A
young woman who
cherished things with a
feeling of age and
history. An artist who
celebrated beauty in
imperfection. These
kinds of simple
contradictions were
Cheri Blum’s trademarks
and perhaps the key to
her remarkable success.
Cheri Blum
(1969-2003) began her
career as an illustrator
and muralist, creating
trompe l’oeil, faux
painting and decorative
furniture finishes. This
background not only
provided her with the
techniques she used to
create her beautiful,
unique backgrounds, but
also a strong desire to
bring art into everyday
life. “We should be able
to surround ourselves
with beautiful art in
our homes and offices,
not just when we visit
museums and galleries.”
Cheri’s approach was
inspired by the past,
but reflected today’s
modern styles. She
strove to create art
that was peaceful,
tranquil and edited of
unnecessary detail. The
simple, graceful shapes
she painted have a
timeless quality and
restful feeling that
make them easy to live
with and enjoy.
When asked about her
sources of inspiration,
Cheri said, “I believe
we find inspiration
everywhere, in objects
that intrigue us, deep
within ourselves, and in
unexpected places. Some
of the great painters of
the past, like John
LaFarge and William
Morris, were able to
create timeless art for
the walls, and yet also
enjoyed great success in
the field of industrial
and home design. These
artists inspire me, and
have helped pave the way
to achieving my goals.
Until her untimely
death in November 2003,
Cheri worked in her
studio along the banks
of the Sassafras River
in the Chesapeake Bay
area of Maryland. “I am
truly grateful to be
able to make a living
doing something that
gives me so much
satisfaction,” said
Cheri.
