Papier is an interior designer, television personality and lead designer on the Magnolia Network’s show Artfully Designed. She is also the author of Start with the Art: The Smart Way to Decorate Any Room on Any Budget, a book that illustrates her design philosophy — that the best way to create a space you love is to begin with something that moves you.

Rooted in a shared philosophy of art-focused interiors and thoughtfully curated spaces that reflect the owner’s personality, “See You at Home” is a collection of works guest-curated by Natalie in the front room of the gallery that lean into the idea of what "home" means to her. 

“This installation is meant to feel nostalgic — emphasizing the comfort of home. It’s familiar and joyful, with a touch of whimsy” 

Known for her bold, eclectic style, Papier says that art is everywhere. “I want to encourage others to find it — whether it’s a beloved heirloom object, a painting, a fun collection, or a textile,” she says. “The book offers visual guides, inspiration, and a whole lot of straight talk, helping you build from your inspiration to incorporate the textures, patterns, colors and furnishings that make spaces feel perfect to you.”

We believe that Natalie's focus on emotional connection makes for a natural collaboration with us here at Art & Light. 

“Our approach is exactly the same. We instinctively gravitated toward similar pieces and placed the artwork in much the same way," says Natalie, and she is right! During the installation, our team was in lockstep and had so much fun collaborating together!

Q:  So you wrote a book called, “Start With Art”. We hold this motto close and would love to know why are art-inspired interiors important to you?

A: I truly believe that adding art into a house is what turns it into a home. Art is not just decoration - it is the soul. Art brings in soul, personality, expression and depth. It is also imperative in grounding a room. 

Q:  When getting started designing a space for a client, what are the things you consider? 

A: I like to start with what are the pieces in the space they currently love so I can consider how to work those elements into the design. Then it's a matter of respecting the architecture of the space as well as the flow into adjoining rooms. Next it's a indepth process of getting to know your client and their tastes so at the end of the day, their home still reflects the people living it in.

Q:  Tell us about your TV show, Artfully Designed! What is it like working with other creatives in this capacity? 

A: Filming two seasons of Artfully Designed was the most fun job in the world especially when you get to work with your friends. Working with other creatives is such a gift as it opens your mind up to new ways of looking at things. It sparks a true camaraderie and respect among creatives while inspiring you to push yourself even further.

Q: When curating our most recent capsule collection, you said you were inspired by pieces that remind you of home. Can you let us in on why you chose one or two of the pieces in particular for, See You At Home?  

A: I kept finding myself drawn to Morning Mango by Daniel Klewer because for me when the sun is shining in North Carolina (especially after moving from Chicago), you will always find me outside by the pool soaking up the sunshine. It's my happy place at home. 

Knowings by Elisabeth Ladwig really touched on how it feels after being away from home and exhausted that knowing that soon you'd have the comfort of being home on your couch was what was going to get you through.

Q: If you could give an emerging collector or someone decorating their home one piece of advice for art collecting, what would it be? 

A: If there is something you find yourself drawn to, pay attention to that feeling. That's your inner gut telling you what your style is. Pay attention to that and take pics so you'll remember it in the future. If it's a piece you can afford? Don't hesitate. Buy it. :)

Explore See You at Home here in the gallery and online over the next couple of months and be sure to join us on August 1st from 6-8 to meet Natalie, have her sign your book and party with us for our 19th Anniversary Exhibition!