Civilized Graffiti

When I was little, I drew on the walls. Not once. A lot. An entire mural up the stairs. Many drawings on the walls of my room. An entire garden on Krissie Livengood’s parents’ bedroom wall – right over the bed. It was a masterpiece. Or so I thought, but my unknowing clients didn’t always agree. As it turns out, I was ahead of my time.

This image and above, Traditional Home, March 2000

I don’t know if this technique has a particular name, but it appeals to me so much. I’ve imagined doing it in a room, but also think it would be fabulous as decoration for a party.

It looks like you could accomplish this with one quart of paint and 30 minutes before carpool pick-up. These are the kinds of projects that get me in trouble.

Greg Jordan, who drew the back drop, promoting his Cartoon Collection, HB year unknown.

I have always wondered about gouache. It looks and sounds as if it would be dreamy to work with.

These drawings from the owners of “Atelier” in Hudson, NY.

If it seems daunting, there is a really great wallpaper available that would eliminate the risk.

“Frames” wallpaper, Graham and Brown.

On the other hand, when unable to find this fabulous paper, New Orleans designer Jill Dupre took matters – and marker – into her own hands.

Metropolitan Home, December 2006/January 2007.

My parents finally resigned themselves to my passion. They gave me a cup of pencils and told me I could draw whatever I wanted on the walls of my closet. What can I say? It was the 70’s.
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8 thoughts on “Civilized Graffiti

  1. Patricia – thank you, I wish my folks had seen it your way. I did a lot of scrubbing – and made up an imaginary friend to take the fall.

  2. I just love every one of these images. There is something so charming about painting/drawing “things” on the walls. I love it!

  3. Peak – I think so, too! I keep telling myself “it would be so easy.” hmmm..

  4. I love this – and this whole genre of decorating. Good on you Mrs B.! I have done similar on doors.
    Have you ever seen the Christian Berard yellow velvet room for Guerlain in Paris?
    Gorgeous.

  5. House – thank you for stopping by! I love your blog. And, no, on the Berard room for Guelain – and it’s funny that you would mention it, because it was the inspiration for the designer in the top photos. I goggled it, but with no luck. Now I will really be on the hunt.

  6. I was punished by spanking once and only once in my childhood. I took it upon myself to draw a very large mural upon my wall. I was three. This did not go over well with the parents.

    To my young eyes the large wall of my bedroom looked like the biggest and best canvas I had ever seem. White. Empty. Ready for transformation. My parents did not share my enthusiasm! LOL!

  7. Franki – I totally understand – now that your walls are your own – paint away!

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