THE MURAL AT BELLA SORELLA
a bit of backstory…
Some projects carry a deeper meaning than the work itself, and this mural for Bella Sorella is one I'll always hold close.
I've been fortunate to know the owners for many years, so when my sister and I were invited to create a mural for their new restaurant in Clayton, we were truly honored. Inspired by the fresh vegetables, herbs, and ingredients used in their kitchen every day, the mural celebrates the authenticity, warmth, and care that define Bella Sorella.
Since completing this project, the restaurant's owner has sadly passed away after a battle with cancer. Her passion, generosity, and love for her community live on through Bella Sorella, making this mural even more meaningful. It's more than a piece of artwork—it's a tribute to the spirit of a restaurant built on family, tradition, and incredible food.
THE CONCEPT
This mural was approached with the same level of planning as any large-scale design project. Before any paint touched the wall, I developed multiple concept sketches, color studies, and layout explorations to determine the strongest composition for the space. Because the mural would share the wall with a mounted television, careful consideration was given to visual balance, sightlines, and the scale of each illustrated element to ensure the artwork remained cohesive without competing with the restaurant's functionality.
Once the concept was approved, my sister and I transferred the entire composition directly onto the wall by hand, free-sketching each ingredient and botanical element to achieve a natural, organic flow. This stage required the greatest precision, as every adjustment was made in real time to create a balanced composition.
Color selection also evolved throughout the project. We initially chose a soft, muted green background, but after evaluating the mural under the restaurant's evening lighting, we found that it lacked the necessary contrast. The wall was repainted with a richer green tone, allowing the illustrations to stand out while creating a warmer, more inviting atmosphere that better complemented the restaurant's interior.
The finished mural has become a focal point of the space, often prompting guests to ask whether it was created using wallpaper or stencils. One of the most rewarding aspects of the project has been seeing people's surprise when they learn the entire piece was hand-drawn and hand-painted from start to finish.
FINAL TOUCHES
