This Artist Will Convince You to Be a Maximalist
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If you haven’t heard of Diane Hill, the artist is becoming a household name you don’t want to forget. Originally known for her mesmerizing wall murals, Hill took off in the design world for her expert technique of painting 18th-century style Chinoiserie onto silk wallpaper. What began as a year-long passion project in her daughter’s nursery in 2016 took on a new life as the starting point for her brand, which marries traditional paint techniques with modern—and timely–elements.
“I just thought ‘I have to share this on a wider scale,’" Hill explains. "I started off with art prints, but I really wanted this to be bigger. I love that they aren’t a panoramic scene. It’s like creating this scene of a magical garden."
Some of Hill’s audience may be familiar with her work from the “A Change is Gonna Come” print, an homage to singer Sam Cooke that went viral in the summer of 2020, as protests around racial justice erupted across the globe. “At the time of George Floyd’s death, I decided to launch this print. I didn’t know what else to do. I wanted to raise money for charity,” she explains.
“It resonated with people globally, raising over $18,000,” says Hill. The reaction was strong enough to take a momentary pause from creating bespoke wallpapers, and dedicate time to prints instead. In a season of tragedy, Hill was able to create impactful art that spoke volumes—and will continue to do so.
“We sold a thousand prints in one week," Hill marvels. "They are now on 1,000 people's walls as a constant reminder."
Today, she's expanded her offerings with a beautiful wallpaper and fabric collection with Harlequin. The line exudes Hill's trademark color and joy, guiding us into a dreamy paradise of florals, charming birds, and orchard-fresh fruits. Hill was inspired by her love of summer to create a collection that lives and breathes the excitement of warmer weather. “I love the fresh feeling of the first day of summer where you just want to get out with all of your friends…where you wake up in the morning, see that blue sky, and it feels glorious,” she shares. “Even in the winter, I plan to wake up feeling the same way."
In need of a spring refresh? We have all the tips for you here.
Despite the longstanding association of handpainted wall hangings with opulence and luxury, Hill is determined to offer her work—whether it's a single print or a bolt of fabric—at a more accessible price point. But that doesn't stop her from obsessing over every detail in her intricate process.
Translating her sketches onto a large scale worked out perfectly for the artist. Each brushstroke, all of the shading, and even metallic details sprinkled throughout her illustrations is visible in the blown-up scale. "My painting is so intricate," says Hill. "I will find the tiniest brush I can get and cut the bristles off as if I am painting with hair.”
Maximalists, Hill suggests expanding your indoor garden by decking all four walls in a vibrant print. If you are a beginner at adding colorful prints to your home, you can opt for adding wallpaper inside of alcoves or within cupboards.
“I made this collection to inspire women to decorate boldly and express themselves. Go for it—if you want to start small, start small,” she explains. “We can express ourselves in the way that we dress, but when it comes to interiors people are slightly more nervous because it feels so permanent. Choose your favorite color and inject it into your home. If you’re willing to wear it, wear it on your walls as well.”
If you’re tempted to cover every corner of your home with Hill’s work—you are one ‘add to cart' button away from making this a reality. The inspiring "A Change is Gonna Come" print is available for purchase and all of the proceeds continue to go to ther NAACP and United Family and Friends Campaign. When Hill isn’t creating wallpaper, the designer can be found collaborating Sarah Flint for a scarf collection, a gorgeous nap dress for Hill House inspired by Bridgerton that sold out immediately (Daphne and Kate fans, prepare to swoon), and so much more.
Let her be your inspiration to decorate with joy—no matter the season.
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