Mass produced pieces of art from stores like Target, Homegoods, and Pier One certainly have their place, but whenever budgets allow, I am a strong proponent of using unique and original pieces in your space. Not only does this support artists in your community (or worldwide!), but one-of-a-kind artwork adds originality and self-expression to a room.
Your space shouldn’t feel like you clipped it out of a magazine; it should feel like you! Below I’ve compiled a list of resources to help you alight upon that perfect piece.
1) Art Galleries in Grand Rapids
Visiting art galleries not only lets you search for that perfect piece, it’s also a great night out. Here are a few to get you started:
2) Coffee Shops in Grand Rapids
There is something about the combination of art and coffee that is irresistible! Next time you’re craving your daily brew, check out one of these shops that display pieces by local artists:
Founded by designer and creative director Danielle Krysa, The Jealous Curator Blog features the work of contemporary artists to help them get exposure. You can read posts highlighting creatives from across the country or listen to weekly podcasts where artists reveal the stories behind their art.
Up-and-coming artists often try to gain recognition on marketplace sites like Etsy and Art Finder. You can explore everything from drawings and paintings to prints and sculptures created by artists from around the world.
5) Thrift Stores
The mystery of thrift stores is that you never know what you’ll find! Take the time to wander through a few, and you might discover a new artist or find that one-of-a-kind piece. I love to grab old vintage pieces, old paint by numbers, or anything that has some character to it and pull them together in quirky gallery walls:
6) Travel
One last tip: make use of any trips you take to scope out the local artwork. You may come across unique styles that you won’t find in your hometown---and a piece of art makes the perfect souvenir. OR, grab some photos of interesting landscapes, buildings, or artifacts while on your adventures, and frame them up when you get home, like in the below example!
Have an original piece that you love? Or a local artist you admire? We’d love to hear where you discovered them in the comments below!
Work with Lauren Figueroa Interior Design
LFID is a full-service interior design firm serving West and Southeast Michigan. We work with clients across West and Southeast Michigan (Detroit metro, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Holland) and anywhere in between, and we pride ourselves on creating bespoke, people-centered spaces—because after all, people are what this life is all about!
If you have a project on the horizon, get started by telling us a little about your vision here.
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