Goldfinches at Cedars: My First Mural Project

I’m so excited to share that I’m painting my first public mural: a 7'x7' outdoor piece on the side of Cedars, a beloved Lebanese restaurant in Seattle’s University District.

This mural is more than just a painting. It’s a personal milestone, a tribute to memory and migration, and a way to honor a story.

How it started

Last year, just after I decided to pursue art full-time, I was having lunch at Cedars with a friend. I had only met the owner, John, a couple of times before. He’s the kind of person who makes you feel at ease immediately with his warmth and stories.

He asked me what I did for work. When I told him I was an artist, his face lit up. Without hesitation, he brought out a coffee mug from a set he’d bought 50 years ago, when he first opened the restaurant. On the mug were two goldfinches. He told me they reminded him of Lebanon, his home, and then he asked me to paint them on the wall outside.

He hadn’t seen any of my work. He just believed in the idea.

Why it matters

Cedars isn’t just another restaurant - it’s a fixture of the U District community. It’s one of those places where the community gathers and feels at home. But like many small businesses in Seattle, it’s facing uncertainty. There’s a possibility the building may be taken over by a McDonald’s. That makes this mural feel even more important.

The goldfinches represent home, history, and continuity — a reflection of how deeply a place can matter to someone, and how art can hold those stories in the open.

The process

I’m painting the mural using Nova Color mural paints and the grid method to scale the original design onto the wall. I’ll be working on-site and documenting the process on Instagram and TikTok.

Limited edition prints now available

To help support the project, I’m releasing a limited edition of fine art prints based on the original goldfinch painting. You can find them here.

Want to stay in the loop?

I’m also sharing behind-the-scenes updates, future releases, and exclusive discounts through my newsletter. Subscribers will be entered into an upcoming raffle to win a free print.

Thank you for reading, and for supporting not just my art, but also the stories, people, and places behind it.

With love,
Nicole

Guide to Displaying and Hanging Art

Art has the incredible power to transform a space—it sets the tone, draws the eye, and creates moments of connection in your home. Whether you’re styling a single piece or curating a gallery wall, here are my tips for displaying and hanging art that feels both intentional and personal.

Start with the Space

I always like to consider the room itself when choosing and displaying art. Look at the main tones or accents in the space—soft grays in the walls, bold pops of color in a rug or pillow, or even the richness of a wood table or the cool texture of tiles. Sometimes, it’s these subtle details that bring a piece to life in its environment.

Consider the Mood

The finish of a painting can also affect its presence in a space. I varnish all my original work to protect and enhance it, and I use finishes ranging from satin and matte to gloss depending on the mood I want the piece to convey:

• Satin and Matte Finishes: These give a softer, more muted look, perfect for calming pieces or those meant to feel understated.

• Gloss Finishes: These create a vibrant, polished effect, enhancing bold colors and textures.

For my acrylic pieces, I use Liquitex acrylic varnishes, and for my oil paintings, I prefer Winsor & Newton satin varnish—both are archival-quality, ensuring the artwork will last beautifully for years.

Hanging Art Like a Pro

• Find the Right Height: A common rule of thumb is to center your art around 57 to 60 inches from the floor—this is eye level for most people and makes a space feel balanced. If you're hanging art above furniture, like a sofa or console, aim to leave 4-6 inches of space between the bottom of the frame and the furniture.

• Spacing Matters: For gallery walls, keep 2-3 inches of space between pieces. This gives breathing room while maintaining a cohesive look.

• Command Strips or Nails?: For lightweight prints, command strips are a great no-drill option. For heavier originals or framed prints, either make sure the weight of the art is within the bounds of the command strips or use sturdy picture hooks or nails, and make sure to use wall anchors if needed.

Displaying Prints

When it comes to prints, frames and mattes are your best friends. A clean, white matte can give prints a gallery-like feel, while darker or colored frames can make bolder statements. I recommend choosing frames that complement the artwork without overpowering it.

If you’re looking for frames, I often suggest checking out Framebridge, Michaels, or even Etsy for customizable options. It’s also not hard to find quality frames at vintage/secondhand shops or even HomeGoods. And don’t forget to measure carefully—adding a matte will increase the overall size of your frame.

Curating a Gallery Wall

Gallery walls are such a fun way to tell a story. Start by laying your pieces out on the floor to experiment with layouts before committing to the wall. Include a mix of sizes, orientations, and even frames to create visual interest. I like to include at least one anchor piece—a larger artwork that draws the eye—and build smaller pieces around it.

Caring for Your Artwork

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Even with high-quality varnishes, prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading.

• Clean with Care: For original pieces, use a soft, dry cloth to gently remove dust. Avoid harsh chemicals or sprays.

Personal Sizing Requests

If you’re envisioning a specific size or presentation for one of my prints, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you find the perfect solution to fit your space.