A few days ago, I picked up my granddaughter from a play-date at her friend’s house. The home was beautiful and modern, and as I waited in the doorway I saw some large abstract paintings in the living room.

I asked the mom, “Do you know the name of the artist?” She shrugged and answered, “I have no idea.”

Being an artist myself, I wondered: Did she buy the paintings from a furniture store because they matched the sofa?

It got me thinking about who buys art, and what kind.

Are you looking to fill a blank space on your walls? Then a mass-market canvas from Walmart or Ikea might just do the trick.

But there is something missing in space-filler art: the energy and visceral connection to an artist, coming from a real piece of art.

The heart and soul of the artist

I don’t know about you, but I read a lot. It’s one of my passions.

And I always think that reading is like touching the mind of the author. It’s a very intimate connection.

In the same way, gazing at a painting that moves you, connects you  directly to the spirit of the artist, who put her heart and soul into that painting.

When you hang original art, you make your home a more personal space.

What’s the purpose of art anyway?

Is art just a pretty picture to hang on the wall? Or an afterthought, a mass-market canvas from Walmart or Ikea, to fill a blank space above your sofa?

For some people, it might be.

But original art has a super-power to enhance your life, because it connects you to the energy of another human being – the artist.

In a world of mass-produced items, art can bring you the emotions, thoughts and intentions of the person who created it.

By tapping into these intentions and energy, you can make your home a more vibrant, soulful and intimate space.

5 Super-Powers of Original Art

1. Art tells your story

By carefully selecting the artwork you bring into your home, you showcase your choices and share your rich inner world with people you live with, and visitors to your home.

Over time, these curated collections become part of your legacy.

2. Art holds the powerful comforts of home.

What feels like home to you – the smell of soup, or cookies? The colors of the ocean, or a forest? A favorite song from your playlist?

Sensory memories anchor us and evoke emotions, and art does the same thing. Art instantly transports us to a safe and happy place. It holds the powerful comforts of home.

Even if you move, it’s not until your art is unpacked and hung or placed, that you feel a sigh of relaxation as you sink into the familiarity of your home.

3.   Art makes a statement  

Art can define the space and bring a decorating theme together. It can make a room look more spacious, or more intimate, and provoke conversation or contemplation.  

4.  Art lights up your brain

Unlike with a mass-produced canvas from Ikea, your brain’s pleasure centers light up when you view a piece of original art that speaks to you. It’s a portal through which you connect with the artist at an emotional level.

Looking at art that you love, instantly uplifts and transports you, giving you a few brief moments outside your daily existence.

5.  Art can be an investment

When you invest in the arts, you allow artists to flourish and bring their unique expressions to the world.

By investing in emerging artists whose work speaks to you, you’ll be investing in enjoyment for years to come.  

Fill your life with art

If a piece of art speaks to you, it will reward you with years of pleasure. Trust your taste, and buy what you love.

What do you think: Do you buy original art? If not, is it because you can’t find what you like? Or because you think it’s too expensive? Please post below or hit “reply”. I always love to hear from you!