Collected Conversations with Charissa Owens

New month, new artist! We are thrilled to welcome Charissa Owens to Collected Maison, with her debut collection release on Wednesday April 9th at 10 a.m. CST! Based out of Alexandria, Louisiana, her peaceful pieces are inspired by nature and rooted in tranquility, serenity, and elegance. Her signature earthy tones—muted blues, greens, grays, and blush pinks are beautifully shown in her latest body of work, which includes soft-hued abstracts, vibrant magnolias, and heavily textured hydrangeas. Keep reading to get to know the talented artist- her artful journey, inspiration, and advice on collecting and decorating- before her collection release tomorrow!

Why art? How did you begin your art journey?

I have always been deeply inspired by interior design, fashion, and graphic design. Art has fascinated me for as long as I can remember—creating has always been second nature. From an early age, my family nurtured my creativity in their own unique ways.

My father taught me the value of working with my hands. He was always building things, my mother expressed artistry through her culinary skills…she is a master in the kitchen, and my uncle, an architect, introduced me to the magic of drawing. I have fond memories of sitting on his drafting table, sketching flowers as he designed homes. My grandfather, a welder, sparked my love for sculptural art by teaching me how to create with metal. Creativity, though unconventional in my family, was always present—and I inherited that legacy, so art has been in my life for as long as I can remember. I was ALWAYS creating and making art.

It was just in 2020 that I began to see it as a career for me. I started painting pillows and that blossomed very quickly into a full fledged art business. I was just having fun painting but the pillows grew into canvases and the canvases grew bigger and bigger and then my art got in several stores and I began working with designers. It was such an organic and natural progression and I was having a blast doing it.

Explain your art in a few words.

As I’ve developed my artistic style, I’ve realized that my true passion is creating art that brings a sense of peace to people’s homes. In a world that feels increasingly busy and chaotic, I believe our homes should be a sanctuary—a place of calm and serenity. Blue has always been a constant in my work; its peaceful, elegant presence inspires me, and it has naturally become my signature color. My art is rooted in tranquility, serenity, and elegance, and I hope it brings that same feeling to everyone who experiences it. I’d love for you to visit my Instagram and see my work—I hope it resonates with you! (@charissaowensart)

What inspires you and your pieces? Where do you go to gain inspiration?

As an artist, I have learned that creativity is not just about producing—it’s about collecting moments of pure bliss in life that fuels my inspiration. This saying has inspired my art greatly…L’amour de la Vie—a French expression meaning “The Love of Living.” Each piece of my work is infused with the simple yet profound joys of life: the warm hues of a cotton candy sunset while preparing a meal, the soft shadows of leaves dancing on a patio wall, the late-evening breeze on a summer walk, or the mesmerizing glow of fireflies in the night. My art is not only a reflection of my practice in the studio but a celebration of life itself. One of my favorite quotes, by Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, perfectly encapsulates my artistic journey: "When you wake up in the morning, remember how precious is the privilege of living, breathing, and being happy."

How did you define and arrive at your artistic style?

I am constantly trying new things and inspired by so much in nature. I feel like my artistic style is ever evolving. I think that is the beauty of it really. As an artist, we are always creating new things. My work is often described as having a sophisticated elegance, serene simplicity, and a calming presence. I take great joy in knowing my art brings tranquility to others—something the world could always use more of. My distinct use of color sets my work apart; I blend a wide range of hues while maintaining a soft, neutral, and harmonious palette. Earthy tones—muted blues, greens, grays, and blush pinks—are my signature. Through delicate layering and a variety of unexpected tools, I create luxurious textures and patterns drawn from keen observation of everyday beauty.

Is there a specific project, collection, installation, feature, and/or commission that you are most proud of?

I am really proud of my hand sculpted work. It takes so much work to create them, but once they are finished they are absolutely beautiful and I love that it brings my admiration for nature inside to people’s homes.

How do you collect art or artful objects? What is your favorite piece in your collection?

I buy art that I absolutely LOVE and from artists that I absolutely LOVE. When you love the piece and the artist, you will find a spot for it. I love learning about the artist's background and their story- that makes me love the art they create even more. That is my most important advice when starting your own art collection. My favorite piece that I have collected is sculpted oysters by Robyn Hellickson.

How do you decorate your home?

My style looks just like my art. I love white, blue, green and gold. I love peaceful, serene and elegant.

Do you start decorating with the artwork for a space in mind first?

I do love to tie it all in together. Sometimes I have the art first and build around that, but sometimes I like to hunt for the perfect piece after a room is created. I think curating slowly along the way is VERY important. It doesn’t have to all be finished fast. Take your time and buy what you love- what speaks to you.

Alexandria Local Recommendations:

Restaurants:

Trios, Spirits, The Cottage, The Main Dish

Art Centers:

River Oaks Arts Center

Alexandria Art Museum