Denna Arnold of Contra Designs presents a delightful collection of colorful painted furniture, and talks about building a business with her work.
ABI: You’ve created art on functional furniture and accessories. How are you building your collection?
DA: My collection dynamically evolves from project to project. I am constantly finding inspiration in nature, furniture, fashion and fabric trends. I sincerely enjoy finding unique ways to tell someone’s story through my artwork!
ABI: What is your commission process?
DA: One my all-time favorite books is called “The Language of Flowers.” In it, the main character communicates utilizing the symbolism of each plant and flower. I use a similar concept and approach to my artwork! It all starts with a conversation with the client and a list of their favorite things.
Sometimes, depending on the story they want to tell, I recommend certain design items such as colors, people, flowers, plants, patterns, animals or anything that makes them feel warm and fuzzy!
At the end of the process, the finished piece typically tells a story through a collection of related images and underlying meaning.
ABI: Where do you see your business going in the future?
DA: Currently, my focus is to create individual, unique, one-of-a-kind functional art pieces that will be future family heirlooms.
However, I would like to expand my business so that I can offer something special for every budget. I am exploring new mediums and will hopefully have hard line items available as well.
