Today we’d like to introduce you to Piper Bridwell

Hi Piper , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

Painting started, for me, in a completely different avenue. I began this journey by painting vintage furniture. Remember the shabby chic days? Thats where all of this began. I had a furniture painting business for 8 years that eventually begame a full time commision only business. In the early days, I would find mid century tables and paint them bight funky colors, or add patterns. I loved it! But over time, it became commissions and many were too afraid to make their grandmas side table funky, so they wanted painted black, or gray, or white…boring!!! People would bring in their dressers, headboards, dining chairs, or what ever they needed updating, and I would do whatever they wanted. It felt like I was losing out on being creative and I began to dread every call for a new commission.

In 2014, I was pregnant with my third (and last) kid and couldn’t stand the thought of sanding, and removing hardware and all that came with the huge pieces of furniture that I was working with. I also wanted something very specific for the nursery but couldn’t find it, so, I grabbed a canvas and just went for it. I immediately knew this was what the Lord meant for me!! I loved it! All of the years of working with different paint mediums had prepared me for this new love of creating art.

I began painting and posting to social media. As paintings began to sell, I fell more and more in love with creating. I knew that this was what I was created to do. My business began to grow and I quickly outgrew my home studio. In 2019, i moved my business into my current studio and Gallery in Edmond, OK. Galleries from other states and countries began contacting me for representation. I currently have representation in England and Italy.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

Being self taught, there was MUCH to learn. Finding my own style was probably the most trying part. In order to learn styles, you first have to study others work. There are a lot of wasted canvas in the beginning, but eventually, I started to feel my authentic voice and had peace and excitement when I would create. I didn’t feel like I was focused on “how did they do that” any more.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

I am an abstract painter. My works are oil, acrylic and mixed media. I am known for my thick texture that is in every painting. Some are more exaggerated than others. The texture represents gratitude. I also incorporate a sense of light in my oil pieces. My faith is the inspiration for my work and creating the light is a reminder to be a light in this dark world. I am most proud of the fact that I’ve been given an opportunity to share my faith with others through this business. I’m able to share freely the good news!! I feel that my style of work and the meaning behind it sets my work apart. It represents joy, love, gratitude, and sends a message of hope to homes all over the world.

Who else deserves credit in your story?

I have so many people that have taught me, encouraged me and helped me along the way. My mom, who is also an artist, has been my biggest supporter and encourager. We share a studio and I am so grateful for the time and conversations we share in our space. My husband has been amazing over the years to support my dream. He is always there to give me his honest opinion. Dennis Johnson, my mentor, framer and friend taught me so much and gives me great advice.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.piperbstudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/piperbstudio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/piperbstudio