Ethereal. Elegant. Exclusive. These are just a few words that come to mind when describing local artist Colette Cosentino's work. However, visitors who have been fortunate enough to visit Colette in her downtown flagship art studio would likely add welcoming, down-to-earth and approachable to the list. Like the layers of paint, textures and decorative motifs of her signature painting style, gorgeous layers of completed canvases and prints line the floor and cover the walls of her fanciful space. From murals two years in the making and wall coverings for storied design houses to fine art prints and playful wooden art block puzzles (inspired by a beloved childhood keepsake), this esteemed painter makes her art accessible to all. And the serene scene is not limited to art. Colette also carries a small selection of hand-made tulle skirts, dresses and velvet slips that harken back to time spent in a tutu when she was a small child with ballerina dreams. Of the clothing collection, Colette says, "I really believe it is important, vital even, to cultivate the life of our child within. We're too young to be old!" It is this attitude and the pervasive presence of sophisticated whimsy that ultimately define her 30+ year career. Even as the accomplishments, prestigious commissions and collaborations stack up, Colette considers herself a "late bloomer" and feels she's "just getting started." If this is just the beginning, we can't wait to see what comes next!
Tell us a bit about yourself and the origin story of the atelier/gallery.
It was always a dream of mine to have a retail shop/gallery in which to work. In the past, my studios mainly were solitary, and I wanted interaction. I like visitors!
What inspires and informs the ethereal themes presented in your work?
It's a heart thing. I want to inspire and affect people in a way that makes them feel comforted and invigorated all at once. I create with the intent to inspire others to be creative. I want the viewer's inner-child to be awakened, invoking imagination.
How do you go about getting your concepts on canvas?
My process is highly experimental. I work in oil, oil sticks, open acrylics, gauche, ink and metallics and use water, light and wind. My approach to the canvas, which gets turned in all sorts of directions, is spontaneous.
What have you been up to since launching your impressive wallcoverings collaboration/collection with F. Schumacher & Co?
I have two mural-sized works in progress, both two years in the making, which I work on as time allows. I'm also finishing up commissions and busy creating new works.
In addition to your original paintings and prints, what other treasures might customers discover in the gallery?
I'm very excited to announce the launch of my signature paperweights - a first edition of 50 each, of four different designs. Each piece, made of hand-blown glass using imagery from my paintings, is hand-signed, numbered and dated. Also, just in time for holiday shopping, I'll be introducing my hand-crafted, signature art kits. Intended to be done with a friend, the kits come in a hinged wooden box and contain two images, along with a curated group of paints, brushes, a palette, and more. It's for those who want to be creative but just need a little push in the right direction.
To schedule an appointment, sign up for the newsletter or shop Colette's collection of art and goods, go to colettecosentino.com.
11 West Anapamu Street, 805.570.9863
