About Topher

ABOUT TOPHER CARNES – DECORATIVE ARTIST

Born in 1972 and raised in Darien, CT, Christopher “Topher” Carnes was born with a natural affinity for art and home projects.  A quick study, Topher learned early how to not only repair things, but also make them beautiful—either by restoring them to their natural states or conceiving a new look for them with leftover paint and varnishes.  It was fitting that his first work experiences with a local painting company allowed him to work with paint and finishing materials.

After college, Topher moved to Nantucket, a place he’d spent most summers as a child.  He began a three-year apprenticeship with Master Woodcarver Paul McCarthy, and the studio proved a perfect environment for Topher to explore and develop his creative energy.

In addition to learning the art of hand-carving, Topher was responsible for all aspects of finishing, gilding, and decorative painting for the studio’s projects which included many of the wood signs and architectural details that still adorn storefronts, restaurants, and private homes both across the island and the country. It was here that he first began collaborating with interior designers and other decorative artists on home interior projects, combining creative vision with artistic craft, and putting his painting and finishing skills to work.

Armed with new experiences and vision, Topher left Nantucket and made a variety of interesting stops along the way to starting his own decorative arts studio, including work experience with a number of decorative artists across the country and even some time was spent as an experiential educator and physical fitness instructor.

In 2001 he finally decided to combine all of his experiences and start Finishing Impressions, based in Black Rock, CT.

Though largely self-taught as an artist, Topher continues his decorative finishing education by attending workshops to increase his skills and methods, and learn about the latest products and technologies. He has taken classes at prestigious schools including The Finishing School in New York City and The Institute of Decorative Painting in Madison, CT, and has had the privilege of learning alongside some of the most respected names in the industry, including Robert Marx, Mike MacNeil, Sean Crosby, Patrick Ganino, Josette Martinez and Victor Demassi.

Today, Topher’s work can be found in homes throughout Connecticut, Westchester County and Massachusetts. He works closely with a number of interior designers and counts many homeowners as repeat clients. He believes that collaboration brings forth the best ideas and is inspired by the challenge of bringing a vision into reality. Known for his professionalism, reliability and thorough attention to detail, Topher continues to take on a wide range of projects including intricate wall treatments, fine furniture restoration and refinishing and large room-size murals.

More information and a portfolio of recent projects and sample finishes by Topher Carnes can be found at www.FinishingImpressions.com