Grace Farris, our cherished illustrator and doctor, resides in Austin, Texas, along with her husband, Arthur, and their sons, 14-year-old George and 10-year-old Russ. “When we first moved, my husband started recording the boys’ heights, and the variation in the marks is startling,” Grace shares. “George is now the tallest in the family.” Take a view into their home, filled with board games and family artworks…
ENTRYWAY / DINING SPACE / KITCHEN
On acquiring a house without a visit: When my younger sister had a baby, my husband and I opted to relocate from New York to Austin to be nearer to family. Then Covid struck. My hospital work in New York intensified, and travel was restricted, preventing us from house hunting. My sister chose this house for us, saying, ‘If you desire a cool Austin home, this is it. There’s a creek down the street, and it would be great for the boys to play in the yard.’ We replied, ‘Okay!’
Cow art: by Grace’s aunt Janet Eager Krueger. Artichoke fragrance: John Derian. Burger ceramic: crafted by her son George
On initial reactions: Our 1950s home isn’t expansive, but it features three bedrooms. The week after we settled in, I said to George, ‘Can you believe it? Some weeks ago, we lived in an apartment!’ He exclaimed, ‘Now it feels like a mansion.’
On family game nights: We enjoy playing chess, Sushi Go, and Don’t Break the Ice. But the boys are especially fond of Monopoly. The competition gets fierce with opportunities to cheat — particularly if one sibling is three years older than the other…
Dresser: Article. Chess board: U.S. Chess Federation.
On art pursuits: George once brought home a purple tulips painting (see above). It evokes the tulips by artist Hugo Guinness. For a while after, I would beg George to paint more flowers for me, offering sweets or bonus iPad time. Many wall flowers stem from his artistic phase.
Dining table: thrifted from Uptown Modern. Benches: EQ3. Rug: World Market, similar. Counter stools: Target.
On their adorable canine: Putnam’s been with us for three years, and he’s quite the character. He enjoys sitting nearby as you watch TV and he knows he’s handsome.
On culinary creations: I make pasta a la gala for my selective eater. It’s an original recipe. Begin with plain pasta. Serve it on a plate, accompanied by a Gala apple.
LIVING SPACE
Leather chair: Lulu & Georgia, similar. Coffee table: World Market. Sofa: “a hand-me-down from Restoration Hardware, courtesy of my sister.” Striped cushions: Garza Marfa. Floral pillow: Lisa Corti. Bookshelf: thrifted.
On romantic reads: I’ve just completed The Starter Ex by Mia Sosa. Her contemporary romances are delightful. My all-time favorite is The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory because it includes a charming doctor character. Medical professionals in romance often play villains — understandably, as they’re often cocky exes. Yet it’s refreshing to occasionally see a positive portrayal.
On treasured family art: Many western-themed paintings are by my aunt, Janet Eager Krueger. She’s a professional artist with a studio in San Antonio. Living on a ranch in South Texas, much of her work is inspired by the local scenes and images.
On graphic novel appreciation: I adore La Perdida by Jessica Abel. It follows a woman who never knew her father, leading her to Mexico City to learn about his life. The artwork turns noir as she dates, with beautiful illustrations. Discovering it in college, it was my first graphic novel outside superhero or sci-fi realms. I also admire Malaka Gharib’s works — I Was Their American Dream, and It Won’t Always Be Like This. Undoubtedly, we’re in a golden age of graphic novels.
On authoring a graphic memoir: A few years back, my writer friend Austin Kleon nudged me to draft a book on being a doctor. Initially, I thought, ‘Hahaha, that’s impossible.’ Yet, I kept returning to the idea, especially when medical students questioned why I never pursued surgery. That rotation was dreadful for me, and I have SO much to say about it. Also, comics often simplify explanations.
On starting the memoir with a birth narrative: A surreal part of my medical journey was getting pregnant soon after becoming a doctor. Experiencing birth and receiving medical care made me rethink everything I was taught. My editor suggested beginning with my birth story. I cherished the idea of illustrating my physical vulnerability — literally walking the hospital halls naked!
BOYS’ ROOM
Bunks: Ikea. Rug: Safavieh.
On a Texas hallmark memory: Since our move, I’ve introduced the kids to distinct Austin customs. We have a flower here known as Texas Mountain Laurel. It’s purple, smells like grape soda, and contains very toxic seeds. If you rub them in your hand, they get really hot.
Shelves: The Container Store.
On sibling contrasts: George is the child who enjoys venturing out and trying different cuisines. Russ isn’t interested in any of that. He prefers sports, hanging at home with his buddies, and staying put.
Dresser: Wayfair.
On raising tweens: My children are great fun now. George feels like a cool guy friend. Though a teenager, he shares intriguing ideas and enjoys testing new recipes. Watching Russ engage in various sports is delightful. Growing up, I wasn’t into or followed sports. Yet, due to him, I got swept up in the 2022 World Cup — to the extent of coaching an indoor soccer team! Discovering my kids’ passions has been a parenting highlight.
VISITOR ROOM
Bed: Thuma. Red nightstand: HomeGoods. Blue striped stool: thrifted. Desk: old Pottery Barn. Chair: Target, similar. ‘You Are Good’ graphic: Katie Kimmel + Lorien Stern.
On hosting gifts: When hosting friends or family, they share a bathroom with our kids. So, I leave Le Labo soaps and lotions out. It’s an effort to enhance their stay, making it feel more luxurious rather than like a dorm.
On in-law teasing: Over the bed, the painting of the red-lipped woman is a portrait of my mother-in-law’s mother-in-law. I thought it amusing having her mother-in-law watch her when visiting. She doesn’t find it amusing.
MAIN BEDROOM
Bed frame: Article. Seat: Article.
On Austin thrifting: My mom found this quilt at a thrift shop. She frequents a trio of shops on Burnet Road, including The Next-to-New Shop and Assistance League of Austin. Nearby is a Goodwill she lovingly calls ‘my J. Crew.’
Artwork: “by my aunt Janet Eager Krueger.” Sofa: Robin Bruce, similar.
On experiencing Austin’s growth: Growing up here in the 1990s, Austin had a small-town feel. I still sense those small-town vibes at work. Periodically, a patient will remark, ‘Grace? I was your high school economics teacher,’ or ‘Oh, I know your dad. I haven’t seen you since you were five.’
TERRACE
On hospital work: As a hospitalist, I care for patients staying in the hospital post-ER visits. I cater to ages 17 to 110 and also mentor residents and medical students — it’s much like The Pitt environment.
On a healthcare profession: I find it quite touching encountering individuals who choose healthcare careers post-pandemic, even after seeing healthcare workers treated almost like disposables. They inspired my book, See One, Do One, Teach One, to share my experience, warts and all. The medical industry has vast challenges, like severe burnout, steep student loans, and time constraints to see more patients. Still, it’s been deeply rewarding. I have countless chances to improve people’s well-being, a privilege I treasure.
Thank you so much, Grace. You’re amazing! Congratulations on your graphic memoir. xo
P.S. More home tours, like a Brooklyn apartment for book lovers and a farmhouse built for Black joy.
(Photos by Amber Vickery for Cup of Jo.)
Grace Farris, a notable illustrator and author, has created a vibrant and creative home in Austin reflecting her artistry. Her space mirrors her family’s love for art, literature, and bonding, abundant with books, games, and family paintings, offering a warm and inviting environment. Upon entering, one is immediately drawn to bookshelves filled with various works, revealing her diverse taste and storytelling passion. These volumes are beyond decorative; they are integral to the home’s atmosphere, inviting guests to engage with their stories. Farris’s residence is also a games haven. Board games and puzzles are strategically placed throughout to facilitate family interaction and fun. These games serve not only for entertainment but as tools to foster connection and creativity. Family paintings embellish the walls, each narrating a unique tale. These artworks, crafted by various family members, add a personal touch, serving as a visual narrative of her family’s artistic talent and history, making it a living museum of cherished expressions and memories. Grace Farris’s Austin abode is more than a residence; it’s a reflection of her creative spirit and family bonds. The rich collection of books, games, and family artworks weaves a dynamic and nurturing setting that celebrates creativity, connection, and heritage.
