as they see it. Third and wall artist Brooke Borcherding “took her easel outdoors for the first time in 2009, observing and learning from both nature and her plein air painting peers.” This direction was fueled by her need “to express what is real and everyday, and embrace the often overlooked beauty that is right in front of us.”

The Impressionist movement represented a groundbreaking shift in art history, allowing artists the freedom to explore new ideas, technology, and painting techniques. Born in Barcelona, Third and Wall artist Adolf Llovera visited many Barcelona art galleries that formed his earliest art influences, leaving him particularly enamored of the works of the French Impressionist painters. Llovera said,

“To me, observation is inspiration. Details of everyday life, everything that surrounds us provides a motive for inspiration.”

The subjectivity of artwork shaped by Impressionism evokes a visceral reaction from the viewer and depicts the beauty of everyday moments. As each artist in the late 1800s began to hone their own style with more artistic freedom, the Impressionist movement itself dissipated but paved the way for future art movements. It continues to inspire artists today and their own contemporary interpretations of Impressionism.

Finding The Best Pieces for Your Dining Room

With the holidays right around the corner, tis the season for lots of celebrating and entertaining guests. No matter how big the guest list, hosting takes a lot of work and can require a long to-do list. While there is a lot to remember, one way to elevate your hosting game is with your décor. As the dining room takes center stage during the holiday season, wall art and décor can help set the perfect ambiance for socializing and indulging in a delicious feast. We wanted to share some tips and tricks for finding the perfect pieces for your dining space, any time of year!

Multiple Images

If you have a large wall to cover, adding multiple images is a great way to utilize the space. Diptychs and triptychs make it easy to
hang multiple images and keep the wall cohesive, or you can break up one image in multiple pieces. Gallery walls are also a great option for showcasing artwork, family photos, and decor items all on one wall. Large pieces of art can help expand a small space, especially one without windows, so don’t be afraid to go big!

Make A Statement

Go bold in your dining space and make an impact! Adding a wallcovering of a print or pattern to your wall(s) is a great way to make a statement. Create depth in your space with contrasting colors and textures, and mixing in wood or metal accents can add natural elements to your space. When deciding your dining room colors and design, think about how it can complement your entertaining style. Rich and warm reds can activate your space (and appetites) while incorporating gold or silver can add drama and elegance.

Work With What You’ve Got

Each dining space is unique, so work with what you’ve got! Find wall decor that fits within your windows and enhances any architectural details. If you have shelves or a mantle, you can use them to display art and decor without any hanging. You can also use your tableware and the details of the room to help guide your art selection. If you change your décor to get into the holiday spirit, switching out your artwork can be a great way to help make the room feel festively cohesive. For Thanksgiving, adding autumnal themed paintings and photographs can get you and your guests ready for a turkey feast. As winter approaches and you break out your Christmas decorations, try switching out your wall art for winter-themed images to match the season!

Decorating In Black And White

Black and white is a timeless color combination that will keep your space feeling both classic and modern. The contrasting tones can add sophistication and drama to any room, not matter your design style. From bold stripes to matte black walls, there are a lot of great ways to decorate with this chic color trend. Whether you go for a complete monochromatic look or just want to add some black and white accessories, hanging black and white artwork on your walls will help complete your stylish look!

If your room is light or white, adding black accents can create a stunning contrast that will never go out of style. Painting a wall black, even if it may seem scary, can help your room feel more cozy and intimate, with crisp white accents and warm woods creating a perfect balance.

If you want to start with smaller doses, incorporating the striking color combo in your trim, patterned upholstery, or artwork can elevate a space and emphasize different aspects of the design. And hanging black and white photography on your walls is always a classic way to bring these timeless tones in to your space.

Guaranteed to create a sophisticated and classic aesthetic, this color combination has proven time and time again that it is here to stay. And did you know that we are able to customize and recolor our imagery to fit your design needs? If you see an image you’d love in black and white, we can help!

From The Studio of Nancy Ngo

We would like to introduce you to our newest artist at Third and Wall, Nancy Ngo! Born in Chicago but transplanted to Arizona as a young child, Nancy grew up learning an appreciation for contrasting landscapes. She developed an eye for the difference in the way light reflects on different terrains in the country. Nancy returned to Chicago after high school and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis on Painting and Art History from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. And once again, she moved back to Arizona where she currently resides with her culinary artist husband and their three daughters.

Nancy’s awareness of the play of light and shadow and its effect on color plays an important role in her work today. The dichotomy of the natural desert landscape of Arizona versus the urban downtown environment of Chicago led her to a certain “no rules” style of painting. Her paintings are highly textured and raw, sometimes with an unfinished quality in which the work holds a kind of potential energy and freedom. Nancy continues to explore new avenues in her work, even with new materials. She is fascinated by the discoveries made while creating each new piece of art, allowing her style to change often in order to keep her painterly freedom.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

It depends on the day of the week… ship day, prep day, planning day or painting day. Obviously, my favorite days are when all the canvases are prepped, then I get started painting right away! If nothing is prepped, I like to take care of regular business stuff, checking emails and updating my planner and goals for the day or week, and then I can get to work.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

Too many! If I have an order, I will work on a painting start to finish with no interruptions. More often though, I have so many ideas, sometimes I prep too many at once and have them sprawled out all over the studio.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Anything extremely large scale. I love to work BIG.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Oh my gosh, alive or dead? I’m inspired by artists of all genres… Kandinski, Egon Schiele, Michiko Itatani, Judith Godwin, Agnes Martin, David Hockney, Christine Tarkowski, Mike Kelley, Susanna Coffey, Bruce Nauman, Wolfgang Laib, James Turrell, Bill Viola… I could go on and on and on.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

If I am away from painting (on vacation) for a while, I usually come home and paint in a frenzy. I also like to look at magazines of all kinds.

How has your art evolved over time?

My work is ever changing. It’s often reflective of, or in response to, what’s going on in my life. I think it’s definitely become more complex. I’m trying to simplify it again.

What do you like most about your work?

The layers and heavy textures.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Dynamic

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I’ve been wanting to explore figurative work, but it doesn’t come to me as easily as painting abstracts.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Any time I can get in the studio.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Yes! If I think a painting becomes overworked, I paint over nearly the whole thing with white and leave only my favorite moments.

What is up next on your easel?

A few abstracts and a portrait… maybe.

Around the World: Global Artwork

With so much of the world to see, traveling the globe sounds ideal! And even if we can’t explore every international city or remote spot around the world, we love how art and photography can capture a faraway place and instantly transport you there. Images of cityscapes can bring a piece of your favorite city to your walls, and adding global-inspired artwork to your space is perfect to inspire wanderlust. We have gathered some great images that will take you on a trip around the world!

Cityscapes can bring the exciting energy of city living to your space. And with cityscapes in many different styles, from abstract cities to detailed skyscrapers and outlined skylines, it is easy to find the perfect one to fit your design style!

Global-inspired art is a great way to bring scenes from around the world to your walls, no plane ticket required. You will instantly feel transported to a Parisian cafe, a Tuscan village, a lotus garden, or wherever your art takes you!

And photography can share the beauty of the world in one captured moment. So whether you want to be reminded of a special place you have traveled to or be inspired to trot around the globe, cityscapes and global art decor can take you there!

The images featured here are available in our Print-On-Demand collection and some are available as originals. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

Modern Farmhouse Style

An interior design trend that feels quintessentially fall appropriate is the modern farmhouse style. This simplistically chic trend is all about
light and neutral colors, wood accents, as well as a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Pinterest boards are filled with design and décor ideas for achieving the country-living inspired aesthetic, whether you style your space full of character or keep it more modern and refined. After spending a weekend at the Pinology Market in Seattle, “an indoor pop-up market bringing Pinterest to life”, we are even more inspired by the rustic charm of the farmhouse style.

Even if you don’t live in the rural countryside, there are many ways to bring the polished comfort of the farmhouse style to your space. Using warm and cool neutral colors, like shades of gray, cream, brown, and sage, will keep your space light and bright. Finding the right décor is key to mastering the perfect modern rustic farmhouse look by balancing the sleek with the salvaged and incorporating natural elements. We’ve gathered some artwork and photographs that we think would pair perfectly with exposed wood details and flea market décor finds!

Images of lovable farm animals are a fun and easy way to bring the sweet country charm to your walls!

Paintings of the rolling countryside or a quaint barn can be the perfect addition to your farmhouse styled space. Pair them with industrial accents and a neutral color palette to complete your rustic and chic style!

Country-living inspired photography can strike the right balance of pastoral and refined while adding some rustic sophistication to your space!

And of course, the elegance of horses makes incorporating photographs and paintings of them a fantastic addition to your modern farmhouse style, especially in neutral tones!

Decorating with Jewel Tones

**featured piece is “Peacock Blossom” by Liz Jardine**

Lately we’ve grown inspired by a rich and vibrant color trend that is shaking up the neutral color palettes: jewel tones. Using these deep colors in your space will give you the feeling of cozy luxury, especially when pairing them with velvety texture, bold pattern, and metallic accents. Each jewel tone can bring a different energy into your design, so we thought we’d share some of our favorite gem-inspired colors and ways to add them to your space.

Sapphire

Adding a sapphire hue can bring a soothing touch of glam to a space. Blue is great in rooms for rest and relaxation, such as a bedroom, and adding elements of sapphire is a bold way to activate your Zen. Paint your wall(s) this blue-gem color or add sapphire furniture and decor for a striking transformation.

Magenta

For a fresh burst of energy in your room, try magenta or a sweet, pink jewel-tone. Balance out the bright and vibrant hue of magenta by pairing it with other jewel tones, such as soft amethyst, cooling aquamarine, or rich ruby red.

Amethyst

Decorating with shades of amethyst will bring drama and elegance to your space. Mixing a deep, saturated jewel-tone with softer colors can help lighten up a space, and using a decadent purple in a room with a lot of sunlight can keep it from feeling too dark.

Emerald

Green brings a sense of healing to a space, and decorating with emerald tones can evoke calming and nature-inspired luxury. Even better, this dazzling green hue will pair perfectly with shimmery gold accents or deep blue colors.

Ruby

For a striking and warm color, go for a ruby red. Adding this rich jewel tone will instantly energize your space, and because red is such an activating color, using it in dining area or living room will make your space feel social and inviting.

Whether you choose one vivid gem color to set the mood of your room or mix them to transform your space into a beautiful jewel box, finding the perfect jewel-toned art piece will add a touch of elegance to your walls!

From The Studio of Scott Brems

We are excited to introduce one of our newest artists, Scott Brems! Scott studied painting at Arizona State University and Scottsdale Artists’ School, and he works in acrylic and mixed media painting in his Arizona studio. His work explores the deeper emanations of the natural world, breathing new life into traditional landscape. Enriched by a lifelong relationship with the American West, Scott’s naturalistic reimaginings reach beyond the visual experience to evoke the visceral. We love the bold brushstrokes and colorful shapes in his work, which encompasses a diverse range of styles.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

I usually turn on music and evaluate the current paintings to get my direction for the day.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I like to have several paintings, 5 or 6, going at once.

: “Reticent I” by Scott Brems

: Reticent II

: Reticent III

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Passages

One dream project is a painting expedition involving a mobile studio and outdoor adventure. It would be the painting studio meets Desert Solitaire.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Edward Abbey

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

My favorite inspiration and ideas often come to me during hypnagogia–the transitional state of consciousness between wakefulness and sleep.

: Red Seven

: Blue Horizon

: “Traverse I” by Scott Brems

: Blush

: Traverse II

How has your art evolved over time?

I started with a traditional background and education, which I still draw from when creating contemporary abstract work.

The Chant

What do you like most about your work?

I like the fusion between traditional and contemporary elements.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Eclectic best describes the variety of work I create.

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I have some ideas incubating that involve using new mediums and materials.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Discipline is healthy. I try to keep a regular 9-5 schedule in the studio.

Guardian

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

This is why I like having several pieces going at once; I can move on to another painting. However, I do take a break when needed and get out of the studio, and then I come back with fresh eyes.

What is up next on your easel?

On deck is a series of contemporary figures.

: Traveler

: Mercurial

: Silverscape

All of these images by Scott Brems are available in our Print-On-Demand collection, and stay tuned for new images on our site. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

5 Tips for Playing With Prints & Pattern

Bold patterns and deep hues are taking over the minimalist interior trend in favor of more eclectic spaces. While an ultra-clean and sleek space is always classic, we love how adding prints and pattern to a room can bring a whole new energy and show your personality. Incorporating pattern is easier than you might think, and we are sharing some tips and tricks for playing with them in your space!

1. Geometric patterns

Geometric shapes are an easy and chic way to add a contemporary element to your space. They are great for big scale patterns in your room, such as a big feature on a wall, or you can always start with small doses of print to ease into it. Geometric shapes are popular on throw pillows or rugs, as planters and light fixtures, or in artwork and wall decor. As a big home decor trend, it’s easy to find the perfect way add geometrics in your design.

2. Mixing Patterns & Prints

Don’t be afraid to mix prints or patterns in your space! Although there are no hard-and-fast rules, some things to consider when incorporating multiple patterns are: the types of patterns, the size & scale of each, and the proximity to each other. Finding patterns that complement each other is key, so think about pairing one bold, busier pattern with other simpler patterns. And to help keep the space balanced, integrate patterns in different sizes throughout the room, like a large printed wallcovering paired with medium and small patterned fabrics and home decor pieces. If you use a few similar patterns, try varying the scale of each print to create a fluid and eclectic harmony. Even though mixing patterns can seem daunting, spacing them out in a room with solid colors and neutrals will help keep the space cohesively mismatched. But one of the best things about mixing pattern and prints is that you can make it entirely your own!

3. Wallcoverings

Want to make a big impact with your pattern and print? Adding a patterned wallcovering to your room will make a striking statement, and accenting it with other pieces in solid colors or subtler patterns will keep the room from feeling overwhelming. Whether you cover all of your walls or just one, stripes, classic floral prints or modern geometric patterns are sure to transform any space. And did you know that here at Third and Wall, we are able to customize a wallcovering to fit your needs? So go big, because you are already home!

4. Curved Patterns & Circles

When deciding what patterns to use, sometimes going for circular shapes can help soften the room. The shapes and pattern will still liven it up, especially with some bright color, but the curves bring a different dimension and depth. And even better, circular patterns and prints play well with others, so go ahead and mix things up!

5. Color & Pattern

One of the biggest tips for incorporating pattern into your space is to stay mindful of the color palette, whether keeping it unified or intentionally mismatched. Being strategic about the color family of your patterns will help make sure your room blends and stays cohesive. Patterns work well in neutral tones or with bold & bright colors, so don’t be afraid to show your personality & style in your space and have fun playing with pattern!

How do you use pattern when decorating your spaces?

Art Highlight: Encaustic Painting

You have probably seen encaustic artwork, but how much do you know about the painting medium?

The use of hot wax and damar resin (crystalized tree sap) gives encaustic painting its vibrant layers. Artists use a wide variety of techniques to create a range of styles in this medium, and on substrates such as wood. The hot wax is brushed on the substrate and can be layered for a more opaque effect, combined with pigment for color or collage materials, or scraped for different finishing textures. The endless creative possibilities of the encaustic process can be especially fulfilling for the artist, and the works of art they produce can really resonate with the viewer. Our artists Laura Van Horne and Corrie LaVelle create gorgeous encaustic paintings, and we wanted to share their experiences with painting in this medium.

In a personal statement, Laura Van Horne shares what draws her to encaustic work, “I find encaustic wax paintings very satisfying to work on as they are multi-sensory. The smell of the wax, the texture, the sound of the hotplate cracking as it heats up or cools down, the vibrancy of colors, and the sheen of the cooled wax entice me”. These encaustic paintings by Laura Van Horne (below) exemplify the vibrancy and texture in her encaustic painting that we love! With so many different colors and styles, you can easily find encaustic artwork that will make a gorgeous statement on your wall.

We love how beautifully Corrie LaVelle describes her personal experience as an artist and why creating encaustic art is so meaningful to her, “Encaustic art is necessary to my life. It is where I spell out my personal journey into every piece. To have the ability to share that experience, and allow the viewer to choose their interpretation of and apply it to their own personal path is a joy”. Corrie LaVelle’s beautiful encaustic work (below) has a distinct style and makes a stunning statement with its fluidity and layers of colors!

The encaustic pieces featured in this post–and lots more!–are available in our Print-On-Demand collection and Poster collection. We also have some original encaustic paintings available on our website, with the unique texture and depth that an original encaustic piece offers.

Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

What do you love about encaustic artwork?

Coastal Style

As we get into the dog days of summer (hello August!), relaxing in a beautiful beach house sounds just about perfect. The serenity and simplicity of the neutral color palette, clean lines, and oceanside vibes are enough to lull you into a summer trance. Coastal interiors are perfect for curing any of your summer blues, no matter the season. And whether you live by the shore or thousands of miles away, we are sharing some of the best images to help you create that same soothing seaside energy in your own space!

There are lots of ways to make the coastal design trend your own, and it doesn’t have to mean a kitschy style with seaside trinkets galore. It can transform your room into a simplistically elegant oasis with a natural color palette, different textures, and modern accents.

For a calming, coastal-chic space, start with a neutral base for a color palette, with muted and pastel tones like tans, off-whites, and soft grays & blues. Taking a minimalist approach with furniture & decor and mixing some traditional pieces with modern accents can give you the perfect balance of a relaxing, sleek space. And incorporating imagery of sand, sea, and sky is an easy way to elevate your space to make it contemporary and inviting. We love how a beautiful shore painting transports you to the peaceful waves!

But a coastal style doesn’t always have to mean complete tranquility. Fun and beachy vibes can be perfect for a kid’s room, bathroom, or any space you want to bring some more energy to. By adding brighter and bigger pops of coastal-inspired color, such as aqua, coral, or deeper blues, to a mostly-neutral space, you can liven up a room while keeping the coastal inspiration. Hanging imagery of cute sea creatures, shells, and beach life will bring the fun of the beach to your space without tracking in any of the sand!

No matter how you choose to incorporate some coastal vibes into your design, we hope this artwork helps bring you a little closer to the shore!

All of these images and photographs (and lots more!) are available in our Print-On-Demand and photography collection, and some are available as originals. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

From the Studio of K. Nari

Meet one of Third and Wall’s newest artists, Nari! Originally from Seoul, Korea, Nari moved to Los Angeles with her family when she was eleven years-old. With a naturally creative talent, she studied fine art throughout her childhood and into college. Her career as an artist has taken her from editorial illustrations for magazines and publishing & record companies to becoming an independent artist, currently. The subject matters Nari enjoys most are florals, abstract, transitional, and landscapes, but she also enjoys exploring a variety of other subject matter. Textile design, fashion and interior design are the primary inspiration for her artwork.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

I make my parlettes and make sure the canvases are prepped and ready to go.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

Usually two to three.

: “Amaryllis” by K. Nari

: “Azalea Spectrum” by K. Nari

: “Scarlet Summer”

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

“Iridescence Peak”

I’d like to paint large-scale murals

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

I would paint with Michael Bond. I would like to see and learn his painting techniques.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

I look through interior design and fashion magazines and sites.

How has your art evolved over time?

With an illustration background, I used to do a lot of portrait painting. Now I love painting floral, abstract, and transitional art.

What do you like most about your work?

The movements and layers of paints.

: “Jeweled Horizon” by K. Nari

: “Destination” by K. Nari

: “Felicity”

What is one word that best describes your style?

Modern

: “Flicker”

: “Aqua Fields”

: Botanical Illusion

: “Blue Magnolia”

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

“Rolling Hill”

I would love to explore textile design.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Mid morning and late evening

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Yes! I walk away and work on something else until I figure it out.

What is up next on your easel?

I am recreating an abstract painting on canvas, which was originally done on paper in a smaller size.

All of these images by K. Nari (and more!) are available in our Print-On-Demand collection. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

Get the Scoop: Ice Cream Colors

***Featured artwork is “Cotton Candy Dreams I” by Lisa Ridgers***

Today’s color trend is inspired by one of our favorite summer treats… ice cream! And with Sunday being National Ice Cream Day, we thought it would be the perfect time to talk about the bright, pastel ice cream colors we’ve been seeing in design. The interior design world has been bursting with delicious color this spring & summer, and adding brights & pastels are great way to refresh and lighten up your space, especially during the warm months.

**“Daydreaming” by Randy Hibberd (top left) and “Sea Coral II” by Patti Mann (bottom right)**

If you are wanting to add some lilac, bubble-gum pink, mint green, or apricot to your space, there are lots of ways to scoop this trend right up. You can go bold and paint your wall(s), decorate with perfect pastel-toned furniture, or start small with décor accent pieces.

And if you’d love to adopt this trend without completely renovating your space or are hesitant to go all out with these yummy colors, adding artwork with these pastel tones to your walls is a great solution. Sometimes the airy and lighter hues are easier to incorporate into your space and seem less daunting, but they still bring a fun and colorful energy with them. And with a variety of imagery in these dessert-inspired shades, from abstracts to florals to sunset photographs, you are bound to find a piece you will love!

The beauty of designing with color is that you can express yourself and personalize your space to reflect your style. So whether you go bold by mixing multiple bright pastels in your room, or start small by accessorizing with one softly toned ice-cream color, decorating with this scrumptious color trend can add just the right flavor.

All of these images are available in our Print-On-Demand collection on our site, and you can search by color scheme, such as Brights and Pale Tints to find just what you are looking for.

Have a happy National Ice Cream Day and treat yourself!

Sail Away With Us

Featured painting is “Home for the Night” by John Burrows

We’ve been seeing a trend from our artists here at Third and Wall. They’ve caught the sailing bug, and their images have us dreaming of a day spent out on the water. Take a look at some of their pieces full of blue waves and wind-caught sails.

“Journey Ahead” by Leah Rei

Just look at those dreamy blue waves from Leah Rei! They are giving us all the heart eyes.

“Charger” by John Burrows

John Burrows is our boat specialist and it was so hard just to choose one of his pieces. Hint: You should check out more of his work on our website!

“Wind of the Sea” by K. Nari

Sailing with some shimmer! K. Nari combines a couple of trends in her work by adding some metallic to her sails.

“Grey Day” by John Burrows

Like we said, it’s hard to decide on just one Burrows boat, so we had to include this “Grey Day” piece because just look at those chunky waves!

“Hit The Deck” by Liz Jardine

Liz Jardine’s “Hit the Deck” shows off some bright colors and California sunshine. We could use some of that Vitamin Sea right about now!

“On Course I” by Dina D’Argo

“On Course II” by Dina D’Argo

These gorgeous pieces by Dina D’Argo are a dreamy depiction of sea & sky.

“Sun & Sails” by Lisa Ridgers

And last but not least, doesn’t this latest piece from Lisa Ridgers depicting a regatta make you want to just grab some sunscreen and head out for a sail?

We love how a good sailing-inspired painting can transport us out onto the water, and we can almost feel the salty mist splashing on our faces and the wind whipping in our hair as the boat slices through the waves. These featured works are available in our Print-On-Demand collection. And to make finding your artwork easier, you can search our site by artist or theme, such as Sea & Sky and Tropical & Coastal.

5 Tips For Adding Metallics to Your Walls

Add a little shimmer to your space! We are sure you’ve seen gold hardware, embellished fabrics, copper mugs, and silver light fixtures (just to name a few) taking over home décor trends. And with metallic accents having a big moment in design, we have the perfect images to embellish your walls and want to share 5 tips to help you incorporate some metallic into your space!

1. Opposites attract: metallics & earth tones

Adding just the right touch of metallic accents with warm earth tones is the perfect, polished pair. Hanging an art piece with natural tones and a pop of sparkle can make the perfect statement and elevate a neutral space without over-doing it.

2. Metals do mix

No matter what you may have heard, don’t be afraid to mix your metals. One trick to mixing metals in one space is to hang an art piece that incorporates the different metallic tones you are using. You can also highlight one metal and have smaller accent pieces of a different metal, like gold with smaller silver accents, to keep your space cohesive.

3. No room is off limits

Metallic hues can make any room feel a little extra luxurious, no matter the function. While living rooms and dining rooms are popular spaces for incorporating the metallic trend, your office space, bathroom, or really any space, can use a touch of glamour too!

**“Indigo Oyster Shells” by Liz Jardine**

4. Pops of Color & Shimmer

Just because you add metallics to your room doesn’t mean you can’t add some color. Even in a neutral space, having a colorful art piece with a metallic shimmer can be exactly what you need to enhance your space. Or if your space already has a bit of color, finding the right art piece can complement it and also add some shine.

5. Go Bold

Go for it, and make a statement with your embellishment! Metallics are sure to catch people’s eye, so don’t be afraid to go bold with pattern, deep hues, and shimmer in your wall decor.

Some of these pieces are available as originals with all the beautiful texture and metallic shimmer you’ll love, but all of the pieces featured here are available in our Print-On-Demand collection on our website. We are also able to do hand embellishment on canvas prints so that your image will get that unique and customized metallic texture!

We would love to hear, how would you design with the metallic trend?

From the Studio of Linda Stelling

We have another artist to share with you! Growing up in an artistically-rich family of painters, craftsmen, musicians, and floral colorists, Linda Stelling was bound for the art world. Her art career has taken her many different places, and now she is continuing the work she began as an abstract expressionist many years ago. She is fueled by her interest in color and the dream studies she has been exposed to for so long. Linda is in the studio every day, and when she’s not, she is planning and studying for the next artwork.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

Stretch! I stand all day so it’s important to me to maintain flexibility.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

It depends. Sometimes I concentrate on only one, especially if it’s really big, but frequently I have several going at a time. If something stays in the studio unfinished too long, I tend to change it.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Yes, to be given the opportunity to create for a really large space. I like my work to have ample room to breathe. A nice large, open museum would work.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Monet for sure. He and I have many of the same artistic principles and very much the same vision. We share a similar color palette, subject matter, philosophies and family values. He and I share a love of gardening and of a simple beautiful flower.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

I am always looking and thinking how my internal experiences can meld with my external creativity and perceptions. I often take my dreams and use part or all of the memory to form the beginnings of an idea for a painting. I try to parley the connection of our mental health, to our creative selves; which I feel we all experience on some level.

How has your art evolved over time?

For many years, I painted on a commission basis, which proved to be an incredible training ground. I was able to work quickly and produce just about anything. When I stopped, I was temporarily lost. It was only when I began listening to myself and not caring what anyone else thought, that I began to be truly satisfied with my own work.

What do you like most about your work?

My work has so much energy and life. I am a colorist by nature and I enjoy making the color move to what has been described as a “Psychic Vibration.”

What is one word that best describes your style?

Expressive.

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

Anything curvilinear delights me!

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Morning and afternoon – until I lose the light.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Turn it upside down!

What is up next on your easel?

I’m developing an abstract series based on Monet and his gardens at Giverney.

Linda’s work is available in our Print-On-Demand collection. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

From the Studio of Dina D’Argo

Dina D’Argo

Let us introduce you to one of our newer artists, Dina D’Argo! Originally from San Diego, Dina now lives near Nashville and enjoys life with her horses and dogs when she is not in the studio. With bold brush strokes, lush colors, and textural elements, Dina D’Argo captures the grace and beauty of her subjects. An animal lover and horsewoman, her focus is on celebrating the bond between ourselves and nature. Dina works mainly in acrylic on canvas, with a refined yet dramatic blend of abstract and representational styles.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

My studio is on the rural property where I live. I like to have my animals around me when I work, so I let the dogs in, get their beds situated near the windows where they like them, and I bring my 2 horses in from the pasture so I can easily see them grazing and relaxing in the yard.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

Coastline II

I use many layers of color and also a number or texture products. I usually have one piece that I am really concentrating on, but possibly 2 or three more either in “prep” or “finishing touches” stages.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Yes; My husband (who is a writer) and I are planning to collaborate at some point to create a book of equine stories and artwork inspired by mythology from different cultures.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

I prefer to paint alone, but I would love to walk in the desert finding old bones and sticks with Georgia O’Keefe.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

Connecting with nature; just looking at the sky or the relationships of color, shape, and light found on our beautiful planet.

How has your art evolved over time?

Winter Birds and Branches

Over time, my work continues to become less defined and more intuitive. Simplification has become appealing to me, and I am compelled to “pare down” the subjects in my images yet still retain a sense of complexity in the overall composition.

What do you like most about your work?

To me, my paintings are simple on the surface, but have a strong sense of emotion to them.

I think I paint “feelings” more than images, and I love that people can connect in a powerful way and feel inspired or understood by one of my pieces.

Radiance

Leaving

Coastal Viewpoint II

What is one word that best describes your style?

Organic

Integrity

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I would like to explore simplifying the landscape down to just the bare minimum of color and line, while still capturing the essence of the subject and the emotional connection to it.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Afternoon into evening is my favorite time to paint, as I have a beautiful view of the sunset out over the horse pastures. But any unfettered studio time is precious.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

This is a big challenge for me! I have found that rather than trying to force myself when “stuck”, the resolution will often come if I just relax and let it happen spontaneously. I am working on being more forgiving and flexible with myself, and allowing myself to put a piece aside if it isn’t flowing easily. But I haven’t gotten there yet 😉

Last Day of Summer

What is up next on your easel?

Two very different things are “in the works”: One is the second in a series of loose landscapes focusing on a brilliant sun, as in my “Last Day Of Summer” piece. The other is a figurative piece I was asked to create for our community on the Tennessee/Kentucky border to celebrate the solar eclipse.

All of these images by Dina, and more, are available in our Print-On-Demand Collection. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

From the Studio of Julie Denise

We have been so busy at Third and Wall that we haven’t had a chance to update our blog in a while. But we are back and excited to introduce one of our artists to you!

Meet Julie Denise! Although originally from California, Julie has lived in the Pacific Northwest since 1991. Julie paints from the landscape, combining gestural brushwork and knifework into a distinctive, semi-abstract style. With a detailed eye for composition and light, she captures the spirit of the landscape she paints.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

I open the window, turn on the fan, and make some tea. Then I select my music. Billie Holiday is a favorite, especially on rainy days in Seattle. Or a collection of women jazz vocalists.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I like to focus on a single work at a time, but there are times when I’ll have two or three paintings going.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

I’d like to paint something enormous that is luminous and inspiring. An abstract landscape that is life size—one you feel you could walk into. And I’d like it to live in a public space where many people could experience it.

**featuring “Territory” by Julie Devine**

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Oh, that is a good question! There are so many artists I’d love to paint with. If I had to choose a living painter, my first thought is Eric Aho. He paints these amazingly gestural, bold landscapes that bridge traditional and contemporary art. If I could paint with an artist who has passed, I might choose to paint in plein air with Van Gogh. I adore his tree landscapes and his aim to paint the life energy of his subjects. Louisa McElwain would be another contender. She painted Southwest canyon vistas on giant canvases in plein air with a speed and confidence that is astounding.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

Recently I’ve been paying a lot of attention to composition. When I see something in nature that interests me, I photograph it, then work with the photograph online or in sketches. I also like to look at master works and determine why they work so well. I read this excellent book a couple of years ago – Composition of Outdoor Painting by Edgar Payne. He demonstrates several successful strategies for arranging objects in a landscape. I think about these a lot as I’m planning a painting. If the composition isn’t strong, why bother creating the work!

How has your art evolved over time?

I trained at Gage Academy of Art and started with an academic approach to painting. I paid close attention to achieving a likeness of my subject, creating a sense of depth, light, and temperature. I painted carefully and focused on observation and color mixing. Gaining these skills takes time. Once I felt I had these under my belt, I experimented on my own. I travelled to Southern California and New Mexico and saw work inspired by Russian impressionism. The paint was bold and thick, the style was expressive, and yet the work remained true to the effects of light. I also spent time with Abstract Expressionist works. Joan Mitchell, Arshile Gorky, Lee Krasner, and Perle Fine are some of my favorite artists in this style. What I admired most about the art I saw was the confidence and bold use of paint. Over time, I have found my expressive style.

What do you like most about your work?

I like the shapes in my work. I also like the confidence and the gestural quality of the paint handling. I like the subtle shifts in color temperature that create vibrancy.

What is one word that best describes your style?

I think of them as “spirited.” I hear “luminous” come up a lot from collectors and people who follow my work.

Someone once described my work as “spiritually kind.” I love that description!

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

Yes, right now I’m exploring large rocky landscape formations. I’d like to explore these on a very large scale.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Anytime is a good time.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Yes. It happens less often now that I spend a lot of time working out a composition before I begin to paint. But when I get stuck, I take a look at the work in a mirror. Sometimes seeing it backward will reveal problems in its composition. The mirrored image helps me see the image with fresh eyes. I’ve also been known to take it to my kids for their insight. They are very candid, and my older son has a good sense of design. He’ll say things like “this part looks good, but it’s messed up here.”

What is up next on your easel?

A wolf portrait that’s being commissioned, and a semi-abstract, horizontal mountain landscape in a high color key.

Julie’s paintings live in international private collections and have been exhibited in the Pacific Northwest. Seattle’s Group Health Hospital has acquired several pieces of her work for their permanent collection.

All of these pieces featured and more works by Julie Devine are available in our Print-On-Demand collection, and some of her originals are also available on our website. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

Here’s to Green for St. Paddy’s Day

pantone-210-new-color-families-greens St. Patrick’s Day is upon us. Everyone from schoolchildren to our coworkers will be wearing green on the 17th in order to avoid the dreaded pinch. If your wardrobe is short on green we can’t save you from a pinching incident, but we do have plenty of green for your walls to wear!

According to Pantone, the Mothership of color, “The human eye literally sees more green than any other color. The hue of foliage, grass, and growing plants; bountiful trees, lush meadows and clinging vines; the shade of forests and jungles; elves and leprechauns; the product of the Irish patriot and St. Patrick’s Day; with a multitude of greens so plentiful in the surrounding world, there are many moods the green family can convey.”

The color experts at Pantone go on to explain that green is a restful color, influencing our nervous system, slowing and deepening our breath, and relaxing our heart by slowing the production of stress hormones.

: “The Moon” by Laura Van Horne

: UHIB-260_ALT_V1 by Randy Hibberd

: “Marfa II” by Sarah Stockstill

: “Sage Cascade” by Jeff Iorillo

: “Crossing The Lines” by Sarah Stockstill

Whether in airy meadows, urban parks or macro-views of nature’s hidden areas, the use of green can promote a sense of balance, harmony and reassurance.

: “A Familiar Vista” by Brooke Borcherding

: “Summer Shade” by Theo Beck

: “Urban Escape” by Liz Jardine

: “Rainforest Hues” by Liz Jardine

: “River Currents” by Liz Jardine

There, don’t you feel calmer already? Get some green!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

“Party” by KC Haxton

Third & Wall offers exclusive contemporary and transitional imagery for wall decor and licensing, with a wide selection of Posters, Originals and Print-on-Demand/Licensing imagery. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

Happy New Year!

As December draws to a close, we’d like to remember all the imagery, artists and projects that made 2015 such a fun and dynamic year. We look forward to 2016 and are excited to bring you even more images, new artists and the opportunities to provide your clients with the very best artwork in the industry.

All of us here at Third and Wall Art Group wish you a happy, healthy New Year!

Here’s a glimpse of some of the new images coming your way in 2016:

: “At a Glance” by Jill Martin

: “Mix Master” by Liz Jardine

: “Pacific City” by Pablo Rojero

: “Echo II” by Sarah Stockstill

: “Internally Beautiful” by Kelsey Hochstatter

: “Beach II” by Brooke Borcherding

From The Studio of Jill Martin

Jill Martin’s ethereal imagery is bright and soft, glowing with clean hues and a dreamy appeal that few can resist.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

Check my email, read some news, then spend some time cleaning up my painting table which I always leave messy from the day before.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I’ll prep several canvases at once, but I tend to focus on just one or two paintings at a time.

Merriment II

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

To paint 5 or 6 large paintings of different types of couples.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Very hard to choose. I could learn so much from Alex Kanevsky, Julie Heffernan, and Kent Williams.

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

How to paint the figure not in an impressionistic or gestural way but like a blurry photograph. – early Gerhard Richter’s work.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

I’ll paint whenever, but the light in the studio is usually best midday and afternoon.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Yes, I do get stuck sometimes and keep redoing areas over and over. At that point I have to not look at the painting for a few hours or a few days. Then when I go back to it I have a fresh perspective which hopefully makes it easier to see what needs to be done.

What is up next on your easel?

A large abstracted landscape.

: “Stele”

: “Persimmon Jump”

: “Atmosphere”

: “Brisk Winds”

: “Excitement”

Jill Martin’s original works, posters, and print-on-demand imagery are available from Third & Wall Art Group. All images © Jill Martin and published/distributed by Third & Wall Art Group.

Where does our artwork come from?

We introduce ne Jardine4 w imagery all the time, and of course our team of artists provide us with a steady stream of exceptional artwork, but what is the inspiration behind each new painting? How is it developed? One of my favorite things to do is to open the shipping tubes containing new artwork that we receive from our artists. I find it exciting to unroll and reveal the new images, smell the paints, touch the canvas. I truly enjoy this.

Recently I had the opportunity to visit a couple of our artists in their studios, and to witness the creation of our artwork before it is rolled up and shipped out to us. I spent a wonderful afternoon visiting Liz Jardine in her studio and learning about her rich creative process.

Her studio was filled with paints, brushes, paper, and canvases. There were a number of different paintings in various stages of development. There were magazines, color swatches, ideas and inspirations pinned to a bulletin board, and so much more.

So where does our artwork come from? If you were to visit Liz and her studio, you would see her artwork comes from the inspiration that she finds all around her. During my visit, Liz was involved in the painting of a seascape, a city scene, a floral and an abstract. It was inspiring and so much more fun to be in on the creation than just opening the tubes of new artwork.

~ by Brian Henn, President, Third & Wall