Meet Erin Donahue Tice, self-taught abstract artist, textile designer and overall home decor enthusiast based in Austin, TX. She’s known for her vibrant, layered paintings that blend color, texture, and emotion. Working primarily with acrylics, she often incorporates mixed media elements such as oil pastels, charcoal,  paper, layered materials, and most recently shells to create dynamic compositions.

Tell us a bit about yourself! 

I’m a self-taught artist, textile designer, mom of three boys, and a creative entrepreneur based in Austin, Texas. I run multiple businesses, including a fine art business and a lifestyle label that includes textiles, wallpaper, home decor, and occasional apparel capsule drops. I also have a side business coaching other artists on marketing and social media strategies! I’m inspired by beauty, storytelling, and finding meaning in everyday rituals — whether it’s through a layered tablescape, a bold floral painting, or the perfect party dress. I recently launch my latest art collection, Le Jardin, inspired by the beauty of the French countryside in spring and summer.

Erin wears the Suzanna Midi Dress

You create beautiful abstract paintings filled with color and visual interest, hitting on coastal elements and decals! When did you first fall in love with painting? And where do you draw your inspiration from?

I discovered painting as an outlet during a hard postpartum season — what started as therapy became a completely unexpected full-time career. It gave me a sense of purpose and creative energy I hadn’t had in a long time. I didn’t know how much I needed art until it found me. Prior to that, I was in the PR world for 12 years for firms in Chicago and New York. I fell in love with the process of layering, editing, and allowing my artwork to unfold intuitively. My inspiration comes from everywhere: wildflowers on the side of the road, textiles, traditional interiors, vintage table linens, summers in the Hamptons, motherhood (which has been a beautiful but challenging season).

You have an equal love for interior design and painting! How do the two work together to create beautiful visual elements in your home?

To me, interiors and art speak the same language — it’s all about layering, harmony, and unexpected pops of personality. I think of art as the punctuation mark in a room. I want my paintings to feel like they belong in a space that’s been lovingly collected over time — full of stories, soul, and subtle luxury. I often paint with interiors in mind, thinking about where the piece might live, how it will interact with natural light, or what color palette might make a room come alive. My own home is full of unusual pieces of art juxtaposed with more traditional interiors. It’s never about matching perfectly, but about creating harmony between the objects, the art, and the soul of the space.

Follow Erin on Instagram @erindonahueticeart

How does your personal style in your home and life translate to your personal style, and the clothes you wear?

There’s definitely a through-line — I’ve always been drawn to classic silhouettes with a twist, whether it’s a scalloped edge on a lampshade or a puff sleeve on a blouse. I love timelessness, but I also love pieces that surprise you — embroidery, texture, and a splash of color.

Just like my interiors and my artwork, my fashion choices tell a story. I might wear a monogrammed boatneck tee one day, a crisp white shirtdress with a cinched waist the next, or an embroidered caftan with flat sandals…but it all reflects how I want to feel: confident, feminine, and a little bit playful. I’m very into sets right now - mixing and matching tops and bottoms depending on the occasion and the mood I’m in. In general, I dress for how I want to show up — whether that’s polished for a meeting, cozy and comfy while I paint, or elevated for a night out.

Other than painting, interior design, and fashion, what other hobbies or activities do you like to partake in?


I’m in a phase of life (in my early 40s) where I’m a wellness junkie — I start most days with supplements, a walk or strength training, red light therapy and a lengthy skincare routine. I also love hosting — there’s nothing better than setting a beautiful table and gathering people I love. And I’m a bit of a treasure hunter when it comes to vintage decor. Give me an antique mall or flea market and I’m in heaven. Outside of that, I do love to cook and bake but have less time for it these days. I just launched a Substack  and it’s been super fun to tap into my creative writing juices in my 40s - I always wanted to be a writer growing up and I’m feeling a big pull to it again. I believe the way we spend our free time says a lot about our values, and I try to fill mine with things that bring me beauty and connection. But if I’m being honest, MOST of my days are spent driving my boys to and from activities/school, helping them with homework, making sure they take showers (boy moms know!) and arranging playdates!! Mom life is not for the faint of heart!

 What are some ways you live stylishly inside and out?


For me, living stylishly isn’t about being dressed up all the time — it’s about finding beauty in the everyday. Writing a hand-written thank-you note on letterpress stationery. Wearing a dress I love, just because. Setting the table for a dinner party. It’s also about how I care for myself — moving my body, nourishing my mind, and staying curious. I’ve learned that style isn’t just what you wear or how your home looks — it’s how you treat yourself and others. I aim to live with intention, grace, and a touch of mischief at all times!!

 Which pieces from Mestiza’s Spring Collection coordinate with some of your paintings?

The Elliana Barong Mini Dress is pure joy — it instantly reminded me of my new botanical collection which features the same botanical whimsy and energy. I own this style in all-white from a previous season and get so many compliments. It’s an easy daytime dress. I also adore the Suzanna Midi Dress — it pairs beautifully with “A Walk a Day” one of my favorite abstract pieces that is subtle yet full of deep layers of greens and blues. I’m also obsessed with the Liezel Convertible™ Gown in Vanilla Pink - it feels so dramatic and elegant, similar to how my piece “Spring is in Full Bloom” felt (it just sold!) The Citrine Convertible™ Midi Dress reminds me of my shell collection with its scalloped detail. I love how all of your pieces feel vacation-ready, yet incredibly chic for other occasions too.

What do you love most about the Mestiza brand?


Mestiza feels like it was created for women who want to celebrate life — every piece feels like an occasion in itself. I love how the brand combines heritage with a fresh, fashion-forward perspective. The attention to detail, the bold prints, the unapologetic femininity — it’s all so aligned with my own creative ethos. I admire how Mestiza tells a consistent, inspiring story across every piece they create. It’s aspirational without feeling inaccessible — which is such a rare balance.

How does wearing Mestiza make you feel?


Wearing Mestiza makes me feel like the best version of myself. Like I’m stepping into a more empowered and elevated version of my day — whether I’m heading to an event, hosting a dinner party, or just wanting to look polished for a girl's lunch. It’s that feeling of slipping into something beautiful and suddenly standing taller. Mestiza does such a great job of celebrating the inherent femininity in women.