Create your own art for specific need

You don’t need a lot of money to make a space look good. Instead of purchasing an art piece, make one. I have just renovated my contemporary dining room and have installed a new fireplace mantel. I overspent on my renovation so I don’t have a lot of money left for the accessories. Where can I find an art piece under $200? Fay

Dear Fay,

I imagine many readers can relate to your limited budget dilemma, as most of us tend to splurge early in projects on those items we just have to have. I have always said that you don’t need a lot of money to make a space look good.

All you need is a little imagination and a willingness to try new things.

Instead of purchasing an art piece, make one.

Many designers have art pieces done for a space simply because they are then able to customize and have it look exactly as they have pictured it in their mind.

Also, it will be far more personal as it will be a “Fay original.” In order to complete this project, you will need a few art supplies such as a large canvas, some brushes and leftover paint. Do not use the same paint as your wall color as you will end up with a painting that blends into your wall. The idea here is to create a “wow” factor, not a “blah – what is that” factor!

If you only have two colors, your primary and accent paint leftover, to choose from, mix up some different colors from your leftovers to create a wide range of hues. Once you have all your paint mixed, paint your canvas one color throughout and wait until it dries. This might take up to 24 hours depending on the paint quality. Once the paint is dry, then apply brush strokes in various motions across the canvas. Be creative and don’t be afraid to go crazy. Abstract art is all about emotion, so it might help to focus on a certain emotion while you are painting. Then the final piece exudes that particular feeling.

Once complete, sign your name at the bottom right hand corner and hang your art piece proudly over the mantel.

Another option is to involve the whole family, with each kid painting a section of the canvas. That turns your art piece into a family heirloom and makes a great conversation piece. I assure you, it will look great!

Marc Atiyolil is the editor of Home Trends Magazine. To submit a question for Marc Atiyolil, visit www.MarcAtiyolil.com