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

By having a website and a blog, the opportunity to meet cool, like-minded people throughout the world is mind-boggling.  I’m sure some find it hard to be fond of friends whom you’ve technically never met, but that’s the beauty of the online world.  One of those people is fellow Talk Faux moderator, Mindy Harrell.  She is a fun person and someone who is not shy about sharing her knowledge — which works perfectly since she owns and operates Faux Assured Studio near Park City, Utah and has her own blog. In the midst of her hectic schedule (I mean, just one project has her glazing 45,000 square feet of wall space), she kindly took the time to let us get to know her a bit better and give a peek into her studio. 

Tell us a little bit about the studio and its philosophy and style.  What advice would you offer our blog readers with regard to choosing which studio and/or workshops to attend? 

At Faux Assured Studio our goal is very simple, to set the foundation for success.  We have three specific criteria set forth in order to achieve our mission:  1.  Solid Foundation in Training  2.  Superior Support & Mentoring program  3.  Recruiting knowledgeable and business savvy instructors.

Students look for schools that can offer them the greatest range of training, support and knowledge when it comes to selecting their next class. We like to feel that our school is not just the “next” class, but an extension of their future endeavors; just like an extended family.   Creating beautiful finishes is a very important part of our curriculum, but it is only a small part of the overall picture towards success in the industry.  We believe that every successful business owner has a successful mentor in their back pocket!  We have many avenues to foster this philosophy through and on-line private student forum, private hot-line for immediate support, open studio on selected dates and of course calling the studio to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members.  In our classes, we will thoroughly cover product knowledge and the “make up” of all the materials used.  We offer quality instruction from experienced teachers who are also field finishers.  

Our instructors own and operate very successful commission-based businesses and collectively bring forth over 20+ years of experience in the decorative paint industry.  We have one instructor and one assistant at all times during classes to help maximize learning.  Our techniques used in class have been tested in the market to ensure their ease of application.  We begin, by introducing the amazing product lines manufactured by Faux Effects International.  It is with their advanced technology that we are able execute complex finishes in less time with traditional and modern applications.  If you are a new finisher or someone in the field who is not familiar with the Faux Effects line, we suggest starting off with our CCI: Core Curriculum One class.   This class is the building block or the foundation to the more advanced classes we have to offer.  

What are some of your favorite color and/or product combinations to work with? 

My favorite product line hands down is the Rs Series.  Since the inception of the Rs Series line manufactured by Faux Effects, my business has grown by double.  It allows me complete control over the finished product.  It’s ease of application allows me to create the “look of complexity” in very few steps, adds revenue to my business and I don’t feel as exhausted at the end of the day!  This is a must have class where even the 20 year veteran will be rejuvenated!

What are some of your favorite websites, blogs and/or message forums on the internet?

Talk Faux all the way!  

What’s the best piece of professional advice you have ever received?  

“If you put yourself out of the marketplace, the marketplace will put you out of business!”  I keep this bit of advice in the back of her mind everyday.  I never stop marketing no matter how busy I get.  I’m always talking to people about what I do, handing out cards, looking for events to guest lecture, home shows, press releases, newsletters, etc..

What is the best thing that has happened to the faux profession in the last five years?

Besides having a lot more resources for the actual finisher in products, tools and forums, people are finally beginning to see the real value in adding a custom decorative paint finish in their home and business.  It’s all about educating others in the true meaning of “faux”,  which is basically the art of deception.  When my clients see what we create with our hands, they very quickly understand that this is not “ragging or sponging.”   

Do you have a personal teaching philosophy?  

I teach real wall applications and give my students the knowledge they need to execute high quality finishes.  All of my trade secrets are disclosed on the Do’s & Don’ts when it comes to finishing work!  Oh yes, and to keep it fun and exciting!  That’s what our work is all about at the end of the day.

Professionally, what do you still hope to accomplish?  

I would like for people to say that Faux Assured Studio provides a learning environment where it’s like the “old school” where we are involved, we care about our students and want to see them flourish.  Artistically, I would still like to sell some canvas art work when I get the time.  I literally have hundreds of ideas flowing through my head.  I’ve always wanted be a fine artist in the traditional sense, but knowing what I know now it changes the way I approach a canvas!

Here are some pics of the studio and a recent class taught by instructor Jason Lucas:

Aren’t they yummy?!?  My fave is the metallic with reliefs…gorgeous.  Even after being in this business over a decade, I feel it is important to go to at least 1 - 3 classes per year.  There is always something new to learn, great finishes and recipes to add to your arsenal and advances in product abilities.  I always think of the workshops as investments in my future clients.  I’ll be spotlighting other studios throughout the year but thought to start off with a fantastic one.  Hope you enjoy looking through Faux Assured Studio’s site!