What has inspired you to paint rooms? I love the idea of a frame tale- a story within a story- So an interior study seems to check that box; It's a room within the room in which it hangs- if that makes sense...And I love that the two, sometimes completely different, rooms can coexist - It also is away to bring the decor of a different aesthetic into one's own space- You may not live in a Baroque Chateau, but you can indulge some of that decadence in microcosm- just by looking at the painting.
What do you love most about painting? I hope that I never reach a point in my life where I'm finished learning about the world, about others, about myself. I find that I am constantly learning through every painting I do. Specifically, I am learning patience because every painting goes through an "ugly stage" when you want to throw a fit and give up the whole thing. But pushing through and finally reaching that end, where everything seems to come into focus, is such a wonderful feeling. I am constantly reminded that there is so much more than meets the eye to any and everything. I can stare at the clouds or at a photograph and think I've noticed every tiny detail, but then when I look back at it a while later, through rested eyes or a different mindset, I see things I missed. There is always more to notice and that is true of everything.
What have you found most inspires you about interiors? Kind of going back to what I was saying before - there is always more than meets the eye and you can tell so much about someone by the space they occupy. I love imagining living in the space, occupying it, lounging in it, and then thinking about who does live there.
What is your favorite room to paint? In my other life I teach Literature and Art History. So it stands to reason, that my favorite rooms are usually either studies or sitting rooms, featuring either shelves loaded with books, and art on the walls.
Who has inspired you as an artist? I was fortunate to attend Randolph School, where my art teacher, Polytime Costes, actively encouraged me to pursue art as a career. Her recognition and belief in my abilities as an artist were so validating. Even though it took me years to believe it myself as an artist- she definitely planted that seed and did her best to water it while she was with me. I actually recently reached out to her and thanked her for her efforts! My sister, Natalie, who started Southside Purveyor, where I post most of my art, has been an inspiration as well. She made me realize that the only thing between wanting to be something and being that thing (in my case an artist), is simply the act of doing it- and that really there is no reason not to. And of course my mom, Christianne Brackett, who is one of the most creative thinkers and independent personalities I have ever known. Not only did she expose me often to art of all sorts from an early age on, she also allowed me to be whomever I felt I needed to be.
What you love about Southern homes? I love a traditional Southern home in the middle of summer, even when it's blazing hot. I love the large front porches made for swings, the tall windows for allowing breezes to mitigate the heat, and the smell of jasmine that floats along those breezes. And I absolutely adore the azaleas and hydrangeas that surround Southern homes in the summer.
What do you think is unique about the Southern home? At least in my experience, that you can pop by unannounced. I love that they are simultaneously highly decorative and slightly formal, but always casual and relaxed. They also perfectly straddle that picket fence dividing traditional and contemporary style.
What details do you love when you see them in rooms? I love interesting patterns, textures and colors in the fabric, I love rich, substantial colors on walls and lighting that is compelling, I love a beautiful window with a wonderful view, and I adore a fabulous rug - they are works of art in their own right. I love homes that are filled with personality not necessarily because of the cost of the items in them, but because they are filled with undeniable character- It excites me to see someone's willingness to take a risk because they adore this color, or that piece.
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What you love most about the South? I love that there are some consistencies across the board that let me know I'm home : the sound of cicadas and the glow of lightnin' bugs in the summer, red earth, pollen (nature's pixie dust!)- I know many think it's a nuisance- but it is the golden herald of Spring- and Spring in the South-- I mean- come on! It doesn't get much better! I absolutely adore a good southern accent, my dad's was the BEST- and delicious food! I love the folkloric nature of the South and the cultural variety that informs everything we do.
Your favorite things about your home? It's open, but doesn't feel vacuous. I love my wood burning fireplace- LOVE it!- tons of storage, and lots of walls to hang art!
What does home mean to you? Refuge- safety, peace, and love.
I am constantly reminded that there is so much more than meets the eye to any and everything. There is always more to notice and that is true of everything.
I love a traditional Southern home in the middle of summer, even when it's blazing hot. I love the large front porches made for swings, the tall windows for allowing breezes to mitigate the heat, and the smell of jasmine that floats along those breezes.
