Cheri Blum was a multilicensed artist who created romantic floral paintings that were popular in the home decorating industry. She died at her home in Georgetown, Maryland, on November 4, 2003, at the age of 34. The cause of her death was not released to the public, leaving many fans and admirers wondering what happened to the young and successful artist.
Cheri Blum’s Life and Career
Cheri Blum was born on September 24, 1969, in Baltimore, Maryland. She graduated from St. Mark’s High School in Wilmington, Delaware, in 1987, and pursued her dream of becoming an artist by studying fine arts at Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and the University of Delaware, where she graduated in 1991.
Blum began her career as an illustrator and muralist, creating trompe l’oeil, faux painting and decorative furniture finishes. She later became known for her applied artistry, using cracked linen as a surface to paint motifs that conjured up images of Italian frescoes and simulated the effects of time and weather. Her artistic interpretation of beauty was influenced by the works of 18th and 19th century artists, such as Pierre-Joseph Redouté and Jean-Baptiste Monnoyer.
Blum’s paintings were published by Wild Apple Graphics since 1996, and were in high demand by consumers. She also licensed her artwork to more than 40 companies, ranging from bed and bath products, floor coverings, serving pieces, stationery, and wallpaper. Some of her notable licensees included Croscill, Mohawk Rugs, Amcal, Glitterwrap, and Wallquest.
Cheri Blum’s Legacy and Impact
Cheri Blum’s death was a shock and a loss to the art world and the home decorating industry. She was one of the most successful and prolific artists of her generation, and her paintings were widely admired and collected. Her style was distinctive and elegant, and her use of colors and textures was captivating and soothing.
Blum’s paintings have been exhibited in various galleries and museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C., and the Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington. Her paintings have also been featured in numerous magazines, books, and television shows, such as Better Homes and Gardens, Country Living, and HGTV.
Blum’s life was celebrated at a Catholic Mass and Christian burial in November 2003 in Elsmere, Delaware. She is survived by her parents, three brothers, a sister-in-law, her maternal grandparents, two nephews, and a niece. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Cheri Blum Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o St. Mark’s High School, 2501 Pike Creek Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808.
Cheri Blum’s cause of death remains a mystery, but her legacy lives on through her beautiful and timeless paintings. She was an artist, innovator, and creator of beauty, who touched the hearts and homes of many people. She will be missed and remembered by her family, friends, fans, and fellow artists.
