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Why original art in EVERY home is essential

November 7, 2013

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By Lisa Madigan

There is such a rich vibrancy and diversity to the world of contemporary art. That may sound like a daunting and sometimes confronting realm to many, but once we whittle it back to basics, it’s a very raw and beautiful place, full of creatives in interesting spaces, pouring hours of themselves into creating works, ultimately for you to connect with and enjoy.

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Hang stunning statement pieces on their own, give them space to breathe. Original by Lisa Madigan.

It may be because I’m an artist, but I do feel that original art, in every home, is essential. Original art has a pulse, it has a soul and it will radiate day to day, bringing pleasure, conversation, delight and wonder. It will reward you, feed you, nurture you. It makes us feel and who doesn’t want to step into a space that uplifts the spirit and transcends the ordinary? Often it can be the key to making a room truly unite and pop. It can be as simple as framing your child’s latest masterpiece, purchasing investment works or anything in between. You can start small and work your way up or go for it by commissioning the piece you’ve always dreamt of.

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A glimpse at some of the tools of the trade in Lisa Madigan’s studio

It’s an especially exciting time as the marketplace is now an open playing field, you can purchase from traditional gallery spaces, buy on an opening night pop up, tour an artist’s studio, you can email, phone, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook your interest or admiration, order from overseas, ship interstate. We’re no longer bound by distance and there is a multitude to explore. I love having direct contact with my clients and the people who connect with my work, after all, art is often about opening communication lines, provoking a conversation and with my own narrative it’s very much about offering people the chance to feel, to experience and explore my work, no matter where they are in the world.

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Mix it up and hang different works together. Here’s an original Lisa Madigan alongside pieces she picked up on travels to Bali and New York.
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From humble beginnings: Raw paint tubes, part of the beauty of original works, they’re touched directly by their creator

Give yourself the time to explore ย Find new mediums or rediscover traditional ones, hunt out artists, discover new ways of seeing things and find what truly resonates with you.

You can always start small ย We don’t all have to have a huge collection, but original work in the home should be for the many, not for the few.

Go with your heart ย Try not to be too railroaded by trends or popularity, you never know, what you fall in love with could be the next big thing.

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Don’t feel that you need to have a huge piece for a big wall, start small and mix original pieces you love with other objects

 

Use mantle tops and bookshelves to display smaller pieces together
Use mantle tops and bookshelves to display smaller pieces together

Get in touch directly with artists who’s work you admire ย Most of us are very approachable and would love to hear from you!

Pick pieces that can fold into the story of your life ย Consider purchasing or commissioning a piece to celebrate a special occasion. When travelling it can be lovely to pick up an original piece as a reminder of your journey.

Be brave ย If you love it, you will find a place for it, integrating new works into the home can be such a delight.

Ultimately, it’s about finding pieces you connect with, that move you, that compel you and quite simply, you love.

Lisa Madigan is a leading contemporary artist, currently living and working from her cottage on the NSW South Coast. You can find out more about Lisa and her work at her website.

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Time worn marks of creation from pieces past in Lisa’s studio

Jen is currently on honeymoon in Tokyo, Venice and the UK, and has opened up the blog to a series of fabulous guest posters to share their interiors-related expertise in her absence. She hopes you’ll enjoy them and look out for the odd honeymoon post from overseas! The new Mrs Francis (who will still be known as Bishop for work purposes) will be back at her desk on 11 November.

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Head over to the blog via link in bio to read all about why she went bold and full of pattern in this project, which is a stark contrast to her zen and neutral Northern Beaches abode.

There's also plenty of details about where things are from etc.

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Comments

  1. AvatarBettina Deda says

    November 13, 2013 at 11:26 am

    I totally agree with Lisa that everyone should have some original art in their home. It is a unique piece and therefore means something to you. I have framed a few artworks of my son and displayed them in our hall and living room. Most people think if they commission art it is much more expensive than buying something in a shop. Being an artist myself, I can assure you that this is not the case. To help art lovers to get started I have written a document to download from my website about how to commission art: http://www.bdcolourdesign.net.au/original-art/ I also agree with Lisa’s advice that if you love an artwork you will find a place and make it work in your home!

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