Art Stories

When it comes to creating a home that has personality, original artwork is one of the most powerful design elements you can bring into your space. The "art" doesn't have to tell an obvious story about you. My favorite art has a subtle nod to a part of your personal story, not something a person who doesn't know you would necessarily pick up on.

Home Staging is notorious for de-personalizing a space, however, original artwork is almost always a keeper and a standout piece in the photo shoot plan. I think the keys to success in using original art are,

• Professionally mount the artwork, in a frame or on a canvas.

• Group smaller pieces into a gallery group.

• Make it large for big impact spaces.

Here are some fun ideas for artwork that might resonate with you,

• TRAVEL INSPO: We all have photos on our phone that we've taken from vacation, from favorite spots and places, with our favorite people. Use your best shot, or look online to find a great shot of your favorite place, upload the photo and use an online framing shop to frame it in a custom size. Find your wall space and determine which size works best for the wall.

{ Project Story: Fabulous client sitting room update. The Italian artwork by Slim Aarons, Giacomo Montegazza. This artwork selection was inspired by the Italian heritage of our Client, the time spent on Lake Cuomo, and the extensive travel journeys around Italy.}

• BOTANICAL INSPO: Instead of simply snapping pics of the area or open room, take some additional shots using the "portrait" mode or some close up shots of a really great subject.

{Project Story: This photo was taken on Nantucket and was used in a model home project.}

• FAVORITE SPOT INSPO: Take your favorite vacation hang out to a new level with close up shots of menus, music references, or signage shots.

{Project Story: This menu shot was from a Lobster Shack in Maine that Stayci snapped. The photo was printed in a large format on acrylic. The artwork was used in a staging on Nantucket as a nod to the Lobster Shack vibe on the island.}

It's so easy to print and frame your own artwork nowadays, I think it adds such a great way to personalize your space as an alternative to family portraits. I love using a mix of original abstract art, a few small paintings, and one or two quirky art pieces that have a fun vibe.

(Project Story: Stayci found this little Watercolor Landscape on Raw Canvas by Chelsea Fly while in Memphis a couple of years ago. Original art in the powder room always plays well. This little masterpiece was framed with an acrylic frame and mounted on an acrylic stand.}

Art stands are great decor items to look for in antique shops or fairs like Brimfield Antique Show. Stands are great to use for books or artwork having special meaning in the home.

Take a little stroll through the photos on your phone and look at the photos from the perspective of printing and framing. Sometimes just playing around with the cropping will help you discover a great ART piece in the making. I recommend starting with a spot in the house that needs a personal touch and ask yourself, what type of art would make a great story for this space?

Once you know the subject matter and perhaps the size or landscape type you'd want, it makes finding the right shot a lot easier. Step out of the selfie comfort zone and get your photographer hat on! Your inspiration is right around the corner!