Comes the Revolution

To look at the cover of any Victoria issue is to gaze upon peace, beauty, and quiet romance. All of which occurs to me as charmingly ironic. For all Victoria’s gentle appeal, our 2021 artist-in-residence, Annie Sloan, just happens to be an out-and-out revolutionary. For decades, I thought Benjamin Moore hung the moon. Indeed, a good, conventional paint was historically the go-to when it came to refreshing our walls and spirits. But Annie had a smashing idea—Chalk Paint®! Chalk? In paint? Absolutely, and she mixed the stuff up herself. To cover not only walls but any surface whatsoever, including mahogany—gasp!—and without prep.

It took me awhile, but I decided that my English blanket chest absolutely had to go. It was smothering. I supposed I could donate it, but who would have room