Simon Olsson's Indian Inspired Style

When I first introduced you to the work of my Painter in Residence, Simon Olsson, I was thrilled by the positive response of my readers. There is something so pleasing about his painting technique, and in particular the texture he creates. Simon has really mastered the art of turning a standard piece of furniture it in to something incredibly beautiful, using my paint, Chalk Paint®.

What I love about Simon's style is its affinity with a bohemian, Indian style. The two pieces I'm sharing in this blog are hugely influenced by Indian style and colour, be it intricate carving of the table or the distressed patina of the cabinet.

The unusual shape and indentations caused by the many doors of this antique Indian cabinet lends itself so well to a textured, painterly and layered finish.  Simon used Graphite, Provence, Old White and Louis Blue from my Colour Palette to create layers of paint, which he distressed heavily, to create a rustic, chippy look.

Simon began by painting the cabinet in Chalk Paint® in Old White, applying the paint quite thickly. He then added a coat of Graphite, before finally covering it in a custom mix of Provence, Old White and Louis Blue. Once dry, Simon sanded the piece heavily to reveal the different colours underneath. And then, to protect all that lovely paintwork, Simon finished the whole piece with a couple of layers of Clear Chalk Paint® Wax. I love the turquoise colour he has created here. Doesn't it look fabulous against the monochrome of the Graphite and Old White?

Ornate and intricate wood carving is an ancient art practice across India, and this stunning table is a prime example. It lends itself well to being painted as there's so much gorgeous detail to highlight! I love Simon's colour choice for this piece - my pale pink Antoinette. It adds a modern touch to the piece, and the sensitive yet bold way that he applied the paint makes the most of the detailing. 

Have you been influenced by Simon's work or Indian style? Show me your work by tagging me on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, and use #anniesloan, I would love to see your pieces!

Yours, Annie 

My new Painter in Residence, Simon Olsson!

I’m thrilled to share the first project from my latest Painter in Residence, the lovely and supremely talented Simon Ollson! His work with my paint is just gorgeous, and I am amazed at all he has achieved at only 17! Based in Malmo, Sweden, Simon’s work is all about creating gorgeous, textured patina in rich and bold colour combinations. Inspired by bohemian Indian arts and crafts, he pairs bright colours with neutrals to create interesting and complementary colour palettes. 

Simon started his residency by transforming this chair, which was originally painted a gloomy white. To stay in keeping with the classic French bistro style and shape, Simon used complimentary colours from the Chalk Palette to create a gorgeous patina. He started by painting the entire surface in Provence, and then, once dry, he applied a second coat of Chalk Paint in Chateau Grey - a traditional greyed green - evocative of fine old French furniture. He then sanded the paint back in varying amounts, sometimes right back to the original glossy white, taking care to highlight the distinctive shape of the legs and the back. To finish the piece, Simon applied a coat of Clear Soft Chalk Paint Wax.This once glossy metal chair now looks aged, rustic with a sumptuous French farmhouse style.

I love how he has found his personal style so young, he truly is a talented young man, and I can't wait to see what you think of his work!

As ever, let me know your thoughts, or share with me any pieces that you have created that are similar to this chair, on my Facebook, Instagram or Twitter!

Yours, Annie