Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cheyne Sexsmith. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Cheyne, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

My artistic journey wasn’t always a straight path. I didn’t always know that I wanted to pursue a creative/artistic career as a cabinet finisher and wood finisher. Initially, it was just a job to pay the bills. Growing up, I had the privilege of experiencing various craftsmanship skills such as paint, varnish, and fiberglass, thanks to working alongside my dad. But at first, I never imagined I would make a profession out of it.

After finishing my time in Huntington Beach, California, I decided to make a change and moved to Bend, Oregon. While there, I explored various career paths, searching for my true calling. It wasn’t until I discovered the captivating world of residential painting and cabinet finishing that I finally found my passion.

It was in Bend, Oregon, where I embarked on my journey as a wood finisher and cabinet finisher, specializing in cabinet painting and millwork finishing. This transition marked the moment when I knew I wanted to pursue a creative and artistic path professionally. The serene and artistic environment of Bend, Oregon, provided the perfect setting for me to nurture my passion for wood finishing.

However, life took another turn, and I found myself relocating to the lively city of Austin, Texas. Austin’s vibrant artistic community offered new opportunities to expand my creative horizons as a wood finisher and cabinet finisher. It was here that I fully embraced my artistic side and continued to evolve professionally, painting my way to a fulfilling and creative career in wood finishing and cabinet painting. My artistic journey from Huntington Beach, California to Bend, Oregon, and finally to Austin, Texas, has been a dynamic and enriching adventure.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Absolutely, I’d be delighted to share more about myself and my journey in the industry.

I initially entered the world of wood finishing and cabinet painting almost by serendipity. As mentioned earlier, my early exposure to various craftsmanship skills, including paint, varnish, and fiberglass, came from working with my father. But it wasn’t until I explored different career paths in Huntington Beach, California, and later in Bend, Oregon, that I found my true calling in this creative industry.

My primary focus revolves around providing top-notch wood finishing and cabinet painting services, catering to residential clients and businesses alike. I specialize in the meticulous art of millwork finishing, where I transform raw wood into exquisite pieces of furniture and cabinetry. My craft involves the careful selection of paints, stains, and finishes to achieve the desired aesthetic and durability.

What sets me apart from others in this industry is my commitment to precision and attention to detail. I believe that the finest craftsmanship lies in the minutiae, and I take pride in my ability to breathe life into wood, turning it into a work of art. I am also deeply dedicated to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and practices whenever possible.

My services expand beyond wood finishing and cabinet painting to include luxury wall and ceiling painting, using top-shelf paints from brands like Fine Paints of Europe. These premium paints provide exceptional depth and vibrancy to your living spaces. I’m also thrilled to introduce my latest offering, VeroMetal application, which allows for unlimited formability and unique design. Walls, furniture, and works of art take on the authentic characteristics of metal, resulting in a stunning transformation.

One of my most significant accomplishments and points of pride is the ability to take a client’s vision and bring it to life. Whether it’s a custom piece of furniture, a unique cabinet design, or a full residential makeover, I thrive on the satisfaction of turning ideas into reality. I believe in fostering strong client relationships built on trust and communication.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that I am not just a wood finisher or cabinet painter; I am an artist who is passionate about creating enduring, beautiful pieces that enrich homes and businesses. My brand is built on the pillars of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and environmental consciousness. I’m always excited to take on new challenges and to collaborate on projects that demand a touch of artistic finesse and expert finishing. Your vision, my expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence – that’s what defines my work and what I’d like you to know about me and my brand.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Absolutely, my creative journey is fueled by a profound mission to bring beauty and artistry into the lives of my clients and the spaces they inhabit. My goal is to transcend mere aesthetics and create a lasting impact by infusing each project with a sense of craftsmanship, individuality, and a touch of environmental consciousness. I strive to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary works of art, enhancing not only the physical environment but also the emotional experience of those who interact with my creations. By prioritizing sustainability and mindful craftsmanship, I aim to leave a positive mark on the industry while inspiring others to embrace the beauty and sustainability of artisanal work.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Certainly, let me share a story that illustrates my resilience during a challenging large residential new construction project with intricate millwork and cabinetry, set against the backdrop of a harsh winter.

The project involved a stunning, expansive residence, and the client’s vision was to create a space filled with exquisite millwork and cabinetry that would be the heart of their home. The intricate details and craftsmanship required were extensive, pushing the boundaries of my expertise. The project kicked off during the winter months, and the unforgiving cold added another layer of complexity.

As we embarked on the project, we faced numerous challenges. The frigid winter weather posed a significant threat to the delicate finishes and materials, as extreme temperature fluctuations can negatively impact wood and paint. It was a constant battle to maintain the ideal conditions for the work, with the need for temperature-controlled environments that were often not readily available on a construction site.

Adapting to these conditions required a steep learning curve. We had to develop innovative strategies to protect the materials and ensure they were properly cured and finished. This involved building temporary heated enclosures, implementing climate-control systems, and carefully timing the work to coincide with the milder parts of the day.

Additionally, the intricacy of the millwork and cabinetry demanded constant attention to detail and adaptation of techniques. It was a high-stakes learning experience, where we had to make real-time decisions and find creative solutions to unexpected challenges.

Despite the adversity, I remained determined to deliver the quality and artistry that the client expected. Our team’s resilience shone through as we persisted through the long, bitter winter, overcoming each obstacle with a combination of ingenuity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the craft.

In the end, the project was a triumph, and the client’s vision was realized in stunning detail. This experience reinforced the invaluable lessons of resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. It highlighted the importance of learning on the fly and demonstrated that, with determination and creative problem-solving, even the harshest conditions can’t deter the achievement of remarkable results in the world of craftsmanship and artistry.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.risepaintingtx.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/risepainting