Author Archives: Elizabeth Rowe

We were at the Inverness Festival of the Arts!

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Video credit: Islands in Motion

We are very excited to say that we attended the Inverness Festival of the Arts over this past Saturday and Sunday. We showcased 6 original pieces from our artists and one of our custom pieces.

Check out hundreds of paintings by clicking the “Choose your Art” tab. What piece of original art will you choose to tell your story?

 

Simple Home Decor Ideas >> Living Room & Bedroom

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Video Credit: Pick Up Limes

Adding interest or character to your home doesn’t have to cost you a ton of money. Why be boring when all it takes is a few small additions to enrich your space. Don’t wait for when it’s in your budget to start shopping for cool accents. Hit up your local thrift store, dollar store, flea market or neighborhood garage sale to score some good finds. This video lists simple and economical ways you can convert your living space into a zen den of sorts. Of course, and I may be biased, but the best way to add interest to a room is with art. Check out our site to see what would go best on your wall. Please see below for an overview of the décor tips listed in the video.

  1. Add lots of plants to your space. If you’re tight on cash, simply put some fallen greens in a mason jar and place it on your windowsill
  2. Add small and simple center pieces to your table to make spaces more welcoming
  3. Use candles or an oil diffuser to achieve (as the Dutch call it) Gezellic, which translates to cozy atmosphere
  4. Hang fairy lights to add to a homey feel in any room (okay, not the most sophisticated décor tip, but angelically homey nonetheless)
  5. Invest in some throw pillows and a comfy blanket to toss on your sofa
  6. Mirrors are a great way to open up a space and bring in more natural light

Apartment Tour | 300 sq. foot Studio in NYC

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Video Credit: Cody Jensen

You can make any small space modern, yet cozy by implementing some interesting design elements. Try utilizing every square inch for optimal livability, like transforming a hallway into your personal art gallery or investing in multi-purpose furniture to free up space. Add coziness by stacking colorful books in interesting ways or invest an apartment-sized sectional (complete with additional storage) to lounge on while reading or watching TV. The living room doubles as a dining area thanks to the adjustable coffee table that also folds out into a full-sized table. There are so many ingenious design elements in this space that you can use regardless of the size of your home. Most importantly, make sure you optimize wall space by making it interesting with art or by adding additional shelving. We have outlined some interesting points from the video below.

  • Even in a small space you can transform “dead” areas, like hallways, into galleries to display artwork
  • Update your countertops with contact paper to give your kitchen a new modern look
  • Give yourself flexibility in your workspace by purchasing an adjustable desk that lets you sit or stand
  • Use multi-purpose desks for additional table space
  • Incorporate old books into a room to create warmth in a room, and they provide a subtle pop of color
  • Invest in an apartment-sized sectional that gives you space to lounge comfortably, comes with additional storage for blankets, unfolds into a queen-sized bed, and can be disassembled for additional seating
  • Select multi-purpose furniture to give an area dual-purpose, like a coffee table that can be converted into a dining table

 

Interior Design Tips & Tricks | Overhaul

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Video Credit: Kin

Here are some great tips and tricks for those of you who prefer a monochrome, or tonal, color palette. You can still make a space interesting, functional and comfortable by incorporating some of the design techniques featured in this video. For the record, flow is crucial for the overall function and feel of a room across all color palettes. But whatever your color scheme, our original art offers a great focal point for any space. We’ve outlined some handy tips from the video below.

Living Room

  • Try breaking up a sofa in a space do that your guests do not feel boxed in. This approach is useful for areas that require a lot of seating
  • Use a circular coffee table to avoid angles that lead people in or out of a space
  • Try incorporating a coordinated color palette for a seamless flow between rooms. Also, try to remain consistent with your use of accent metals
  • When you’re styling with a muted color palette, think about using varied textures: polished marble, satin nickel, tweed, and rough linen. Remember this adage: When you go tonal, go textured”

Home Office

  • Keep spatial configuration in mind by putting L-shaped desks back-to-back to make zones
  • Keep noise to a minimum by adding carpets and sofas; the larger the sofa, the more noise it will absorb
  • For a clutter-free and seamless look, don’t forget to manage the cords from countless devices and lamps. You can hide cords by simply drilling an extra hole in the top of your desk

Bedroom

  • Choose one cohesive color palette that you do not deviate from for unity in a space
  • Use complementary metals in a space for a cool, calm, and consistent look
  • Larger areas can be made to be multi-functional, like a bedroom and media room

 

Yoelvin De Los Santos – Art that Redefines Perceptions

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Yoelvin was born in the province of Monte Plata in the Dominican Republic. The genesis of his ideas can be found in everyday happenstance, and are cleverly juxtaposed to shed light on injustice, and, in turn, redefine popular social norms. He uses realism and abstractionism to alter perceptions and evoke emotion. His technique, use of color and intricate brushstrokes, coupled with social concept, powerfully captivate art lovers.

Yoelvin’s father was an artist, and his greatest influence. He uses art as a vehicle to express how he feels, while creating art that inspires activism and admiration from art lovers in the Dominican Republic and abroad. In reference to Yoelvin’s relationship with art, perhaps he says it best, “it’s an essential part of who I am; it’s in my blood; I always knew I wanted to be an artist.”

Yoelvin De Los Santos: Click here to view selection

Mercedes Diaz – Feel the Passion through her Art

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Mercedes was born in the province of Azua, Dominican Republic in 1955. She was mentored by her neighbor when she was a child. This ignited her lifelong passion for art, which lead her to study at the Dominican University, where she earned a degree in art and fashion design. As an adult, she participated in exhibitions and competitions at the national level, including an event titled “Thirteen Women Painted” that featured distinguished female artists of the Dominican Republic.

Conventional studies notwithstanding, her artwork evolved further through her personal study of art at galleries and notable life events. She creates mostly in oil and sometimes acrylic, depending on her desired stylistic effect. Each piece of art uses vibrant colors, rich texture, and bold brushstrokes. Her art graces the walls of art lovers and galleries in the Caribbean and across the US; complimenting traditional and modern décor. Hanging her art is a great way to give a space a dramatic focal point.

Mercedes Diaz: Click here to view selection

Carlos Oliva – Capturing the Essence of Life

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Carlos graduated from the National School of Visual Arts with a degree in fine arts. He went on to complete an intensive course in drawing at the Altos de Chavon School of Design. He was influenced by the works of Guillermo Gutierrez and Manuel Toribio. On a personal level, he was influenced by his grandmother, a fashion designer, and his uncle, a visual artist. He participated in two national exhibitions that were organized by the Cultural Center of Spain as part of a collective initiative called “Viralatex.”

His artistic concepts stem from the simple light that illuminates from all God’s creations. He captures the essence of life and transfers his artistic message through his idiosyncratic techniques, signature brushstrokes, and application of a deep, rich color palate. He prefers to create in acrylic due to its quick drying time and opaque color.
Carlos’ distinct style has made him popular in the Caribbean and across the US. His paintings resonate with art collectors on a multitude of levels, artistically and socially. He transforms a simple thought or concept into a meaningful piece of art, which is perfect for any décor, modern or traditional. When asked about his art, Carlos had this to say, “My art is about the beauty of everyday life and the simplicity that surrounds it. I don’t like to be pretentious – I try to be as simple as possible.”

Carlos Oliva – Click here to view selection

Anthony Diaz – Art that’s an Expression of God

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Anthony’s artistic creations are a manifestation of his love for God. His spirituality helps guide him to transform what’s in his heart and mind into artistic brilliance. Each canvas exhibits the harmony of love, peace, and the delight of Godly expression; fulfilled by creative mindfulness, artful blending techniques and precise brushstrokes. He embraces everyday nuances as expressed in dance, music, and the robust Dominican culture.

His quiet observations capture the magic of gentle moments and transform them into art. He knew as a child that God had endowed him with the passion and talent to paint. He started his journey to develop his ability by exploring different styles, including animation and pencil sketching. As a young adult, he was enrolled in the Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes, which helped him to further develop his distinct style.

His style is precise; each brush stroke furthers the artistic integrity of the piece. Every detail helps to capture and perpetuate the mood of the moment; from the shading in the leaves of the trees to the expert detail in the musculature of the horses. However, Anthony articulates why he creates best, “I paint what God puts in my heart.”

Anthony Diaz Original Paintings – Click Here To View Selection

Interior Design Trends for 2018

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Video Credit: D.Signers

True, we’re approaching the end of 2018, but these trends are timeless, and can make a relevant impact on 2019. Plus, let’s face it, these are great trends that any procrastinator can incorporate into their space. We have posted the trends below in easy-to-read (and follow) bullets. And, for the record, we have an eclectic selection of paintings that can make any decor.

  1. Millennial Pink – It’s not going anywhere, so embrace it, and combine it with esmeral green, teal, or navy blue
  2.  Shapely Furniture – We’re going back to the 70s with this trend. Trust these organic shapes to add interest to any space
  3. Wabi-Sabi – The whole idea behind this concept is “imperfection is beautiful.” Focus on rustic and imperfect additions to your space
  4. Ultra Violet – This color is so 2018. Look for Pantone 18-3838 at your paint store. We’re talking accent walls, accessories, furniture, etc
  5. Nature – Put hanging plans everywhere. Keep your eyes peeled for some macrame plant holders. Do grandma proud, and pick one up for your living room
  6. Huge Art on the Wall – We can help out with this trend, and we can supply small pieces, too
  7. Mixing Metals – Select a dominant metal and use the other metals as accents, like up to 3 types
  8. Bold Colors – Combine complementary colors to highlight some elements by contrast; think of teal and orange, pink and green, and violet and yellow
  9. Dark Wood – Floors, furniture, accessories – you name it
  10. Tropical Vibes – Try some tropical wallpaper and accessories

No-Fail Tips and Tricks for Living Room Decorating

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No Fail Decor Tips

 

Video Credit: House & Home

When you’re decorating a space in your home, it’s important to consider functionality. In this video, the designer aims to create a multi-functional area: formal like a living room, yet comfortable like a family room. As you’re focusing on specific components, you need to consider the area as a whole to ensure the final look is aesthetically pleasing. We’ve summarized the tips from the video below. And since you’re here, check out our artwork. We have styles for any décor.

  1. Start with a floor plan, even before you’ve decided on a style
  2. Area rugs are a great way to set the tone of a room – Choose a rug with a pattern as it will hide stains and wear
  3. When selecting a sofa for a dual-purpose space, look for sophisticated and comfortable, which is perfect for a living/family room
  4. Remember to balance the style of each component; for example, an antique mirror with a modern coffee table
  5. Try placing a bookshelf between the wall and the sofa for a different look. A bookshelf can also work as a space divider
  6. Add greenery into your space; especially flowers, which can be changed out every week
  7. Think about conversation when you’re laying out a space. Adding a bench is an interesting way to add additional seating
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