ABOUT THE WORK

Handpainted Functional Creations are colorful works of art; eclectic by design and ALL individually hand painted. They are designed to be given, inspire, worn and adorn. My line of mixed media wood boxes include Specialty for Take Out menus, Tea Bags, Jewelry, and Friendship; Asian/Buddha inspired with some Eastern philosophy mixed in; Textured Indian Rosewood Wood Bangles; and Wall Art.  In a land of mass production, this is a refreshing alternative for anyone looking for one-of-a kind custom gifts or adding to their home decor.

Only non-toxic materials are used, beginning with quality wood boxes in different styles and sizes, colorful blends of acrylic paint  (NO LEAD PAINT!), found, recycled and natural materials, and then finished with a glossy polyurethane varnish. 

I am excited to be collaborating with an artisan in Kentucky who is designing custom boxes for me.  They are beautifully made and well constructed. New to my line is a narrower tea box with four compartments. 

CUSTOM INQUIRIES ACCEPTED AND WELCOME.

To view some current designs, click on Showcase.

ABOUT THE ARTIST/ARTIST STATEMENT

"You should never confuse your career with your life."

                                                     Dave Barry, humorist

Being creative is a blessing and curse when it comes to employment.  I spent a
majority of my professional life in media production: television, trade magazine
publishing, and audio/visual communications.  I survived downsizings, a bankruptcy/closure and another company about to go under. I bailed before that happened again!  Fool me once, shame of you. Fool me twice, shame on me. On two separate occasions, I tried corporate environs for some stability and/or security only to be told that I belonged in a creative field.

"There is no security in life, only opportunity."  Mark Twain.

Allowing my entrepreneurial spirit to rise in 2000, I needed inspiration, courage, and
an idea. I found my inspiration and wisdom from quotes on an array of topics, art shows and exhibits, and books.  I began reading and studying Eastern culture and philosophy, practiced yoga; watched  a lot of A&E Biography; attended workshops; talked to artists and retailers, entrepreneurs and those much wiser than myself.

I returned to the hospitality industry for flexibility. I started painting and incorporating everything I learned into my work.  I decided to make art, individuality and inspiration the foundation of my business.  I am continually learning to add patience, flexibility and a hefty dose of HUMOR to the mix.

I am excited to be sharing my hand painted creations with you. I like to think of them as
"feel good" pieces.  My work will continue to evolve, expand and grow with new designs,
products, materials and themes.

                             Commissioned pieces accepted.

Marilyn Grad was born in Cincinnati and resides in Chicago. A self-taught artist, she  graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Communication Arts-Television and Film Production. She successfully survived professional upheavals and a mid-life crisis, giving her the courage and wisdom to express her eclectic individuality to the fullest.

"Fall seven times, get up eight."

                               Japanese Proverb