Designing a Surface Finish Panel as a Novacolor Ambassador

This year’s Novacolor signature collection is centered around The Light Between, and as I began imagining my panel, I found myself reflecting on my journey with these materials.

I did not want to create just a sample. I wanted to create a piece that felt personal, one that carried my evolution as an applicator, my connection to the materials, and my ongoing exploration of light.

In my early years, I was drawn to glowing metallics. They brought an immediate sense of life to a surface, catching and reflecting light in a way that felt dynamic and expressive. Over time, my work shifted toward mineral finishes, where I became more focused on texture, weight, and the natural character of the material.

That transition changed how I see surfaces. Instead of only reflecting light, I became interested in how materials could also absorb it. How they soften light, create depth, and bring balance through contrast.

This panel became a way to bring those two approaches together. This panel is a true representation of my approach to material, a refined sense of softness, my connection to organic minerals, and the movement of light across every layer.

Each section was intentionally chosen to tell part of that story.

At the top, I began with Africa and Animamundi, two of my favorite metallics. Africa brings a brilliant play of light, while Animamundi introduces a grounded, shadowed texture. Together, they allow the surface to shift as light moves across it.

From there, I wanted to show how metallics can transition naturally into mineral finishes. I used Calcecruda to create that bridge. Its creamy tone softens the contrast and creates a smooth, organic transition between layers.

The next section features Teodorico in two tones, blended downward. This choice introduced larger grains of marble and metallic mica, adding both texture and subtle reflectivity while continuing the story of light.

At the base, I applied CalceCruda Intonaco in a deeper tone. This final layer anchors the panel, adding weight, depth, and a more grounded texture that completes the composition.

One of the most meaningful parts of this experience was seeing the panels come together as a collective body of work. Each piece reflected a different perspective, yet all were connected through material, light, and process.

The professional photo shoot in front of the panels added another layer to the experience. Standing alongside the work, surrounded by other artists and their interpretations, brought a sense of completion and shared accomplishment.

What I appreciate most about this panel is that it does not rely on a single effect. It is not just about shine or texture alone. It is about the balance between the two.

The space between reflection and absorption.
The transition between metallic and mineral.
The contrast between softness and structure.

That balance is where the work becomes most meaningful, and it continues to shape how I approach future projects.