We are thrilled to announce the first new artist to Well + Wonder of 2020... welcome Paige Feigley Smythe. Paige and I actually met awhile back when Well + Wonder was still in its infancy and we were working with the talented team Stitch Design Co. to develop our site and branding. Paige was a young artist who also worked at Stitch. As is the case with so many of our artists our paths crossed many times in the past few years and Paige is now a full-time studio artist Redux Art Center in Charleston and I’m thrilled we are officially working together again! For those of you who aren't familiar with Paige, it is our pleasure to introduce her to you all. Paige is a contemporary mixed-media artist inspired by the endless details, colors, and patterns found in nature and the changing seasons. A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and based in Charleston Paige's interest in the arts began as a child. Through collage she focuses on the details and layers found in floral designs as well as the emotions evoked by those who give and receive bouquets. Paige's work is incredibly beautiful and serene and we are over the moon to incorporate her florals into the Well + Wonder collection. As we prepare for Paige to join the W+W team, we sat down with her to chat and learn a little more about the person behind the paintings....
What is currently on your nightstand?
It’s a bit full these days. I always have my moonbeam alarm clock, a Paige Thorn Herbal Silk Eye pillow, and my Bible but recently I’m piling up baby books and ultrasound photos of our baby coming this February!
Who is your biggest influence as an artist and why?
Both my grandmother, Nan, and my mom. My grandmother was incredibly creative- an amazing seamstress, and very talented with needlepoint. She passed away when I was young but my mom has always encouraged me to stick with my creativity and has shared with me all the fun things her mother made. We still have a handful of clothing pieces, purses, and pillows she created which I love wearing!
Tell us about your childhood.
What is the most memorable moment as a young person? I grew up in Louisiana and from the time I was born, we would travel across the coast through Mississippi and Alabama to Florida to vacation in Seaside each Summer. It was a dream to run around the beach paths, eat the biggest cinnamon rolls you’ve ever seen from Monica’s Marker, and enjoy time with family friends.
If you could only have one supply in your art studio, what would it be and why?
This is so tough… I think a pencil. Recently I love my initial sketches more than the final product.
What is your favorite room in your house? Describe it.
I love cooking and hospitality so currently our dining room. We have these large but odd built-in shelves. They aren’t deep enough to fit much so I used them for a plant wall. Since this is where we eat, I wanted to incorporate more green colors because it reminds me of health and growth! I recovered our dining room chairs in green and white fabric to go along with this. We’ve also hung some beautiful hand-painted porcelain plates (a very thoughtful wedding gift) on either side and I love the way they frame the wall and the plants!
What is your biggest score online?
Hmmm, I found a small settee on Facebook Marketplace that has the neatest wooden details!
What is the benefit of buying art through a collective? What do you recommend for those that are new to buying original art?
It is so neat to see the aesthetic of different artists and how they work together in a collective. Plus it removes any intimidation if you’re new to buying art!
If you have the entire day to spend in an art museum, which one and why?
The MoMA... but more specifically in 2014 or 2015 when Henri Matisse: The Cut-Outs exhibit was up. That would be a dream to see!
What is your favorite hotel and what makes it special?
The Grove Park Inn! My family spent Thanksgiving there one year when I was in college. It was a special time with our family and I also have a best friend getting married there next Fall. Plus, you can’t beat the spa!
If you were a lipstick color would you be red, pink, or clear and why?
I’d say pink but not too bright… I like to keep it natural.
I can never get on a plane without….
A notebook or journal for all the inspiration and ideas that come from disconnecting and staring into the clouds.
How did you get into the world of art?
I painted my parents iron patio furniture yellow when I was about 3 so I think it all started then. I always loved to create and would make my mom take me to the art supply store growing up and then sit in my room for hours making things. I’ve never questioned that I would do something creative and am thankful for the support from my family to pursue this in my College education and as a business after graduating.
What do you do to relax?
I like to relax by going on a walk or run and cooking.
When do you get the biggest surge of inspiration?
Typically in the morning, I love starting my day with the sunrise!
Prediction for the Color of 2020?
Maybe navy or an emerald green
What is your idea of a date night? Dinner and a movie or dancing all night?
Dancing all night, for sure!
Tell us about your favorite painting that you have created.
This is really tough! I did a large painting of a bridal bouquet for a friend from Louisiana. She lives in London so it is all the way across the pond hanging above their bed. I loved working so large on this and creating something that captured the details she poured into her wedding day!
One piece of advice for buying original art?
Don’t worry too much about where it will go or having the perfect space for it first. If you love the piece it will transition with you over time and always have a home.
