Let me start with this disclaimer: I am in no way an artist, art expert, or art critic, nor do I have a degree in art. All I can claim is that I appreciate art, and I enjoy acquiring pieces of original art for my home. And I do not have a large budget for this hobby, but I have acquired some pretty great pieces over the years.
My first tip is to purchase a piece that speaks to you. Purchase a piece if you cannot stop thinking about it. If you can't help but think about that painting as you pass by that spot on your wall where it will surely hang if you ever purchase it, then buy it. I am currently coveting a gorgeous painting by local artist Whitney LeJeune--stay tuned for Fig Columbia blog post about that one as soon as it's mine!
My first tip is to purchase a piece that speaks to you. Purchase a piece if you cannot stop thinking about it. If you can't help but think about that painting as you pass by that spot on your wall where it will surely hang if you ever purchase it, then buy it. I am currently coveting a gorgeous painting by local artist Whitney LeJeune--stay tuned for Fig Columbia blog post about that one as soon as it's mine!
This poster was designed for the recent Avett Brothers concert in Columbia by local design studio & print shop, The Half and Half. I went to the show, but also couldn't take my eyes off of this poster when I first saw it, so I tracked one down.
This piece I purchased at the annual St. Lawrence Place Angels Tea & Silent Auction a few years ago. Tip number 2 for acquiring art on a budget: scope out silent auctions! So many local artists generously donate their pieces to nonprofits for auctions. I have scored many a beautiful piece this way, and the proceeds go to charity, so win-win! The mixed-media painting is by local artist Page Morris.
My husband scored this Hollis Brown Thornton print at the Harmony School Oyster Roast & Silent Auction last year. He actually got into a bidding war with another gentleman for a lot of 5 prints, but we prevailed.
This piece, whose artist I don't know (!?), I actually purchased from a gym I used to attend. The lobby had local artists' work on display and for sale. I saw this cool collage for weeks and decided to make it my own. And there's tip number 3 for purchasing art on a budget: check out your favorite restaurants, bars, local stores, and even gyms for local artists' displays! You can find cool art anywhere.
And finally, to prove my point that cool (and affordable) art is everywhere: a portrait of "Mommy" by my 4 year old son, Jones.
The likeness is uncanny, I assure you.
And there you have it- a tour of some of my favorite art, acquired on a budget and with love. The Columbia art scene is burgeoning with talent; go find some for your home!
