“I create because I love it, pure and simple. I love the chaos and the physical demands of executing my ideas into tangible works. Above all else, I love the connections I create with people through my work.”
About the artist | Genna Draper
Genna Draper is a seasoned artist with over 25 years of experience specializing in custom art for commercial and residential spaces. Known for her large-scale, mixed-media paintings her work is appreciated for its intriguing textures and beautiful palettes. Experimentation with diverse materials has allowed her to develop techniques resulting in pieces that provoke curiosity and exploration by the viewer. Her creative sensibilities are reflected in various styles, from colorful and modern to muted and organic. There is no limit to where she draws inspiration for her work.
Born in Ottawa, Ontario, she now lives and works in Seattle, Washington, and Phoenix, Arizona.
Genna’s work can be found in private and public collections across Canada, the United States, and the UK. requests and inquiries are welcomed
““We should have known she was trouble! Her first masterpiece at the age of three, covered ALL of the walls of our freshly painted, two-story home. (Insert exasperated sigh.) Don’t give that kid a crayon...because she’s bound to make her mark!””
“Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes and having fun.”
Three Decades of Creative Pursuit, Entrepreneurship & the business of art
Faux Unlimited, a specialty wall finishing company founded with Sarah Moffat, provided evidence that the myth of “the starving artist,” could be overcome with tenacity, hard work, and serious organizational practices - a serendipitous lesson at twenty-one years old. Focused on growing their reputation in the industry, the duo mastered elegant and technical techniques with plaster, paint, resin, and more. Specialists in color and design; with youthful vigor, they transformed notable Ottawa spaces into extraordinary venues including restaurants, schools, office and condominium towers, glorious residences, and even the Parliament Buildings. Nearly 30 years later both women still proudly wear the title of working artist.
Cocoon Interiors & Cocoon Kids, was launched as a holistic design service with Lina Draper (Mom & #1 cheerleader). The duo expanded the service provided to include, design and decor consultations, including, but not limited to kitchen design, furniture selection, custom drapery and, textile applications, creating commissioned artwork, and project management overseeing entire renovations. While full operations ceased, the passion lives on and it is not unusual for both women to consult on projects.
A Fine Mess, with its bright open studios and retail shop, was a dream that came alive, thanks to the most supportive group of friends and family. Chris, Paul, and Silvana helped launch the business and set the foundation for its success, helping with everything from fit-up, and operations to accounting. Adopted by the community, A Fine Mess became a destination spot in Ottawa and the surrounding region. Thanks to the incredibly energetic staff and the outstanding service they provided, the studios were filled with adults and children seven days a week from day one. The teamwork involved was unparalleled and their commitment went above and beyond expectations. With multiple classes hosted daily, school field trips, corporate events, specialized programming for groups like Autism Ontario, and up to eleven birthday p-art-ies each weekend A Fine Mess was a labor of love that became a second home to many.
Gray Sky Gallery, in the heart of Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square. invites a modern approach to connecting artists with their collectors, while encouraging and mentoring artists to grow their audience. Founder Laura Van Horne, with Genna, built the business with an innovative approach harnessing their network with trade designers and local businesses. The beautiful, three-leveled gallery, continues to showcase new works by established and upcoming artists and has proven a reliable source for projects large and small. It has also earned the reputation as a favorite destination for visitors participating in Seattle’s Monthly, First Thursday Artwalk. Genna’s unexpected departure has left the two plotting future ventures and cheering each other on from afar.
the truth comes out
Genna Draper refuses to get a “real job”. A slave to her family, she runs on fumes and tries to hide in her studio searching for peace. Not one to ever sit still, she frantically buzzes around, working on “too many projects at once, " leaving a trail of chaos behind her. While experimenting with hazardous materials, she inhales deeply and prays for death. Sometimes she’s thrilled with the results and sometimes she thinks they are sh*t.
Genna is envious that her paintings have traveled extensively. She thinks it's only fair that she should get to go too!