Commissioning a custom painting is one of the most personal and meaningful ways to bring artwork into your home or professional space. Unlike mass-produced décor, a commissioned piece is created specifically for your environment, aesthetic, and vision — resulting in artwork that feels intentional, original, and deeply connected to the space around it.
At Habby Mae Studio, I create original artwork designed to bring warmth, movement, texture, and personality into homes, offices, wellness spaces, and commercial interiors throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee.
If you’ve never commissioned a custom painting before, here’s a look at what the process typically involves and what you can expect along the way.
The Initial Conversation
Every custom painting begins with a conversation about the space itself.
This usually includes:
- the size of the wall or installation area
- preferred colors or tones
- the overall feeling you want the artwork to create
- existing furniture or interior design elements
- inspiration images or styles you’re drawn to
Some clients come with a very specific vision, while others simply know they want something original that feels right for the room. Both approaches work beautifully.
My goal is never to create something that simply “matches décor,” but rather artwork that enhances the atmosphere and personality of the environment.
Choosing the Style & Direction
Custom paintings can range from:
- abstract landscapes
- floral compositions
- textured contemporary pieces
- large statement canvases
- multi-panel installations
- murals
- soft neutral palettes
- bold, colorful focal points
During this stage, I begin developing a creative direction based on the conversation, the space, and the feeling you want the artwork to create.
For many clients, this becomes the most exciting part of the process because they begin to visualize how the artwork will completely transform the room itself.
Sizing & Placement
One of the biggest advantages of commissioning original artwork is flexibility in scale.
Many people struggle to find artwork that properly fits:
- oversized walls
- tall ceilings
- waiting rooms
- staircases
- entryways
- conference rooms
- above beds or sofas
Custom artwork allows the piece to be created specifically for the dimensions of the space, creating a much more balanced and intentional visual experience.
I often help clients with sizing and placement recommendations to make sure the final piece feels cohesive within the environment.
The Painting Process
Once the direction, palette, and sizing are finalized, the painting process begins.
Because every piece I create is original and painted by hand, each commission develops organically through layers of color, texture, movement, and detail.
This stage takes time — and that’s part of what makes original artwork special.
Rather than being mass-produced, commissioned artwork evolves through a thoughtful creative process that results in a one-of-a-kind piece designed specifically for the client and the space it will live in.
Installation & Final Reveal
Once completed, the artwork is delivered and installed within the space.
This is often the moment when clients realize how dramatically original artwork can change the feeling of a room.
A custom painting can:
- soften sterile environments
- create warmth within modern interiors
- add personality to professional spaces
- become a focal point for conversation and connection
- help a room feel finished and intentional
Whether it’s a residential installation, office environment, wellness space, or commercial interior, original artwork creates an atmosphere that simply cannot be replicated with mass-produced décor.
Why More Clients Are Investing in Original Artwork
More homeowners and businesses throughout Knoxville are moving away from generic wall décor and investing in original artwork that feels personal, meaningful, and locally connected.
Commissioning a custom painting allows you to:
- support local artists
- create something truly unique
- personalize your environment
- invest in artwork with lasting emotional value
- bring warmth and authenticity into your space
Born and raised in LaFollette, Tennessee, I’ve been painting since I was eight years old. What began as a lifelong creative outlet eventually evolved into Habby Mae Studio — a growing collection of original artwork designed to help spaces feel more human, inviting, and alive.
Today, I live in Knoxville with my three children and continue creating original artwork for both residential and commercial spaces throughout East Tennessee.
If you’re interested in commissioning a custom painting or learning more about the process, you can explore my work at Habby Mae Studio or reach out through the contact page to start a conversation about your space.