Photography by Elizabeth Jochum, courtesy of Charlie Blood
Origins
Charlie Blood always had a flair for the dramatic. “Besides doodling in the margins,” he says, “I did murals and worked on set designs in high school.” Blood helped redo Lafayette Square’s “painted ladies,” and in 1986, he launched his business (314-223-4651, charlesbloodartistic.com), replicating a wide range of surfaces.
Techniques
Blood’s repertoire continues to grow. “It’s evolved from sponge-painting to all of the metallic finishes,” he says. He has created faux plaster medallions, imitation wood inlays, sky-inspired ceilings… “You research those images and products,” he says, “then figure out how to process them as efficiently as possible and still have a convincing story.”
Routine
You’d think that Blood would be ready to relax after a long day of painting someone’s house. “Unfortunately, you don’t get to relax,” he says. He spends hours researching images and projects, as well as working on sample boards to prep for upcoming projects. “You don’t want to be flat-footed when that job comes around.”
Advice
Blood emphasizes the importance of planning before painting. “Prep is everything,” he says. “Once the prep’s done, the painting is almost a given. Without that, it’s one hassle and fiasco after the next.” Another tip: Use quality materials. “You don’t really save anything by going cheap,” explains the seasoned painter.
Art on the Side
Blood’s work can be seen in galleries, too. His fine art is fairly contemporary, though he appreciates many styles. (He’s taught at the Saint Louis Art Museum, leading students through the exhibits.) His own art is “more graphic in nature.” One recent series explores exclamation points—apt, given his impressive work.
