Ornamental painting is the world of embellishment, rooted in the belief that a little paint coupled with a lot of artistry can turn the mundane into the beautiful. Most of the ornamental painting in the Directory reflects the culture of a particular period, area, or society. Some represent national traditions, such as bride's boxes, which have nearly the entire German-speaking culture behind them. Others replicate artistry that arose in one particular American valley. Most artists use colors true to the period and tradition but modern pigments and vehicles to avoid toxicity to you and the environment.