Step into the Metaphorest--An ArtPrize Top 10 Entry!

One of the most exciting parts of my job is getting to work with people who use our products in unusual and creative ways.  That's one of the reasons we've enjoyed providing ArtPrize artists with free paint for the last couple years.  Just watching how the creativity bursts into color all over downtown Grand Rapids is amazing.

This year, we've worked with a number of artists. One of the most exciting is the team put together by Todd Osborne.  He and his group put together a huge relief mural on the West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology.  And the vast majority of color on the wall is RepcoLite Paint! 

What's even more exciting is that Todd's "Metaphorest" project is an ArtPrize Top 10 entry.  That means Todd and his group have a 1 in 10 chance of winning the Grand Prize!  

Check out his work at ArtPrize, or take a look here.

ArtPrize 2011: Edgar Mueller's 'Phoenix'

It's time for ArtPrize again in Grand Rapids--an annual art competition that is open to any artist from anywhere in the world.  Last year, RepcoLite participated by donating some paint to some of the artists.  We did the same thing this year and wanted to take a moment to highlight those artists and what they created using RepcoLite Paints!

First up is international artist, Edgar Mueller.  His entry in the contest is one of the most unique works we've ever seen.  It's a 3D illusion painted on the parking lot of the City Art Gallery in Grand Rapids.  From one perspective, it just looks like a lot of paint all over the parking lot.  From the right perspective, the illusion comes together and you see something truly remarkable:  asphalt crumbling away into an open chasm out of which a Phoenix rises.

Amongst other paint, Edgar made use of RepcoLite's NEW (to be released next Spring) Endura Exterior Paints.  These paints provide vivid colors and remarkable fade resistance.  They're perfect for your home . . . and an international artist's ArtPrize entry.

Go see Edgar's work in person...or at least take a look below!  Or, better yet...do both!

Easy DIY Stenciled Headboards

Here's a great idea from a blog we follow called Simply Sjostedt.  It's a simple way to create an entirely unique, interesting, headboard using only some planks, a stencil and some paint.

Here you can read about how it was done and see pictures that chronicle every step.  But before you click the link, remember the Cardinal Rule of any project:  don't be afraid to tinker with the idea.

What I mean is this:  the plank background here is a great "blank canvas".  Sure, you could stencil it--as we see in the picture at the left--but don't be afraid to make this project your own.

For example, you could paint the boards a solid color and distress them.  Or, you could go a different route and stain and varnish the planks.  The stain job could be done with an eye toward a rustic finish or, if you prefer, a fine wood finish.  Both results would be easily achievable--you just need to figure out which would work better for you.  Really, the possibilities are endless.  Use your imagination and your creativity and see what you can come up with!  (And, if you come up with something really cool, let us know in the comments!)