Here lies my real passion, painting desert landscapes. My plein air studies are often the source of inspiration for larger studio work. I enjoy the challenge of depicting the natural world via plein air and then recreating my impressions with larger studio pieces.
All my various backgrounds come to play in the larger work- an appreciation of vintage travel posters, my work as a muralist, and above all else is my love of nature.
oil on board, plein-air, 9 x 12
Postcards From Mecca published by Ann Japenga and I is a collection of early 20th century photos shot in the California Desert by Susie Keef-Smith and her cousin Lula Mae Johnson-Graves. Available on the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association website and at The Autry Museum gift shop.
A collection of various interiors I've worked on
Egyptian themed room from a Manhattan penthouse
Egyptian themed NYC penthouse
Over time I've worked with clients and designers to create some beautiful one of a kind pieces of furniture, folding screens, and bespoke cabinetry.
A selection of interior landscape murals customized for each space. I enjoy working with a client and developing their vision to transform a room. I do several sketches based on information the client shares with me then I produce a scale colored rendering. Once the design and color scheme is approved I then can begin the project on site. Occasionally I work on canvas in my studio and install the nearly completed project on site.
trompe l’oeil ruin over door
Egyptian themed trompe l’oeil ruins
The following pages will guide you through a variety of chinoiserie projects I've worked on through the years both big and small.
This gallery features a random collection of projects I've worked on over the years.
Something I enjoy doing in my spare time is building miniatures of various architectural styles.
A random collection of close ups and details from various projects.
Egyptian themed room
Assorted publications where my work has appeared
So honored to have my work featured in a spread in this book!
website graphic for San Francisco Fall Antique Show featuring my chinoiserie work
https://www.californiadesertart.com/the-golden-age-of-warner-graves-back-to-the-canyons/
Book Ann Japenga and I are published of vintage photos taken in the California desert by two adventurous women., Susie Keep Smith and Lula Mae Johnson-Graves.
