The story of my first “overlooked” painting that hit a very large audience.

When I was eighteen, I had come across fresh creative influence that sparked a side of my creativity that felt so personal, aligned, but also vulnerable. This oil painting was the first manifestation of that. With strong influence from artists such as Rosanna Jones and her iconic and daring collages, to Bobbie Burger and her luscious buttery brushwork.

I created this painting soon after moving across country after getting married. A perfectly timed moment to reinvent ourselves and our vision. Visiting my hometown Sacramento, I brought some art prints to feature at a local coffee shop including this one. Francesca Grace, a Los Angeles interior designer, came across it upon her passing by and wanted to use this artwork in her staging. So I shipped the original painting to her. This was the first act of faith in my work. And faith always bears fruit one day.
A few of years later.. the painting was used in staging in the Netflix series, Selling Sunset!

This led to the owner of a new Parisian gallery, Tannaz Kesharvarzian to find my work. And from there, we collaborated on bringing together a show. My very first solo show, in Paris! I am so grateful for all the stepping stones and supportive people along the way.

Thanks for joining in my journey!

With love, Vern