Perret, Kay

Kay Perret, dancingbrushpainting.com 

After a 20-year career in the corporate world it was time for a change. “Here’s what I want,” I said to the universe. “I want to be creative. I want to love what I do. I want to be excited to get up in the morning and do it.” 

I didn’t know I wanted to be a decorative painter. I didn’t even know what that was! But I’ve been one for 12 years. I have found that furniture, in particular, takes on a life of its own as I’m working on it, and these chairs were no exception. 

Of course, when I’m working with a client I have a plan with approved samples before I start. But the nuances and backstory reveal themselves as I’m working, making the piece even better. 

So I got my wish. I love my job!

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Chair Affair Artist

Kay Perret, dancingbrushpainting.com 

After a 20-year career in the corporate world it was time for a change. “Here’s what I want,” I said to the universe. “I want to be creative. I want to love what I do. I want to be excited to get up in the morning and do it.” 

I didn’t know I wanted to be a decorative painter. I didn’t even know what that was! But I’ve been one for 12 years. I have found that furniture, in particular, takes on a life of its own as I’m working on it, and these chairs were no exception. 

Of course, when I’m working with a client I have a plan with approved samples before I start. But the nuances and backstory reveal themselves as I’m working, making the piece even better. 

So I got my wish. I love my job!

Red Schoolhouse Chair

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Fictionalized Backstory: This chair came from a rural schoolhouse in operation from the mid-1930s until the late ‘50s. It was then salvaged and used in an attic playroom, brought out again for grandchildren, and later sold in an estate sale. 

The Real Scoop (it’s an IKEA chair circa 2011)

This piece was painted with three different colors of durable red paint and is sealed with an exterior-rated clear coat. Put it on a covered porch for a plant. (But use a saucer so water doesn’t pool on the seat.) Tuck it into a corner to hold books and a small lamp. Use it in a child’s bedroom or playroom. Dress it up for Christmas with stuffed animals and greenery. Use it as a display piece. Put it near the door to hold your keys and purse or tablet. Or sit on it!

Ombre Denim Chair

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Fictionalized Backstory: A plain little chair sat ignored. “I just know I could be useful if I was popular like the jeans,” it thought. 

Cue the Fairy Godmother. “Bippity, boppity, beans, so you want to look like jeans!” she chanted gleefully. 

Transformation complete.

The Real Scoop (it’s an IKEA chair)

A favorite pair of faded jeans was the inspiration for this shaded hombre chair. It was painted with white, three different blues and two glazes.

Have fun with this chair! Exterior rated clear coats over the color mean that you can use it on a covered porch or terrace as an extra seat or for display. Put it in a teen’s room for a little extra space to hang sports gear or jewelry, catch the odd sweater and jeans, or perch. (It’s surprisingly comfortable for an adult to sit on, too.)