Trade Waters was founded on the belief that professional painting and creative thinking belong together.
Founder Joe Graham grew up as the son of a commercial painter, learning the craft, discipline, and realities of the trade from an early age. He developed an understanding of what quality work requires: thoughtful preparation, technical precision, respect for the space, and a commitment to seeing the job through properly.
Joe later built a career in the creative arts, developing a strong background in graphic design, web development, visual storytelling, and creative direction. Trade Waters brings those two sides of his experience together—combining the practical knowledge of a painting contractor with the perspective of a designer.
That vision expanded when Joe brought Aden Catalani onto the team. Aden is one of Portland’s premier muralists, an experienced commercial painter, and the former owner of his own painting company. His experience in painting, murals, and large-scale creative production adds another layer of technical and artistic depth to the company.
Together, Joe and Aden approach each space as both craftspeople and creative problem-solvers. They understand the importance of preparation, materials, scheduling, coordination, and clean execution—but they also recognize how color, composition, finish, artwork, and architectural details can shape the way a space feels.
That combination allows Trade Waters to offer more than a conventional painting service. A project may begin with a straightforward need for a new finish and grow to include color guidance, specialty applications, signage, a mural, or a curated artwork program. Instead of asking clients to coordinate separate painters, designers, and artists, Trade Waters brings those disciplines together through one connected team.
The result is a simpler process and a more considered finished space: technically sound, visually cohesive, and built around how the environment will actually be experienced.