Love of Color — An Artist’s Viewpoint

WORDS BY DINA DEASON | PROVIDED PHOTO

Working as a full-time artist for almost seven years now, I have found a new love of color. Whites, creams, and grays are a trendy choice that many designers use as interior wall color and this neutral backdrop is a perfect place to display colorful art. I am an artist with a flair for design. I consult with clients and guide them in making good design and color choices when choosing an original piece of art that will complete their design.

Color can be intimidating. No one wants to invest in art that will not compliment their home. Color is always one of my clients’ biggest concerns, especially when commissioning an original piece of art. Helping my clients discover their love for a certain color scheme is a huge part of my work. Color sets the mood, creates drama, evokes emotion, and adds visual interest to a piece of art that is pleasing to the eye. For example, my youngest daughter’s favorite color is yellow. She tells me that shades of yellow make her happy. This love of yellow has not changed for her through the years. So when decorating her childhood bedroom, college dorm room, and first apartment, shades of yellow have always been a must. I have always painted pieces of art for my daughters and helped them make good design choices as they acquire art and furnishings as adults. Having a favorite color or a color scheme for the design is always the first factor when creating a beautiful space.

Color can also be calming. Many spas are a light shade of green because of its soothing effects. Living on the coast and looking out over the marsh and all the many shades of muted greens is often described as serene and tranquil. I have painted many marsh scenes for clients. Marsh paintings as most landscapes are very colorful and are a wonderful addition to any home. Color choices are personal and color influences our emotions so color choices are very important for our emotional well being. When choosing art for one’s home, you want to always make sure that the colors in the piece of art brings you joy and peace. This will ensure longevity for your investment. Original, timeless art is essential to good design.

As an artist and designer, I love many aspects and mediums of art. I am very fond of painted furniture, having painted many pieces myself. One of my passions is turning outdated furniture into a beautiful statement piece. I then incorporate a unique piece of art that will hang in harmony above the newly redesigned piece of furniture. Painted furniture has gained popularity over the last decade, especially on the coast.

Painted furniture is another excellent way to add color to your home. Imagine a white shiplap wall entryway anchored by a robin’s egg blue bachelor’s chest with an original piece of art that embodies the same blue as the chest. The art is flanked by a pair of soft sea foam green lamps, another color that is incorporated in the wisely chosen piece of art. This simple arrangement has now set the stage for the rest of your home. This crisp coastal vibe is a welcoming and refreshing trend that will leave a lasting impression. Painting furniture is the best way to up-cycle the dark, dated furniture that our parents or grandparents have given us. Before you replace a dated piece of furniture with new furniture, find an artist or someone that restores furniture and see if you can repurpose your treasured furniture. Choosing a professional, the right paint, and the perfect color will save you time and money.

Another exciting part of being an artist is teaching. I am very fortunate to have an in-home studio, and enough room for small classes. Art is my passion and I enjoy teaching others to explore the artist within themselves. I actually learn more from my students as we paint together. A large part of being a good teacher is always learning from other artists. Taking art classes in my free time is such fun for me too. Growing as an artist is something I want to continue to do. I have had the privilege to study under some magnificent artists and have built many lasting friendships in the artistic community.

• Dina Deason is a professional artist with paintings featured locally at Art Trends Gallery. To find out more about Dina and her original art, visit deasonart.com. Follow Deason Art on Facebook and Instagram.