Abstract art wasn't something I ever intended to do; in fact, I only picked up a paint brush (aside from standard elementary school art class stuff) in 2018.
After the birth of my second son George, I took some time off from my corporate job in PR and decided to focus on my babies. They are 20 months apart, both boys, and both BUSY (mamas of boys...you know what I'm talking about!). Mom life filled my heart in so many wonderful ways but I started itching for a creative outlet and made a run to my local art supply store.
As someone who is very interested in interior design, I have always had such admiration for the way a beautiful piece of art can give life to a space. I especially love traditional/old school design and am in awe of how a contemporary piece can turn a traditional room on its head. I started painting in my back guest house - partly as a quick escape from my crazy household, but partly as a therapeutic release. An hour here or there turned into a full-fledged passion and I have been painting and refining my style ever since.
I love the quiet nature of painting and rarely even listen to music or watch TV while I'm working...I mostly rely on my imagination and the thoughts in my head to help lead the brush where it needs to go. I also find inspiration in my every day life: a friend's fabulous dress, or scouring design blogs or drawing on memories from a trip abroad or to the beach.
Erin is a Dallas based abstract artist who works primarily in acrylic and oil pastel and draws inspiration from growing up in the South, her travels and the colors of nature.
Erin Tapp returned to her hometown of Atlanta, Ga after graduating from Wake Forest University as a Presidential Scholar for the Visual Arts in 2016, where she majored in Studio Art (with a concentration in painting) and English and minored in Art History. As the middle of five siblings, her work can be understood as the perspective through which she saw the world growing up: surrounded by energy and joy, observant of and attentive to details often overlooked, and versatile in its personality and mood. A seeker of sunshine, heart to heart conversations, and an endless stream of coffee, Erin strives to convey that same sense of warmth, welcome, and familiarity within her work. She currently works in the Drewry St. Studios on the Atlanta Beltline (between Ponce City Market and Piedmont Park).
Gretchen is an accomplished artist and interior designer from Swarthmore, PA. She showed an interest and aptitude for art at a very early age and was inspired by the work of her mother, a talented artist in her own right.
As I mature, my artwork is evolving more rapidly. My approach is less analytical and I allow the imagery to “happen,” this seems a more honest method of painting for me. Good design however, still remains paramount in creating impact as opposed to just color and texture. The beauty of the land, sea & sky continue to interest me, and I convey its essence in my work.
Jen Burch and Margaret Dillard founded Half Past Seven in early 2022 with the belief that our homes tell the stories of who we are and where we’ve been, while also setting the tone for who we are still becoming. With the goal of providing timeless home staples as well as a dose of approachable advice, our products are sourced and designed with artists and makers from around the world. From small get-togethers to large gatherings, our carefully curated offering will help you confidently host and make your guests feel comfortable and loved.
Half Past Seven, What does it mean?
7:30, of course! But the deeper meaning alludes to an era where every gathering started with a thoughtfully crafted invitation and event times were written out in words. We believe our name (paired with our nostalgic branding and globally sourced products) perfectly represents our modern hostess, who maintains an appreciation for tradition within a contemporary world. Additionally, we happen to think 7:30pm is a great time to start a party—it’s not too early and not too late.
Our Products
At Half Past Seven, we value high-quality, handcrafted, small-batch products. We celebrate local artists and makers and aim to help broaden their reach through our partnerships. Our products are sourced from around the world, but a large portion comes from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (read more about our partners here). Our elevated essentials collection launched in the fall of 2022, and will soon grow to other “rooms” of the home.
Dive deeper into this amazing brand with our fun Q&A with Jen and Margaret.
Heather is an abstract artist who specializes in textural paintings, as well as abstract landscapes. Her southern country roots inspire her to paint tree lined rolling hills, and her love of sculptural objects and natural textures inspires her to create textured paintings with form. She’s particularly drawn to the juxtaposition of traditional and primitive decor paired with modern artwork. In any art she creates her goal is to evoke great emotion and curiosity in the viewer. Essian creates art that will take the collectors on a journey; one that tells a story both in the marks created, and the painting's inspiration.
Her artwork has been collected privately and publicly all across the U.S. Her work has been featured in several print and online publications, as well as several home design TV shows. She resides in Fort Worth TX with her husband, Jim, three little girls, Harper, Hollis, and Hadden, and their Pyredoodle dog, Bo.
Holly was born and raised in Charlotte, NC. Her process-based method of painting has come about after creating a solid foundation in art education. Holly graduated with Honors in Studio Art from Wake Forest University. There, she studied traditional oil painting, printmaking, and photography. After working at the prestigious National Gallery of Art and the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Holly decided to return to art making full time. Today, Holly builds on her knowledge of composition, color theory, and art history while finding freedom in abstract expression. She currently lives in Charlotte with her husband, Matt, two children, Henry and Lila, and their dog, Ruby.
A quiet moment learning from the best | Kenya 2018
