How To Choose A Decorative Painter (or Muralist)

There is nothing that strikes more fear into the hearts of some and excitement in others than the task of decorating a room. The idea of decorating an entire room can be daunting, but there is no need to fear. Help is available.

Before you begin this exciting adventure in decorating, there are a few things you might want to consider first. Most likely, this is a room you will be spending significant amounts of time. What kind of mood do you want to create? Solitary and peaceful? Positive and inspiring? Is it a place for dreams and adventure? The room’s possibilities stretch to the boundaries of your own imagination. The room is a blank canvas and you are the artist. Whether it be a basic design or a mural, whatever you decide, it should always bring a smile to your face. This is the perfect opportunity to let your imagination go.

Some people’s imaginations can be either a bit scary or in need of a muse. If you don’t feel completely confident about decorating the room yourself, don’t worry, help is available. There is an abundance of amazing designers available who can assist you for an hourly rate or per job fee. Some designers will even be happy to help you with all the necessary purchases, adding a percentage to the price in order to cover their time and energy. Contact the American Society of Interior Designers for more information at www.asid.org. You may also want to employ a decorative painter. But before you make a decision, there are a few things any wise home owner should consider in finding the right person for your job.

1. Certification

What certifications does the decorative painter have? A Fine Arts degree? Professional membership with an accredited society, such as the International Decorative Artisans League? Credentials are clues that your painter is experienced and serious about the craft. Ask to see a portfolio or, if they are a muralist, locations of their work. Most professional artists will have something online or a book to bring by to show you. If you are on a tight budget and are leaning towards the help of a friend or neighbor, be sure you are confident with their skill set. Many have made the mistake of gaining cheap or free help by those who fancy themselves on par with the professionals, when, in fact, they are nowhere near.

2. Skill Set

Keep in mind that most people don’t see color accurately, and some don’t even realize they are, to some degree, color-blind. This applies to artists as well. Make sure that you like the artist’s sense of composition, their use of color and, most importantly, make sure that you like their other work. You may already have your color palette and style already chosen, be sure that the artist has the talent to do the style you want. Many decorative artists may be very skilled at various wall treatments, like sponging or rag rolling, but lack the drawing gusto to render people, animals, trees and other shapes necessary for your design.

3. Reputation

You will be collaborating with this person on an artistic project, there needs to be a certain level of synergy between the two of your. Check out the artist’s reputation. What is their personality like? Are they trustworthy and honest? Dependable? Respectful? Will they listen to your ideas and be flexible with your creativity? Communication is very important, as with most other things in life, and must be open and honest.

Decorating a room is a big project that can take a lot of time, effort and creative juice. If and when you employ the services of a decorative painter or muralist, be sure to keep these prerequisites in mind so that the final product exceeds your expectations. There is nothing more rewarding than living with a fantastically decorated room for the rest of your life.