As part of our Art of gifting campaign we have connected with a variety of artists and creatives to discuss all things art, gifting and the beauty standard.
We are excited to Introduce to you- Grace Percival a Brighton-based artist and designer whose work brings a burst of colour and joy to modern art. With a background in fashion and textiles, Grace has a keen eye for detail and a love for vibrant palettes. Her work is mainly focused on cheerful still lifes, capturing the charm of dinner parties, lively florals, and colourful holiday scenes.
The beauty standard has had the pleasure of getting to know grace a little more,
TBS: Can you tell us about your background and how you got started as an artist?
GP: After studying fashion and textiles I thought I wanted to work in Bridal wear, this however, was short lived. I then went on to search for a new route but wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I came across an advert on a job site - on reflection, a very cheesy advert - for an internship that asked, “Do you love painting? Do you love drawing?” I decided I did love both of those things so took a shot. After interning for a couple of solid years, I became a print designer selling to multiple different brands, before going freelance and working for a bunch of studios which I still do now. Ultimately though, I love creating my own pieces which I started fairly recently. I really like the freedom and complete control: It’s great. I found it a bit daunting at the beginning but really sometimes you just need to start.
TBS: Who or what are your biggest influences?
GP: In terms of who, my dad is amazing at all things creative. He’s always been my biggest influence.
TBS: Ahh we love that, How do you decide on the themes and subjects of your work?
GP: I’m currently obsessed with still lives. These always include ceramics, as window shopping for vases is my favourite pastime. Wine bars are pretty much a constant, not necessarily for the reason you think. I like the table layouts, glasses, flowers, bottles and tablecloths; they are usually ever changing too, so a constant source of inspiration, from the bottle branding to the bud vases on the tables.
TBS: Do you have any rituals or routines that you follow when creating art or help you throughout your day?
GP: Daily routine starts with walking to my studio along the beach which, as cliche as it sounds, does make me happy on a daily basis.
TBS: That sounds amazing and is exactly how i'd love to start my day- What advice would you give to aspiring artists?
GP: Paint what you enjoy, not what you think others will like.
TBS: What other interests or hobbies do you have outside of art?
GP: I should probably say something that makes me sound more exciting, but in all honesty it’s hanging out on the sofa with my boyfriend and my little dog, Mr Beefy.
TBS: There is nothing wrong with enjoying being at home with your family, and we get to see Mr Beefy in the video you have created for us. What messages or emotions do you hope to convey through your art?
GP: My work is always very vibrant and playful, I like to think it brings a bit of fun to peoples homes.
TBS: As you know we love colour at the beauty standard How do you choose your colour palette?
GP: This is one of my favourite parts. I always start with a rough sketch on my computer, then I can play around with the colours as much as I like. That way when it comes to painting I’m already confident in my palette.
TBS: How do you handle creative blocks or moments of doubt?
GP: In all honesty, you just have to put it in the bin and start again.
TBS: What has been your favourite product within your beauty standard box and why?
GP: It has to be the Verden hand and body balm, I will forever be a fangirl of theirs.
TBS: And finally, what's a memorable gift you've received that holds a special place in your heart, and why?
GP: My boyfriend bought me a bar of Tony's Chocolonely when you couldn’t get it in the UK. Blew my mind.
You can see Graces creation for the beauty standard on our instagram account, and can find out more about Graces work via her website. www.gracepercivaldesign.co.uk