Meet Genevieve Smith

Today we’re excited to be connecting with Genevieve Smith again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.

Genevieve, always such a pleasure connecting with you and thank you for sharing your stories, insights and inspiring messages with our community. We’re looking forward to getting the download and what you have been up to since our last interview, but first can you briefly introduce yourself to folks who might have missed the prior conversation.
I’ve been painting since I could first hold a brush, and from those early days, it truly felt like my path was set. After studying at the University of California, Santa Barbara, I eagerly sent out my resumes to various places, hoping to start my journey in the arts. Fortunately, a decorative painter saw my potential and hired me, and I’ve been happily creating ever since!

In 2000, I founded Magpie Painting in San Francisco, and when I moved to Denver in 2010, I brought my business along for the ride. I’m lucky to work with clients on a variety of projects, including residential and business murals, custom art, and decorative painting. I think my passion for art and my experience with different techniques really help me stand out. I love diving deep into what my clients envision for their spaces, and I’m always excited to stretch my creativity and try new things. Communication and problem-solving are two things I do really well, and I believe they make the process even smoother.

One of my favorite things about my work is getting to do what I love every day. But, even more special is the trust my clients place in me. Building relationships and getting to know them beyond small talk enhances the whole experience, making it even more meaningful.

Awesome, so we reached out because we wanted to hear all about what you have been up to since we last connected.
This past year was amazing! It was filled with incredible opportunities that pushed my creative boundaries to new heights. One of the highlights of the year was the opportunity to design and paint the private dining room at Stellar Jay, located on the top floor of the innovative, carbon-positive Populus Hotel in Denver, designed by the visionary Studio Gang. Being part of this project was a dream come true. The talented team’s meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to sustainability were truly inspiring. Watching the hotel come to life was a thrilling experience, and I am immensely grateful to have contributed to its unique character.

Another standout project in 2024 was creating the intricate decorative painting details for Tavernetta at the Four Seasons in Vail. It was a challenging job – ten long days on scaffolding in an immense space, but the creativity and hospitality of the team was incredible, and I am very proud of how we all came together to bring the vision to life. It was a memorable collaboration, and I am thankful for the chance to work alongside such an outstanding group.

In addition to these projects, I had the pleasure of collaborating with various homeowners and businesses, helping bring their creative visions to life, including painting a donut food truck and yes I got to sample the food! Each project this year has been rewarding and has deepened my love for my craft.

On a personal note, as my daughters grow older, I’m discovering I have more time to dedicate to my own art. I’m fully embracing this moment, taking the opportunity to invest in myself and my creative growth. It’s a journey filled with excitement, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next!

We have now arrived at one of our favorite parts of the interview – the lightning round. We’ll ask you a few quick questions to give us all some fun insights about you.

Favorite Movie: The Muppet Movie

Favorite Book: East of Eden

Favorite TV Show: Modern Family

Favorite Band or Artist: Stevie Wonder

Sweet or Savory: sweet

Mountains or Beach: Beach

Favorite Sport (to watch): gymnastics

Favorite Sport (to play): I jog

Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): Nope

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: An Artist!

French Fries or Onion Rings: French Fries

Chuck Rhodes or Bobby Axelrod: Axelrod

Favorite Cartoon growing up: Tom and Jerry

Favorite Childhood movie: The Muppet Movie

Favorite Breakfast Food: Heuvos Rancheros

What would the perfect day look like for you? Please give us as many details as possible.
Without a doubt, the thing I’m most proud of is my daughters. They are truly two of the most remarkable people I’ve ever known, and I believe I would feel this way even if I wasn’t their mother. They are both such creative, clever and really thoughtful people. They give me immense hope for their generation; they are deeply aware of global issues and are wholeheartedly committed to diversity and inclusion. They are engaged and funny and I love being around them. I never would have thought that hanging out with teenagers would be the highlight of my day.

Another source of pride for me is that I have remained steadfast on my chosen path. I’ve faced some daunting challenges and lean times, but I held on to the belief that I could turn my passion for art into a successful career. During my first year as a decorative painter in San Francisco, I earned just $16,000. It was a tough experience financially, but the joy of following my passion made it all worth it. I’ve always aimed to be authentic in my work and life. Along the way, I’ve gotten sidetracked by personal setbacks, fleeting trends or ideas, but I’ve always managed to find my way back to what truly matters. I’m now more comfortable and at peace with who I am than I’ve ever been

I’m truly proud of my ongoing journey and growth in all aspects of my life. There’s something deeply fulfilling about recognizing meaningful achievements—big and small. Whether it’s refining my artistic skills, pushing my physical limits by running an extra mile, or simply learning to quiet my thoughts to become a more attentive observer and listen, each step forward represents a new milestone in my journey.

I make a conscious effort to pause and reflect on these milestones, acknowledging the effort that went into reaching them. It’s important to me to celebrate these moments, no matter how minor they may seem, And, in our house, even the tiniest milestones call for cake. These celebrations are reminders of my commitment to self-improvement as a mother, artist, entrepreneur and friend, and of the steps I’ve taken to become a better version of myself. I’m excited for what lies ahead.

Image Credits
the picture of the populus dining room is from, photographer Yoshihiro Makino