Searching for artwork is one of my favorite pastimes. I'm always on the lookout for pieces that can transform the look and energy of a room. I remember a time when there were only two options for wall art: 1) high brow and high budget—original paintings or photography; or 2) cheap and mass produced—concert posters or pages torn from magazines. Now there are so many choices in terms of art type, medium, size, subject matter, price, and more, that it can be a bit overwhelming.
To help you sort through your options, I'm sharing information about how and where to find wall art, divided into two blog posts. Part 1 (today) gives you lots of ideas for sourcing different types of artwork. Next week I'll post Part 2, which will cover alternatives to traditional wall art.
So . . . Where do I go to find artwork for my clients—and myself?
Local Resources
My very favorite way to source artwork is by tapping my local community. I live in Oakland, so there is no shortage of talented artists and art venues. But artists are everywhere—you might just need to look a bit harder depending on where you live.
Art galleries: All cities, and even most smaller towns, have art galleries. Be sure to browse them regularly, and become friendly with the gallery owners. They often have information about the local art scene they can share with you.
Street/neighborhood fairs: It's Spring—the preferred season for these fun local events. Check your city or county's website event calendars, or Google "arts and crafts shows" and you'll find them near you! For example, in April alone, San Francisco will welcome the West Portal Sidewalk Fine Arts & Crafts Fair and the San Francisco Art Market, while the Montclair Village Art Walk will take place on this side of the Bay. In Atlanta, the annual Inman Park Festival, complete with an art market and a tour of homes, takes place the last weekend of April. What can you find in your city?
Larger art shows: I love attending the Renegade Craft Fair (coming to San Francisco next weekend!); it also tours in other cities across the US. The West Coast Craft market is another great one if you're in north or Southern California. Again, a quick online search will help you find upcoming art and craft shows in your area.
Art School exhibits: If you have an art school in your city, student exhibitions are an excellent place to find artwork by fresh talent. In the Bay Area, check out California College of the Arts or the Academy of Art University.
Neighborhood boutiques: Your one-of-kind neighborhood boutiques often feature works from local artists.
Etsy
This online marketplace is chock full of original artwork and prints from artists all over the world, at often very affordable prices. The robust search function can help you find pieces you'll love from the huge selection of styles, sizes and color palettes. Here are three I'd love to own.
Left to right: acrylic painting ($150) by DeerArtStudio; "Peaches in a Bowl" pastel ($110) by ArtEqualsJoy; Scotland Art House oil painting ($52) by Artdistricts.
Online Shops
It's never been easier to find high-quality art prints at great prices. Check out these online stores, all of which support the independent artists who create the work they sell.
Minted: Founded in 2007, Minted offers a fantastic selection of prints, original art, murals, and more from more than 10,000 independent artists; affordable framing services as well.
Artfully Walls: Museum-quality art prints, original art, and over 20 creative framing options; also offers ready-to-hang "art gallery" groupings.
The Poster Club: A Copenhagen-based online emporium offering a unique selection of high-quality posters and art prints from both upcoming and established artists. Easy shipping to the US.
Juniper Print Shop: Founded by interior designer Jenny Komenda with the idea that "statement art can be both well-curated and affordable."
For a more in-depth look at online art resources, click over to this article in Emily Henderson's excellent design blog.
Thrifted Pieces
Oh, the thrill of the hunt. You never know what awaits you when you enter an estate sale or "junk shop." Behind the stacks of old magazines and dusty, half-broken Christmas ornaments might just be a literal work of art.
For example, my friend Linda scored this beautiful original painting at an estate sale. Check estatesales.org every week to see where your local treasure hunts are.
And don't forget thrift stores (Goodwill, local Charity shops), flea markets, and online vintage marketplaces such as Chairish and Etsy.