Warner V Graves III

Here lies my real passion, painting desert landscapes. My plein air studies are often the source of inspiration for larger studio work. I enjoy the challenge of depicting the natural world via plein air and then recreating my impressions with larger studio pieces.

All my various backgrounds come to play in the larger work- an appreciation of vintage travel posters, my work as a muralist, and above all else is my love of nature.

Postcards From Mecca published by Ann Japenga and I is a collection of early 20th century photos shot in the California Desert by Susie Keef-Smith and her cousin Lula Mae Johnson-Graves. Available on the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association website and at The Autry Museum gift shop.

Two new series I’m working on.

One is grouped portraits of awkward young men. In this I’m exploring the times in a mans younger life where we struggle to make sense of the world with its conflicting messages as well as the lack of mentoring figures and how that is reflected in our awkward physical manifestations. Things like not knowing how to deal with bad skin, when and how to shave for the first time, what to do with ones hair.

The second group is a series of large figurative works exploring themes of race and femininity in a traditionally heroic and masculine format.

A collection of various interiors I've worked on

Over time I've worked with clients and designers to create some beautiful one of a kind pieces of furniture, folding screens, and bespoke cabinetry.

A selection of interior landscape murals customized for each space.  I enjoy working with a client and developing their vision to transform a room.  I do several sketches based on information the client shares with me then I produce a scale colored rendering.  Once the design and color scheme is approved I then can begin the project on site.  Occasionally I work on canvas in my studio and install the nearly completed project on site.  

A guest bedroom styled in an 18th century French Chinoiserie manner

 Each piece seen here is a one of a kind work of art hand painted on Louis Vuitton, Goyard and other leather bags and clothing items.  

The following pages will guide you through a variety of chinoiserie projects I've worked on through the years both big and small.

This gallery features a random collection of projects I've worked on over the years.

details from a variety of sky murals 

Something I enjoy doing in my spare time is building miniatures of various architectural styles.

A random collection of close ups and details from various projects.

Assorted publications where my work has appeared