This mural is by Deborah Skinner, the owner of Blue Frog Arts, and is in a local couple's home. The painting was done for the clients' new grandson's room. It is a specific row of beautifully twisted and gnarled red bud trees on College Avenue in Lamoni.
When these trees bloom each spring, they are often discussed by those who are tuned in to natural beauty. The strength of the chocolate brown ancient tree branches balanced with the young fresh petals makes quite a bold statement. For the mural, I used the first several redbud trees, softened the pallette, and placed them in a pastoral setting, rather than in town.
The effect was transformational. It invites the vistor into the room from the hallway, evokes a sense of calm, and expands the boundaries of the room to beyond the walls and into the cool distance. I'm pleased with the result. 
How would you begin a mural project? This couple was inspired by a mural I had done several years ago of Cherry Blossom trees. I thought the clients had chosen excellent subject matter, as I have been impressed by the beauty of these trees for years.
I visited their home and photographed the room and the wall where the mural was to be painted. I produced several preliminary sketches in colored pencil and met with the couple. From that discussion, we finalized the details of the mural and set a date for production. The mural took approximately one day to complete. Voila - it is done!
Custom original artwork is done by several artists at Blue Frog Arts: Deb Skinner - portraits or any subject matter in pencil, watercolor, or murals; Myrna Morris - watercolor; Helen Caples - porcelain and pastels.
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