The art collector's hunt!

You know that moment you have when you see something so beautiful that it simply takes your breath away? Well that exact moment, is what we felt when we saw this stunning piece of artwork at a local up and coming antique store. This find was totally unexpected and all that much sweeter because of it!

This original oil painting dates back to 1910 and depicts the most suspicious little boy that we could ever imagine. The richness and complexity of the color palette paired with the ever so regal feeling that this painting depicts is simply what dreams are made of. And frankly, what every art collector hopes to discover hanging in any antique store.

For us, every part of antique art collecting is important. Right down to the chipped frame that comes with the piece. For most of us living in a world of perfectionism, we hardly stop to admire the charm that comes with imperfections on item's that surround us. So instead of trying to 'fix' any piece you are lucky enough to come across - think, how can I best preserve this piece of art. And most often, the answer is to keep it exactly as-is.

For us, the aspect that makes antique art so special is that it often has a story that follows it. Often the owner of the antique store or of the auction house will be able to provide you with context on the past life of your piece. They may share with you highlights of ownership or the details regarding the artistic techniques used or provide context as to the period it was done in. The history and the stories associated with any given piece can increase its monetary value and often if documentation accompanies those stories, it can also substantial increase the desirability for a collector.

Now, not every piece will have a story that makes you stop in your tracks. And most often or not, you will have an antique vendor tell you that not much is known about the origin of the piece. But we've got news for you, THAT'S OK TOO! It's okay for a few reasons - 1) You can always do your own research on the piece - the internet is a magical place these days! 2) You can always consult an appraiser before committing to a more substantial piece if you are unsure and need extra convincing and finally, 3) Let your imagination run wild a little bit.. We rarely get hung up on a 'lack' of context when it comes to original pieces of artwork. Our checklist usually consists of one question, Do we LOVE it? If the answer, is yes then we let the details slide. The truth is, you may not know the history behind the piece but that doesn't mean that it doesn't have one. And it certainly doesn't mean that you can't spend some time exploring what it may have been. Look for hints such as the artist signature and the date on the back of the canvas etc.

At the end of the day, art collectors don't collect to make a profit. Of course, it is possible and very likely with high end pieces that are often acquired through accredited auction houses across the world. However, it is important to remember that art was not made to be an object of speculation per se. The true value of buying and collecting art comes from the enjoyment of having a wonderful piece in your home. And with this type of mindset, you are sure to have your own breath taken away on your next antique art hunt!

What a true investment looks like..

For most people, art is hung on walls. And many of us think you have to go to an art gallery to see it - rarely do we think of it as hanging on our very own four walls. And even more startling, we would never think of furniture as art - especially, in our own home. Well, let me say this ladies and gentlemen, furniture may be the most special piece of art you can own and enjoy if you open your mind to it!

Furniture gives a room personality - it sets the mood and can say everything you can't..and if you don't believe us, just take a look at this stunningly bold Harp chair by Jorgen Hovelskov.

Jorgen Hovelskov was a Danish visual artist born in 1935 that emerged from the golden age of Danish furniture architects and designers. The Harp chair was one of the many highlights of his career. It was first exhibited in 1963 and achieved the highest award for best design. Many of Hovelskov's pieces are sought after by art collectors, furniture designers and those with a taste for the unusual. As a result, several of his pieces have also been mass produced and are in the marketplace as duplicates of his original work. All original Harp Chairs have been handcrafted and produced in Denmark.

Now, the Harp chair comes with a price tag that can make you think twice. And we're here to tell you that furniture is worth the investment - especially, if and when you find that one piece that will complete your room. For example, a statement piece of furniture such as the one above is not only a conversation piece but it becomes a focal point for all the other details within the room. The art of design isn't about having every piece of furniture be an original by a famous designer - (although, if it can be how amazing!) but instead about integrating key pieces with your everyday go-to's in any space.

The Harp chair above sits on a handmade rug from India that we found at a fantastic end of the season clearance at Pottery Barn - it is one of their indoor/outdoor rugs and we thought that the architectural design of the Harp chair (being so open and transparent) there would be no better way to compliment the two than to display one piece with the other. And if you ask us, we think it's a match made in heaven! The art displayed as a backdrop to our Harp chair is an original by a local Edmonton artist, who had an exhibition at the University of Alberta a few years ago. It's a strong and bold image, that is still elegant and simple - much like the Harp chair itself. These elements play off each other like a back and forth tennis match, and that is exactly how interior design should be. Challenged and balanced. Intriguing yet beautiful.

So if you don't know any famous furniture designers, or your budget just doesn't allow you to dream in that way yet - don't be discouraged. Art comes in many shapes and forms and the art we admire evolves throughout our life times.

The best part about art is that it becomes an expression of us. It can be a print, an oil painting, an Indian rug, or a beautifully handmade piece of furniture. Art is only always between you and YOU!

P.S. One of the biggest misconceptions regarding the Harp chair is that it's only to be gawked at - it's beautiful, but I am sure it is uncomfortable! FALSE! The Harp chair was truly designed by a furniture designer first and then by an artist second. Hovelskov ensured comfort did not come at the cost of creative design. So there you have it everyone, proof that you can have your cake and eat it too!

Creating the perfect gallery wall..

The first rule to making a gallery wall is that there are no rules. The most important thing is that you carefully choose pieces that captivate you, that enrich your life or that make you feel one way or another. Art is a powerful and demands attention and is perhaps why I love it so much. 

Now, there are a few things that will make your gallery wall come together.. one is that you should have a variety of scale (size) and both pictures that are landscape and portrait. Remember, how you approach this will be reflective of your own personal style. For example, some people have to have all white frames with the same thickness and the same matboard surrounding each picture. I on the other hand like to keep things interesting - for me, consistency can be achieved by ensuring that each frame has a gold detail (in various finishes, thicknesses, styles). There is no right or wrong way to go about what pleases your eye but you should approach this project with a willingness to play.

Nina and I will start with a bare canvas, our many white walls, and then just start with "Try this one there.." or "Ok, now what about if we moved that beside the other one?" Slowly, it starts to come together like a puzzle, the pictures start to compliment each other and begin to look like they belonged their all along!