Commercial designers and private clients now have the option to have my work converted into wall coverings and commercial grade quality reproductions for projects large and small. With a variety of options, finishes and applications the possibilities are endless. I’m happy to work directly with you, and provide more information on products and pricing for your own individual projects. Email genna@gennadraper.com for more details.
Living With Art | Collaboration with RD Interiors
Gray Sky Gallery is excited to announce our most recent collaboration with RD Interiors to present "Living With Art,” a Pop Up showcasing the impeccable stylings and wares of one of Seattle’s most coveted resources in the world of interior design in our unique gallery setting.
RD Interiors, recognized for its unique visual signature, has pulled together looks to elevate the artwork, while highlighting effortless style, through the creative use of vintage objects and original artwork. Do stop by to take in the beautiful furnishings and accessories. We dare you to leave empty handed.
On display now through March 2020.
Cocktail Reception • Thursday February 27th, 2020 • 4 pm to 8 pm
or
Open House • Saturday, March 14th, 2020 • 12 pm to 4pm
Collaboration | Designers Welcomed
As a lifelong artist with over 25+ years of experience, I develop commercial and residential paintings for various applications. Collaboration with others has always been a very rewarding aspect of the job, both personally and professionally. Working to achieve a common goal, and being able to contribute to beautiful, exciting spaces inspires me to push forward each day and affirms my commitment to making this world just that much more special.
I am a prolific painter, working daily in my studio in West Seattle. While I love the freedom to paint what I want, I am also very inspired by others. Collaborating on projects makes the solitary career that I have built for myself a much more human experience and has created opportunities for connections in business and in life; and really what more could I ask for?
I love a good challenge and am always forthcoming. If you request something I can’t execute with confidence I will do my best to point you to other talented artists. My goal is to develop a mutually beneficial relationship where we all can shine, and where the end client feels they’ve been well cared for.
What I Can Do for You
I bring to the table an ability to create in varied styles, although admittedly I have my favorites. Although I am an independent artist, producing work on my own; I can be a leader and a trusted team player to you. I believe relationships are the key to success in engaging people and creating meaningful artwork and spaces. Since moving to Seattle four and a half years ago, I have enjoyed developing these types of relationships and contributing to the inspired landscape I have found in this city. I would love to use my talents and help support your efforts too. I am certain that you will benefit from my unique combination of communication, design experience, and enthusiasm should you choose to include me or my work in your projects. As a side note, I would include that I am easy to work with, responsive, and funny.
Confession time: I have a mouth like a “trucker,” (but will always hold my tongue when meeting clients), I drink more than the acceptable amount of coffee in a day, and I’m “one of those weirdos” that doesn’t eat wheat. Hey, these things matter in relationships ;)
Kind Words from Clients and Collaborators
“Genna has great vision, ideas, and listens attentively to her clients’ needs. She is extremely creative and draws on years of experience working with the trades. She is honest, hard-working, and has always found a way to suggest an idea that fits our budget. Genna is genuinely interested in ensuring that her customers are 100% satisfied. We have used her on numerous occasions and will continue to do so!”
-R. Philippe
“Genna's understanding and experienced eye for space and design are impressive. We have called upon her MANY times to assist with selections for our homes - she just "gets" scale and style. Her desire to help is genuine and we know she keeps our best interests at the forefront of any project she takes on - we trust her implicitly!” -A. Leonforte
“I’ve worked with Genna over the past twenty years; calling on her for her trusted opinion. Her incredible talent for understanding your needs, her amazing vision of the “to be” state, and client commitment has impacted our decisions in an extremely positive manner, ensuring we make the right decisions and creating the vision we couldn’t always see but Genna could somehow. If you are looking for someone to guide you with each aspect of your project, see beyond the “as is” and get you where you need to be, Genna is the person for you!”
W. Stephanson
Gray Sky Gallery | Seattle Art District
Gray Sky Gallery is a contemporary art gallery in Seattle. Located in the historic Pioneer Square District at 320 1st Avenue S. It provides a bright, inviting space for people to connect with local artists and engage with their work.
Be sure to stop by during our regular business hours, Thursday through Saturday 12 pm to 5 pm, or join us First Thursdays from 5 pm to 8 pm for the Pioneer Square Art Walk. Alternatively, you may book a private appointment at your convenience at genna@grayskygallery.com / laura@grayskygallery.com We’d love to see you!
Imagine That | Eye Candy
Want to imagine what my work will look like beyond the expansive walls of a gallery? Yeah, me too! Here's a peek for your viewing pleasure. Click on the image to see more.
Bring It Home | Michael Birawer Gallery
What a treat! This January I have the privilege of being one of the featured artists at the Michael Birawer Gallery in Seattle. The opening reception was filled with great energy, dear friends and new fans. For long time clients and fans of my work, you will recognize the neutral pallet as a staple from me; some may go as far as saying a "signature." (Ottawa fans certainly will and if you saw I how I live, you too would know.) How interesting I found it, that multiple times through the evening, people complimented me on the palette and wanted to know if it was a difficult departure for me? It became very evident that bright, colourful work; something this city demanded had become my "signature" in Seattle.
While I love the freedom I have as an artist to follow my muse in any direction and will continue to create with colour; I am very proud that I was able to "bring it home," and showcase work that truly reflects me and my own personal taste, with a nod to the places I come from, and a hint of where I'm going.
PS. Thank you to Diane fVenti or the photos of the calm before the storm.
Street Corner, NYC
360 Modern | Interview
360modern is a community of modernists including architects, Modern furniture and art experts, non-profits, state historical organizations, county historical groups, and contractors. Today, we’re continuing our showcase of the people and businesses that make up the Seattle Modern community.
We had the chance to ask Genna Draper, a local Seattle artist
a few questions. Without further adieu, here’s her story first hand…
Briefly introduce yourself.
There’s no real mystery to my story. My name is Genna Draper, an eternal optimist, I look for good in every situation and each person I meet despite circumstance. This way of being served me well when we uprooted our family from our home in Ottawa, Canada two years ago. A working artist with over 20 years in the business of art, I am thrilled to be living and working in Seattle; a vibrant city with so much enthusiasm and support for artists.
When did you know you’d become an artist?
The only child in a large Italian family, my creative pursuits were always supported and encouraged. Drawing, painting, sewing, and building were integral activities of my daily life, and as is the case today I am happiest working with my hands. It was not a cerebral decision to “become an artist,” it was the work. For me there is no separation from creating as a child to creating as an adult, it was just what did; and what I continue to do. I suppose it was knowing I could monetize my skills that set the path.
What is your medium and what attracted you to this medium?
I would consider myself a mixed media artist. Paints, plasters, and resins are staples in my creative toolbox, however I would never limit myself to those alone. I am fearless in my pursuit of achieving a desired result. If that means pulling in textiles, found objects or non traditional techniques then I’m going to do it.
Do you have any tricks to connecting with your creative self?
I’ve never considered it as being separate part of me. Life, not just art requires creativity and problem solving. I suppose I should just thank my parents for instilling those skills in me; that and the crazy belief that I can tackle anything my my mind dreams up.
Do you have any special routines that you do to help you work?
There’s no magic to it. I just show up. Monday to Friday I throw on my paint encrusted clothes, grab a latte from C & P Coffee, and walk alongside my dog to my studio down the street. Getting me to work is not the issue, getting me to stop for the day is; according to my husband.
What’s your greatest inspiration in creating your work?
Knowing that I don’t have to be one thing. There’s a common belief that as an artist you need to commit to one style, or one thing to achieve success and I couldn’t disagree more. I believe that the skill and experience you achieve overtime can be applied to work, no matter what. I have left the “door open” to pursue any idea that I fancy. That freedom is all the inspiration I need.
What are the most satisfying pieces to create?
I would say that my satisfaction comes from the work and less about any particular piece. Being productive and hitting my goal, be it a deadline for a show or the successful completion of a commission then I’m more than happy. The most satisfying thing of course is knowing that people connect with my work and choose to make it part of their lives.
How do you think about your art related to Modern architecture and design?
My interest in architecture and design was fed from my early days as a partner in specially wall finishing business. I had the privilege of working on some incredible projects and have great respect to the work architects and designers do. The special details that to some may go unnoticed, were never lost on me. When I work on a particular series it is often with placement in mind.
In the creation of my recent resin works, I considered several elements. First the environment. Living in West Seattle, I am surrounded by mountains, water and the ever changing sky. On a clear day, this place is incredible and I wanted that spark to be represented in the final pieces. I drew visual cues from the landscape overlooking Puget sound and through deconstruction created new modern landscapes. The large open spaces and clean lines found in modern homes create the perfect backdrop for this work.
Patricia Mulligan of drizl.co said it more eloquently than I ever could when she described the “geometry of my topographical paintings as pairing nicely with the angles of the architecture in modern and midcentury homes.” The result of these large, high gloss works create visual expanses that serve as artificial windows. With the heavy, dark skies so common in the Pacific Northwest, they’re a perfect way bring colour and life to a space.”
Respect Art | Alki Arts in Retrospect
Respect ART!
2015 did a number on me and my family. It stacked up to be one of the most difficult and heartbreaking times of my life. Sleepless nights in the studio lead to some of the most colourful and playful works I'd ever created. Don't be misguided; finding time to work was not a luxury to me, quite the opposite. Professionally it was a HUGE success, with my first solo show in Seattle, at Alki Arts on 1st Avenue. New fans, clients and cheerleaders became little beacons of light. I don't always know how it is that my optimistic nature comes to surface in times most would think to retreat? In retrospect though I can see it in my work and that's more than I could have hoped for.
