I’m excited about the possibility of using this as my creative “card catalogue” (for those of you old enough to remember the library reference) or my little treasure box, full of things that move me or that give me a sense of urgency to create.  My husband will be happy to note that this is an ONLINE diary, and not another “inspiration” pile to add to the many existing piles in my project room.  You know the type of “piles” I’m referring to I’m sure.  For your viewing pleasure, I would also love to share with you pictures of my work, including before, during and after shots, so you can track the transformation of the spaces and pieces I create, with the help of two of my sisters.

Growing up in the Sunshine State, I can’t help but be drawn to the ocean, her tranquil colors and the peacefulness of her sound and beauty.  I think too, this is the reason I am also drawn to bright prints, patterns, labels, etc.  I guess it’s the “Floridian” in me that I can’t quit!  After my move to Atlanta after college, I developed an appreciation for city life and design as well.  I guess you could say I’m “all kinds of mixed” up but so thankful for it.  All of these things have inspired my work, and as I continue to travel and grow, I’m sure you will see my inspirations change as well.

As Picasso once said, “The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a scrap of paper, from a passing shape, from a spider’s web.”

I’ve always loved art so it only seemed natural to begin my career in advertising and graphic design.  However, I realized fairly quickly that computerized art was not the outlet for me.   After finishing a cabinet refinishing class several years ago, I had my “ah-hah” moment.  My true passion was getting my hands dirty.  Therefore, after lots of training in the business, I opened up Rusty Bluebird, a decorative painting and refinishing boutique in Atlanta, GA.  And who better to spend all of my working hours with but my very own sisters, Rachael and Rebecca, who also share a passion and talent for anything artistic.  Together we create beautiful finishes and artwork on all types of surfaces and spaces, as well as custom, one-of-a-kind pieces for our clients that we like to think of as “reclaimed artifacts.”  Read more about them and our work at RustyBluebird.com.

Things in life that make my heart flutter – my husband, our Italian Spinone, Gunner, all things vintage, being at the beach, estate sales and flea markets, traveling, Starbucks, crafting, reality TV, Craigslist, photography, Indie and foreign films, lazy Sunday afternoons, design magazines, TMZ, the color blue, and sometimes even trash – yes trash, the kind that makes you think to yourself, why would they want to get rid of that?  It has so much potential.

Thanks for stopping by my little space on the web.  I would love to hear from you, so please feel free to leave your comments. If you are interested in working with us or would like to contact me for any reason, please email me at: Sarah@RustyBluebird.com.