Stories of unique Projects

A dclient approached us after being unable to source ceramic wildflowers and butterflies on the market, asking whether we could recreate them in plaster. To meet both the creative challenge and a tight deadline, we developed a custom technique inspired by bas-relief, incorporating artificial flowers, leaves, and butterflies.

This meticulous process involved priming each element, individually dipping them into plaster of Paris, re-priming, and finishing with two layers of the same paint used on the bathroom walls. Once several bouquet compositions were completed, each piece was carefully affixed—one by one—to the vaulted ceiling using a high-strength industrial adhesive.

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“Have you ever painted a toilet?” a designer asked.
“Never—but we can certainly explore it,” we replied.

After extensive research into suitable processes, we identified the proper approach, beginning with etching the porcelain surface to ensure adhesion. We then sketched and hand-painted graffiti-style designs inspired by the renowned artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. The finished piece was transported to a professional spray booth, where multiple coats of industrial-grade, two-part protective coatings were applied.

Et voilà! The once-ordinary toilet became a bold conversation piece, holding its own among the eight-foot-tall, bird-themed décor we had previously painted.

See our video of the ceiling overall view.

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For this unique commission, Carole had the privilege of listening to her clients’ personal stories, shaped by a lifetime of extraordinary world travel as a commercial pilot and a stewardess. The maps were created as visual interpretations of their most cherished itineraries, while smaller vignette panels depict specific destinations. A hand-painted watercolor scene brings their personal memories to life. To preserve a beautiful pre-existing mural by a former artist, the maps were painted on thin yet rigid Mylar sheets. These durable panels were carefully stapled along the edges and discreetly finished with a one-inch gold fabric gimp trim, providing a refined and elegant final touch. See our video of the powder room overall view.

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In 2014, Carole Da-Cruz was commissioned by Paula Batali Wallpapers of LIEF Antiques Gallery in Los Angeles, to hand-draw and digitally process unique wallpaper designs under her creative direction.

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• For several years, Once Upon a Time Children’s Theatre at the Malibu Playhouse commissioned Carole to create hand-painted backdrops and props for its annual children’s productions.
• For the 2014 Peter Pan play, the project called for computer-rendered décor and hand-painted watercolor scenes to be integrated into the three-dimensional stage design and projected accordingly. Throughout each production, Carole oversaw seamless scene transitions and managed the music, ensuring precise synchronization using Keynote software.
• The final section of this sliding gallery, features two wall-painted murals designed as backdrops for large etched-glass sculptures, subtly enhancing their detail and presence.
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• In the early years of The French Brush, Carole became  an avid participant to many Chalk Art Festivals in Southern California.
• She was often flown to the annual Austin Italian Chalk Art Festival weekend. Copies of masters were rendered on large pastel boards, then auctioned off to support a nonprofit children's fund for those affected by the devastating AT disease.
• In November 2002, Carole had the incredible opportunity to lead a team of artists in creating a monumental street chalk art piece within a 24-hour time frame on a closed Hollywood Boulevard, positioned in front of the Roosevelt Hotel. This art and charity gala was sponsored by the Longines Watch company, with proceeds benefiting The Audrey Hepburn CARES Team at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. The 160'x90' mural progression received significant media and public attention, including live coverage by ABC7 News.
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