This custom Art Nouveau family portrait features an ornate gold leaf frame and heavy florals in deep reds, soft pinks, and white peonies. Painted in oil with copper leaf on the cats and gold leaf for the figures and edges, it evolved through sketches, revisions, and a critique that added dimension to the faces and refined hair details. The process was collaborative and rewarding. The painting is finished and ready for pickup. Read the full step-by-step journey.

For over a decade, metallic paint was my favorite medium, until Syros watercolors and fragile metal leaf changed everything. From a messy first copper attempt still hanging unfinished on my wall to letting the shine become the subject itself, this is the story of how gold, silver, and copper deepened my exploration of animals, architecture, and belonging. Read how the light started to live in the work.

Arriving Home explores the quiet threshold between movement and stillness. Through gold and silver metal leaf, animals, and layered color, this piece reflects on connection, simplicity, and the warmth of return.