Inspiration for Surfaces

Sophisticated Surfaces beautifully illustrates the work of today's most talented decorative artists, and will inspire readers to think about space in new, innovative ways.

Reveals how contemporary artists update traditional decorative art techniques such as marbleizing, graining, glazing, rag rolling.

Shows a variety of unique applications for walls, furniture, ceilings, and architectural detailing.

Includes creative suggestions by artists who demonstrate how to use various techniques to enhance whole environments.

Home is more than a simple shelter; home is a sanctuary. "Sophisticated Surfaces" illustrates how to enhance simple shelters by applying paint imaginatively to create aesthetically pleasing home environments. Rooted in traditions that date to the Italian Renaissance in seventeenth-century Europe, decorative artists use contemporary tools and materials to interpret age-old techniques - marbleizing, graining, and glazing furniture, walls, and ceilings. Inspired by early masters, these same artists go on to create new finishes - cracked linens and textured wall surfaces among them.

The book is divided into three sections: "Faux and Fantasy Finishes"; "Painted Surfaces"; and "Murals and Trompe l'oeil". Each section focuses on works by decorative artists who excel in translating precisely executed techniques into exquisitely painted surfaces.

Beauty and harmony are vital to our psychological health and well-being. "Sophisticated Surfaces" is designed to inspire readers to view ordinary living space in new, innovative, and creative ways.

Karen Aude is an arts writer and collage artist. Her articles have been published in several regional and national magazines and newspapers, and she is the author of "Heather Braginton-Smith", a monograph on the work of the trompe l'oeil artist. Aude lives in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts with her two feline companions, Bohditree and Sami.