In Conversation: John Derian & Mary Celeste Beall

John Derian is a creator with an eye for giving imagery new life with his distinct decoupage art. His pieces are a perfect reflection of his ability to discover unique, personality-driven visuals that celebrate quality and personal style. Handmade in his studio since 1989, John’s creations have become a staple in homes worldwide, including Mary Celeste Beall’s. From the start of his creative journey as a child to where he sees his art going in the future, learn more about the artist behind the artistry.

Mary Celeste: I have been a fan of your work for so long! Your art has a distinct quality, and that’s part of what drew me in the first time I saw it. What inspires you most when creating your designs?

John: I am inspired by nature and the images I find, sort of like a farm-to-table chef using what’s fresh and available.

M: Your use of vintage imagery feels deeply nostalgic yet fresh. How do you balance history with modern sensibility?

J: Most of the imagery I work with comes from books that were used for instructional purposes – they border scientific. So, from the beginning, they are already sort of fresh, simple and beautiful.

M: When you discover a print or object that intrigues you, how do you decide how to incorporate it into your work? How do you know what item it’s meant to go on?

J: I’m inspired by what I find and what I think makes something beautiful or interesting. Then, I consider how best to share that beauty, whether through a close-up, enlarging the image for full impact or keeping it small and intimate like a keepsake.

M: Your pieces evoke a sense of storytelling. Do you ever imagine narratives behind the objects and images you collect?

J: Some people collect my work and cover their walls, telling their own story through their choices. I display like imagery together in the shop, but otherwise, I like the collector to tell their story.

M: I’ve heard you share in past interviews that imagery of humans is often the least popular. What subjects seem to be the most popular for people to gravitate toward right now?

J: I love imagery of people, but it’s not as popular as other imagery. There’s such a wide range of what is popular. It all depends on what people connect to. Flowers are probably the most popular, and some of the quirkier themes are very popular, too. It’s hard to tell.

M: Many people collect your pieces as treasured heirlooms. You certainly collect imagery to utilize in your artistry, and I know that you have a substantial button collection. Do you collect anything else?

J: Yes. In the early ’80s, when I started antiquing and flea marketing, I started to amass buttons. I made things out of them, like trees or frames and boxes covered in buttons. That developed into making things covered in maps, and then that led to decoupage.

I don’t think I am a collector of anything. I like organic things, like shells, stones, beehives, nests – very Boo Radley. I do have four cat paintings. Not sure how that happened!

M: You’re the youngest of six siblings. I have five children, and it’s fascinating to observe each of them discover their individuality. Did being part of a big family play a role in you discovering your artistic path or influence you as an artist?

J: Wow, five! Possibly in the opposite way. Because I was the last and left alone, I found myself creating environments, having a very active imagination and quietly making things.

M: Do you remember the first object that truly captivated you and sparked your love for design?

J: Probably things with buttons: topiary trees, frames, mirrors.

M: How do you describe your personal style, and how does your style influence your work, or vice versa?

J: Comfortable, pretty, layered – I basically feel like I could live in the time of the imagery I find, early 1800s. I like comfort, pretty, organic and whimsy.

M: At Blackberry, we celebrate the art of gathering, particularly at the table. How do you envision the perfect setting for a meal or gathering?

J: I was raised having three meals a day, and I still like having three meals a day. I love sharing, entertaining and having friends over, and depending on how much table space I have, I can get creative or keep it simple.

M: What are your favorite elements of an inviting home – something you love observing when you visit somewhere or something you always incorporate into your own spaces so others feel welcome?

J: Simple, candlelit, comfortable, not fussy.

M: If you could design a dream retreat or creative escape, what would it look like?

J: Probably something in a tree with great views – maybe a little Swiss Family Robinson.

M: Over the years, you’ve collaborated with so many incredible artisans and brands. What makes a great creative partnership?

J: All of them have been pretty organic. It’s about what I like and trying to keep it simple while making sure it’s still me when I collaborate.

M: What excites you most about where your work is headed next?

J: I’m working on some dioramas – multilayered framed ones, more like artwork.

M: I love giving pieces from your collection as gifts for all kinds of occasions. If someone were new to your world and just discovering your designs, what’s the one piece you’d want them to start with?

J: A good place to start would be a red-letter plate with the initial of the recipient. You’re getting something somewhat personalized and in a very cheerful color. The original image was sourced from a children’s alphabet.