What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Pricing is determined by many factors: Size of mural, detail of design, time to complete, surface prep, location of mural (does equipment need rented?), materials used, travel involved. We can discuss all of these factors and come up the best plan for your project.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I like to walk the site with a customer to get a feel of location, surface, lighting, scope, dimension, etc. We then discuss their ideas for the space, colors, details, etc. I then create a basic mockup on the computer to give them a general sense of what it will look like, then get started!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I received a Bachelors in Art Education and a second in Studio Arts with a Ceramics Concentration. I know that sounds weird, since neither is in painting, but I did learn a lot about creating art in general, including composition, color theory, perspective, etc. I took some workshops in painting just for fun a few years back, but painting is a talent I possess and a skill I have honed through years of practice.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
A fluke, really. I was working at the front desk of a doctor's office when I overheard they were looking for an artist to paint the lobby of their new office. I threw together a quick resume with pictures of canvas paintings I had done in classes and the rest is history!
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have worked with private clients who wanted rooms painted in their homes, clients who wanted paintings on canvas, and businesses who wanted large scale murals covering a lot of square footage. All of my customers have been enthusiastic about the process and excited to see their spaces transformed.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
I spent 18 months working on the entire inside of a pediatrician's office. I began in the lobby, which was massive all on its own, with 14 foot ceilings and creative playrooms. I also did 360 degree paintings in all 5 of their bathrooms where my paintings made the corners of the room disappear and made it a completely immersive environment. Then each doctor's area has its own unique theme for the hallways. Finally, each doctor chose their own themes for each of their 3 patient rooms. They really kept me on my toes switching from theme to theme and style to style. The building is a symphony of color and design and a wonder to behold. I am very proud of the over 6000 square feet of paintings I created for them.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
I would suggest a customer look through the provider's entire scope of work, not just the first few, because many artists may be similar to myself and have many styles in their arsenal. Having an idea of what you want before you approach a provider is helpful, but not essential. I prefer to work from reference photos, so having some sample photos of elements you want included can be very helpful to creating the composition you desire. Understand the process for the artist: projects may require paint application in layers, so there may be drying time in between which extends the total time of the project; projects may require image projection at night; weather can be an important factor for outdoor projects; proper site preparation makes all the difference in the world.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Where do I want the mural and what do I want my space to feel like? What basic design do I want and what style/colors? What is my budget? What is the timeframe for completion? How can I provide a safe place for the artist to work--is there ventilation if paint is strong, will they have easy access to area? Will I need to cordon off the area during business hours while painting is going on? Do I want the artist to only work at night while my business is closed?
