What Inspires Tallahassee Artist Whit Mercer

Hi, I’m Whit Mercer, a Tallahassee artist creating original artwork in resin, gouache, oils, mixed media, and even dipping my toes into pottery (that is, if I can keep the back pain at bay). My work is bold, colorful, and eclectic, just like the people I imagine collecting it.

People often ask me: “Where do you get your inspiration?”

The truth is, it comes from everywhere. Sometimes it’s a pattern I spot while traveling, whether it’s intricate tiles from an ancient cathedral in Europe, textiles spotted in a museum exhibit, or environmental inspiration right here in beautiful, sunny Florida. Other times, it’s less about what I see and more about what I feel. I paint what moves me in the moment, led by both intuition and spirit. My art is a balance of control and flow, of traditional techniques blended with unexpected textures and bold color palettes.

Resin + Gouache: My Current Favorites

Right now, I’m especially focused on my resin and gouache paintings. Resin allows me to play with shine, depth, and dimension. It has this almost magical ability to transform colors and create a glossy, enticing finish. Gouache, on the other hand, is raw and matte, offering vibrant tones that feel alive on the canvas. Together, these mediums keep me experimenting, stretching my creativity, and producing pieces that you won’t see everywhere.

For the Eclectic Collector

I like to think my work resonates with people who embrace the eclectic—those who appreciate having something unique, conversation-starting, and maybe even a little bold in their home. My ideal collector isn’t afraid of color, of texture, or of standing out.

Spirit + Spontaneity

Some of my favorite pieces come from simply letting the brush (or resin pour) take over. It’s as if the work already exists somewhere, and I’m just helping it come through. To me, art is not only about making something beautiful—it’s about creating a piece that carries energy, story, and presence.

What’s Next: Commissions & Pottery

While I love creating ready-to-buy artwork, I also offer commissions. If you want something personal, something that feels like you but through my creative lens, that’s one of my favorite ways to work. And since I believe artists should never stop exploring, I’m diving into pottery as well. Soon, you’ll find sculptural and functional clay pieces that carry the same boldness and spirit as my paintings.

Why Tallahassee Inspires Me Too

Though my inspiration is global, Tallahassee is home—and being part of the local art community here means a lot to me. I love connecting with collectors who want to bring a piece of Florida creativity into their space, whether they’re here in town or finding me online from across the country.

Let’s Connect

If you’re looking for original resin or gouache paintings, curious about commissioning a custom piece, or just want to follow along on this colorful, unpredictable, and spirit-led journey, you’re in the right place. Welcome to my studio—I’m so glad you’re here. Email me at whitmercerart@gmail.com for questions about commissions and other pieces.