Fauxology: Studying the Visual Magic of Faux Finishing and Interior Design (brought to you by Garay Artisans)

Murals are such an integral part of the decorative painting world.  Thankfully, they are not just limited to canvas pieces.  Many clients can be slightly worried at the thought of bringing a mural into their home — and in the end, it’s the area of the house they show first to their guests!  There are so many types of mural work out there: frescoes, trompe l’oeil and grisaille (to name a few) and even those have even further categories within them.  It’s a beautiful world to get lost in.  One of the best muralists in the decorative painting world is Graham Rust.  Although this particular book was released in 1988, it is as fresh and inspiring today as it was when released.  So, our July Book-of-the-Month is The Painted House by Graham Rust.

I believe this was his first book and since then he has published about five more.  The Painted House is a collection of drawings and installed murals.  He intended them to be a source of inspiration for other artists by providing ideas and pattern resources.  The book is broken down by rooms and architectural elements that could be found in many homes (i.e., The Bedroom, The Nursery, Alcoves and Doors).  His talent for perspective and shading are amazing and you will find yourself blown away by his artistry.  It is a fantastic book to have as a reference in addition to just being sumptuous eye candy.  Here’s a peek at some of the images:

I’ve always loved panels.

Gorgeous idea.

This is a drawing of a beach mural on three walls.  (See the wall partitions?)  Just imagine you’ve had a hard day, you come home and fall asleep.  The next morning, you wake up to this scene.  Feel better now? 

A small but very nice element of surprise.  The back of the bench is painted to look like an extension of the seat. 

There was empty space between the two windows and the opposite wall had two alcoves, so Mr. Rust painted this in (along with the books and monkey) to balance the room.   So cool.

In neutral sepia tones…

…and full color.

Here’s Mr. Rust himself on what is probably familiar equipment for all decorative painters: the scaffold.  Gotta love those high walls and ceilings, LOL!

Have a great day!