Liz Lidgett's Blog

Art Meets Design: A Peek Into My Home Makeover

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:15:34 GMT

As I prepared my home for a few fun PR moments, I finally tackled the projects that had been lingering on my to-do list. With the help of Hannah, our Director of Interior Design, my living room now feels fully complete.

I like to think of myself as a design expert, but in truth, I am a design lover and even I need to turn to the experts from time to time. I am getting my home ready for the book and some fun PR opportunities where I will be inviting a videographer into my home. This means I am working on just about everything I have ever had on my list. Now is the time to get it done and show off my best ideas.

My living room has a large ceiling whose dullness (just plain white) has irked me forever. I knew a few weeks ago that now was the perfect time to paint the ceiling. I called my friend Dustin, who also happens to be my go-to painter, and sent him a blue color. Well, here’s the problem with making quick decisions and not swatching the paint – paint has a funny way of turning colors you don’t expect on ceilings. The light is different and it’s a large un-interrupted space. So my beautiful blue I had chosen turned… purple.

I am not against the color purple–as an art lover I am an equal opportunity color lover too. But this purple was not right, suddenly my carefully curated home was clashing all over the place.

I knew it was time to call in the big guns– and by that I mean our interior designer Hannah Jacobus, an actual design expert. Hannah knows my home well and pulled a large collection of colors. I did swatch this time and colors I thought I would love then turned GREEN. Ultimately, she knows color and found the perfect blue. SW Resolute Blue that helped bring the design all together.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t remind you all that Hannah does these awesome color study packages where she works with clients virtually on the perfect color palette for their home. Think of it as a room-by-room roadmap for color: Hannah develops a custom palette and pairs it with inspiration imagery and a practical implementation guide. You’ll walk away with the tools to apply your primary palette and seamlessly blend in coordinating supporting colors and finishes throughout your home.

I have learned my lesson and I will be turning to Hannah each time I need to make a big color decision. There are times you just need to turn to the experts.

Do you have a space—or several spaces—that don’t feel like you? Or rooms that sit unused because they just don’t work for your lifestyle or spark emotion? At Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design, we specialize in creating spaces that not only function flawlessly but also reflect your personality, passion, and artful taste.

Whether it’s reimagining a cheerful breakfast nook or redesigning an entire home, we’re here to help you have a home that truly brings you happiness. Let’s work together to transform your environment into a joyful, personalized haven.

If the 2026 Grammy Looks Were Art

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:05:06 GMT

Our take on this year’s Grammy looks and the pieces from our gallery they instantly reminded us of.

We paired Sombr with Joy Kinna’s "Look Close” piece, and the connection feels immediately natural — as if they were meant to be experienced side by side. Kinna’s acrylic and oil-on-canvas work moves with a fluid, intuitive energy, shaped by the layering of emotions, memories, landscapes, and both conscious and subconscious thoughts that evolve into expressive colors and forms. Sombr’s look carries subtle Victorian influences while maintaining a graceful sense of movement, creating an overall feeling of unity and quiet strength. The silver elements in Kinna’s piece echo seamlessly with his Grammys look, reinforcing a shared sense of cohesion and intention between art and fashion.

Audrey Nina feels like a living embodiment of Brittany Atkinson’s work stepping onto the red carpet. The strongest connection lies in the shared geometry, expressed through Audrey’s sharp lines and voluminous, billowing structure that mirror the geometry found in Brittany's works. The neutral tones in Audrey’s look echo the palette of "Hazel Grace" , with its soft pinks, deep taupes, off-whites, and greige hues. Brittany is known for painting vibrant, confident women, creating work that encourages boldness and self-assurance... a spirit that Audrey carries effortlessly in this look.

We paired Sarina Angell’s "Blood Red Tulips" with Chappell Roan’s daring, sensual Grammy look. This pairing feels inseperable in its shared richness and depth. Both Chapel and Brittany’s work leans into the lush language of velvet and deep maroon, creating a visual dialogue rooted in intimacy and strength. Chappell’s sheer maroon dress carried a playful yet commanding sensuality on the red carpet, balancing softness with power. Similarly, Angell’s circular composition drenched in velvet maroon and framed in stark white allows the work to stand boldly on its own. The hand-sewn, stuffed florals add texture and dimension, keeping the monochromatic palette alive with movement. Working across both fine art and wearable art, Angell’s practice naturally bridges the worlds of adornment and expression, making this pairing feel especially aligned.

It only felt right to pair the sparkle queen, Kristi Kohut, with Joni Mitchell’s look. As Joni Mitchell shimmered in a head-to-toe sequin ensemble that moved from deep black into rich blues and purples, Chromatic Harmony #50 echos the same ombré pattern creating a visual crescendo. Side by side, the textures speak the same language... depth and dimension of sequins across the canvas and Joni’s look. There’s a harmony between fashion and art here: bold, expressive, and unapologetically vibrant. True to Kristi Kohut’s philosophy that there are no rules in art, this pairing feels fearless and inviting. Just as Joni continues to redefine presence and performance, Kristi’s work opens the door to joy and accessibility proving that color is meant to be felt.

Art Meets Design: KBIS and NKBA

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 17:00:56 GMT

As the Membership Chair of the National Kitchen & Bath Association Iowa Chapter, I attended training and the KBIS trade show that was insightful and inspirational.

I attended the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Orlando last week and spent a significant time on the show floor evaluating new product launches and innovations across kitchen and bath professionals. I left with clear, actionable takeaways to directly inform how I specify finishes, fixtures, appliances, and “detail moments” for Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design client projects. I noticed a strong industry shift toward designing kitchens and baths as highly considered, design-forward spaces; where performance, longevity, and beauty are expected to coexist. I have given a sneak peek into some of the reoccurring trends I found in the kitchen and bath trade industry.

Trend 1: “Jewelry” and Craft at the Forefront

The most compelling booths emphasized quality and craft, even in everyday kitchen and bath categories.
Decorative hardware and statement lighting were treated like the “jewelry” of the space, pieces that elevate cabinetry and surfaces rather than simply finishing them.

This creates an opportunity to thoughtfully layer hardware, lighting, and metal finishes in a way that adds depth and refinement to a space. By treating these elements as complementary rather than separate decisions, the overall result feels more curated giving kitchens and baths a stronger sense of individuality and a polished, lived-in character.

Trend 2: Function-First Without Sacrificing Form

Across brands, there was a noticeable push toward better function, but with equal attention to proportion, finish, and overall visual integration.
A major through-line was aging in place, with products that support longevity and accessibility while still feeling elevated and residential (not clinical).
The health and wellness industry is increasingly influencing kitchen and bath innovation (comfort, ease of use, supportive features), and it’s showing up in subtle, design-friendly ways.

When designing for a client, I take a proactive approach to specifying products and materials that support long-term living, comfort, and evolving usability needs. My goal is to thoughtfully integrate features that anticipate future lifestyle shifts while enhancing day-to-day functionality. These considerations are never treated as purely practical add-ons, but are instead seamlessly woven into the overall design so that adaptability, ease, and comfort coexist within a refined and cohesive aesthetic.

Trend 3: True Customization is Becoming the Standard

Customization was everywhere: appliance color customization to match or contrast cabinetry, expanded finish options, and more flexible sizing across categories.
Brands are making it easier to create truly tailored solutions, custom details that feel integrated and intentional rather than “off the shelf.”

From a design standpoint, this creates greater opportunity to craft truly unique moments within a space. Through the use of custom appliance finishes, bespoke sizing, and thoughtfully considered detailing. Kitchen and baths can now move beyond standard solutions to become deeply personal environments. These tailored elements allow each space to feel intentional and distinctive, resulting in a design that is not only functional, but unmistakably one-of-one.

Moving forward, this will shape my design process at Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design by encouraging a more detail-focused approach to kitchens and baths... one that prioritizes the small yet impactful elements that make a space feel complete. I aim to bring conversations around future functionality into the planning phase sooner, ensuring that comfort and longevity are considered alongside aesthetics from day one. During selections, I’ll also introduce more opportunities for customization so clients can infuse their personality into the space while maintaining harmony with the broader architectural vision.

Artist Spotlight: Rocky Reed

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:11:41 GMT

A closer look at Rocky Reed’s newest works in our Figural Show—exploring his process, perspective, and the thoughtful craftsmanship behind each finished piece.

After installing our new show, I found myself especially drawn to the new figures in Rocky’s work. Curious about their evolution, I reached out to him and he generously shared not only the inspiration behind them, but a glimpse into his creative process as well. Rocky’s latest collection is now live , featuring six new pieces each distinctly different, yet unmistakably his.

As a Des Moines resident, Rocky Reed currently paints contemporary realist pieces, featuring still lifes, plein air, portrait, and figurative subjects. Rocky makes an effort to impart a sense of poetry, technical bravura, and presence to his paintings. He selects subjects and compositions based on complexity, variety, and compelling visual relationships. He also typically renders in vegan materials when painting, such as vegan-friendly paints/pigments, glues, and supports.

"I usually use vine charcoal, dry pastel, and pencil on paper, and they're usually small (about copy paper size).The three green ceramic figure pieces come from a series I worked on last year. I was exploring the aesthetics of slate chalkboards, building up textures to mimic the quality of overwritten marks. At the same time I wanted to work on painting complex porcelain subjects, and use the painting medium to give them a surreal, uranium glass texture. Garden No. 3 and No. 4 combine those ideas."

" Stargirl had a similar technical approach, but without the chalkboard aesthetic. With Stargirl I wanted to blur the line between a sculptural painting and portraiture, with a material that doesn't immediately read as either one."

"The 3 recent pieces ( Columbina , Bonfire , and Pierrette ) are all using the Commedia dell'arte as subject matter. I've been studying crystal and synthetic cubism lately, and the pieces from those movements featuring Commedia characters have given me a lot of inspiration to explore them as subjects. My current process has a few stages: preliminary sketch, poster study, and final painting."

"I usually start with a small dry media sketch to develop the rough composition and palette. This step is rough, and I don't worry about accuracy or details. Next, I'll either do a small poster study painting, or a digital painting. Lately I've been doing more digital paintings for this step. I use an iPad pencil and the app Procreate for the digital mockups."

"Here I try to make sure the underlying structure is somewhat accurate to how I want the final piece to look, but I don't get too fussy with smaller details. Sometimes I'll do a charcoal drawing on the final canvas and use a photo of that as the starting point for the digital piece, which is what I did with Columbina. Next, I'll do the final painting. For Columbina, this process was to transfer the underlying drawing to the large canvas, and rendering the painting while making various changes."

"If I want to make a change to the painting I'll often switch back to the digital painting or poster study and try the change there first, so I can rapidly test things out. For my canvas, I start with either a solid tone or washed tone with a rag. I use vine charcoal for my underlying drawing. Then I usually use acrylic and oil paints, with china markers for more permanent underlying drawing and for gestural marks."

New Show: Body Language

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:48:58 GMT

Welcome to our new show Body Language. Featuring eight artists and over fifty works, each with their own take on figural forms.

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm -

Located in Gainesville, Georgia... Angela Chrusciaki Blehm is inspired by the clothing we wear, feminine routines or roles, and the idea of color as an anecdote. She reveals the comedy of overwrought sexuality, materializing dreams and fantasies, finding beauty in the everyday, reveling in happiness. In her new series you will find three wooden assemblages figural forms paired together that can be intermixed or matched. Each piece is cut, painted, then glued together to make these human-like figurines.

Brittany Atkinson -

Brittany Atkinson based in Austin, Texas is known for her abstract female portraits and figures. Often painting in bold, colorful, confident women... she hopes to inspire other women to be bold, daring, and fearless in her work. In Brittany’s new series you will see six new works featuring her newest subject matter, cowgirls! Taking on traditional southern dress and colors, these six new pieces still hone into Brittany’s geometric f emale figurines.

Fares Micue -

One of our six artists who are located internationally, Fares Micue resides in Las Palmas, Spain. Drawing inspiration from her environment, personal experiences, and personal growth... Fares manipulates photographs as an art itself. Incorporating editing, photoshopping, and color variations of the photograph to create an art piece alone. Infused with symbolism, every element in her composition is intentional and contributes to the overall message.

Jaime McCarrier -

Jaime McCarrier is based in San Diego, California and has completely sold out all of her collections with the gallery. She is known for her beach figures with patterns and playful color combinations. She finds inspiration from fashion, design, and coastal style and bright colors featuring clean lines and playfulness off of positive and negative space. Her new series contains six new pieces of woman and children alongside the coast.

Nicholas Sanders -

One of our newest signed artists, Nicholas Sanders has years of experience in portrait photography, but has since honed in his practice to layering painting practices on-top of his photographs. By infusing vibrant and dynamic imagery into every project, he brings a conventional edge to creative advertising photography. His four pieces contain different subjects with interesting painted elements.

Rocky Reed -

Based right here in Iowa, Rocky Reed is a self-taught artist who paints contemporary realistic pieces featuring still life, plein air, portrait, and figural subjects. Adhering to vegan-friendly materials, Rocky often completes paintings using all vegan-friendly paints/pigments, glues, and supports. His six new paintings feature figures such as pierettes (female clowns), woman figures, realism snakes, and abstract subjects.

Suzy Lindow -

Creating lively bold pieces that infuse personality into a space, Suzy Lindow ’s new collection features six new pieces inspired by party goers and folk art motifs. Her offbeat color combinations and playful marks define her whimsical pieces have caught the eye of many collectors across the United States. Based in Williamsburg, Virginia Suzy if Suzy is not creating her she often spending her free time teasing her eighteen-year-old Persian cat with mini party hats.

Taylor Cox -

Taylor Cox who once went viral for her infamous detailed painted paint brushes, has sent us ten new brushes each featuring a different subject matter. Typically rendering in acrylic featuring different figures posed on the beach or in the blue waters. Her work combines elements of realism and abstraction with a focus on texture and color.

Body Language explores the human form as one of art history’s most enduring subjects. For centuries, artists have returned to the body as a universal language and connection point. In this exhibition, our artists honor that tradition while breaking molds with unexpected perspectives and bold compositions. The result is a dynamic conversation between past and present. Now live, you can view Body Language here or stop on in Monday - Saturday from 10 to 4 PM CST.

Artist Spotlight: Nicholas Sanders

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 16:30:33 GMT

Meet Nicholas Sanders, a ‘not-really- based- anywhere’ artist who is featured in our upcoming Figural Show. Nicholas is fueled by creativity, approaching the world with exploration and open-minded curiosity to keep learning.

1. Share a bit about your background. How did you become an artist? Who or what have been your biggest influences?
"Howdy. I came to painting through photography. I have been a commercial artist for years, working with brands and agencies where experimentation was always part of the job. Test shoots and self initiated concepts gave me space to play, to follow curiosity, and to build a visual language that felt lighthearted and optimistic. That sense of play eventually pulled me toward mixed media. Last year I started painting directly onto prints of my photographs, treating them less like finished images and more like invitations. The response surprised me in the best way and encouraged me to keep going. My biggest influence is life itself. I am endlessly curious. The more I learn about the world, people, places, and ideas, the more material I feel I have to work with."

2. What is a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that the audience may not know?
"I intentionally manufacture boredom to help myself create. In 2024 I carried a flip phone for six months because I wanted fewer inputs and more space for my thoughts to wander. These days I will still leave my phone in the glovebox when I run errands so I can be fully present while standing in line or waiting at a stoplight. I try not to fill my head with noise when silence will do just fine. It is an ongoing practice and I definitely stumble. I occasionally relapse into screen time binges. It is my great modern struggle, but the quiet always pulls me back."

3. Can you walk us through your creative process from rituals or routines to ideas to finished pieces.
"My day always starts with brewing a cup of coffee. I grind the beans myself and use a French press. While I drink it, I write a letter to God. I reflect on what happened yesterday, what I hope to do today, and ask to be guided toward being of maximum service to people and to the Earth. After that I respond to emails and take care of any client work on my plate. Once the practical things are handled, I go for a long walk. Walking is where most of my ideas show up. It gives my mind room to roam and lets connections form naturally. From there the studio work feels less like forcing something and more like listening."

4. If you could live inside one of your artworks for a day, which would you choose of the ones you will be sending?
"I would crawl inside Floatie and spend the day playing with a friend in a swimming pool in the summer. That piece holds some of my favorite memories. Warm air, cold water, laughter echoing off the concrete. It feels timeless and easy and full of joy."

5. What has been the most difficult part of becoming an artist? Based on those challenges, what is one thing you would tell your past self?

"The hardest part has been developing and committing to a true style. I genuinely believe it takes about ten years to do that. What many people call a style is often closer to a motif. A real style is something deeper. When you arrive there, it cannot be copied and people respond to it instinctively because it is unmistakably you. If I could talk to my past self, I would tell him to be patient and to trust that consistency compounds. There are no shortcuts, but there are also no other yous in the world."

6. Tell us about the pieces you're showing in our Figural Show. What inspired them?
"The four pieces in the Figural Show are large format works based on test images I created over the past year. They live at the intersection of photography and painting and carry themes I return to again and again. Nostalgia, playfulness, and joy are at the core of each piece. I think of them as quiet conversations with the viewer’s inner child. They are meant to feel familiar and comforting, like a memory you cannot quite place but instantly recognize."

7. For fun, if you could spend a month learning anything, what would it be and why?
"I am excited to say I have been accepted into an artist residency in the south of France next year, so spending a month learning French would be wonderful. That said, I am endlessly hungry to learn. I would love to dive deep into meditation, fishkeeping, Moroccan architecture and interior design, the cenotes of the Yucatan, long form fiction, poetry, desert landscaping and farming, and a whole lot more. Learning feels like another form of play to me, and play is where all my best work begins."

HeART Day Collection: Valentine’s Day Inspired Art

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:30:59 GMT

Some pieces that have completely stolen our heART (yes, literally and figuratively). In honor of Valentine’s Day, here are works that truly capture the spirit of the season.

Mónica Ajenjo -

Inspired by the 1960s, Mónica creates work that reflects her childhood memories, sparked by moments of happiness, joy, love, and hope. Her two pieces feature heart-shaped arrangements of gold and silver balloons, symbolizing celebration and the beauty of life and love.

Ron Giusti -

Inspired by a mix of artistic influences and personal experiences, Ron Guisti’s mini paintings pull style inspiration from Kline and Kakinuma, highlighting a love for bold simplicity that works just as well on its own as it does grouped together. His four new pieces feature acrylic hearts with expressive paint drips and layered shading in color pairings like teal on dark green, blue on navy, and cream on tan.

Vicky Reddish -

Vicky Reddish, a Nashville-based artist, often creates abstract, gestural heart forms throughout her work. She believes her art is rooted in sharing happiness, love, and joy with others. Her philosophy is simple: creating what makes her happy naturally spreads that same feeling to those who experience her work. In these two paintings, Vicky uses loose, expressive heart-like shapes paired with Valentine’s-inspired shades of pink.

Jessi Raulet -

Well-known for her brand EttaVee, Jessi Raulet moved from the Midwest to Paris for love, and that sense of adventure continues to inspire her work. Love sits at the center of everything she creates...from her passion for creativity to her bold use of color and pattern. These bright, playful heart pieces reflect Jessi’s vibrant personality and joyful approach to art.

Artists Whose Work Will Increase in Value in 2026

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:22:26 GMT

This year you will see a price increase from some of our artists in reflection of their growth, demand, and evolution of their practices. Read more for details on who will be adjusting their pricing this year!

Hunt Slonem:

It seems every visitor to the gallery is drawn to observe the wall of bunnies—and it's always a fun game to pick a favorite! Hunt Slonem is an American artist known for his neo-expressionist paintings of butterflies, rabbits, and tropical birds. Influenced by his interest in the mystic and his meditative practice, his figures are realized with a repetition that operates as a form mantra, giving way to a surprisingly playful exuberance on canvas. From a rabbit, to a trio of butterflies, to even a landscape, Slonem's body of work includes something for everyone. Click here to view Hunt Slonem's available pieces.

Jennifer Allevato:

You might know Jennifer Allevato from her scenic chinoiserie-inspired plates or her still-life’s full of vibrant colorations. Jennifer M. Allevato is a fine art painter who works from a light-filled studio where she creates colorful post-impressionist inspired mixed media paintings, often visited by her two cats. Her artwork has been sold through Anthropologie and Serena & Lily, and has been featured on The Hallmark Channel, Apartment Therapy, HGTV Magazine, In Her Studio, and Real Simple. You can see Jennifer Allevato's available pieces here.

Brittany Atkinson:

Brittany’s work has gained national momentum following the release of her recent cowgirl series. Based in Austin, Brittany is known for her abstract female portraits and figures that celebrate strength, confidence, and individuality. Through bright, expressive color and bold compositions, she aims to empower viewers to embrace being daring, fearless, and unapologetically themselves. Her work often features geometric portraiture, highlighting women through vibrant palettes inspired by diverse cultures, cowgirl iconography, and fashion-forward elements. You can explore Brittany Atkinson’s available artwork here.

It’s common for the work of artists on our roster to appreciate over time. This year, several artists will see price increases that reflect their continued growth, rising demand and the evolution of their practices. We’re sharing just a handful! Here's a few other artists whose work have recently increased in value: Joy Kinna , Shannon Coppage and Jenna Brownlee .

Iowa Artist of the Month: Ashley Mary

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:16:49 GMT

Please welcome Ashley Mary, a multi-disciplinary artist, designer, and muralist with an MA in Graphic/Web Design from MCAD. She splits her time living between Minneapolis, Minnesota and Des Moines, Iowa.

Can you share a bit about your background? How did you become an artist/how did your love for art begin, and who or what have been your biggest influences/how has it evolved?

"I was born and raised in Minnesota with most of my time spent in the Twin Cities and Minneapolis, where I still maintain a studio out of the Northrup King Building that I share with two artist pals. I moved to Des Moines in the summer of 2024 and live in Valley Junction with my partner and our baby. I studied religion in undergrad at Hope College and have my Masters in Graphic Design from Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Hope is where I took my first studio art class and got the bug for it playing with pastels. My senior year I delightfully tripped into collage. I've always loved vintage ephemera and objects so this made sense to me. I created my first series of collages using textiles to sew into the paper. I recall my instructor being really excited about them and encouraging my experimentation. After graduating I decided to keep investing into my practice, gaining commissions and getting involved with shows. After doing that for a number of years, I really was craving to pivot to full-time creative work which is how I decided to go back to school for graphic design. By the time I graduated in my late 20s, I began freelancing/contracting in the design world doing everything from art direction, prop styling, set design, packaging, illustration, and eventually my own line of products. As far as my mural work evolved, it truly started as one person asking if I'd "ever paint on a wall" and saying yes - now I've painted over 100 murals both small and residential to large scale and over the US. In the past 10+ years I've gotten to work with tons of great brands in collaboration over products and surface design and mural work while balancing my own studio practice and I'm now a proud poster child for multi-tasking. But really I just enjoy learning new skills, playing with new materials and constantly evolving my mediums. I find the variety to my work energizing and it's given me the opportunity to work with all types of people and spaces."

What has been the most challenging obstacle in your artistic journey, and how did you overcome it?

"Two things I find most challenging and the first I think most freelance creatives can commiserate with. One is the constant anticipating of where your next project/paycheck will come from. There's not a lot of grounding in being a freelancer - you have to get used to uncertainty and thinking ahead, which can get very exhausting and overwhelming at times. I have to practice taking care of myself mentally and not letting the stress absorb me. One way I deal with the worry that comes with freelance is to focus on how I can diversify my projects and income so no one arm of my business is carrying all the weight. So year round I could be doing anything from making work in my studio to sell, running my online shop, selling at art events, graphic design services, branding, murals, product design, this takes the stress off of one thing and helps me to pivot when I need to."

"And right now, the most prevalent shift to my identity is that of becoming a mom (while keeping a creative career/practice). The balance of maintaining a personal art practice AND trying to provide with my creative work AND being a present mama, it's just a lot to hold and figure out. Every day is new and changing and I'm learning as I go. And it's a privilege to even get to have any of these opportunities too, I love being a mom so much. And I love making art so much. I feel pulled in a lot of directions and my plates just always feel full. I think rest is critical to being present (and staying sane) to all those roles but so hard to prioritize. I also think play is critical to tending to my wellbeing so I try to get involved in classes/workshops to keep me inspired, prioritizing movement when I can, staying connected to friendships, therapy....there are lots of tools, just not lots of time. And what the heck is time anymore?! I try to shift my perspective to it being "a season" and hopefully in that can hold more patience and grace for the tension of it all. Being an artist and mother is a space of dualities - both/and. I have full belief the two can tend to the other. Trying to stay focused on what I can do and not be too hard on myself for what I can't do (easier said than done)."

Can you walk us through your creative process? Do you have any rituals or routines that guide your work?

"I'm not a huge creature of routine beyond making myself coffee in the morning. I usually have too many ideas going on in my head at once so I prefer to multi-task - in my studio that translates to always working on at least 4 paintings at a time with a pile of textiles I'm painting on strewn about, and a scattering of unfinished collages nearby and always some new tool staring at me that I haven't busted into yet but I'm waiting for the moment to play. Right now that's paper mache. I recently took a paper cache workshop with local artist Genevieve Lavelle and Molly Spain and now I'm craving to quit all other obligations and just do that full-time. What guides my work most, is a curiosity of material and to see an idea through and to play. There's no one set way I approach my studio art practice but constantly shifting and asking "what if" and taking each experience with the materials as information for the next idea. I will say over the many years of doing this, I have found collage (analog and digital) to be a huge part of my sketching and ideating and that a variety of tools yields the best results for what keeps me most motivated in my process."

Your art has been featured in nationally recognized brands like Warby Parker, Lancôme, Planned Parenthood, and many more. Can you share the story behind these collaborations and what it’s like working with these brands?

"The stories are usually fairly straight forward but each their own. I've been very fortunate to be approached by these brands with the opportunity to create pieces for their packaging, interiors, or events. Everyone is always very professional and friendly, I love meeting new people and figuring out the best way to translate their ideas with my visual perspective. It's just a team of me and myself usually and with these three clients in particular, all the work was digitally created and delivered. Lancôme was especially fun to work on because of the reach and impact of the work I did on that project. The rose I designed for their Mother's Day packaging in 2023 was utilized in department stores worldwide and was really built out as an entire campaign, it's always really wild to see the scale at which designs can grow. One department store I went to in Minnesota had the rose blown up as a dimensional fabricated piece, it was fun to see at that scale. I'm really energized by client work that can expand past one space and become more multi-dimensional. And it's always a joy to support brands and organizations that I believe in and/or use, Planned Parenthood is a great example - I so admire the work they do to provide safe and accessible sexual and reproductive healthcare and it was an honor to create a some design to support one of their events."

Tell us about the pieces you're showing in the Iowa Artists Monthly Feature- what inspired them?

"Actually my move from Minneapolis to Des Moines inspired a few of the works! Last winter, I shared in a show called "Connections" with my artist friend Kelly Carambula out of Excelsior, MN and a few of those works are now included at Lidgett. They explore themes of community, solitude, staying connected to my hometown while expanding into this new one and the constantly shifting rhythms of travel and communication that each requires. I also became a mom this past year and the work explores the expanding identity shift there and how I have to navigate connection to myself and especially my relationship to my art in this new season. My piece "Potential of Abundance" and "Yes, Both/And and Everything" speak to these moments for me."

As a muralist, how do you come up with concepts for your murals? Do you start with the location, the theme, or your own inspiration? How do you hope people feel or interact when they see your murals?

"Sometimes clients give me direction for a theme for their mural. If that's the case then I'm cutting out shapes that feel symbolic or representative. If it's entirely an abstract direction, then I'm going for a feeling that I can depict through palette, mark-making, textures/patterns, and balance - I'm often thinking about movement and emotions when I'm designing a mural. In most cases, I tend to draw clients that want a mural that is inviting, bright, and playful. But I also really like approaching murals that can feel alive in a sophisticated way too, like the installation I did in Santa Barbara for Starbucks a few years ago. It would depend on the mural we're talking about, but generally I hope people feel lightness or a sense of familiarity. That perhaps the child part of them inside sort of lights up, feels invited into the moment and that some amount of warmth and energy is transferred. If anyone is paying attention to the work and maybe finds some simple delight from the passing through of it, that feels powerful to me. Artwork can serve so many purposes and one of them is hosting a moment so to speak. I hope my murals make people feel welcomed."

If you could paint a mural anywhere in the world, where would it be and what would you create?

"I have a a few places I'd be so honored to get to paint in. Kids have always been a great source of inspiration for me, and how they approach art-making is so inspiring to me. There seems to be no ego and I admire that greatly. I love watching how kids interact with my work too, I think they get the language I'm trying to speak and to be able to play a role in a shifting the feel of a space for them would be magical, especially a place of healing or learning. So I would love to paint anywhere that kids are primary guest: children's museum, children's hospital, toy shop, library, parks, etc. I also really hope to do more large exterior work generally, being able to go bigger is a curiosity I have both in concept and execution. And as long as we're manifesting, I would love to install one of my studio paintings really large scale. Much of my mural work has always been very separate from my studio work in its approach and I'd really like to execute some of my studio paintings from canvas unto a wall. And I wouldn't hate a warmer climate! Australia?! Anyone?! I need to be cut off from this question, not short on ideas."

Inside Our Recent Collaboration with Sarisa Munoz

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:52:54 GMT

Also known as @indigoleopardhome on Instagram, Sarisa is a maximalist home and design lifestyle influencer based in Oklahoma. After recently sending her a Paige Barnes Dorsey snake piece, she shares what she loves most about the work.

"I love this piece because it feels playful, whimsical, and a little unexpected….which is exactly my love language. When I shop for art, I look for pieces that spark a reaction, tell a story, or make someone stop and say, “Wait… I kind of love that.” Bonus points if it feels a little weird in the best way.” - Sarisa Munoz

Collaborating with Sarisa and sending this piece her way felt incredibly fitting. Her home is everything we love about collecting—bold, personal, and joyfully unexpected. Each room feels thoughtfully layered yet effortless, which mirrors what we hope art can do for our clients: create spaces that feel inspiring, deeply personal, and uniquely theirs.

We’re grateful to Sarisa for allowing us to showcase her thoughtfully designed interiors, which reflect so much of what we love at Liz Lidgett Gallery. Click below to view more snake pieces by Paige Barnes Dorsey.

Not seeing a piece you love available? Paige accepts commissions for custom work. Her next release is April 24th—if you’d like to be notified when new pieces become available, let us know and we’ll add you to the list... you can sign-up here!

Art Meets Design: A Garden Party Pantry

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 16:08:44 GMT

Step into a butler’s pantry inspired by Michele Aschenbrenner’s button florals. Here whimsical pattern meets thoughtful design in the heart of the home, creating a space that celebrates beauty, function, and gathering around the table.

The Mood: Whimsical, Fresh, Quietly Dramatic

In this butler pantry, I paired the space with a green drench cabinetry to create a storybook moment, equal parts utilitarian and whimsical charm. Painted head-to-toe in Forest Hills Green , the cabinetry and walls covered in bead board become an enveloping backdrop that feels rich, cohesive, and quietly dramatic. This scheme intertwines romance and function, where an everyday pantry turned into a space softened by pattern, color, and intentional personality. The green cabinetry sets the room's foundation: earthy, calming, and rooted in traditional interiors, yet refreshed with a softer and feminine approach. Overall, this mood is about elevated charm: a butler’s pantry or utility space that feels just as considered as the rest of the home. Soft garden hues meet classic craftsmanship, creating a space that invites you to linger, even when the task is practical.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

Michele Aschenbrenner’s Buttoned (2026) serves as the visual anchor for the space, quietly setting the tone for the entire scheme. Its soft pastel palette in blush pinks, butter yellow, and pale blues mirrors the room’s gentler moments, while deeper colors echo the richness found in the cabinetry and countertop. The result feels velvety yet light, grounding the space without overpowering it. Within the structured green bead board, the still life becomes a moment of pause in calm and charm that reinforces the idea that even the most functional spaces deserve intentional beauty. It’s personal, thoughtful, and effortlessly lived-in.

Building on Michele’s work, I incorporated three additional pieces that carry the same feelings: whimsical, feminine, and softly confident. Each artwork extends the rooms narrative rather than competing with it. Jennifer Allevato’s Scenic Scroll Platter brings a sense of decorative rhythm through its chinoiserie-inspired motifs and similar palette of blues, pinks, creams, and yellows. This pattern plays beautifully with the botanical wallpaper above, creating a dialogue between the art and the pantry space. The result feels maximalist yet cohesive in detail.

Michelle Armas’ Work Wife introduces a more organic and contemporary note. Its deep browns and greens complement the warmth of the wood flooring and depth of the cabinetry. Simultaneously the fluidity of pastel yellow and pink tones echo accents found throughout the room. The piece guides the eye effortlessly, offering movement and balance without visual interruption.

Kevin Brent Morris’ Cottonwood Leaf Beetle completes the story with a more focused, graphic presence. His wallpaper-like background pulls direct colorations from the wallpaper’s motifs, reinterpreted through layered pinks and yellows that add contrast and depth. Darker tonal moments within the piece quietly reference the charcoal countertops, allowing the artwork to sit confidently within the space while enhancing the grounding elements. Together, these works create a cohesive story, softening utilitarian with artistry and transforming the room into a space where pattern, color, and form exist in thoughtful conversation.

Bringing It All Together:

When bringing this butler pantry all together, it creates a whimsical approach to unity. The entire room feels perfectly adhered to modernity, yet also refined in femininity. Vertical panels add a subtle texture, allowing the cabinetry to feel architectural/utilitarian rather than heavy and bulky. Layering the space in patterned accents is the quiet hero here. Floral wallpaper and a faded pink rug work adjacently rather than in competition, both nostalgia, timeworn, and romantic. Their softness offsets the cabinet’s structural corners and elements that creates balance and visual ease.

Being deeply rooted in traditionally designed interiors, allows for the charming elements to feel more elevated, rather than outdated. Adding in vertical paneling signals to interesting texture that keeps the space from feeling too clean and modern. The bead board serves as a moment of interest, but color drenching allows the space to feel thoughtfully put together, rather than multiple elements placed within one another. Gold hardware is utilized in both the float lantern-style lighting and on the cabinetry, adding a sense of warmth and refined contrast against the Forest Hills Green. This nods to the heritage/cottage-like design while keeping the look crisp and current.

Pairing the space with a dark soapbox countertop allows the space to feel less child-like and mature. Overhead, the butterfly botanical ceiling wallpaper brings a light, playful lift, like a secret garden hiding in plain sight, echoed again in the soft blush tones of the vintage runner below. The result is a hardworking jewel box that’s ready for hosting prep, pouring, plating, arranging, and gathering everything you need before guests arrive, while still feeling beautifully curated and a little bit magical.

Designer Tips:

Pro Tip #1 - In a hardworking space like a butler pantry, go tonal (bead board walls + cabinetry) to make the room feel intentional and elevated, then let the contrast do the work. Here, the dark soapstone and warm brass and floors keep the green from reading “flat” and add instant depth.

Pro Tip #2 - Treat the ceiling as your “surprise and delight” moment. A small-scale pattern overhead adds personality without visual clutter at eye level, and it’s perfect in a pantry because you still get the magic while keeping counters clear for everyday use and hosting functionality.

Pattern Play Show: Where Wallpaper Meets Art

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:12:45 GMT

Pattern Play is our new show inspired by our wallpaper collaboration with Chasing Paper . We invited seven of our artists to take the wallpapers as an inspiration to their artistic flair, and here are the results...

Kevin Brent Morris:

We paired Kevin Brent Morris with Michele Aschenbrenner’s Feathered Marble wallpaper, shown in two color ways: Tonal and Sage Tide. Known for his hyper-realistic subjects, often insects, Kevin’s work is set against wallpaper-inspired backgrounds that echo the same pattern and detail in Michele’s wallpaper designs. Michele’s abstract, airy design provides a soft foundation that allows bolder subjects (like Kevin’s work) to exist rather than compete with the wall itself. Kevin’s vintage floral frames enhance the pairing, subtly mirroring the feathered movement within the wallpaper.

Sarah Schwartz:

We paired Sarah Schwartz with Bekah Worley’s Coneflower wallpaper in Dew and Dusk. This design was featured in my sister’s dining room in the Chasing Paper photoshoot. Bekah’s wallpaper sets the tone, and Sarah’s work naturally pulls out all the right colors—greens, cream, turquoise, soft pinks, navy, and dusty orange. Each painting works effortlessly with both wallpaper colorways, tying everything together. The end result feels eclectic yet modern, with the wallpaper taking the lead and Sarah’s art bringing the full color story to life through the flowing, organic pattern.

Vicky Reddish:

We paired Vicky Reddish with Anee Shah’s Pressed Petals wallpaper in Sage and Blush. The result is pure dreamy, perfect for a cottage-core home. Vicky’s abstract work, paired with the delicate floral subjects in Anee’s design, feels intentional and beautifully balanced. The deep greens let the artwork shine, while still allowing your eye to wander easily between the painting and the wallpaper. Nothing competes for attention; instead, both elements work together effortlessly. The space feels warm, welcoming, and lived-in... like a home that greets you with a hug. As a reflection of Vicky and Anee’s friendship, the pairing feels especially thoughtful and refreshingly light.

Theodora Miller:

We paired Theodora Miller with Kevin Brent Morris’ Mountain Apollo wallpaper and Paige Barnes Dorsey’s Garden Snake wallpaper in light and dark blue. Inspired by the color stories in both designs, Theodora incorporated Himalayan Lotka paper in matching tones—burgundy, navy, aqua, and verdant green—each finished in a gold gilt frame that echoes the painterly brushstrokes throughout her work. The result feels natural and intentional, with an easy sense of flow. Theodora’s Seven Wishes works beautifully alongside the repeating butterflies and snakes, creating a layered, thoughtful dialogue between the art and the wallpaper.

Bekah Worley:

We paired Bekah Worley with Racheal Jackson’s Joystick wallpaper in a bold red stripe, and the result is instantly joyful. The wallpaper reaches right into Bekah’s folk-inspired work, creating a pairing that feels playful, cohesive, and full of personality. Her use of bright reds is intentional and perfectly balanced, almost as if the colors were meant to live inside the paintings all along. Bekah pulls in every element of the striped wallpaper, making it feel like the pattern spills directly onto the canvas. The pairing feels iconic and thoughtfully curated, it’s hard to imagine it with anything else. Stepping into the space feels like entering a room with a personality all its own.

Michele Aschenbrenner:

We paired Michele Aschenbrenner with Kristen Abbott’s cyanotype grid wallpaper and honestly, this would be to die for in a four seasons room. Kristen’s grid brings a grounded structure, while the abstract floral impressions add an easy sense of movement and freedom. Paired with Michele’s clean-line, figurative floral work, the two create a natural connection that feels calming and purposeful. The wallpaper’s soft, abstract florals act as a bridge to Michele’s bold, hard-edge compositions, allowing both to shine without competing. Together, the mix of carnations, peonies, and button flowers feels fresh and optimistic—like a reminder that spring is always just around the corner.

Nate Nettleton:

Theodora Miller’s Shadow Dancing wallpaper in Whisper sets a quiet, textural foundation that feels soft and understated. We paired it with Nate Nettleton’s scribble mirrors in blue, teal, pink, and silver to bring in contrast and personality. The wallpaper’s subtle pattern, reminiscent of mosaic tile or an abstract animal print. creates the perfect neutral backdrop, allowing Nate’s mirrors to stand out while still feeling completely at home. His playful, sculptural forms add a modern edge to the tonal palette, giving the space a sense of movement and individuality. The result feels fresh and unexpected: a neutral interior with just the right amount of bold, contemporary flair.

Artist Spotlight: Bekah Worley

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:13:41 GMT

Meet Bekah Worley, an illustration artist based in Minnesota. A self-taught artist with a focus on color and big, folk-inspired forms typically using acrylic on found frames or objects and wood panel.

1. How did you become an artist? Who or what have been your biggest influences?

"I have always loved making all kinds of things, but was never quite ready to fully throw myself into art until I was almost 40. When I started out, I was DIY screen printing and sewing and making little watercolors and block prints. Each thing I tried was more fun than the last, and I just kept following that thread and sharing my work as I went. Then I stumbled onto fluid acrylics and the whole world opened up. I'm fully self taught, and have a great love for amateur art of any kind, in addition to traditional folk art and outsider art. I'm also very inspired by textile and pottery. It's just so cool to me that humans have been making marks and shapes for the love of beauty since the beginning of time."

2. What is a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that the audience may not know?

"I don't know how fun or surprising this is, but I was homeschooled through the 6th grade and had very little access to tv growing up. I always felt like a giant nerd around people who I thought of as "normal" but now I see the experience as a huge gift to my creative self."

3. Can you walk us through your creative process - from rituals or routines to ideas to finished pieces.

"My days do vary, but I need a loose structure for my mental health, so I keep pretty regular studio hours. I'm here most weekdays from at least 10ish to 4 or 5ish. Mornings are for wandering the studio and checking in with all my projects, see what's calling to me for the day or if any new ideas spark. I will usually have several things going at once, and some might sit dormant for weeks or even eventually be abandoned, so I like to kind of remind myself what's on the table each day. Literally I'm just walking around looking at stuff, but it's a big necessary step. I like a puttery sort-of start to the day, so after checking in with things, I might do a little admin, answer emails, etc, till lunch. The real hands on stuff only happens in the afternoon, which is something I can't control. I've tried to be different and I can’t!

I don't do much in the way of planning: my preferred way to start a piece is choosing a blank canvas and just kind of start. I use almost exclusively vintage-sourced frames, and the size, shape, and texture often sort of inform the painting, so I like to feel my way through a piece. I'll work on it until it seems like it's there, often painting over colors until the palette feels right to me."

4. If you could live inside one of your artworks for a day, which would you choose?

"Decoy on Green"

5. What has been the most difficult part of becoming an artist? Based on those challenges, what is one thing you would tell your past self?

"Trusting myself. If I had figured that out sooner, I would have started my art career much earlier and maybe even gone to art school straight out of high school, but I honestly have no regrets. The path that I took has given me a perspective I never would have found otherwise, and I kind of treasure that. So I think the only thing I would tell past me is that you'll get there and you won't believe how much it will be worth it."

6. Tell us about the pieces you're showing in Wallpaper Collab Show - what inspired them? How does the idea that art is for everyone influence your work as an artist?

"The artist I was paired with for the Wallpaper Collab Show is Racheal Jackson. I love Racheal and her work, so I was pretty excited to use her wallpaper design as a jumping off point. This show feels like a call and response to me, so my works are a response to Racheal's bold shapes and colors. Art IS for everyone, and that idea is foundational to my approach. Art is so much bigger than what we tend to think of as the art world. To me, the whole point of art is connection. I believe in art that is open and honest and accessible."

7. If you could spend a month learning anything, what would it be and why?

"I loooove learning new crafts and mediums. Natural dyes or basket weaving would be so interesting. It's always fascinating to me how interacting with a new medium or skill can give a new perspective to my normal art practice when I come back to it."

Artist Spotlight: Vicky Reddish

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:14:08 GMT

Meet Vicky Reddish, an abstract artist based in Nashville Tennessee. Apart of our new show Pattern Play , Vicky finds art to ignite a sense of fun, warmth, and personality that hopes to inspire and uplift.

How did you become an artist? Who or what have been your biggest influences?
"Creativity has always been part of my life, but in high school I had a wonderful art teacher my freshman year that ignited my love of painting. For a long time it lived quietly alongside my life and career. In 2019, I set up a small home studio, and by 2020 it became clear that creating art wasn’t just something I loved, it was something I needed. Painting became a way to process, to play, and to make sense of the world. I’m deeply influenced by color, movement, travel, and everyday joy. Gardens, travel, textiles, play and childlike wonder like the feeling of being somewhere beautiful and unfamiliar all show up in my work in abstract ways."

2. What is a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that the audience may not know?
"I’m a sneaker junkie! I have entirely too many pairs to even admit! :)"

3. Can you walk us through your creative process, from rituals or routines to ideas to finished pieces?

"My process is intuitive and layered. I usually begin without a plan, just a palette that feels right. Music is usually playing, and I tend to work in bursts of energy rather than strict routines. I build slowly, letting marks stack, pause, and breathe. I know a piece is finished when it feels settled, like it has exhaled. There’s a calm that arrives when nothing more needs to be added."

4. If you could live inside one of your artworks for a day, which would you choose?

"I would choose "Everything on My Mind" because I find the greens delightfu l and the colors and flow make me feel light and happy."

5. What was the most difficult obstacle to overcome during your artistic journey, and how did you overcome it?

"Letting myself take my art seriously was the hardest part. Giving myself permission to show up fully, to be seen, and to trust my voice took time. I overcame it by continuing to create even when doubt was loud, and by surrounding myself with people who value creativity and encouragement."

7. What's your newest binge worthy show or movie you recently obsessed over?

" Survivor is THE show that I watch every season. My husband and I always watch it together and I always try to convince myself to go on the show (even though I hate to be dirty, tired and hungry!)"

6. Tell us about the pieces you're showing in the Pattern Play Show. What inspired them? How does the idea that Art is for Everyone influence your work as an artist?
"The pieces in this show are insp ired by Anee Shah's delicate earthy flowers and my friendship with Anee - I find her to be gentle, lovely and intentional, just like her work. This work is layered with squiggles and texture that play to the energy of hers. They’re meant to feel welcoming rather than intimidating. I believe art should live with you, grow with you, and bring light into your space. The idea that Art is for Everyone is central to my work. I want my paintings to feel accessible, warm, and emotionally open, something you connect with rather than something you feel you have to understand."

Better Homes and Gardens with Hayley Sheldon and Nate Nettleton

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:49:39 GMT

A beautiful Better Homes & Gardens feature showcasing our artists in a thoughtfully curated space—discover more about our commission offerings and interior design trade program.

We are thrilled to see the work of two of our artists, Nate Nettleton and Hayley Sheldon, featured in a Better Homes and Gardens article. This article truly felt like a full circle for us, watching this story come to life and seeing our artists work thoughtfully integrated is such a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. One of the things we’re most passionate about at the gallery is helping people connect with art on a personal level. We often work with clients on commissioned pieces—perfect for those who are drawn to an artist’s style but want to bring their own story, palette, or perspective into the final piece of the work. Art should feel intentional and uniquely yours, commissions allow for that beautiful collaboration between artist and collector.

In this Better Homes and Gardens article titled "Small Space Ideas” , Emily Elveru explores the idea of transforming apartments into warm and personality-filled spaces that may be small in size but rich in style. That philosophy deeply resonates with us. We believe art has the ability to anchor a room, spark emotions, and shift the way a space is experienced. Our artist’s play such an integral role into the transformation of a room. Being so closely connected with a publication like Better Homes and Gardens allows us to thoughtfully integrate art into real lived-in spaces filled with character, intention, and individuality. It’s an honor to see our artists’ work inspiring readers, homeowners, apartment owners, and designers alike.

We are often asked about commissions. If you’re interested in learning more, visit our website HERE to see which artists are currently accepting commissions and what timelines to expect. As part of the design community, we also love collaborating with interior designers. We offer trade discounts and provide art on loan for staging. Helping designers put the perfect finishing touch on a space, is such a rewarding trade because we get to watch our art truthfully get lived-in within a space. We worked closely with Isabella Patrick Interiors based in New York, to facilitate the Nate Nettleton commission. To learn more about our designer trade program, explore the links on our website HERE , we’d love to work with you.

Anatomy of an Artwork

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 15:28:38 GMT

Art isn’t a single choice—it’s a series of choices. Use these tips to better understand what you’re drawn to, what makes you pause, and what doesn’t resonate the next time you encounter art.

The anatomy of artwork helps you learn what you do and don’t like. Most people decide how they feel about a piece of art almost instantly. Studies suggest that the average viewer spends about fifteen seconds looking at a piece of art (as a gallery owner who is around this all the time, it feels closer to ten seconds). Often times, they glance, they form an opinion or reaction, and they move on. There’s nothing wrong with approaching art in that form, because art is emotional and intuitive. But when it comes to purchasing art, collecting, or even just understanding your personal taste. Learning the anatomy of artwork allows you to intuitively direct a piece, slow down, look deeper, and articulate why something might (or might not) resonate with you.

When I’m out and about looking at artwork, I take a mental note of this checklist that helps observe pieces... especially if I’m not responding well to one in particular. Instead of dismissing the piece completely and moving on, I try to break it down into its components/elements. This process helps me see the artwork, not just as one whole, but as the sum of many intentional choices. More often than not, going through this checklist helps me notice something I didn’t notice the first time. Sometimes it doesn’t change my overall opinion, but it opens up a new appreciation for what the artist has created. This checklist focuses on the elements of an artwork and the principles of its design.

Elements of a Work of Art:

The elements of art are the basic visual building blocks. Every artwork, regardless of style or medium, is made up of these components

Line - creates any shape, texture, or movement. As the artist Paul Klee once said, “A line is a dot that went for a walk"
Shape - encloses areas using lines or color. Shapes can be geometric or organic. Can be representative of an object or abstract.
Form - three dimensional effect created by lines, shape, and color.
Color - hue of lines, shapes, and forms. Color also refers to the value (lightness or darkness, and intensity).
Value - encompasses the use of light and dark, which create depth, contrast, and shadow.
Texture - surface quality or feeling. It can be tactile, such as a rough texture created in paint or stone, or implied through visual cues.
Space - arranges all of the above elements into composition. Space can create depth, balance, and proportion.

When you look at a piece and feel unsure about it, ask yourself:
Which of these elements stands out? Which feels unresolved or particularly strong?

Principles of Design:

Once you understand these elements of art, you can now begin thinking about how each of them are arranged in a work of art. This is where the principles of design come in to play. These principles are how designers and art historians analyze artwork or design. Now we’ll look at how certain principles guide the interactions between these elements and the way they’ve evolved through the centuries from contributions of artists, architects, and theorists.

Balance - visual weight and how it is distributed throughout a piece. For example, is the piece symmetrical or asymmetrical with its elements?
Contrast - relationship between light versus dark, heavy versus light, big versus small, or rough versus smooth, to name a few.
Emphasis - focal point or in other words, where your eye is drawn.
Movement - the path the viewer’s eye follow from element to element in the composition.
Pattern - created through the repetition of elements.
Proportion and Scale - relationship between elements in term of their size.
Unity and Variety - plays with cohesiveness between elements while still creating visual interest.

Why does this matter when buying art?

When you understand the anatomy of artwork, you can fully understand what your preferences are. They become clearer and more confident. Instead of saying “I just like it” or “I don’t know why this works for me” you can start recognizing patterns in your taste.

Here is an example of what you might be drawn to:

- High contrast and dramatic value shifts

- Subtle color palettes with strong texture

- Movement and asymmetry rather than perfect balance

What you’ve just read is one small piece of a much larger conversation. The book dives deeper into these ideas, offering practical ways to understand, teach, and engage with art more meaningfully. If this way of thinking about art resonates with you, you’re invited to preorder my book—shipping April 21, 2026!

The Future of Interiors: 2026 Design Trend Predictions

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 19:50:39 GMT

The 2026 trends I’m most excited to explore: rich colors, pattern mixing, soulful spaces, curated collections, and a more thoughtful approach to sustainability.

Rich/Deeper Color Palettes -

Homes anchored in hues like chocolate and camel browns, sun-baked ochres, earthy olive greens, dusty blues, brick-like reds, and complex warm whites. While these have been around for several years and become more popular, I suspect these colors will continue to prosper into 2026. In a post minimalist design era, color is no longer used sparingly or simply as an accent color. Rather rich hues will play a foundational role in shaping emotion, identity, and personality of the rooms.

I have chose some of my favorite colors below that reflect a shift toward grounding, comfort, and authenticity. Deep and camel browns evoke crafstmanship, referencing natural materials like wood, clay, leather, and stone. Olive greens and dusty blues introduce a softened connection to nature, less literal than bright botanical tones, but more sophisticated. Muted reds and terracottas add warmth with slight drama without overwhelming a space, while warm whites act as a balancing element bringing in light and space to breathe while maintaining depth and softness rather than stark contrast.

These colors pair so naturally with the continued emphasis on texture and tactility. Deeper colors amplify the richness of plaster, finishes, woods, bouclé, linen, etc. Light interacts more dynamically with these tones, shifting throughout the day and giving rooms a sense of movement and depth.

Personality Filled Interiors -

For years, interiors leaned heavily on neutral palettes and minimal styling, with the philosophy “less is more”. While timeless in theory feels serene, most spaces often felt sterile and impersonal. In 2026, designers are embracing rooms that tell a not-so boring story. Instead of designing around trends alone, people are investing time in curating and collecting—art, objects, furniture, and materials that hold emotional meaning.

Personality interiors prioritize comfort and individuality over perfection. Spaces are layered thoughtfully, not styled to look untouched. Sofas invite you to sit, shelves showcase family photos and small collections rather than empty space. This approach encourages patience—allowing interiors to grow organically instead of being designed in a single shopping trip. The result is a home that feels personal, warm and unmistakably human.

At its core, your personality reflecting in your interiors is about connection to memories, craft, and to individuality. Homes are no longer designed to impress from a distance but to support real life with real self-expression and emotional comfort. As we look ahead to 2026, the message is clear: the most compelling interiors won’t be the most neutral or pristine, but the ones that feel authentic, collected and unmistakably yours.

Emotion > Perfection Interiors -

Emotion-led interiors focus solely on vibes over appearances.These spaces unfold the moment you enter... using texture, pattern, and color to create a sense of comfort and familiarity. Walls are no longer an afterthought. Textured wall finishes, wallpapers, and painted treatments bring depth and character. Incorporating the “fifth wall” (aka the ceiling) is finally getting its due diligence! Whether you’re color drenching, wallpapering, or adding wood detailing to the ceiling of a room, it will absolutely elevate your space into finishing the design story. Not one spot is “untouched”.

Thoughtful bookshelves and built-ins help anchor these spaces, creating cozy corners. Every room has a purpose, whether it’s for reading or gathering. Rich, moody palettes replace stark whites, grounding rooms and creating intimacy. Deep earth tones, warm neutrals, muted jewel shades, and layered hues set the emotional tone, while curated antiques and one-of-a-kind pieces add soul and history. Lighting, too, shifts from bright and functional to warm and ambient—designed to flatter, soften, and invite you to linger.

Details & Depth -

If emotion is the foundation, details are the differentiator. In 2026, luxury lives in layering that you notice over time rather than at first glance. Contrast welts on upholstery, fringe and trims, custom pillows, and tailored curtain details add a touch of craftsmanship. Pattern mixing, that yes what once considered risky, is now embraced with florals, stripes, geometrics, and organic motifs living together in thoughtful harmony. Designers are increasingly mixing styles and periods, blending old with new, in ways that feel collected rather than styled. A contemporary sofa might sit alongside an antique table, handmade ceramics, or found objects that bring character and imperfection into the space. The mix of new, vintage, handmade, and discovered creates interiors that feel layered, personal, and deeply lived in. Nothing feels too stagnant, rather everything feels intentional.

Ultimately, the shift toward emotion over perfection reflects a broader desire for homes that support REAL life. These are spaces that comfort, inspire, and evolve over time. Finding joy in rooms that feel rich in personality. In 2026, the most compelling interiors won’t chase flawlessness. Instead they’re embracing warmth, depth, and individuality—designing not just for the eye, but for the heart.

Sustainability & Local Efforts -

As a creator I believe in supporting other local or smaller businesses in my personal work. I believe deeply in supporting local artisans and smaller business whenever it is possible, I think many other creators feel this way too. There’s a growing awareness within designers and makers who share this same value, and as we look ahead, the push toward thoughtful and responsible sourcing shows no signs of slowing down. Rather than defaulting to mass-produced options, designers are increasingly turning to what already exists.

There is an abundance of beautiful furniture, lighting, and décor pieces already in the world: vintage/thrifted finds, heirlooms, handmade objects, and small-batch creations that deserve a second life. Choosing these pieces is not only a more sustainable approach, but one that celebrates quality, character, and longevity over disposability. Beyond sustainability, sourcing locally and thoughtfully brings a level of uniqueness that cannot be replicated. These pieces often carry a story, a sense of place, and a level of craftsmanship that elevates a space in a way modern items can’t. By incorporating local elements, you can create interiors that feel layered, personal, and distinctly yours—proving that sustainability and great design are not only compatible, but better together.

2025 in Gallery Numbers: A Look at Our Year in Art

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:51:18 GMT

Closing out the year feeling proud, inspired, and ready for what’s next. 2026, we’re coming for you—with bold ideas, vibrant art, and plenty of color (of course)!

As we step into the new year, now is the perfect moment to look back on everything we accomplished in 2025. And WOW, what a year it was! From thousands of artworks finding their homes, to reaching dozens of states and new countries, unveiling a new gallery space, and turning countless blank walls into colorful ones... the highlights keep piling up. While many focus on end-of-year reports, we’re taking a different approach: celebrating the milestones that truly matter to us... bringing art to more people and spreading joy through the incredible creations of our artists. Let’s dive into the numbers that made this year, absolutely UNFORGETTABLE!

+ 78 artists (5 added)

+ 12 shows

+ 43 online releases

+ 42 states and 7 countries shipped to

+ 37.4 K followers

+ 318 holes in the wall (and patched)

+ 1,440 pieces received

+ 1,333 pieces sold (that’s 92.57% of our incoming inventory!)

+ 25,000+ feet of bubble wrap used (most of it being recycled)

+ 0 days without wearing a scarf

+ ??? Diet Cokes drank (Liz has lost count)

+ 91 interior design meetings

+ 3,128 comments that made our day

+ 2 new team members (Hannah and Lauren)

And most importantly:

+1 very thankful art gallery

And, just for fun—see 2024’s numbers to compare. We are so thankful that you have chosen to support our artists and small business this past year. We hope your new year is merry and bright, with your 2026 being full of art! Happy holidays and warm wishes from the Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design team!

Our Take on Pantone’s Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:22:02 GMT

My take on Pantone’s Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer 11-4021 TCX.

Every year Pantone selects a Color of the Year, which is typically a pre-existing color to then be embodied in a mood by the Pantone team. And as every year when it comes around, its arrival comes with a lot of fanfare and just as much opinion. Some colors throughout the years have felt extremely iconic and innovative, which others slowly grow on us or don’t at all. Cloud Dancer was named this year’s Color of the Year and we’re not entirely sure how to feel about it. Cloud Dancer reads as a soft off-white, but when you spend a little more time with it you will notice its subtle change in color. It falls into the latter category of subtle, quiet, and deceptively complex. It’s warm without being creamy and airy without feeling too cold. It’s a color that of course never demands attention, but it changes the perspective of everything around it.

A Neutral That Actually Feels Emotional

Although Cloud Dancer is simplistic, it is not its intent. In a moment where color trends often swing between hyper-saturated brights and deep, moody hues, Cloud Dancer offers restraint. It feels calming, grounding, and human. This isn’t the stark white of galleries or the sterile white of minimalism past. Instead, Cloud Dancer carries softness, almost like light filtered through sheer curtains or the quiet calm of an overcast morning. It presents pause, breath, and subtle presentation.

How Cloud Dancer Works in Art & Interiors

Cloud Dancer thrives as a backdrop. In art, it allows texture, bolder hues, and form to take center stage. It pairs beautifully with organic materials like linen, raw wood, stone, plaster. Cloud Dancer enhances sculptural work without competing with it. In interiors, it creates a sense of openness while still feeling warm. It plays well with both muted palettes and bolder accent colors, making it incredibly versatile. Think of it as a canvas rather than a statement piece. One of Cloud Dancer’s strongest qualities is how it elevates surrounding tones. Earthy browns feel richer and blues feel softer. It allows contrast without tension. For collectors and designers alike, this makes Cloud Dancer less of a trend color and more of a foundation.

My Take (from a designer POV)

Why the Pantone Color of the Year (Cloud Dancer 11-4021) feels underwhelming. White is already the default “supporting actor”. White is foundational in so many spaces already such as walls, trim, cabinetry. So naming it the Color of the Year feels like it’s highlight something that’s already everywhere. It feels like it wasn’t “new” nor exciting and rather it felt uninspiring, cold, and dare say boring??

Cloud Dancer doesn’t give clients “permission” to be brave, instead it’s pushing for safety. A Color of the Year often helps people try a hue they wouldn’t typically choose. White doesn’t push anyone past safety, if anything, it reinforces the “play it neutral” impulsive decision-makers. I can’t tell you how many times individuals come to me and want to “play it safe” with a form a white incase their home becomes “outdated”. But where’s the personality in that? Being boldly yourself is how your space should kindly mirror your personality.

White isn’t a color story on its own, it’s a content story. In real homes, white only becomes interesting through undertones, light exposure, sheen, texture, and contrast. Without layering, it reads flat or clinical REALLY fast. Remember when Kim Kardashian released her home to Architectural Digest in 2020 and how everyone originally loved it. Then closely after that many reviews came back clapping back at how it felt clinical and “hospital-like”. With no other context this color isn’t anything.

Cloud Dancer feels like a HUGE missed opportunity for joy. After years where the Color of the Year choices were emotionally expressive, a white pick can land as “quiet” when designer crave “liveliness”. Even if calm is the intent, this relates back to the color story vs content story. Cloud Dancer can’t become anything without all of its supporting actors and at that point, why is it the Color of the Year?

Pantone is positioning Cloud Dancer as a calming “blank canvas”— You can agree with the why and still feel like the result is uninspiring for interiors. Here are some of the public opinions who have said the same:

“White is timeless—but a Color of the Year should feel timely.”
“Cloud Dancer is a gorgeous backdrop. I just wish the headline was bolder.”
“If the color of the year is a blank canvas… then the excitement has to come from what we paint on it.”

As an interior designer, I genuinely appreciate white. It’s classic, flexible, and it can make a space feel airy and elevated when it’s done well. But I’ll be honest: when the “Color of the Year” is white, it feels a little… anticlimactic. White is already the backbone of so many interiors like trim, ceilings, cabinetry, walls—so naming it the standout color doesn’t feel like a fresh direction.

A color of the year usually gives us a spark: something that nudges clients to be bolder, helps shape new palettes, and adds energy to the design conversation. White doesn’t really do that. It doesn’t challenge, surprise, or open a door to a new mood in the same way a richer hue can.And the thing is: white isn’t one simple choice in real life. The magic of white is in the details—undertones, light exposure, sheen, texture, contrast. Without those layers, it can quickly fall flat or feel sterile. So while I understand the appeal of a calm, clean “reset,” I’m personally craving more excitement and more story. I want a color that makes you feel something the second you see it.

For me, white will always be an essential part of great design—but I look to “color of the year” to bring a little more thrill, inspiration, and momentum. White is the perfect supporting character. I just don’t love it as the headline.

A Gift Guide To Your Special Someone

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 15:09:25 GMT

A thoughtfully curated gift guide to match every personality from the minimalist to the maximalist, or the hopeless romantic to the cozy homebody. Here’s a few favorite pieces that feels made for your loved ones and their space.

As the holiday season approaches (sooner than we expect!) I have thoughtfully curated a gift guide designed to help you find something truly meaningful for the ones you love most. Whether you’re shopping for a cozy homebody, a romantic at heart, a devoted minimalist, or an unapologetic maximalist, there’s a piece of art that feels made just for them. Art is an incredibly personal gift. It goes beyond decoration, reflecting how someone lives, what they notice, and the spaces they cherish most. Choosing a piece that aligns with your loved one’s personality and home creates a connection that feels intentional and deeply considered, almost like capturing who they are in a single moment. Below, you’ll find a selection of art I have chosen with each unique style in mind, making it easier to give a gift that feels as thoughtful as it is lasting.

A gift to the cozy homebody: 

A gift to the maximalist:

A gift to the hopeless romantic:

A gift to the minimalist:

Art Meets Design: Chartreuse & Cornflower Sanctuary

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:54:25 GMT

Step into a serene sanctuary where organic textures meet modern touches. Inspired by Kendall Jenner’s AD tour of her mountainous home designed with Heidi Callier, I drew the chartreuse hues of her tiled bath to craft the perfect bedroom color palette.

The Mood: Eclectic, Rooted, Balanced

This bedroom strikes a harmony between grounded tradition and fresh modernity, a serene space where structure and softness meet. Shannon Coppage’s Benevolence, 2025 sets the mood: calm, geometry layered in cornflower blue, chartreuse, creamy white with a warm neutral ground becomes the visual rhythm for the room. Every layer, pattern, texture, color, feels intentional yet effortless, creating a sanctuary that is both classic and contemporary. The result is a space that invites rest and reflection, radiating the calm, confident generosity suggested by its namesake: Benevolence.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

In this bedroom, pattern and art speak the same language, each element echoing the other in tone, texture, and intention. The palette strikes a careful balance between warm and cool: earthy taupes and soft browns soften the energy of bold blues and greens. The geometric rug nods to the modernity of the artwork, providing structure beneath the more delicate florals so both can shine. Every element in the space carries a thread from the art, from the taupe-and-cream striped dresser mirroring Shannon Coppage’s palette, to the coordinated white washed wood nightstands. The result is a room where nothing competes and everything converses, creating a sense of unity, harmony, and serene visual rhythm.

Alongside Shannon’s new work, I would pair pieces that share similar structural qualities and complementary color palettes. For example, Suzy Lindow’s Lachlan, (2025) brings a sense of texture and depth with her expressive brushstrokes and subtle facial motifs, offering a grounding element as the eye moves through the room. Christina Flowers’ Bell Buoy 5, (2024) introduces a touch of gold, adding warmth and a subtle shimmer that echoes the lamp-base metallic accents in the space, enhancing the overall luminosity and cohesion.

Bringing It All Together:

This bedroom is a study in balance, where every element has been thoughtfully layered to create a unified and inviting space. Warm taupes, soft creams, and rich greens anchor the room across textiles, furniture, and finishes, while pops of cornflower blue and chartreuse inject energy and personality. The chartreuse textured wallpaper adds organic warmth along the walls, harmonizing with the naturalistic spirit of the chinoiserie-inspired blues and greens and playing beautifully against the deeper taupes. Patterns, from the geometric rug to the floral bench at the foot of the bed, intersect thoughtfully, allowing modern and traditional motifs to coexist seamlessly while the bench introduces a touch of quiet romance. Lighting from porcelain lamps to the cloud-like glass chandelier softens contrasts and bathes the room in an ethereal glow, tying together color, texture, and pattern. The result is a serene, cohesive space where every element feels purposeful yet effortless, perfectly balancing warmth, structure, and whimsy.

Designer Tips:

Pro Tip #1 - Keep energized greens and blues restful in a bedroom, anchor them with warm neutrals and soft whites. That balance creates contrast without visual noise, giving the eye a place to rest while still letting the color story feel fresh and alive.

Pro Tip #2 - Mix traditional elements with contemporary art and sculptural furniture, focus on shared qualities inste ad of matching eras. Let classic pieces bring familiarity through silhouette and symmetry (like porcelain lamps or a tailored casegood), then layer in modern forms that echo a similar scale or softness (a rounded headboard, a cloudlike chandelier). The contrast feels intentional when you keep one thread consistent, either a tight palette, repeated curves, or a common material finish, so the room reads as curated, not conflicted.

Monthly Iowa Artists Feature: Christine Hilbert

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:10:31 GMT

Introducing our newest Monthly Iowa Artist Feature: Christine — a lifelong friend and an artist of remarkable talent, joining us from Norwalk, Iowa.

1. Can you share a bit about your background? How did you become an artist/how did your love for art begin, and who or what have been your biggest influences/how has it evolved?

"I have been an artist for as long as I can remember. I was the kid who would draw pictures for her friends at recess, was always checking out art books from the library, and I even sported a red beret throughout elementary school because I thought it was something a real artist would wear. I have always been inspired by color and texture and movement within art. Some of my artistic heroes are Alphonse Mucha, Gustav Klimt, Anselm Keifer, Nick Cave and Helen Frankenthaler. When I studied painting in college (both ISU and the Savannah College of Art & Design) my work started out quite figurative and in both oils and acrylics. At SCAD I began to experiment with a more abstract, mixed media style and explored using multiple mediums within my work. As I became a mother my work transitioned into primarily watercolor painting and has grown to include public art as well as illustration."

2. What has been the most challenging obstacle in your artistic journey, and how did you overcome it?

"I think the most challenging obstacle as an artist is maintaining resiliency in the midst of the "no's" and rejections that inevitably come with this field. It's so easy to get discouraged and doubt yourself and your ability when a big project falls through or you are passed up for a specific opportunity. I have had to learn how to celebrate the wins (no matter how tiny) and ignore that mean voice that tells me to give up. This is an ongoing process- some days I feel confident and proud and others that imposter syndrome can creep in. One of the ways that I continue to do that is by surrounding myself with a group of incredibly supportive creative friends: people who understand the ups and downs of this field, to share inspiration and ideas, and help to encourage each other and offer advice in navigating this. A strong community makes this life exponentially better."

3. Can you walk us through your creative process, from the initial idea to the finished piece? Do you have any rituals or routines that guide your work? How do you know when a piece is "finished"?

"One of the wonderful things about being a multidisciplinary artist is that I have the ability to follow ideas and inspiration wherever they might lead- even if that's across multiple mediums or styles. I carry a sketchbook with me everywhere, which allows me to capture my ideas and inspiration wherever I am. I work from my home studio and try to spend time there every day (even on days where I'm working off site). When I have that creative spark I generally start with a watercolor sketch and develop the piece from there. I often work on multiple pieces at one time and set a piece aside if I get stuck in a creative rut. Some paintings come really easily and others take months or years to complete. It is hard to know when a piece is finished; I joke that I sometimes spend more time staring at a piece trying to decide if it's "complete" than I do actually painting it. Sometimes it's just a gut feeling that tells me, "Put your brush down, Christine."'

4. Your artistic passions have expanded into a book, a mural, and workshops. How have these projects influenced your growth as an artist?

"I have learned to never say "no" to a creative idea- even if it isn't something I've tried before. You never know where that inspiration will lead you. Saying yes to new ideas or projects including being an author and illustrator or painting a huge wall has led me on some of the most satisfying creative adventures. Being brave has given me the confidence to continue to stretch myself and explore new facets of my creativity."

5. If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, famous or infamous, who would it be and why?

"Oh gosh, this is a tough one! It seems so intimidating to collaborate with any of my artistic heroes but I would love the chance to work alongside Gustav Klimt to see firsthand how he handled color, pattern and texture within his compositions. I find Nick Cave's use of unconventional materials within his sculptures and Sound Suits so inspiring and having the chance to tag along as he selects the pieces he incorporates into his work would be a dream."

6. Tell us about the pieces you're showing in the Iowa Artists Monthly Feature- what inspired them? How did this feature influence your work as an artist? Was it inspirational or a certain perspective you hoped to share?

"This series, Chroma Dipped, started out with initial watercolors of seemingly simple, everyday things- but ones that I find charming or whimsical. I am especially drawn to the natural world, and I wanted to capture these subjects and give them a colorful twist.My mantra is "Look for what you notice, but no one else sees." I highlight these subjects with gold lines to accent their beauty. As a lover of lost things, antiques and vintage, I am constantly looking for ways to incorporate those elements into my work, so even at a flea market or estate sale I am soaking up inspiration and thinking of ways that I can take an old idea (or vintage element) and give it a modern, whimsical twist. By mounting these in pre-loved frames I am adding another layer of interest and unique value. I want to invite viewers to study and appreciate things we often overlook and to see the magic in the ordinary; whether it's a flower, an animal, or a banana."

Art Meets Design: Poised in Plum Primary Bath

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 19:42:27 GMT

A blend of femininity, elegance, and calm creates this perfect serene master bathroom. It’s a queen’s haven designed for slow, luxurious moments to yourself and honestly, if this were my space? I’d live in that tub.

The Mood: Soft, Lavish, and Calm

This bathroom unfolds like a quiet feminine retreat... softly layered, artisan, and effortlessly elegant. The striking marble tub becomes the heart of the space, its marble-veins echo throughout the room’s palette of mauves, plums, and smokey blues. Pulling from Logan Ledford's “ If We Are So Obsessed With Peace, Then Why Don't We Keep It ?” these colors intentionally gather in a striking focus above the bathtub, working within one another. The tub and the artwork create the focal point nothing short of a statement. Because the wallpaper is an organic and rhythmic pattern, it creates a serene backdrop grounding the space, allowing the colors and materials to take center stage. Together, the palette bends richness with restraint, deep chocolate wood accents, soft lavender, cool periwinkle, bringing a sense of calm sophistication. This bathroom is not just designed for daily routines, but for lingering, unwinding, and feeling wrapped in luxury.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

Logan Ledford’s painting sets the color palette for the room: glossy circles of plum, mauve, navy, smokey blue, and creamy white creates a sense of calming. The grid contrasts beautifully with the organic patterned Acanthus Stripe wallpaper, while the veined marble soaking tub echoes those hues as if the colors had melted and swirled into stone. In a space with an organic, rhythmic wallpaper, centering a single artwork creates a focal point without competing with the pattern. Logan Ledford's circle-patterned grid provides structure while maintaining a light, airy feel, adding texture to the smooth tiles and bathtub allowing the eye to guide across the room effortlessly. To complement this palette, I paired works by Emily Keating Snyder, Elisa Sheehan, and Kristi Kohut, whose subtle structures carry the same feminine, refined energy, echoing the plum and mauve tones while keeping the feeling serene and cohesive.

Bringing It All Together:

The color palette feels rich and welcoming, with deep chocolate, winey plum, dusty mauve, and soft periwinkle blue, balanced by warm brass fixtures and creamy off-white accents. Classic bamboo vanities bring a grounded, natural element that helps the space feel anchored and calm. This grounding allows the room to breathe and harmonize with the organic, textured striped wallpaper, giving the space a sense of rhythm and flow. Tailored sconces frame the vanity on both sides, offering lighting that is both decorative and practical, while an alabaster pendant overhead adds a touch of elegance and refinement. Mixing metals, from gold to silver, gives the room a curated, collected feel that’s deliberate but effortless. The combination of modern touches and warm natural elements creates a sanctuary that feels both luxurious and intimate—a place to sink in, exhale, and truly protect the quiet moments you work so hard to find.

Designer Tips:

Pro Tip #1: Prioritize what you genuinely love in the rooms where you decompress and recenter, whether that’s a favorite artwork, a color you love, or a pattern that makes you smile. Those personal “yes” pieces quietly signal safety and comfort to your brain, turning a pretty bathroom into a place where you can actually exhale.

Pro Tip #2: Let moody and feminine share the stage by pairing depth of color with softness of detail. Think inky walls with plum & blush-veined stone, or dark cabinetry with curved hardware and pleated sconce shades. The rich, shadowy tones bring drama; the gentle shapes, shimmer, and pattern keep it soft and romantic instead of heavy.

Holiday Fun Unwrapped: Holiday Party Recap

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 16:18:56 GMT

Celebrating the best team, family, friends, clients, artists... the list goes on and on. Our holiday party had it all! Missed it? Here’s a peek at the fun that happened at the gallery after hours.

After wrapping up our 9–4, we opened the doors for our 5–7 holiday party that included snacks, drinks, and of course, a whole lot of art. Artists stopped by, families and friends came through, clients we adore popped in… it felt like the room filled with every person who’s helped make this dream real. We’d barely seen the gallery after dark until that night, and honestly, it glows especially during the holidays!

This year’s party might be my favorite yet. The extra space gave us room to breathe, to mingle, to let the art (and the people) shine. All week as we prepped (yes, with Christmas music on repeat) we couldn’t help getting excited to share this moment with you. When the doors opened, the twinkle lights, the florals, and the artwork created the perfect backdrop, but what brought the space to life were the conversations and the connections happening in every corner.

We were lucky to welcome clients, friends, collectors, Insiders, neighbors, and a few of the artists who make this gallery what it is. One of the best parts of the night was watching artists chat with guests about their process and even point out their pieces on our walls. The art really stole the show. Our Neutrals Show lined the walls, and guests wandered from piece to piece, taking in the textures, colors, and personal favorites. There’s something special about seeing artwork in a room full of joy and energy, it comes alive in a different way.

And of course, it wouldn’t be a holiday party without treats. Guests sipped wine, snacked, and spent time talking with me and the team. Behind the scenes, we’d poured so much excitement and care into putting this together, and seeing the gallery filled with people who support us made every minute worth it.

I am endlessly grateful for this community, our artists, collectors, and friends. Thank you for showing up, cheering me on, and helping us create a space that celebrates creativity year-round. If you missed the party, don’t worry, we will have plenty more events coming your way. Be sure to follow along on socials and join our Insider program for early previews and behind-the-scenes content. Here’s to art and cheers to the season!

Art Meets Design: Woven Garden Dining Room

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:12:37 GMT

Step into a dining room that makes every meal feel both cozy and elegant. With natural textures and warm wood tones, it’s the kind of space that makes you want to linger, breathe, and savor every moment.

The Mood: Serene, Tailored, Natural

This design radiates bright optimism with a touch of nostalgia. The fresh green mural wallpaper sets a joyful tone, like stepping into a painted garden alive with birds and blossoms. Cheerful and transportive, it remains calm enough for everyday living. A palette of creamy white, sandy neutrals, sunny yellow, soft blue, and leafy green creates a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere... perfect for a space where every element encourages conversation. Stepping into the dining room, you feel an immediate exhale from the day, as if the outside world has been gently set aside. The round table and tailored chairs turns quick catch-ups into meaningful chats. Comfort, style, and effortless elegance are at the heart of the room, making even simple meals feel thoughtful and homey. Natural textures and warm wood tones keep the space grounded, while blue and brass lighting adds a soft sheen that elevates without overwhelming. The overall effect is serene yet spirited: layered patterns, gentle coloring, and a sense of rhythm make the room feel quietly special and inviting.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

Anna Beurskens’ Wrapped Panel #149 anchors the room, introducing a calm grid and subtle pastel layering that gently organizes the space. Its quiet geometry is set against the airy floral mural wallcovering, creating a beautiful push-and-pull between crisp and organic. The shell-toned palette remains light and restorative, while touches of green, cornflower blue, and soft butter yellow add a subtle lift. Colors that echo throughout the room in a collected, effortless way, from the gingham skirted chairs to ceramics and accent pieces.

On the walls, pattern and art are in constant dialogue. The floral backdrop provides an organic, storybook setting, while the large plaid artwork layered ontop introduces structure and a modern twist. The wallpaper’s vines and birds meander freely, while the plaid’s grid is tailored and orderly. Neither element overpowers the other; instead, they trade the spotlight, allowing color to flow seamlessly between them. The blue lamps, green jars, and pink accessories on the white console echo these hues, acting almost like visual subtitles that help the eye “read” the patterns together. Meanwhile, the blue gingham chairs add a third layer of pattern... sweet, approachable, and slightly nostalgic bridging the softness of the florals with the clarity of the plaid. The overall effect is a harmonious, layered conversation between color, pattern, and form.

Bringing It All Together:

What unifies this scheme is the thoughtful layering of color, texture, and shape. The warm wood pedestal table grounds the room, giving all that pattern a solid, traditional anchor. The natural woven rug softens everything, adding an earthy layer that keeps the space relaxed and livable. Overhead, the globe pendant is like jewelry for the room, echoing the round table and adding a touch of sparkle. Together, these elements show how art can lead a design: the wall piece and wallpaper set the palette and personality, and the furnishings follow their cue. For an art gallery, this vignette becomes a visual lesson—proof that when you let artwork and pattern talk to each other, you can create a space that feels curated, cohesive, and full of life.

Designer Tips:

Pro Tip #1: Let One Piece Lead the Palette - Pull 3–5 tones from your anchor artwork and repeat each one in small, varied ways (upholstery, ceramics, flowers, even a subtle stripe). The repetition creates cohesion without feeling theme-y.

Pro Tip #2: Pair Geometry with Botanicals - When combining a structured art moment with a floral or organic wallcovering, keep the rest of the room simple in form and add pattern through controlled hits, varying scale (small gingham + larger floral) is what makes it feel intentional and balanced.

You Asked, I Answered: Your Top Five Art Questions

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 17:37:22 GMT

Your top five questions, answered. These are the ones I hear most often when clients are buying art—and as a gallery owner (and fellow art lover), I completely get them, which is exactly why I always share these answers...

Question: “How do I mix originals and prints?”

I love mixing originals and prints in my own home, they each bring something different to a space. Originals are usually your statement-makers: they have texture, depth, and one-of-a-kind energy. Prints are amazing for layering around originals, filling smaller spots, or building out a gallery wall. To keep everything feeling intentional, I like to mix sizes, textures, and frames. Pair a larger original with smaller prints, mix in different frame styles, and don’t be afraid to combine a more minimal piece with something really bold. If the colors speak to each other, originals and prints can live together beautifully.

Question: “How do I know what size to buy?”

Sizing is one of the biggest questions I get—and it can make or break how art looks in your home. I always recommend starting with a visual mockup. Grab poster board or painter’s tape and mark out the size you think you want on the wall. Live with it for a day or two. It’s so much easier to shop when you already know the size you’re looking for. There is nothing worse than falling in love with a piece and realizing it’s completely the wrong size.

In the gallery, we use what I call the “two-thirds rule.” If you’re hanging a piece above furniture and your furniture is 96 inches long, you don’t want the art to match that width exactly. Instead, aim for a piece that’s about two-thirds the length of the furniture. For example:

96 inches ÷ 3 = 32 inches
32 × 2 = 64 inches

So in this case, I’d recommend a piece that’s around 64 inches wide, leaving about 16 inches of space on either side. It feels balanced without overwhelming the furniture. If you have a specific wall or tricky space, we do a lot of commissions with our represented artists. Meaning we can work with you on both style and size to make sure it fits your home perfectly.

Question: “Do I need to frame everything?”

Short answer: no!

That’s one of my favorite parts about a well-curated collection, each piece has its own personality. Some look incredible framed, some feel more modern and relaxed unframed, and some prints are perfect just as they are. Mixing framed and unframed pieces can look really chic and collected-over-time. The only time I strongly recommend framing is when you have just one or two large pieces in a room and you want them to feel cohesive and finished. A great frame can help anchor the space.

But framing everything , especially in a gallery wall of smaller works, can start to feel heavy and overthought. Little pieces shine when they each have their own story and style, not perfectly matching every other piece in the room. Framing is very personal, and there’s no “right” answer, it should support the art and the personality of your space, not compete with it.

Question: “What’s the best way to care for my art?”

Think of caring for your art the way you’d care for something special in your closet... mindful, but not fussy. A few simple rules:

Avoid direct sunlight when possible, especially for works on paper or photography, to help prevent fading.
Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth—no harsh cleaners or sprays directly on the artwork.
Be mindful of humidity for works on paper or delicate mediums (maybe not your best choice next to your shower).

And if you have a piece you really love that feels fragile, professional framing with UV-protective glazing can be a great investment. Handled with a little care, your art will stay beautiful for years.

Question: “How do I choose between similar pieces?”

This is such a good problem to have, loving more than one piece! When you’re torn, I always tell people to go beyond “which is prettier?” and ask:

What mood do I want my room to have? Calm, energetic, playful, cozy?
Which colors actually work best with my space? Look at your furniture, rugs, and existing decor.
Which piece feels the most like me (or us)? If you’re decorating with a partner or family, think about what you want the room to say about you.

And then my favorite question: Which piece can I not stop thinking about? That one is usually the winner. The piece you keep coming back to—the one you’d be sad to leave behind—is almost always the right choice.

Hannah’s High Point Market Recap

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 17:54:24 GMT

High Point Market was a whirlwind of gorgeous furniture, dreamy lighting, and rugs I’m still thinking about. I spotted so many fun trends and fresh ideas, I can’t wait to input all the inspiration into future client projects!

I just got back from High Point Market, and my camera roll, brain, and Pinterest boards are all bursting. There’s nothing like walking through showroom after showroom, seeing the ideas we talk about as designers blown up to full scale in real life.

This trip, a few themes kept popping up for me, things I’m already excited to bring into client projects and my own home.

1. Textured & Colored Lighting Is Having a Moment

Lighting has been “the jewelry of the room” for a long time, but at High Point it felt more like the whole outfit. Everywhere I turned there were:

Woven fixtures with incredible texture
Patterned fabric shades that felt more like couture than lighting
Sculptural chandeliers that were as much art as illumination

One major highlight: Visual Comfort’s new collaboration pieces with Schumacher and Benjamin Moore.

You can:

Custom color many of their fixtures in Benjamin Moore paint, so your lighting ties seamlessly into your palette instead of being an afterthought.
Incorporate several Schumacher fabrics on shades, bringing that layered, textile-rich feel up to eye level.

It’s such a smart way to add personality. Instead of a basic white shade or standard metal finish, you get lighting that feels intentional, almost bespoke.

2. Antiques Are Always In

If there was one reassurance from Market, it’s this: antiques are not going anywhere.

We saw:

True, timeworn antique pieces that could slide into any modern room and immediately give it soul
Brand-new pieces intentionally designed to look like “found” treasures, chipped edges, limewashed finishes, patina’d hardware

And it wasn’t just casegoods. Antiques showed up in more creative ways too, like an antique rug stretched and framed as art, or a grouping of found plates hung on the wall to create an interesting focal point. These smaller, collected pieces tell a story and instantly make a room feel more personal and layered.

The message was clear: rooms feel richer when they don’t look like everything arrived in one delivery. That mix of old and new makes spaces feel collected, not decorated.

3. Layers & Details Are the Secret Sauce

One of my favorite parts of Market is studying the vignettes, how designers and showrooms put everything together. This year, layers and details were absolutely front and center.

I kept noticing pieces that were:

Skirted or details furniture legs,

Done in a beautiful main fabric, and
Finished with an interesting contrast welt, and then
Topped with pillows that had their own thoughtful details, tapes, trims, delicate prints, or unexpected color pairings

Nothing felt like an afterthought. Even the “simple” pieces had some extra layer of detail that made you want to lean in for a closer look.

These little decisions add up to a room that feels considered and custom, even if every piece isn’t truly bespoke.

4. Slipper Chairs & Tiny Tables Are Still IT

I was delighted (but not surprised) to see slipper chairs and petite armchairs everywhere. They remain one of my favorite tools when I’m working in a space that:

Needs to seat more people but doesn’t have the square footage for another full-size sofa or big lounge chair
Are a living space or seating area that also functions as a pass through room to other areas

At Market, these smaller-scale chairs were often paired with tiny accent or drink tables, the perfect landing spot for a drink or a book without eating up valuable floor space.

The best part? Because they’re a bit underscaled, they’re a fantastic place to have fun:

Bold, large-scale fabrics
Unexpected color combinations
Interesting trims or fringe

They pack such a punch without overwhelming the room.

Bringing High Point Home

Walking High Point Market is like seeing the future of the spaces we’ll all be living in a few years from now, only, the good news is you don’t have to wait.

From this trip, my big takeaways were:

Treat lighting as a major design moment (and don’t shy away from color and pattern).
Mix in antiques or antique-inspired pieces, rugs, plates, furniture, to keep rooms from feeling flat.
Obsess over details and layers; they’re what make a space feel custom.
Use slipper chairs and tiny tables to solve space constraints and have fun with fabric.

I’m already dreaming up ways to fold these ideas into upcoming projects and client schemes. If you’re feeling inspired (or a little overwhelmed) and want help translating some of these trends into your own home,I’m here. I thrive off turning what I see at Market into spaces that feel uniquely, comfortably you.

Who You’ll Find In Our Holiday Under $500 Show

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 15:33:49 GMT

Our annual Holiday in November collection features art under $500 (and more). This year, over 30 artists are sharing new work at a lower price point. A great time to collect your favorites!

It's always our goal to make art more accessible. So twice a year we execute our passion project (July and November) with the biggest collection possible of art under $500. Clients love the opportunity to collect from their "artist wishlist" at smaller sizes. There's usually a presale opportunity with our shows, but not for Holiday in November! It all goes live on the website Friday, November 14th at 10am CST . So be sure to set an alarm! This year, over 30 artists are participating—see the list below and plan ahead.

Participating artists

Daisy Faith

Karin Olah
Amanda McLaurin

Michele Aschenbrenner

Artist Spotlight: Daisy Faith

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:34:02 GMT

Known for her playful use of color and uplifting compositions, Daisy Faith’s art perfectly embodies the joy of the holiday season. We’re thrilled to showcase her vibrant pieces as part of our curated Holiday Under $500 collection.

1. How did you become an artist? Who or what have been your biggest influences?

Daisy has always had a natural affinity for art. As a child, her mother often joked that no blank piece of paper was safe from Daisy’s drawings and doodles. She went on to study Interior Design and Art in college, where she discovered a deep appreciation for the creativity and structure of both disciplines. Among her biggest influences during this time was the Fauvism movement, which captivated her with its bold, vibrant color palettes and expressive, non-photorealistic style. In addition to her art, Daisy draws significant inspiration from interior design, blending aesthetics and creativity in all that she creates.

2. What is a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that the audience may not know?

"I lived in Hollywood for over a decade and have been on a few tv shows such as How I Met Your Mother, Nashville, Pretty Little Liars, Days of Our Lives and Conan. I've studied and performed improv comedy for over 15 years and incorporate this not only in my life but in my artwork as well.” - Daisy Faith

3. Can you walk us through your creative process - from rituals or routines to ideas to finished pieces.

Daisy begins each piece with a photo for inspiration, often drawn from interior design. In her studio, she creates a calm and focused atmosphere, usually starting with a cup of tea and some soothing music—favorites include First Aid Kit, Brandi Carlile, and Taylor Swift—allowing her creativity to flow naturally. Once her surface is prepped, she begins with an underlayer of neon pink and builds abstract shapes inspired by her reference images. The process is intuitive: she adds, subtracts, invents, and eliminates elements that aren’t working, always searching for patterns and simplified shapes to incorporate. Daisy typically works from dark to light, layering paint and frequently scraping with a palette knife to reveal the colors beneath. The final layer features pastel accents, a favorite part of her process, and she carefully balances the composition to feel fun and carefree while maintaining harmony—never letting it become too over-the-top or chaotic.

4. If you could live inside one of your artworks for a day, which would you choose?

“I rea lly love Checkered Past right now. That abstracted red and white check floor is so fun!” - Daisy Faith

5. What was the most difficult obstacle to overcome during your artistic journey, and how did you overcome it?

"For me the lesson is and will always be the act of "letting go." I'm a recovering Type A person who can get very stressed out when things have to be "perfect" so that's why improv comedy has been so good for me. There are some basics you learn in the beginning but then it's all about trusting your scene partner and going with the flow which is where my best creative work happens and it's the very same with painting. I add a mark and then I see where that leads me. When I used to paint photo-realistically I'd get very stressed out and tight and I actually wasn't having much fun. It's taken me years to loosen up to get to this abstract place.” - Daisy Faith

6. Tell us about the pieces you're showing in Holiday Under $500 - what inspired them? How does the idea that Art is for Everyone influence your work as an artist ?

Daisy selects photos of interiors that inspire her, often drawn to spaces bursting with color, pattern, and eclectic furniture styles. She gravitates toward rooms that feel homey, comfortable, and warm—spaces that convey a sense of lived-in charm. She has always believed that art should be accessible to everyone, not just the elite. For Daisy, art plays an important role in shaping mood and creating a personal sanctuary within the home. She emphasizes that it doesn’t need to be expensive; small, affordable pieces can be collected over time, whether by purchasing art on sale, thrift shopping, or hunting for furniture and decor on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. In a chaotic world, Daisy sees art as a vital element in making one’s home a place of comfort and refuge.

7. If you could eat any food for the rest of your life what would it be and why?

Hard question! I love Mexican and Asian cuisines but I've always thought soup is the perfect food. So I might have to go with soup or queso... but that's not really a real food ;)

See what Daisy Faith has available currently at Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design. Daisy, a Northern Carolina based fauvism artist, will be featured alongside of 30+ artists in the Holiday Under $500 show. Daisy’s work will be available November 14th at 10 AM CST along with:

Paige Ledom

Karin Olah
Amanda McLaurin

Michele Aschenbrenner

Chasing Paper X Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 15:16:16 GMT

A behind-the-scenes look at how a creative vision—and a single email—sparked a dream collaboration with nine artists to design a vibrant wallpaper collection.

How This Collaboration Happened

It all started with a total fangirl moment. I wrote Chasing Paper an email because I’ve always loved their art-designed wallpapers and thought—how amazing would it be to see our artists’ work on walls across the country? Luckily, they agreed! A year later, that wild idea turned into a full-blown collaboration featuring a colorful lineup of fourteen incredible designs. This collection celebrates bright, bold, and personality-packed patterns from some of our artists. Each design tells its own story, blending art, color, and creativity in a way that feels right at home—literally.

Kevin Brent Morris

Kevin’s vibrant painting transformed directly into wallpaper, now featured in my own powder room alongside Angie Hueton’s delicate silk butterfly works. The pairing mimics the fluttering movement and whimsy feel found in Kevin’s design. The wallpaper comes in five stunning color ways—proof that one painting really can become a whole new world.

Michele Aschenbrenner

Michele’s playful, clean-lined florals and color-blocked iconography bring a fresh twist to the collection. Her designs come in three color ways, plus two feathered marble patterns that balance fun with sophistication. I personally installed her work into my staircase hallway leading up to my kids’ playroom, matching perfectly with the Watercolor Stripes.

Bekah Worley

Bekah brought her pop-art edge to two vibrant wallpaper colorways featuring abstract florals. I even installed one in my sister’s dining room alongside Bekah’s Butter & Roses painting. Bekah-on-Bekah—can you name a better duo? Her designs light up a room with energy and joy.

Paige Barnes Dorsey

Paige’s signature snakes slither onto wallpaper in two striking colorways. The CEO of Chasing Paper loved it so much she installed the dark blue version in her own bathroom—and it looks incredible! (Now we just need to add a sculpture to complete the look.)

Anee Shah

Anee’s florals are cottage-core perfection—romantic, timeless, and right on trend. She created three floral colorways and a stunning mural that looks like an antique painting coming to life. It’s painterly, soft, and makes your space feel like art itself.

Kristen Abbott

Kristen’s wallpaper features one of her cyanotypes arranged in a perfect grid. This design mirrors the look of her original cyanotypes, some of which we’ve sold right here in the gallery. It’s calm, structured, and beautifully familiar.

The Mural Collaboration

We also created a trio of murals featuring Anee Shah, Racheal Jackson , and Aly Ytterberg .

Racheal Jackson’s design was inspired by her personal journey of self-expression. As she puts it: “The first time I put stripes on my wall it was a statement to myself that what’s on the inside is worth looking at… Bold design in my home makes me feel bolder in my life. It’s all connected.” Her mix-and-match stripe patterns—drawn from street signs in her photo albums—let you build your own design story.

Aly Ytterberg’s mural captures the nostalgia of the American Midwest. Her work draws inspiration from everyday landscapes—old barns, open fields, and that strange déjà vu of places that feel like memories. The perfect mural that’s structured yet timeless.

And Finally… My Own Wallpaper

After helping curate the entire collection, I found myself daydreaming in my kids’ playroom, wishing it had more color and life. So, I designed one! Watercolor Stripes was born from that moment—a rainbow-inspired stripe pattern that’s now all over our playroom walls. It’s cheerful, soft, and exactly what I had imagined.

After that? The rest is history! What started as a fan email turned into a full-circle collaboration filled with creativity, community, and color. From paintings to wallpapers, from studio to home—it’s been a joy to watch these artists’ visions live beyond the canvas.

Artist Spotlight: Paige Ledom

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:12:35 GMT

Paige Ledom transforms cut paper into painterly-like, layered masterpieces. Step into her imaginative world of collage and creativity.

1. How did you become an artist? Who or what have been your biggest influences?

Art has always been Paige’s first love. As a child, she wanted nothing more than creating at all times. Growing up, she had many interests but art was always what beckoned Paige back. Art felt like the way she could be an investigator of all of interests because you can create work about anything you dream of.

She explored a lot of pathways to get where she is today, eventually studying Art Education at the University of Kansas. To her, art education was like getting to study studio art and education at the same time. Paige taught art in a public school for 5 years, before deciding to fully chart her own path.

2. What is a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that our audience may not know?

Her love for interior design! Paige used to have a business offering interior styling consultations for clients in their homes. Like her art, much of her home consists of unique secondhand finds, as well as vintage treasures. Paige even has a gallery wall of dog art, including a large oil painting of a Great Dane that she found on Facebook Marketplace. She is drawn to anything unique.

3. Can you walk us through your creative process - from rituals or routines to ideas to finished pieces.

Paige's creative process begins with awareness of her outer and inner world. That meaning, she is observant of her surroundings and experiences. If something catches her attention, she doesn't try to make sense of it, rather Paige documents it in the moment. This may be taking a photo of what caught her eye or jotting a note down in her journal.

Sometimes, she'll be on a walk or driving and be “visited” by an image in her head that she feels strongly connected or compelled to create from. Paige usually writes this down too, because the mental "visits" don’t last long before her mind shifts to something else. Collecting these experiences is similar to a collage in a lot of ways, in how you collect all the scraps and fragments and find a way to bring them together. Which she later references all her material to when she's in her studio to creating new works.

4. How does your love for everyday objects affect your work? Do many of your works have meaningful swatches or objects you utilize to create your work?

"Everyday objects feel like a universal language, with a million different meanings. I can look at a Dairy Queen cone and see an entire memory in that one object. An everyday object may appear simple at first glance, but it's powerful because it can conjure up a different story for each viewer. These objects can also serve as portraits, or even self-portraits, acting as visual shorthand for a person in our lives. " - Paige Ledom

While paint swatches have become her material of choice, she has utilized many physical bits and scraps of her own personal life into her work like cut-up paintings from teaching, brochures from travels, handwritten notes, diet coke boxes, and even photography she has shot.

5. What was the most difficult obstacle to overcome during your artistic journey, and how did you overcome it?

"One of my most difficult obstacles was finding my own voice as an artist. I think it’s something that isn’t talked about enough. In the beginning of an artist’s career, we are often so enamoured and inspired by the work of the artists that we admire that we forget our work isn’t supposed to look like theirs, it is supposed to look like ours. I wanted to be a painter very badly, but I didn’t like what I was creating when I was painting. I was stressed more often than not when I picked up a paintbrush. Finding my unique expression came from learning to play with materials again, letting go, and reminding myself it was okay to have fun in my work.” - Paige Ledom

6. Tell us about the pieces you're showing in Holiday Under $500 - what inspired them? How does the idea of Art for Everyone influence your work as an artist? Is showcasing art that is more affordable to everyone important to your practice?

"I am showing five new pieces, but one I am particularly excited about is titled “Banana Bread.” It is all hand-cut text from paint swatches and features the beginning of a banana bread recipe. When framing I wanted to embody the warmth, colors, and nostalgia associated with banana bread. I wanted to create the feeling of a special, handwritten recipe that your grandma might scribble down for you. I am more of a cook myself but banana bread is one of the few things I like to bake!

I love and respect Liz’s mission of art for everyone. I think many people feel intimidated by galleries and the prospect of purchasing original art, but shows like this provide an opportunity for buyers to access quality, affordable work, while artists are still compensated for their skills. Even if someone doesn’t consider themselves an artist, I believe art can have a positive impact on everyone’s lives. The world doesn’t only need artists, we need art appreciators too.” - Paige Ledom

7. For fun - what color would best describe you?

Blue. Like all colors, there are so many different versions of it but Paige likes that some days she can feel more bold like cobalt, sometimes light, airy, and dreamy like a sky blue, and other times completely introspective like a navy.

See what Paige Ledom has available currently at Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design. Paige, a Kansas City based cut-paper artist, will be featured alongside of 30+ artists in the Holiday Under $500 show. Paige’s work will be available November 14th at 10 AM CST along with:

Daisy Faith

Karin Olah
Amanda McLaurin

Michele Aschenbrenner

Art Meets Design: The New Neutral

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:55:07 GMT

A refined blend of pattern, texture, and warmth creates a bedroom that feels both timeless yet personal. Each layer telling a story-where art, design, and comfort meet in perfect harmony.

The Mood: Harmonious, Grounded, Refined

This re-imagined neutral bedroom invites warmth meeting refinement, balancing relaxation with thoughtful design. The color palette whispers calm rather than shouting for attention. Earth tones and soft neutrals set the tone, from the sandy plaid wall covering to the creamy bedding and caramel accents. The mood feels timeless yet grounded, like a place you can exhale in at the end of a long day. Every detail, from the brass pendant to the pleated lampshades, building on a story of understated luxury, charm, and lived-in-comfort.

Neutrals are anything but predictable here—they’re layered, composed, and full of quiet sophistication. The warmth of the tan and ochre hues keeps the room inviting, while hints of a deep green and charcoal give it structure. The effect is organic but curated, like fall translated into pattern and texture.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

Pattern is often the pulse of a room—and here, it hums gently beneath the surface, grounding the space in rhythm and soothing feelings. Neicy Frey’s work anchors the room’s design with its botanical-inspired abstracts, echoing the same quiet movement found in the upholstery on the chairs and throw pillow. Each element plays its part, repeating subtle shapes and tones that create a sense of harmony and flow.

Neicy Frey’s artwork serves as the heart of the palette, drawing from warm browns, soft creams, muted tans, and deep greens that echo throughout the room. When introducing art into an interior scheme, the goal is not to match every color or overwhelm the space, but to create a balanced dialogue between tones and textures. Here, that conversation feels effortless. The strong pattern of the rug complements Neicy Frey’s work, allowing the mind to recognize familiar forms and color connections without losing the sense of serenity. This is where design becomes conversational—one piece speaks softly, another responds, and together they form a visual rhythm that feels calm, balanced, and deeply intentional.

Bringing It All Together:

Blending organic softness with tailored structure, this bedroom proves that neutrals are anything but boring. Grounded by Neicy Frey’s painterly floral-inspired abstractions, the design draws from earthy neutrals and misty greens to create a cocoon that feels both timeless and new. A camel-colored woven wall covering sets the tone—warm, sophisticated, and quietly textured—wrapping the space in subtle depth without overwhelming it.

Texture is the quiet hero here. The woven wall covering adds warmth, while pleated lamps and crisp, tailored bedding keep the look refined. Gathered-skirt chairs soften the room, and marbled bedside tables extend an understated elegance. Thoughtful layering brings life and movement to the neutral palette. Each material adds its own rhythm, transforming simplicity into a sensory experience.

When color, pattern, and texture work in harmony, the result is a space that feels both fresh and familiar. The palette weaves a consistent story, guiding the eye from rug to art to upholstery with effortless continuity. Structured lamps and a soft gleaming brass pendant tie it all together, balancing formality with warmth. The final impression is one of calm sophistication—modern lines meeting vintage softness, structure meeting flow, muted tones meeting quiet vibrancy. This is a bedroom that invites you to linger—to rest, to read, to feel wholly at home. It’s a retreat designed not just for the eye—a lesson in how thoughtful layering and restraint can make simplicity feel truly alive.

Designer Tips:

Pro Tip #1: Layer Tonal Textures for Depth - When working with a neutral color story, lean into texture, pattern, and subtle tonal shifts to keep the design dynamic. Natural fabrics & materials, tailored upholstery, and a mix of matte and polished finishes add richness without disrupting the room’s serenity.

Pro Tip #2: Balance Geometry and Softness - Combine structured, geometric patterns with more organic, fluid shapes to create visual rhythm. The contrast between crisp lines and rounded silhouettes makes a neutral space feel lively and artful rather than flat or predictable.

The Path of a Painting: From Artist, Gallery, Website, to You

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 19:11:34 GMT

From studio to gallery to your home — what goes into caring for your artwork every step of the way.

When new artwork arrives from our artists, we take extra care from the very first moment the box hits our hands. Each package is opened with patience and precision — often box cutters instead of scissors— to avoid cutting too deep and risking damage to the art inside. We never want to cut into canvas, frame, or piece of glass. Most artists mark their packages with fragile tape to help ensure careful handling during shipping. Once opened, we’re greeted with layers of bubble wrap, plastic wrap, or paper thoughtfully arranged to protect each piece. Every unboxing is its own small act of care, setting the tone for how we handle artwork from arrival all the way to display or storage.

Once the artwork is unboxed, we carefully inspect each piece to ensure it’s gallery-ready — checking frames, canvases, and surfaces for any imperfections. If an issue ever arises, we reach out to the artist right away to discuss repairs, whether they prefer to handle it themselves or have us assist in-house. During this stage, our inventory manager, Lily, steps in. She measures every piece, records its dimensions, and inputs the information into our system so it’s accessible online for collectors browsing our site. Each title, artist name, and detail is entered individually, since every piece we receive is an original.

Lily is truly the behind-the-scenes force who keeps our collection organized and ensures each artwork is properly documented, cared for, and ready to move from the artist’s studio to the gallery — and eventually to your home. Once a piece has been inspected and entered into inventory, it’s ready to be photographed, shared on social media, or displayed on the gallery floor. Most artists send their work at least a week or two before an upcoming show or online release, giving us time to prepare everything for its debut.

We absolutely love Lily’s photography — it plays a huge role in what makes our gallery stand out. While many galleries rely on a single JPEG to represent a piece, we believe that artwork deserves more than just one flat image. Lily captures each piece from multiple angles, highlighting textures, brushstrokes, and fine details so collectors can truly experience the work online.

Because so much of our audience views and shops through our digital platforms, these details matter. In our previous studio, the abundant natural light made photographing pieces a little bit easier. In our new space, we’re still experimenting with lighting setups to achieve the same crisp, true-to-life results. Lily spends hours perfecting each image in Adobe Lightroom, often keeping the painting right beside her to ensure every color and tone matches the original. Her attention to detail helps us bring the in-person gallery experience to your screen.

When preparing artwork to ship to one of our wonderful clients, we take great care to package each piece with intention and attention to detail. Every artwork is first wrapped in bubble wrap, with the tape placed carefully on the front-facing layer. This ensures that when we tie on the ribbon and attach any small goodies, nothing presses directly against or damages the canvas, frame, or glass. We then place the piece face down in the box, cushioned with a layer of bubble wrap or paper beneath it, and another layer on top for added protection. This creates a soft buffer on all sides, preventing any movement or impact during transit. From our gallery to your home, we want every piece to arrive just as beautiful as it left — safely, securely, and ready to be enjoyed.

Each piece arrives with a thoughtful gift bag containing nails, instructions on how to hang your artwork, and a heartfelt note from Lily thanking you for supporting our gallery. We especially love when clients share photos of their new pieces displayed in their homes — seeing the art in its new space always brings us joy. No matter where you are, whether nearby or across the globe, it’s wonderful to see our clients connect with the artwork just as much as we and the artists do. At the end of the day, every package we send isn’t just about delivering art — it’s about sharing the story, care, and passion behind each piece, making your home a little brighter and more inspired.

Art Takes Center Stage: How Art Reflects the DWTS Cast

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 14:37:01 GMT

Discover art that captures the energy and elegance of the ballroom. See how pieces can reflect the drama and glamour of dancing with the stars.

For the remaining dancers on the floor, we couldn’t resist pairing each one with a piece of art that perfectly captures the magic of their most iconic moves—those moments that left all of us absolutely stunned! And yes, full disclosure—Lauren here—I’m a total DWTS fan, so this felt like the perfect excuse to bring a little ballroom sparkle into our blog.

Just like the dancers themselves, these artworks have a way of commanding attention. From bold personalities to jaw-dropping performances, they do exactly what the pros do on the dance floor: they turn heads, make you pause for a second longer, and, most importantly, shine bright in the spotlight. I had so much fun matching each dancer to a piece that I felt mirrored their style, energy, and flair. Whether it’s elegance, drama, or pure show-stopping power, these artworks capture the essence of the moves that make DWTS such a thrill to watch. So, without further ado, here’s how we see each dancer reflected through our artists’ creations—you might just find yourself seeing the dances in a whole new way!

Alix Earle

Jordan Chiles

Whitney Leavitt

Robert Irwin

Turning Awkward Spaces into Styled Moments

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 19:28:55 GMT

For those tricky little spots that need a touch of something… we've got you covered. Dive into Liz Lidgett’s tips, tricks, and recommendations for styling those corners in your home that could use a little extra art.

Above the Fireplace:

When it comes to hanging artwork above a fireplace—height, heat, and viewing distance all shape how the piece is experienced in the space. This classic design choice comes with unique challenges—each factor influences both how the art is perceived and how well it’s preserved.

Since artwork above a fireplace is often positioned higher than eye level, it’s important to select pieces that read well from a distance. Size matters here, and I recommend using the “two-thirds method.” For squared artwork, fill about two-thirds of the wall or mantel width, leaving room for decor and allowing the space to breathe. For example, if your mantel is 60 inches wide, aim for a piece around 40 inches wide. This creates a balanced and harmonious look. Proper spacing is key too—I suggest leaving a 4 to 10-inch gap between the bottom of the artwork and the top of the mantel. This prevents the piece from appearing to float and helps it integrate seamlessly with the room.

Bold colors and clear, defined shapes are ideal because they grab attention without demanding close inspection. Tiny, intricate details often frustrate viewers—especially when the fireplace below makes it awkward to get closer. High-contrast compositions and strong shapes let the artwork shine while complementing surrounding décor, ensuring it remains impactful from a distance.

Heat and temperature fluctuations can take a toll on artwork over time, causing warping, fading, or cracking—especially for delicate materials like paper or canvas. To keep your pieces in great shape, choose high-quality frames and materials designed to handle environmental changes. Metal or sealed wood frames can help minimize heat damage and light exposure. Remember me telling you to leave space between the top of the mantel and the bottom of an art piece? Keeping space between the fireplace/mantel and the artwork reduces direct heat exposure. This extra care helps preserve your artwork’s beauty while keeping your fireplace wall looking fresh year-round.

My Tips for Styling Above the Fireplace:

Tip #1: Use Vertical Balance – Tall objects on the mantel, like sculptural vases, candlesticks, or plants, can visually connect the artwork to the space, creating a cohesive vertical composition.

Tip #2: Mix Art and Objects – Pair your artwork with curated décor pieces, such as books, textured ceramics, or a small sculpture. This adds dimension and makes the mantel feel intentional rather than leaving a large empty wall above.

Pairing bold, visually contrasting artwork with thoughtful styling can turn your blank space above your fireplace into a focal point that lifts the whole room. I recommend exploring pieces by Bethany Mabee , Meghan Bustard, or Joy Kinna —their abstract works are visually striking, easy to read from a distance, and naturally draw the eye. With larger forms and shapes, these pieces are especially perfect for styling above a mantel or fireplace.

In the Kitchen:

The kitchen is often the heart of the home—a space where functionality meets warmth. While it’s easy to focus on appliances, countertops, and storage, adding art can completely transform this area, making it more visually appealing and cohesive. When it comes to choosing artwork for the kitchen, durability should be your top priority. Framed pieces are ideal—they’re easy to wipe clean and can handle the occasional splash of water, cooking oils, or cleaning chemicals. Materials like glass or acrylic frames add an extra layer of protection against moisture and grease, while works with protective coatings or water-resistant materials can help your art last even longer. Durable pieces also give you the freedom to display art in more dynamic spots—like above the sink or near cooking areas—without constantly worrying about damage. This way, your kitchen can be both functional and visually inspiring.

The area above the sink is a prime location for artwork, but it’s important to position pieces carefully. Keeping art a few inches above the sink protects it from water and steam while still making a statement. Open shelving or grouping pieces thoughtfully can further highlight your art feeling integrated into the kitchen’s design. To keep the look cohesive, consider your kitchen’s existing color palette and theme—art that complements these tones will tie the space together. Vintage portraits, still-life scenes, or even ’sillier' designs can work beautifully, adding character and warmth without overwhelming the room. I would recommend artists like Emily Furr , Alexandra Ackerman , Trevor Mikula , or Jennifer Allevato for artwork to hang in your kitchen.

My Tips for Styling In Your Kitchen:

Tip #1: Think practically, display boldly - Choose durable, framed pieces that can withstand splashes and heat, and don’t be afraid to pick bold colors or clear shapes that read well from a distance—especially above the sink or near cooking areas.

Tip #2: Integrate with your kitchen’s style - Consider your color palette, finishes, and overall theme. Pair art with open shelving, task lighting, or grouped décor to make the space feel intentional and cohesive.

Adding art to your kitchen is an easy way to bring personality, warmth, and style into one of the most-used spaces in your home. With a little thought around durability, placement, and coordination with your existing décor, even small touches can make a big impact. Whether you go for framed prints, bold abstract pieces, or charming still-life scenes, the right artwork can turn your kitchen from purely functional into a space that’s both inspiring and inviting. Get creative, have fun, and let your kitchen reflect your personal style. In doing so, I recommend artists like Alex Ackerman , Emily Furr, and Trevor Mikula who are nothing short of adding personality into your space!

For the Bathroom:

Bathrooms are often overlooked when it comes to home decor, yet they offer a unique opportunity to infuse personality and style into your daily routine. However, the bathroom's high humidity and fluctuating temperatures can pose challenges for traditional artwork. The bathroom environment is inherently humid due to showers and baths. This moisture can cause damage to artwork over time, leading to issues such as warping, fading, or mold growth. Therefore, selecting art made from moisture-resistant materials is crucial for longevity and aesthetic appeal.

When choosing artwork for your bathroom, consider the following materials:

Ceramic: Glazed ceramic tiles or sculptures can add texture and color to your bathroom walls. Their non-porous surface makes them resistant to moisture and easy to clean.

Metal: Metal art pieces, such as aluminum or stainless steel, are durable and resistant to corrosion. They can introduce a modern or industrial touch to your bathroom decor.

Acrylic Gouache: ONLY acrylic gouache prints or paintings are moisture-resistant. Acrylic paintings can mimic the look of glass without the fragility, making them suitable for bathroom settings.

Sealed Canvas or Wood: While traditional canvas or wood can absorb moisture, those that are properly sealed with waterproof coatings can withstand bathroom humidity. Ensure that the sealant is high-quality and applied correctly to prevent damage.

My Tips for Styling in the Bathroom:

Tip #1 - Avoid D irect Water Exposure: Place art away from direct water sources like showers or sinks to minimize the risk of splashes.

Ensure Proper Ventilation: Use exhaust fans or open windows to reduce humidity levels in the bathroom.

Tip #2 - Regular Maintenance: Clean the artwork periodically to remove any moisture buildup or potential mold growth.

Consider Framing Options: Use frames made from moisture-resistant materials and consider glass or acrylic glazing to protect the artwork.

Incorporating art into your bathroom is an excellent way to personalize the space and create a relaxing atmosphere. By selecting materials that can withstand the bathroom's unique conditions, you can enjoy your artwork for years to come. Remember to consider the environment and choose wisely to ensure your art remains a beautiful and lasting feature in your bathroom decor. I recommend purchasing works from Betsy Enzensberger , Eliana Bernard , Kristi Kohut , or Nate Nettleton .

The Art of Subtlety: Our Neutrals-Inspired Show

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 20:27:28 GMT

A fresh beginning in our new home — Welcome revisits our very first 2019 show, reimagined through soft neutrals, gentle pastels, and countryside charm. A peek into what to expect in our Welcome show inspired by neutrals.

Meghan Bustard:

Vancouver-based mixed-media painter Meghan Bustard has always been surrounded by creativity. “My mum is a very creative person who paints and draws quite a bit herself,” she says. “Because of this, art has played an important role in my life for as long as I can remember.” It’s fitting, then, that Meghan’s own work now captures the same sense of wonder, exploration, and connection that first drew her in as a child. Born and raised on Canada’s west coast, Meghan received her BFA in Visual Arts in 2011, and for years painted out of her studio and showroom in Vancouver’s historic Gastown. More recently, she’s found herself in a new rhythm — working from a bright, quaint studio in Spain. Across continents, her work remains deeply rooted in the tactile discovery of her surroundings. Whether walking through her neighborhood, hiking with her family, or simply sitting in her living room full of friends, Meghan’s creative process is shaped by the spaces she inhabits and the emotions they evoke.

“Nature is my biggest inspiration, I’m very interested in the way being in a certain spot can make us feel. In some sense, my work is always asking the question, ‘How does being here feel?’” That inquiry into place unfolds through layers of color, shape, and line. Though she loves to experiment with new materials and palettes, there’s a recognizable rhythm in her pieces — soft transparencies overlapping in ways that feel both structured and spontaneous. Her paintings often play with balance: the tension between clarity and blur, between stillness and motion. It’s a conversation between intention and intuition.

For Meghan , home is both muse and sanctuary: warmth, beauty, serenity, and a place to be fully herself. Whether hiking in the mountains with her family, brunching at a neighborhood café, or simply enjoying her living room full of friends, she continues to find inspiration in the simple, grounding beauty of being present—and translating that feeling onto canvas.

Emily Keating Snyder:

New York–based contemporary artist Emily Keating Snyder has made a name for herself by blending the worlds of fine art and traditional craft. Her abstract paintings—textural, minimalist, and deeply intentional—feature embroidery threaded directly through the artist’s canvas. By bringing this historically women’s medium into the context of modern painting, Emily challenges conventions and invites a new kind of tactile appreciation.

Color is the heartbeat of her practice. Emily finds inspiration in the unexpected palettes found in nature—the soft clash of moss and coral, the shifting blues of the ocean, the golden light before sunset. But her work isn’t simply about capturing what she sees outdoors; it’s about creating an experience. Influenced by Eastern philosophies, Zen teachings, and color theory, Emily approaches her art as something to feel, not just observe.

“I want to make art that isn’t a depiction of something else,” she often explains, “but that is the thing itself.” The use of embroidery amplifies that idea. Rather than paint creating lines and shapes, it’s thread—a three-dimensional element that becomes an active part of the composition. Even the raw canvas isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a living, physical surface woven into the identity of the piece.

Emily’s thoughtful approach has caught the attention of major outlets like Anthropologie, Real Simple, Clever, Parachute Home, and designer Emily Henderson, each celebrating her ability to balance hard edges with soft fibers, and order with intuition. Her work exists where texture meets tranquility—where color, craft, and contemporary art find perfect harmony.

Aly Ytterberg:

St. Louis-based artist Aly Ytterberg creates hard-edge, color-block paintings that transform everyday landscapes into abstracted visual stories. Inspired by nature, rural scenery, and the memories tied to specific places, Aly finds beauty in the overlooked—the fields, structures, and fleeting moments that might otherwise pass unnoticed. Her work is both personal and universal, inviting each viewer to bring their own imagination and experiences to the scene.

Aly’s process begins with a photograph taken during a hike, road trip, or other adventure. From that image, she pulls out the essential colors and shapes, turning them into bold, simplified forms on gallery-wrapped canvas. Her paintings require a lot of tape, multiple layers of paint, and a careful, methodical approach, but the payoff is in the reveal—stepping back to see the landscape emerge through clean lines, vivid blocks of color, and layered textures.

Beyond the studio, Aly balances life as a mother-artist, caring for her 4-year-old son and twin two-year-olds while carving out time to paint during naptime. She has shown work in local and regional exhibitions and her pieces are included in collections across the United States, from galleries and homes to corporations and healthcare facilities. Through her art, Aly continues to explore the subtle intersections between place, memory, and perception, creating landscapes that resonate differently for everyone who sees them.

Joy Kinna:

For Joy , inspiration comes from the everyday—whether it’s a color, a memory, or an idea that’s been lingering in her mind. Living on the coast has also shaped her work, from the landscape and shifting hues to the serene feeling of being near the ocean. She aims to bring that same sense of peace and presence into her paintings, inviting viewers to slow down and experience a moment of calm through color and form.

Creativity has been part of Joy’s life since childhood. Growing up, she tried to keep up with her older brothers’ drawing skills and found herself happiest when using her hands. Abstract painting became her medium of choice at university, and she hasn’t looked back since. For her, making art is a way to process life—the curiosity, wonder, joy, and even pain—through hands-on exploration. The moments before and after mark-making, and the subtle shifts of observing the natural world, are central to her practice.

Joy’s work is an accumulation of feelings, memories, landscapes, and both subconscious and conscious thought. Colors and shapes emerge through a constant push and pull on the canvas, forming pieces that are deeply personal yet inviting for the viewer. She is especially passionate about the impact art can have within a space, believing that a well-placed work can be restful, meditative, and deeply fulfilling.

Welcome opens our new gallery space with a fresh perspective on neutral palettes, featuring eight artists, the show proves that subtle tones can carry incredible depth, texture, and emotion. Through thoughtful exploration of textures and materials, their pieces command attention and occupy the center stage with undeniable visual presence. These works remind us that neutrals don’t have to be boring—they can be nuanced, layered, and endlessly expressive.

All are welcome — from collectors and curators to artists and design enthusiasts — to experience this debut exhibition and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter for Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design. The exhibition features a lineup of talented artists, all united by their shared inspiration: neutral palettes.

View the show HERE with art from these 8 artists:

Aly Ytterberg - St. Louis, Missouri
Anna Flickinger - Des Moines, Iowa
Bethany Mabee - Peoria, Illinois
Emily Keating Snyder - New York, New York
Joy Kinna - Vancouver, Canada
Kristen Abbott - Boulder, Colorado
Meghan Bustard - Vancouver, Canada
Neicy Frey - Spokane, Washington

Art Meets Design: Creative Command Center

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 18:15:41 GMT

Exploring how bold hues, thoughtful designs, and artful design can transform a workspace into a source of daily inspiration.

The Mood: Experimental, Uplifting, Commanding

This home office proves that a workspace can be both highly productive and bursting with personality. Anchored by the vibrant, expressive energy of AK Hardeman’s paintings, the room lets her art take center stage, shaping the entire atmosphere. In a work-focused setting, the artwork becomes a mirror for creativity, encouraging focus while inspiring fresh, innovative ideas. Painterly strokes and unexpected color combinations set a dynamic tone, balancing imaginative energy with grounded functionality. The result is a workspace that sparks inspiration, fuels concentration, and transforms even the most routine tasks into something extraordinary.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

What do AK Hardeman’s pieces bring to a space? Quite simply, they open the door to an entire spectrum of color, energy, and inspiration. Each piece of artwork carries its own personality, and the colors within them can be pulled and echoed throughout a room, creating a sense of cohesion that ties the space together effortlessly. By referencing the palette in furniture, textiles, and accents, every element in the room feels intentional, as if it were part of a larger, curated dialogue.

In this particular space, the soft gingham wallpaper plays a crucial role. Its gentle, understated pattern allows the eyes to rest amid AK’s bold, organic compositions, providing balance and harmony. The wallpaper acts almost like a quiet stage, letting the vibrancy of each piece shine without overwhelming the senses, while subtly reinforcing the color story throughout the room. What’s particularly remarkable about AK’s work is how it interacts with the environment it inhabits. The art doesn’t simply hang on a wall—it engages with surrounding patterns, textures, and furnishings, sparking a conversation between creativity and design. Each piece encourages the room to feel alive, cohesive, and thoughtfully composed, proving that pattern and art can exist together in perfect harmony.

Bringing It All Together:

Rich layers of texture—burlwood, woven natural fibers, and meticulously tailored upholstery—create a strategic foundation that balances the fluid, organic movement of the artwork. This resulting in a space where ideas can flow freely without feeling chaotic and overwhelming. Each material adds its own voice: the warmth of burlwood brings an earthy stability, while also mimicking the abstract aspect of the painting throughout its details of the wood. The natural fibers of the fabricated elements introduce a sense of relaxed comfort, and the crisp lines of tailored upholstery offer refined structures.

Thoughtful details throughout the room further elevate the design, bridging the gap between art and the office space. A saturated blue desk chair, paired with a delicate needlepoint pillow, anchors the space while adding a touch of personality. Playful patterned lampshades echo hues and designs from the artwork, extending the color palette beyond the canvas and weaving it seamlessly into the room’s narrative. Together, these elements create a carefully curated environment where every object feels intentional, every color feels connected, and the space as a whole encourages creativity, focus, and inspiration.

Designer Tips:

Pro Tip #1: In a home office, choose a statement artwork that motivates you, then layer in complementary textures and colors to create a cohesive environment. The art becomes both a visual anchor and a daily reminder that work and creativity can coexist beautifully.

Pro Tip #2: When working with bold, colorful artwork, balance it with subtle, understated patterns in your surroundings—like soft gingham or delicate stripes—to give the eyes a place to rest. This creates a harmonious flow in the room while still allowing the art to take center stage.

Fashion’s New Muse: Art

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:21:36 GMT

This season, New York Fashion Week went beyond clothing, turning runways into a celebration of art history, galleries, and performance—filled with painterly prints, emotional depth, and nods to iconic artists.

The days of fashion runways filled with glitz and fast-moving trends are fading. New York Fashion Week 2026 embraced a new approach—one rooted in architecture, installation, and atmosphere. Each show became an experience, transforming spaces into thought-provoking environments where clothing and art coexisted seamlessly. Designers traded sterile blank studios for industrial spaces, museums, and converted warehouses, creating exhibitions rather than traditional catwalks. Set pieces, projections, and sculptural backdrops weren’t just decorative—they became creative partners in storytelling. By collaborating with visual artists, designers wove art and painterly influence directly into their collections. The result was a season that felt less like a fashion week and more like a living, breathing art show.

Jason Wu Spring/Summer 2026 Show

At Jason Wu’s show on October 8th, 2025, the designer unveiled a collection inspired by the groundbreaking artist Robert Rauschenberg—a creative dialogue between fashion and fine art. Rather than simply drawing inspiration, Rauschenberg’s influence became the blueprint, backdrop, and structure for the entire presentation. Wu reimagined Rauschenberg’s signature layering through transparencies, overlapping patterns, and striking contrasts of solidity and void. The garments felt alive—walking collages that captured the artist’s rhythm and bold energy. This wasn’t just an homage; it was a true reinterpretation. Wu honored Rauschenberg’s legacy by translating his visual language into something entirely wearable—pieces that moved with the same fragmented beauty and expressive spirit that defined Rauschenberg’s art.

Jason Wu’s latest collection, fittingly titled “Combines,” was inspired by the act of bringing things together — a direct nod to artist Robert Rauschenberg and his groundbreaking “Combine” series. This season, Wu explored the in-between: where structured garments meet spontaneity, and elegance meets experimentation. Much like Rauschenberg, who blurred the lines between painting and sculpture by merging photography, paint, and found objects, Wu played with the boundaries of fashion itself.

Rauschenberg’s work rejected perfection — it was chaotic, layered, and deeply alive. Wu translated that same spirit into his designs. Fabrics were collaged together like Rauschenberg’s canvases: chiffon layered over linen, silk mixed with metallic accents, and crisp tailoring softened by raw edges. Each piece felt like a wearable composition, full of texture and movement.

The set design reflected the artist’s studio energy — unfinished wood frames, painterly projections, and a raw, creative atmosphere that made the entire collection feel like a living artwork. Wu didn’t just pay tribute to Rauschenberg; he extended his legacy. His Spring/Summer 2026 collection turned the essence of Rauschenberg’s mind — his curiosity, experimentation, and visual rhythm — into something that could walk, move, and breathe.

Ulla Johnson Spring/Summer 2026 Show

Ulla Johnson staged her new collection at the Cooper Hewitt Design Museum, former Andrew Carnegie's (leading expander of the steel industry) mansion-- the perfect mix of luxury, art, and design. This added another layer of artistry, set within the Cooper Hewitt Museum, the architecture and lighting interacted with the clothing, highlighting the painterly qualities of the fabrics and evoking a sense of exhibition. Even the soundtrack played a part--Johnson incorporated Helen’s voice discussing beauty and presence allowing the audience to connect on a more deep and personal level with the artist’s inspired clothing collection.

Ulla collaborated with the Frankethaler Foundation, Ulla transformed Helen Frankenthaler’s iconic paintings into lively flow silhouettes. To mirror the feeling of abstract paintings, Ulla had very little structural elements to the garments she featured in her new show. Ulla Johnson stated, "‘Beautiful’, which is always a tricky word, but now it’s become an incendiary word, because in many ways today beauty is obsolete and not the main concern of art. And you can’t prove beauty; it’s there as a fact,”.

She drew directly from the abstract expressionist painters work, translating Frankenthaler's signature watercolor pieces of emotive brushstrokes onto fabric, texture, and silhouette. Her paintings are known for their fluidity and emotional resonance--sweeping fields of color that seem to float across a canvas. Johnson mirrored and captured that same ethereal feel and quality into the garments. Flowy silk dresses, layered chiffon, and organic patterns evoked the movement of paint across a canvas which made each model feel like a brushstroke walking through the space. The colors themselves weren’t just decorative, but rather carried emotional weight of creating moods and harmonies you would see in an art gallery

Johnson’s approach goes beyond simple inspiration; it embodies a dialogue between fashion and fine art, turning each look into a wearable interpretation of abstract expressionism. The collection feels like an homage and a continuation—bringing Frankenthaler’s color, emotion, and spirit into motion, and inviting viewers to experience her art in an entirely new dimension.

What this shift means for Fashion and Art

Besides the direct inspirations from famous painters and art movements, many NYFW 2026 designers turned inward this season. They used fashion to explore emotion, psychology, and the complexity of human identity. The runway became less about perfect presentation and more about real expression—a stage for mood and self-analysis. These collections felt like walking portraits, each model embodying an inner state of being. Flowy fabrics layered like simultaneous thoughts, translucent materials felt like vulnerability, and soft lighting wrapped everything in a dreamlike haze. The result was deeply personal — clothes that didn’t just decorate the body but revealed what’s happening inside the body.

Some designers used their collections to tell emotional, personal stories. The silhouettes of their clothes reflected ideas about their personal identity and self-expression. Garments with uneven or layered designs represented the different sides of who we are, whether its professional yet personal, bold yet timid, or energetic yet cautious. The mix of soft and structured fabrics showed the contrast between how we feel and how the world perceives us. The overall mood felt like watching a film—thoughtful, emotional, and visually powerful. Photography also played a key role in shaping this emotional language. Drawing inspiration from photographers like Paolo Roversi, designers captured a similar sense of intimacy and ambiguity — the feeling of being both real and dreamlike at once. Models appeared as spectral figures in motion, suspended somewhere between fashion show and visual art installation.

Together, these shows marked a subtle but powerful shift: fashion no longer focuses solely on surface or trend. Instead, it acts as a form of reflection — a way to process emotion, memory, and identity through texture and movement. 2026 reminded us that clothing, like art, can be both mirror and metaphor — a means of seeing ourselves more clearly.

Why Orange Deserves Some Love

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 16:08:55 GMT

The science behind the most “slept on” color. Orange is one of those colors that always seems to spark debate. It’s bold, it’s energetic, it’s everywhere in nature—and yet, when it comes to personal preference, orange often gets the cold shoulder.

The Popularity Problem

In a recent Colorlib study, 30% of women voted orange as their least favorite color, followed closely by brown at 23% and purple at 13%. For men and women between 35 and 80, orange also came in at the bottom of the list. And when it comes to design? Orange doesn’t fare much better. Both orange and yellow were ranked as the worst colors for websites and ads. Why? Orange buttons and graphics were often described as “too harsh,” which made them the least likely to drive clicks or sales.

But Here’s the Twist

Even though orange is voted down in surveys, when people were asked what the color actually makes them feel, the answers were only positive vibes. In a 2025 Springer Link poll, participants said orange sparked happiness, excitement, fun, surprise, and even pleasure. Scientifically, orange is known as a high-arousal, high-power color—one that grabs your attention, boosts energy, and sets a lively tone. Compare that to brown, another low-ranking color, which evoked sadness, boredom, and disgust. Orange clearly has the better emotional résumé.

Why the Disconnect?

So why do so many people avoid a color that makes us feel good? The answer lies in orange’s associations.

Warning signals: Think traffic cones, construction signs, or even bright patterns in animals that signal danger. Orange naturally reads as alert and aggressive.
Context matters: In calm environments—like home interiors or study spaces—orange can feel too much. Many of us prefer colors that bring peace and quiet, like blues, greens, and neutrals.
Cultural baggage: Orange can be tied to negative contexts too—prison uniforms, cheap branding, or being seen as “over the top.”

When Orange Shines and Our Solution

Of course, orange also has its moments of glory. In autumn, it’s everywhere: pumpkins, changing leaves, Halloween decor, even (my personal favorite) spiced lattes. During Autumnal season, orange feels festive, nostalgic, and natural. Its warmth makes it a star player, even among those who don’t usually gravitate toward it.

Orange is a paradox: a color that emotionally excites us yet culturally and contextually pushes us away. Maybe the question isn’t why nobody loves orange—but how we can start celebrating it in spaces where its vibrancy belongs. After all, orange is joy, fun, and energy all rolled into one. Orange can be tricky to use—but when paired thoughtfully, it can completely transform a space or a piece of artwork. The key is finding colors that balance, enhance, or complement its energy. Here are some of our favorite pairings for interiors, décor, and art:

Blue – Orange’s complementary color, blue creates a striking contrast that instantly draws the eye. In design, this combination feels visually dynamic but still balanced. Pairing burnt orange with navy in a gallery wall, for example, or a tangerine accent chair against a soft sky-blue wall, lets orange pop without feeling overwhelming. It’s a classic way to add energy while keeping harmony. Alex Ackerman has paired her work, Part Plant, Park Machine, 2024 with a navy blue to strike a contrast that instantly balances the work throughout.

Dusky Pinks & Mauves – Now, here’s a pairing that feels unexpected but oh-so-right. Dusky pinks and mauves are warm, moody, and totally harmonious with orange. They share those same cozy undertones, making everything feel layered and thoughtfully styled. Picture this: blush wallpaper, deep green furniture, and little pops of orange in your artwork or décor. It’s chic, playful, and perfect for interiors that want a fashion-forward vibe. Allison James has paired her painting, Sweet Slice, 2025 with simply warm colors. Her work doesn’t just feel timeless—it wraps you up like a cozy autumn day, full of rich, warm tones. She married both Dusky Pinks with Muted Greens, making her abstract art a perfect visual harmony.

Muted Greens – Honestly, is there a color that doesn’t pair well with green? I haven’t found one yet! Muted greens like olive or sage are the perfect chill sidekick for orange. They tone down the high-energy vibes of orange and give you a modern, balanced palette. Think olive-green printed walls with apricot or burnt-orange accents in artwork, throw pillows, or décor—it’s natural, sophisticated, and just plain cozy.

Earthy Browns & Wood Tones – Nature is orange’s perfect partner. Wood and leather tones mimic the natural environments where oranges thrive—think autumn leaves, clay pots, or sun-warmed landscapes. Pairing burnt orange with oak furniture, leather chairs, or wooden picture frames creates a warm, inviting aesthetic that feels both organic and comforting. In art, this pairing adds depth and texture, letting vibrant orange tones anchor a piece or tie together a composition. Kevin Brent Morris framed his Amaranth, 2024 beetle painting in wood, grounding the vivid orange base and letting it feel right at home in its natural element.

Teal & Deep Green – Sitting near blue on the color wheel, teal brings a calm, sophisticated energy that contrasts beautifully with warm oranges. Think rust-orange vases on a teal shelf, or terracotta-hued artwork framed against teal walls. This pairing has become a go-to for contemporary interiors because it feels both trendy and timeless. Muted olive or deep green works in the same way, softening the high energy of orange while maintaining visual interest. Hunt Slonem balanced his soft peach-orange with strokes of teal and deep green along the tulip stem, creating a thoughtful play of secondary colors that feel rich without overpowering.

Neutrals (beige, cream, tan, or gray) – Neutrals are orange’s best friends when it comes to letting the color shine without dominating a space. By providing a soft, muted backdrop, creams and tans allow burnt orange or poppy accents to stand out in furniture, throw pillows, or art pieces. Gray walls paired with rust-orange ceramics or accessories create a grounded, sophisticated palette that’s easy on the eyes while still making a statement. By placing her bold orange box on a soft beige background, Emily Keating Snyder lets the colors in her work radiate together without stealing the spotlight from one another

Orange as an Accent – Let’s be real—orange is bold, and it knows it. Bright, neon oranges are perfect for playful spots like a kids’ playroom or a funky statement piece. But in home interiors, we’re all about the burnt, rust, and persimmon tones. These shades feel warm, cozy, and sophisticated without screaming for attention. Pro tip: keep it in small doses—throw pillows, artwork, a statement vase—so your space feels vibrant but not overwhelming. And if you want soft and approachable, peachy oranges are your friend—they’re easy on the eyes and totally charming in bedrooms, art, or even a watch strap. Bekah Worley is a perfect example of how different shades of orange can play off each other. She pairs a bright red-orange with a softer peachy tone, creating harmony instead of chaos.

All in all of JUSTICE FOR ORANGE:

At the end of the day, orange is all about energy, fun, and personality. Pair it thoughtfully, pick the right shade for the vibe you’re going for, and suddenly even the most “too loud” orange can feel like it belongs. From your walls to your artwork to your outfits, orange is ready to shine—just let it.

Nancy Meyers Inspired Design Packages

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:32:57 GMT

You don’t have to star in a rom-com to live in a Nancy Meyers–inspired home—here’s how our Color Study design package brings that signature aesthetic to life.

Cozy, charming, and rich in texture and personality, brought to life through personal touches. Our designer, Hannah Jacobus, has blended artwork with the Nancy Meyers aesthetic, carefully selecting furniture, colors, and décor to create a warm, inviting, and story-filled home.

Color Study:

In the Color Study , we create a personalized color palette for one interior or exterior space, helping clients achieve a cohesive and visually appealing look. The package includes a 30-minute consultation with our interior designer, Hannah Jacobus, to discuss color selections and schemes, followed by a custom-curated color palette document for you to implement at your convenience. A $450 credit can also be applied toward an upgrade to our Sketch or Masterpiece packages. This package primarily focuses on a design rationale—outlining the overall goal and objective, with recommended wood and metal finishes, along with your color guide.

How to use the Color Study with a Nancy Meyers Inspiration:

We’ll begin with a short questionnaire to better understand your goals—what space you’re designing, the mood you want to create, and the feelings you’d like the room to evoke. From there, our Color Study translates those ideas into a custom palette that captures the essence of the Nancy Meyers aesthetic.

Known for films like Something’s Gotta Give, The Holiday, and It’s Complicated, Meyers’ interiors are celebrated for their cozy yet elegant atmosphere—warm neutral palettes, layered textures, timeless patterns, and a sense of comfort that feels both lived-in and refined. Using this inspiration, your Color Study becomes a curated mood board for your space, complete with recommended finishes and color selections designed to bring that same inviting, cinematic quality into your own home.

A Nancy Meyers inspired living room:

Design Rationale:

Inspired by the living room in Something’s Gotta Give (2003) , this Nancy Meyers–inspired design blends warm neutral tones with the layered textures and artistry of Karin Olah . Her tactile use of paint, canvas, and mixed media complements Meyers’ signature style—spaces that feel timeless, inviting, and layered with personality.

At the heart of the Nancy Meyers aesthetic are elements that transcend trends: curated family photos, meaningful collectibles, textured rugs, interesting textiles, and open shelving filled with well-loved books. These interiors are designed for living—sofas softened with floral pillows, surfaces layered with character, and spaces that naturally invite gatherings.

To achieve this look, lean into an effortlessly undone approach. The room should tell your story through artwork, literature, and photography, representing who you are at your core rather than recreating a showroom or department store display. Comfort, warmth, and authenticity come first—style is simply the result.

Color and Layering:

Accents in green, thoughtfully integrated through artwork, decor, or accessories, help maintain a cozy, layered feel amidst warm neutrals. White-based patterns across fabrics, rugs, and furnishings provide balance and rhythm, allowing accent hues like Briar Green, Sweet Annie, or Olive Green to emerge without overwhelming the space.

Hued neutrals such as Satin Gold and Stonington bring subtle warmth and versatility, ideal for soft furnishings, wall treatments, or accessory details. Introducing a silvery-lavender tone like Silver Chalice—through lampshades, throw blankets, or florals—adds elegance and refinement, pairing seamlessly with off-white trim, soft greens, and blush accents. For a pop of vibrancy, use stronger accents such as Atlantis Blue or Caribbean Green sparingly, creating interest in small, curated details that elevate the overall palette.

Layering textures, patterns, and colors with intentionality allows this space to feel simultaneously elegant, cozy, and effortlessly styled—a true homage to the timeless Nancy Meyers aesthetic.

A Nancy Meyers inspired kitchen:

Design Rationale:

Drawing inspiration from Father of the Bride (1995) , the kitchen design reflects the warmth and authenticity that Nancy Meyers is known for. Rather than feeling staged or overly polished, the space is layered with lived-in charm—warm tones, soft natural light, and everyday details like hanging copper cookware, open shelves with spices, and baskets brimming with fresh produce.

Meyers’ kitchens reject the sterile modern look of marble countertops and stark white cabinetry. Instead, they embrace the character of beige-toned walls and floors, complemented by wooden work surfaces, farmhouse tables, or small islands that encourage gathering. The design celebrates imperfection and history—wicker baskets, collected ceramics, and thrifted accents that add personality and texture.

The overall mood recalls the serenity of an English cottage kitchen: wholesome, inviting, and designed as the true heart of the home.

Color and Layering:

When layering color and texture in this kitchen, start by grounding the space with a single dominant hue. Working with different tints and shades of that color creates depth while maintaining cohesion. This approach is especially helpful when incorporating thrifted pieces—ensuring the look feels curated rather than cluttered.

For walls, Glidden’s White on White provides the perfect backdrop. Its clean neutrality allows natural wood tones, copper cookware, and collected décor to stand out, keeping the space open and inviting. Introduce blues (soft or darker) through accents or accessories to bring a sense of calm and tranquility, while also balancing the white walls and white tile backsplash.

A key hallmark of the Nancy Meyers aesthetic is embracing counter space. Instead of hiding everyday items, display artwork, spices, small appliances, and cooking essentials—this creates a sense of life and use, avoiding the overly staged look. Open shelving and hanging storage for cookware reinforce this idea, allowing functional pieces to double as design elements. For any hidden shelving, add a cabin skirt to add a bit more texture, depth, and personality to hide any items that don’t necessarily fit in your space.

To complete the look, layer in nostalgic artwork. Artist Rocky Reed is a perfect fit, with still-life techniques reminiscent of antiques, yet modernized through unexpected subject matter—like tarot cards or skulls—and a brighter color palette. His work brings both familiarity and surprise, echoing the layered, lived-in charm that makes Meyers’ interiors so timeless.

Forecasting Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:15:04 GMT

As September winds down, we’re already looking ahead to 2026—a year forecasted to feel earthy and full of connection. With insights from Sherwin-Williams, Valspar, Behr, and Glidden, these colors have been building throughout trends all of 2025.

This year, leading paint brands are leaning into a natural palette—centered on shades of green and soft, off-white khaki-inspired neutrals. The question remains: will Pantone follow suit with another variation of green, or perhaps a neutral, as we saw with last year’s (2025) brown selection? As personal style becomes more individualized, color is playing a stronger role in our daily lives. From Sherwin-Williams’ pick of Khaki and Glidden’s Warm Mahogany, to Valspar’s Warm Eucalyptus and Behr’s Hidden Gem, the forecast is pointing toward a harmonious mix of neutrals and warm jewel-tones.

Sherwin Williams:

Universal Khaki —

Sherwin-Williams has officially named Universal Khaki the Color of the Year for 2026, and honestly, it feels just right. As we continue to lean into eco-inspired living, design trends are becoming less about being quick and flashy and more about what lasts—quality hardware, timeless simplicity, and nature-driven aesthetics that feel worth the investment.

Universal Khaki captures all of that. It’s a mid-tone neutral that knows how to stay classic while still giving off a fresh, modern edge. It’s warm, it’s layered, it’s elegant without trying too hard—and it feels like the kind of shade that will never fade out of style. Like Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing at Sherwin-Williams, puts it: “There’s something enduring about khaki—it bridges the past and the future in a way that feels both familiar and forward-thinking.”

The beauty of Universal Khaki is that it celebrates the essentials: functionality, timelessness, and a natural ease. It doesn’t scream for attention, but it has presence—it makes a space feel grounded while still elevated. And if you think about it, khaki has always had that kind of story. What started as a practical color for uniforms in the early 20th century quickly became a staple in everyday fashion. By mid-century, khaki was synonymous with comfort, craftsmanship, and versatility. Fast forward to today, and that same reputation is carrying it into interiors—where it’s ready to do exactly what it’s always done: stand the test of time.

Universal Khaki is proof that the simplest shades are often the ones that say the most.

How we would pair Universal Khaki with art:

Universal Khaki has an undeniably earthy quality, yet it carries a refined sophistication at the same time. Pairing it with fine art—whether abstract paintings or still-life pieces—keeps a space feeling elevated while still leaning into its minimalist nature.

Rooted in European and Spanish-inspired interiors, khaki offers endless layering opportunities. You can take it in two distinct directions: minimalist, by keeping the palette balanced with khakis, browns, creams, and whites alongside natural materials like stone or cement; or maximalist, by introducing bold patterns, diverse textures, and statement finishes. The beauty of Universal Khaki lies in its flexibility. At its core, it invites the outdoors in—its nature-like hue pairs beautifully with colors such as softer blues, warm creams, and lively oranges. These touches bring energy and warmth, shifting a room from “always sophisticated” to something more welcoming and full of personality.

Often, khaki gets paired with landscape art—and while that’s always a solid choice, we like to show how it can go further. Universal Khaki by Sherwin-Williams is not just a background neutral; it’s a foundation for play, layering, and color exploration. It proves you can have sophistication and fun, without tipping into overpowering or overly maximalist territory.

Valspar:

Warm Eucalyptus —

Valspar has announced Warm Eucalyptus as their 2026 Color of the Year, and it’s a shade that instantly feels restorative—inside and out. Much like Sherwin-Williams’ Universal Khaki, this choice reflects a growing movement toward colors inspired by the natural world.

Warm Eucalyptus embodies calm, balance, and mindful living. It’s a tone that feels serene and grounding, encouraging a space to breathe. Within interiors, it creates harmony not just with furnishings and décor, but also with the personalities who move through the room. It’s restful on the eyes, soft yet substantial, and deeply versatile in its ability to anchor a design.

As Sue Kim, Valspar’s Director of Color Marketing, explains: “In the coming year, we will redefine our notion of neutral hues. Going beyond the classified color term, neutral refers to colors that set a grounding and inviting mood with the warmth that calms our senses.”

Warm Eucalyptus is more than just a paint color—it’s a reminder of the comfort found in slowing down, connecting with nature, and creating spaces that nurture both style and well-being.

How we would pair Warm Eucalyptus with art:

Warm Eucalyptus is a shade designed to feel timeless—what Valspar calls a “multi-generational” color. It’s a hue that adapts beautifully to the way we live now: a hybrid mix of home, work, and entertainment all under one roof. What makes it so special is its ability to erase the line between indoors and outdoors. This soft, nature-inspired green carries the restorative qualities of the natural world right into our living spaces, creating an atmosphere that feels grounding, breathable, and endlessly versatile.

When it comes to pairing art with Warm Eucalyptus , the key is to lean into its purpose: blurring the boundaries between the built environment and nature. Artwork that emphasizes organic forms and natural textures enhances the color’s soothing effect while keeping a space elevated and personal. Think pieces that echo earthy tones—sandy neutrals, terracotta, warm creams—or artwork accented with materials like rattan, ceramics, or raw wood. Gilded gold details can also add a layer of sophistication, creating a beautiful balance between grounded and refined.

Glidden:

Warm Mahogany —

Glidden just dropped their 2026 Color of the Year, and I’ll say it loud and proud: GIVE ME THE WARM & JEWEL TONES! All year, we’ve been getting little hints of rich, cozy fall-inspired shades creeping into interior design schemes—and now it feels like the moment has arrived. Warm Mahogany wraps a home in a giant, welcoming hug the second you walk in the door.

What makes Warm Mahogany so special is its versatility. It’s a timeless shade that can shift with the mood of any room, transforming spaces into intimate, inviting gathering spots. There’s something undeniably authentic and personal about it—it feels safe, grounded, and elegant all at once. This color mirrors beautifully from natural, earthy tones like rust, brick red, or muted terracotta.

Color experts at Glidden recommend using Warm Mahogany on interior walls and trim in bedrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and even home libraries. In the bedroom, for example, the depth of this shade makes a space feel cozy and intimate without ever being heavy or dark. Layer in soft linens, warm lighting, and accents in cream or blush, and you instantly balance the richness of the color with a touch of modern elegance.

How we would pair Warm Mahogany with art:

Warm Mahogany is a deep, rich, and inviting shade that instantly gives a room personality and presence. When pairing it with art, the goal is to enhance that warmth while keeping the space thoughtfully curated and welcoming. Creams, soft neutrals, and natural wood tones are a perfect match—they balance the depth of the mahogany without dulling its vibrancy.

Navy blues or muted jewel tones are another fantastic pairing, adding contrast and sophistication while still feeling cozy and intentional. These combinations allow the color to adapt to any mood—whether the space is playful, intimate, or dramatic—it gives the artwork a backdrop that feels rich but not overpowering.

Beyond the color palette, think about texture and material when selecting your pieces. Wood frames, gilded antique accents, or ceramic elements can echo the natural, earthy undertones in Warm Mahogany, creating a sense of harmony throughout the room. No matter the type of artwork, the key is letting the art complement the color while allowing the personality of the space—and everyone who inhabits it—to shine through.

Behr:

Hidden Gem —

Behr’s 2026 Color of the Year, Hidden Gem , is quietly confident—and it’s a shade that has a way of transforming a space without ever shouting for attention. Think smoky jade: mysterious, sophisticated, and grounded, yet full of life and depth. Walking into a room painted in Hidden Gem feels like stepping into a space that’s both calming and captivating—a color that invites you to linger.

Hidden Gem is incredibly versatile. For interiors, a flat finish works beautifully on walls in living rooms, dining rooms, or even ceilings, creating a soft, enveloping backdrop. Satin finishes are perfect for furniture, doors, or baseboards, where the silky sheen adds just the right touch of elegance. The color has a rare ability to infuse spaces with richness and depth while still feeling approachable, acting almost like a neutral that never gets boring.

As Erika Woelfel, Behr’s VP of Color and Creative Services, puts it: “Now more than ever, there’s a growing appetite for colors that challenge convention and bring an unexpected sense of wonder to everyday spaces. Hidden Gem captures that spirit in both name and color—its depth and refinement meets the desire for colors that are eternally stunning and stylish.”

One of the best things about Hidden Gem ? Its adaptability. Whether you’re committing to a full-scale project like painting kitchen cabinets or just refreshing your front door, this shade works beautifully in any application. It’s a color that feels intentional, modern, and undeniably timeless—a shade that quietly elevates every corner it touches.

How we would pair Hidden Gem with art:

Hidden Gem is a color that’s full of depth and quiet personality, which makes the perfect backdrop for artwork that makes it easy to any home-owner inviting art into their space. To keep the room feeling balanced and inviting, we love pairing it with creams, soft neutrals, and shades of blue that add contrast while keeping things grounded.

Accent shades of green in a painting work beautifully alongside Hidden Gem, echoing its natural, jade-like quality and creating a cohesive, layered look. Whether it’s abstract pieces, botanical-inspired work, or even more contemporary prints, these tones help bring the art—and the room—to life, giving every corner a sense of harmony and thoughtful style.

Hidden Gem has this rare ability to make both bold and subtle pieces shine. By leaning into complementary colors like creams, blues, and natural greens, the space feels curated, warm, and endlessly versatile—just like the color itself.

So, what do you think Pantone’s Color of the Year will be for 2026? Will it be a fresh shade of green, a calming neutral, or a bold, deep red? It’s fun to imagine the possibilities—and how each color might change the feeling of a space.

Whether you’re drawn to earthy tones, jewel-inspired hues, or something in between, it’s amazing how the right color paired with art can completely transform a room. Every wall is a chance to create mood, personality, and a sense of home.

With our art installation service we offer here at Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design, we help you decide the beauty of your walls and the artwork that matches the backdrop. Utilize our interior design services with our Director of Interior Design—Hannah Jacobus—to transform your space with design consultations of furntiture, decor, art choices, wall and window treatments.

Art Meets Design: Where Art Throws a Party in Your Entryway

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:20:45 GMT

Step into an entryway that feels anything BUT ordinary. It’s welcoming, a little unexpected, and full of charm, reminding you that a first impression should always be as good as it looks.

The Mood: Stimulating, Imaginative, Expressive

Step into this entryway and you will instantly feel it, energy, personality, and a little bit of mischief. Every color of the rainbow comes together in a tiny space, yet somehow it all works. Wide neutral stripes keep things from going completely wild, letting Angela Ferrigno’s bold geometric artwork shine without overwhelming the room.

The mix of red, blue, and green sparks curiosity, you can’t help but wonder, how does this even work? And that’s the beauty of it all. This space proves that even the smallest corners can have a big personality, a playful spirit, and a fearless embrace of color. It’s bold, it’s imaginative, and most of all, it’s unapologetically fun, just like the person who calls it home.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

In this entryway, Andrea Ferrigno’s artwork isn’t just hanging on the wall, it’s calling the shots. Every color in the furniture and decor is echoed in the painting, creating a playful harmony throughout the space. The soft neutral stripe gives the room space to breathe (literally), while keeping the stripes larger means your eye stays on the artwork instead of getting lost in tiny details.

Layered textures, from ticking stripe stools to patterned lampshades, add dimension without taking over, striking the perfect balance between practical and playful. White backgrounds on both the wallpaper and patterned furniture allows for everything to pop. This makes the whole space feel effortlessly fun and alive.

Bringing It All Together:

Every element in this entryway has a purpose. It’s colorful but charming, geometric yet soft, playful yet perfectly balanced. The secret? Not overthinking. When you stop trying to control every detail and instead let the art lead, the space begins to curate itself naturally.

Here, the bold red pulls straight from Andrea Ferrigno’s painting and echoes in the console table beneath it. Light blue striped stools tie back to the painting’s cooler tones, bringing a sense of calm, while the red keeps the energy passionate and lively. The green patterned lampshades pair with the wide neutral-striped wallpaper, layering interest without stealing the show. Even the lavender swirl lamps nod back to the painting, grounding the design scheme and softening the palette. Pastels mixed in, rather than all super saturated brights, allow everything to work together instead of competing to grab your attention.

The geometric semi-flush lighting echoes the painting’s shapes, while its quiet palette reminds you this is still a home, not a color experiment gone wild. The braided cream rug beneath keeps it warm and quiet, letting your eye travel upward to where the story really unfolds. The end result? A space brimming with character, charm, and personality, proof that playful design can still feel intentional, stylish, and welcoming.

Designer Tips:

Pro Tip 1: Lead with Art – in compact spaces, choose an impactful piece of art to ground the design. It creates a focal point that elevates the room and sets the tone for the entire home.

Pro Tip 2: Think Bold, Not Big – don’t shy away from color or pattern just because a space is small. Confident choices in finishes and accents add energy, while scaled furniture and thoughtful layering keep it livable.

When Poise Meets the Wall: A Match Made in Design Heaven

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 14:42:52 GMT

Our newest show Poise is strutting into center stage—and it’s got the perfect backdrop. Explore how carefully chosen wallpaper transforms scenes into immersive design moments.

We curated Poise to celebrate the expressive power between fashion and art, each artist offers a completely unique perspective—yet together, their works create a dynamic and cohesive exploration of style, identity, and the ever-evolving nature of fashion. Introducing Poise ! This exhibition is a vibrant collection of stylish art of fashion related inspiration through the lens of 6 different women artists working across different mixed medias including: Angela Chrusciaski Blehm , Betsy Enzensberger , Brittany Atkinson , Fares Micue , Susannah Carson , and Suzy Lindow . The show opens Friday September 19th at 10 am CST both online and in-person and invites viewers and fashion enthusiasts alike to experience an imaginative exploration of style, identity, and transformation. Learn more about these fashion-inspired artists and what wallpapers we would pair with their newest works:

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm -

Angela’s home studio is located in Gainesville, Georgia overlooking the wooded Appalachian foothills. Angela received her BFA in Studio Arts at University of Houston. She's inspired by the clothes we wear or dream of wearing, the routines and patterns of life, our homes and the structures we live among, and the idea of color as antidote, comic side of sensuality, vintage signage and advertising, feminine traditions and roles, outsider art. She's interested in curiosity as muse, experimentation for discovery, supersizing the trivial to impart importance, manipulation of pattern, revealing the comedy of overwrought sexuality, materializing dreams and fantasies, finding beauty in the everyday, reveling in happiness. Her art and design has been featured in Domino Magazine, Architectural Digest/Clever online, Atlanta Magazine’s HOME, A Beautiful Mess, Larry’s List, Chairish, Wall Street Journal, Better Homes & Gardens DIY and Apartment Therapy.

How we would pair Angela’s newest series in the Poise show with wallpaper:

On the left:

I paired this bold, sculptural artwork with Schumacher’s Deconstructed Stripe wallpaper—a combination alive with movement, contrast, and a sharp modern edge. The legs’ candy-toned pinks and blues, bring a playful and glamorous energy with a nod to retro pop art. The black detailing and striped shoes offer a graphic or pop-art-like punch that ties effortlessly into the fragmented rhythm of the Deconstructed Stripe pattern.

Where the artwork is fluid and stylized, the wallpaper steps in with just enough structure—its subtle geometric lines create a backdrop that’s architectural but never overpowering. The two play off each other beautifully, letting color, shape, and attitude bounce around the space. It’s a pairing that leans into fashion and fun while still feeling curated and elevated—perfect for making a statement that doesn’t shout, but definitely sparkles.

On the right:

I paired this artwork with the Willa Check wallpaper to strike a balance between playful boldness and structure. The piece bursts with energy—sweeping strokes of color, pastel pops, and the bold lip motif that immediately grabs attention. It thrives on movement and spontaneity, with painterly textures and unexpected details like the lipstick woven into the design. Against the Willa Check wallpaper, all that dynamism shines even brighter, grounded by the soft, neutral grid that keeps the room feeling calm and cohesive.

The magic of this pairing is in the contrast: the wallpaper’s quiet order gives the artwork’s vibrancy room to take center stage, while the artwork injects personality and edge into the wallpaper’s classic design. Together, they create a look that’s modern and chic—structured yet expressive, polished yet playful—perfect for a space that feels curated but still full of creative life.

Brittany Atkinson -

Brittany is an Austin-based artist known for her abstract female portraits and figures. She loves to paint bright, colorful, confident women and hopes her work empowers and inspires others to be bold, daring, and fearless.

How we would pair Brittany's newest series in the Poise show with wallpaper:

On the left:

Pairing this vivid, stylized portrait with the Buttercup wallpaper feels like a celebration of color confidence and playful nostalgia. The portrait’s saturated reds, cornflower blues, and warm browns are perfectly anchored by the Buttercup stripes, whose sunny yellow tone and classic pinstripe pattern echo the golden accents in the woman's collar. The effect is both charmingly Americana and softly modern, balancing bold contrasts with warmth.

The vertical lines in Buttercup pick up on details within the portrait—the striped shirt, the flow of the hair, even the symmetry in the face—building a rhythm that connects the artwork to its backdrop. Here, the wallpaper doesn’t just frame the piece; it joins the story, showing how pattern and portraiture can stand confidently side by side. The result is a pairing that feels bright, grounded, and delightfully self-assured.

On the right:

Pairing this striking abstract portrait with the Sina Stripe wallpaper is all about rhythm, contrast, and cohesion. The artwork’s bold geometry, expressive brushstrokes, and unconventional color blocking build a dynamic visual language that feels playful yet intentional. Sina Stripe, with its soft green palette and undulating vertical lines, steps in as a grounding pattern—mirroring the portrait’s vertical details, like the striped hair, while never competing with its complexity.

Where the portrait moves in bold angles and emotive shapes, the wallpaper flows with organic ease. Its wavy lines act as a counterpoint to the artwork’s sharper edges, while the wallpaper’s restrained palette provides calm balance, softly echoing the sage greens and neutrals within the piece. Together, they create a layered dialogue—energy meeting ease, structure meeting fluidity—where the wallpaper doesn’t just frame the art, but joins in the conversation.

Fares Micue -

Fares Micue is a Spanish self-taught fine art and conceptual self-portrait photographer, originally from Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands.

She began her journey in photography in 2009, initially as a casual hobby aimed at capturing aesthetically pleasing images to share online, without delving deeply into the technical or artistic aspects. However, after six years of exploring photography informally, she came to recognize it as the ideal medium through which to express her thoughts, ideas, and unique perception of reality. This realization also allowed her to integrate her other passion—writing—into her creative work. From that point onward, she adopted a more deliberate and thoughtful approach to the artistic process, placing special emphasis on every component of the final image, including location, color palette, props, atmosphere, narrative, and symbolic meaning. The result is a body of work that is both visually captivating and conceptually rich.

Artist Statement:

“As a self-portrait artist, I draw inspiration from my environment, personal experiences, and personal growth to create striking conceptual imagery. My work is infused with symbolism—every element within my compositions is intentional and contributes to the overall message. Through the careful integration of these elements, I bring my ideas to life. I am an inherently optimistic person, and this outlook is often reflected in my photography, which conveys powerful messages of self-love, personal development, and empowerment. My aim is to inspire hope, encourage self-appreciation, and remind others to love, dream, and believe that anything is possible. My images frequently feature minimalistic backgrounds, vibrant colors, and recurring props such as flowers, plants, origami, and balloons. I aspire for each piece to be perceived as a complete story encapsulated within a single frame.”

- Fares Micue

Fares Micue work has been featured in a wide range of publications, including magazines and book covers. She has collaborated with esteemed interior designers to complement their curated spaces, and her artwork can be found in some of the world’s most prestigious hotels, such as the Mondrian Singapore Duxton and the Rosewood Villa Magna in Madrid, with a global presence extending from the United States to Australia. Her pieces are also part of the permanent collections of renowned cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean.

How we would pair Fares' newest work in the Poise show with wallpaper:

Pairing this artwork with the Serallo Mosaic wallpaper brings harmony through color and rhythm. The vivid orange fish immediately draw the eye, their color amplified against the cool, tranquil blues of the background. The Serallo Mosaic picks up on those same orange tones within its intricate pattern, creating a seamless conversation between the piece and the space around it. The artwork feels less like a standalone object and more like a living part of the room.

The mosaic’s geometric precision provides a perfect counterbalance to the artwork’s dreamlike flow. While the fish and flowing fabric evoke softness, movement, and imagination, the structured repetition of the wallpaper keeps the space grounded. The result is multidimensional: playful yet sophisticated, bold yet balanced—a pairing that blends contemporary photography with bold patterning, making the room feel immersive, elevated, and full of personality.

Suzy Lindow -

Suzy Lindow (b. 1982) is a self-taught painter and collage artist with a penchant for quirk and color. Originally from Minnesota, she studied Psychology at NYU before living in and exploring the American Southwest for the decade following. She's since settled down with her husband and three children in Coastal Virginia, where she spends her non-studio time torturing her 18-year-old Persian cat with mini party hats.

She likes to create bold, lively pieces that infuse personality into a space, and her main influences include colorful vintage textiles, tribal artifacts, and folk art. Handmade artifacts and old things have always held wonder even from a very early age where she spent long, wondrous days being dragged along to countless estate sales and dusty antique stores with her mother, and these notes of inspiration continue to play a central role to her work.

The offbeat color combinations and playful marks that define her whimsical pieces have caught the eye of collectors from both within the United States and around the world. Her collaborations include Anthropologie, Slowdown Studio, Serena & Lily, and ArZully Walls. Suzy has had the honor of being featured on Design*Sponge, Domino, and HGTV, among other publications. She is also represented by Anne Irwin Fine Art (Atlanta, GA), Miller Gallery (Charleston, SC), and Florida Mining Gallery (Jacksonville, FL).

How we would pair Suzy's newest work in the Poise show with wallpaper:

On the left:

I paired this piece with a maroon and rust geometric wallpaper—creating a dynamic conversation between bold portraiture and structured pattern. The artwork itself is playful yet striking, with its exaggerated features—maroon lips, blue sunglasses, a yellow-toned face, and a sage green nose—that lean into a surreal, pop-art sensibility. These strong, saturated tones demand a backdrop that doesn’t compete but instead enhances their vibrancy. The wallpaper’s maroon and rust palette echoes the deep warmth of the lips and face tones, tying the two together in a cohesive color story while letting the unexpected hues, like the blue and sage, pop all the more vividly.

The geometric structure of the wallpaper adds an architectural rhythm that grounds the whimsical energy of the portrait. Where the artwork thrives on exaggerated forms and bold color blocking, the wallpaper introduces a sense of order and repetition. Together, they balance spontaneity with structure, personality with pattern. The result is a pairing that feels adventurous yet harmonious—perfect for a space looking to embrace color, quirk, and sophistication all at once.

On the right:

Pairing this bold artwork with the Weeping Pine wallpaper creates a layered dialogue between abstraction and nature. The artwork, with its saturated swaths of green framed by vibrant red and balanced with cool turquoise, feels both graphic and expressive. The brushstrokes in the central green shape carry a sense of texture and movement, which echoes the organic rhythm of the pine motifs in the wallpaper. Together, the two bring a fresh interplay between human-made abstraction and natural inspiration, each elevating the other’s energy.

The Weeping Pine wallpaper’s gentle, repeating botanical pattern acts as a soft counterpoint to the artwork’s bold, singular gestures. Where the painting demands attention with its intensity of color and form, the wallpaper provides a serene, grounding backdrop that still resonates with the same earthy palette. This pairing allows for a room that feels both daring and harmonious—inviting nature indoors through pattern while celebrating the unapologetic vibrancy of contemporary art. It’s the kind of combination that sparks conversation while remaining rooted in timeless, natural beauty.

The Poise show is now LIVE! Shop the show from each of the artists:

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm

Artist Spotlight: Susannah Carson

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 14:22:39 GMT

In this interview, Susannah opens up about her deep love for art, antiques, and literature. Her latest works—featured in the September 19th Poise show—draw inspiration from fashion and storytelling. Read on to discover what fuels her creativity, how she curates, and the influences that have shaped her as an artist today.

How did you become an artist? Who or what have been your biggest influences?

My background is in academia, and after several master’s degrees both here and in France, and no less than a doctorate from Yale, I was on track to become a professor of French and English literature. My mentor and second father, the great Harold Bloom, told me time and again how much academia had changed over his decades being such an integral part of it, and he confessed that if he had had to do it again at the time then he would have done something else entirely. He advised me to get out while I still could, and so I finished my dissertation and then published two books of “popular” literary criticism (one on Jane Austen and one on Shakespeare). At the same time, I inherited my mother’s antique business and with her help began to deepen my knowledge maker’s marks, decorative styles, and the history of everyday life through its objects.

I only began to paint about 6 summers ago when a British friend was visiting and we decided to go to an estate sale. On the drive, he told me all about his art collection. When we arrived at the sale, it was mostly dusty junk, but there were a few antique oval frames, and I had the passing thought that one could do something rather curious and startling by painting oversized eyes in them, in a nod to the Georgian tradition of tiny jeweled Lover’s Eyes. The idea persisted, and I went back the next day to buy the frames, painted them, put them online, and they sold immediately. The rest, as they say, is history…(in this case, art history).

In short, I like to make art that has an element of story to it, and that somehow feels like it could come from the world of a historical novel.

What is a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that the audience may not know?

I met my husband five years ago on an obsolete dating site on a day that happened to be Valentine’s Day, and we got married in a tiny church with my tiny dog, Agatha, as bridesmaid precisely one year later. No one could be as unalike as we are, with my intelligentsia bourgeoisie and love of tea and macarons and his life-smart, plaid-shirted, steak-bbq-ing, kind-hearted redneckery, but we balance each other perfectly.

 Can you walk us through your creative process - from rituals or routines to ideas to finished pieces.

I paint in the mornings, when it’s quiet and calm, and I have a cup of tea next to me and Agatha at my feet. As for process, my oil paintings incorporate many watercolor techniques, and now going back to watercolors they in turn incorporate oil techniques – I don’t think either is done in the “standard” way!

How does your love for travel and literature show up in your artwork now?

This collection is a series of oil paintings in rather graphic, stylized compositions of my favorite heroines. It includes La Princesse de Cleves from the 1678 eponymous “nouvelle historique” by Madame de Lafayette (which featured in three master’s theses and my dissertation) – she’s a beautiful character full of inwardness, passion, and restraint, and the novel is commonly characterized as the first psychological novel. Ourika, also from an eponymous novel (by Claire de Duras in 1823, published in France shortly after Jane Austen was published in England), is a tragic heroine whose heart and mind are boundless but whose life is limited in society by the color of her skin (also from my dissertation).

The Heroines collection also includes Lucy Honeychurch from “A Room with a View”, Flora Poste from “Cold Comfort Farm”, and Lady Caroline Dester from “An Enchanted April”, which are all both exquisitely crafted novels and wonderful heart-warming movies that my mother and I loved to watch together.

What was the most difficult obstacle to overcome during your artistic journey, and how did you overcome it?

Figuring out how to combine the three pillars of Literature, Antiques, and Art in one life, and in one profession!

Tell us about the pieces you're showing in Fashion - what inspired them? How does Fashion (or other outside factors related to fashion ex: trends, antiques, etc.) influence your work as an artist? Is it an inspiration or perspective?

The Heroines are romantic but graphic oil illustrations which rely heavily on silhouette and shape – as shown in their dress – which captures something of their character and their story. La Princesse in her restrictive bodice above a bell skirt in the light tones of her physical and spiritual beauty; Lucy in the Edwardian white dress of purity, with a touch of romance to it; Lady Caroline in the fashionable flowing Art Deco couture with her irresistible elegance that she couldn’t escape from; Ourika in the traditional European dress and bonnet that couldn’t contain her spirit; and Flora Poste in her jaunty, practical, tidy clothing holding her Bible, “The Book of Higher Common Sense”.

Mark your calendars — our highly anticipated, fashion-inspired collection officially opens for presale on September 16th at 10:00 a.m. CST. This thoughtfully curated show celebrates the beauty, elegance, and influence of fashion—drawing inspiration from historical styles, diverse cultures, and the ever-evolving definition of personal expression. The ‘Poise’ exhibition features new work by Susannah, alongside an incredible lineup of talented artists such as:

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm

Each piece in this collection presents a unique interpretation of fashion—from funky sunglass-clad portraits and reimagined historical figures to bold mixed-media legs and obsidian lollipops that reflect the everyday inspiration we find in style. Whether you're drawn to subtle, contemporary works or vibrant, statement-making pieces, this show offers something that resonates with every collector’s eye.

Presale's for shows like this often move quickly... to make sure you’re among the first to view and shop the newest releases, sign up here to view the early access content and get first dibs on presale! Stay tuned — we’ll be sharing sneak peeks of the work, artist interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments leading up to the release date.

Art Meets Design: The Autumn Conservatory

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 20:39:55 GMT

A Four Seasons Room Dressed in Autumn’s Finest: How to Style Your Four Seasons Room for Every Season

As summer’s bold, radiant colors fade, we find ourselves grounding in softer, calming neutrals. Stepping into this serene space, you’re invited to slow down and enjoy the view just beyond your windows. With a palette of browns, creams, greens, and blues, the room feels timeless and adaptable through every season. The natural tones of green and blue the landscape views that mirror the skies above and the grass below—creating harmony between indoors and out.

The Mood: Gentle, Soothing, and Tranquil

A four seasons room is designed to let you simply be—to breathe with the cooler breeze and unwind in comfort. Here, soft blues ripple through the space, offering a cooling, refreshing effect when paired with natural sunlight, airy whites, and creamy neutrals. Accents of green echo the landscape just beyond the windows, weaving nature inside through pillows, plants, and even the chandelier above. Rich browns anchor the palette—woven into the sofa trim, rattan chairs, and wood finishes—balancing the lighter tones so the room feels organic, welcoming, and timeless rather than overly modern.

Where Seasons Meet Art in Dialogue:

The textured wallpaper sets the tone for warmth and depth in this four seasons room, creating a backdrop that allows every other design element to shine. Its subtle pattern has a quiet strength, giving the walls some warmth while still leaving room for layers of artistry and design. To complement this foundation, I’ve woven Kristin Abbott’s artwork seamlessly into the scheme. Her pieces, rooted in the rhythms of nature, feel like an extension of the outdoors—bringing in the browns of earth, the creams of soft light, the greens of plants, and the blues of sky and water.

The palette doesn’t just decorate the room; it breathes with it. You’ll find echoes of these hues across the furniture, rug, pillows, and even the small details like the deep blue game table. Each color bounces gracefully off the next, creating a harmonious flow that ties the entire space together. Kristin’s work feels almost inevitable here—as though the room was always waiting for her art to complete the dialogue between outside to inside, and season to season.

Bringing It All Together:

When designing a space, it’s essential to start with the feeling you want the room to evoke. For this four seasons room, the goal was to create a sense of harmonious stillness—a sanctuary where everything simply exists as it is, inviting comfort and calm through every season. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read, work on a puzzle, or simply take a mindful pause from the day, this room is designed for reflection, relaxation, and restorative breaks.

Soft, lightly green-and-white striped floor lamps introduce a gentle pattern that allows the space to breathe, while matching green-patterned pillows add depth and dimension, breaking up the starkness of the white furniture. A verdigris lantern draws inspiration from old-world European patina, bringing a touch of timeless charm and a subtle connection to the outdoors inside.

The crisp white furniture contributes to a fresh, modern feel, balancing the natural tones of darker woods and rattan elements that ground the room and echo the textures of a forested landscape. Hints of blue play into the analogous color scheme, fostering a sense of visual harmony and enhancing the room’s tranquil mood. Altogether, the layers of texture, pattern, and color work cohesively to create a space that feels organic, inviting, and perfectly attuned to the rhythm of all four seasons.

Designer Tips for a Multi-Seasonal Four Seasons Room:

Pro Tip #1:When the main function of a room is to feel restful, let that intention guide every choice, from the calming hues of the palette, to the tactile softness of materials, to the artwork that draws the eye gently without overwhelming. Each element should contribute to a sense of ease and restoration.

Pro Tip #2: When layering patterns, like a bold geometric rug with botanical or toile pillows, keep a consistent color palette to tie everything together. This allows you to mix scales and styles without overwhelming the space, and the artwork becomes the perfect bridge between elements.

The Summer My Walls Turned Pretty

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 14:55:08 GMT

Art inspired by The Summer I Turned Pretty : dreamy butter yellow sundresses, Belly’s iconic red dr ess, and ocean wave blues.

Dreamy Butter Yellow -

The color butter yellow feels like innocence and possibilities—soft, glowing, and endlessly hopeful. In The Summer I Turned Pretty, Belly’s sundress in this shade became instantly iconic, embodying her transformation and the sweetness of long, sun-drenched days. Translating this into artwork, butter yellow can serve as the backdrop to capture warmth and nostalgia, or as an accent that draws the eye like sunlight filtering through curtains. Whether brushed across a canvas in abstract swaths or used to highlight delicate florals, this hue carries the same youthful optimism that Belly radiates, making it the perfect color muse for summer-inspired pieces.

Belly’s Iconic Red Dress -

The bold red dress marks a turning point in Belly’s story—where innocence meets the intensity of love, desire, and heartbreak. Red in art carries a visceral power; it’s a color that demands attention and stirs emotion. On canvas, it can symbolize passion and vulnerability at once, whether splashed in expressive strokes or woven into subtle details that hint at deeper layers beneath the surface. Just as the red dress in the series becomes a statement of self-discovery and longing, red artwork channels the complexities of growing up, falling in love, and learning how to let go.

Ocean Wave Blues -

Taken place in Cousins Beach town, The Summer I Turned Pretty’s constant backdrop of oceanfront reflects both freedom and the ache of unspoken feelings. Art inspired by ocean waves brings movement and rhythm to a space—rolling brushstrokes that capture tides of joy, melancholy, and everything in between. Blue tones remind us of open skies, salt air, and the infinite horizon, evoking both escape and reflection. Like the ocean itself, artwork in these shades holds a duality: it soothes while also stirring restlessness, echoing the push and pull of summer romance.

As the long summer days come to a closure and the air turns cooler, we’re reminded that art has a way of carrying every season within it. That’s the beauty of it, it holds on to the warmth of what we’ve had, while also giving us hope for what’s still to come.

The pieces inspired by summer shine with butter yellow light, mirror the rhythm of ocean waves, or deepen with intensity of love and heartbreak. Together, they remind us of endless nights filled with possibility. Even as the calendar shifts and Labor Day reminds us that summer is slipping away, the artwork remains, capturing those feelings so they never truly leave.

How to Pair Interior Color Schemes with Art

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 14:26:00 GMT

After updating our walls to our newest show, Wild and Precious , we couldn’t help but notice all of the perfect color swatches throughout that would pair so well in interior homes.

When it comes to designing a home you love, the relationship between your wall color, decor, and artwork is the key to creating a sense of harmony and the targeted mood. Art isn’t just an accessory—it guides your entire color scheme throughout. Our newest show has us thinking about just that: how the colors in a piece of art can influence and transform a room.

Here are a few tips for pairing your interior color schemes with the artwork you love:

1. Pull Colors Directly from the Art

When designing a space around a piece of art, the first step is to truly take a moment and study the artwork itself. Look closely—what color jumps out at you right away? This is usually the dominant or main color. Then, notice the smaller details and supporting hues. These may be accent colors that add depth and interest to the piece. Finally, take in the subtler tones that make up the background or negative space, as these often provide balance and help the artwork feel grounded.

Once you’ve identified these colors, think about how they might translate into your interior design. A bold main color could be echoed on an accent wall, a sofa, or a statement rug. Accent colors often shine in smaller doses—consider weaving them into throw pillows, vases, or artwork frames. The background tones are just as important; they can set the mood of the entire room and may work beautifully for larger surfaces like wall paint, curtains, or flooring.

2. Be Strategic with Bold Colors

When decorating with art, it’s important to think about how color plays a role in the overall atmosphere of a space. If your artwork has a strong, dominant color, you might be tempted to carry that shade onto the walls to create cohesion. However, painting an entire wall in the same bold color can often overwhelm the piece, causing the artwork to lose its impact rather than stand out. Instead of going all-in with paint, there are more subtle ways to weave that color into your design that feel intentional yet balanced.

One approach is to consider wallpaper. Choosing a wallpaper that incorporates the dominant color allows you to bring the shade into the room in a softer, more nuanced way. The texture, patterns, and small breaks of the wallpaper keep the space feeling more dynamic and visually interesting without overshadowing the art. Similarly, framing is another effective option. By selecting a frame that picks up on the dominant hue, you create a link between the art and the room’s design without letting the color take over. The frame becomes a thoughtful detail that ties everything together, offering just enough repetition of color to feel harmonious.

Ultimately, the goal is balance. You want your art to shine as the focal point while ensuring the surrounding design elements support it rather than compete with it. Through use of wallpaper, frames, and subtle accents, you can highlight a dominant color in your artwork while maintaining a cohesive and inviting environment.

3. Balance with Complementary Tones

When it comes to designing a room that feels inviting, balance is key, and color plays one of the most powerful roles in achieving it. Color harmony isn’t just about matching shades perfectly, it’s about creating the relationships between tones so that a space feels alive rather than flat. If a room leans heavily into a single color (like a lush green living room or an all-blue bedroom), it can quickly become overwhelming or monotonous if not balanced with something to break it up.

This is where complementary colors come in. On the color wheel, complementary shades sit opposite each other (think blue and orange, red and green, yellow and purple). When paired together, they naturally enhance one another, creating a sense of vibrancy and energy that neither color could do on its own. By layering complementary tones through your art or décor, you introduce a space that feels more than just one-dimensional. This creates a push and pull that keeps the eye moving around the room.

The trick is not to overdo it. Too much of a complementary color can feel jarring, but sprinkling it in through framed artwork, accent pillows, rugs, or even floral arrangements allows you to achieve harmony without creating chaos. The result is a space that feels layered, balanced, and full of personality—where your art isn’t just a decoration but a key player in the overall design story.

4. Factor in Lighting and Mood

One of the most overlooked elements in designing with color and artwork is lighting. Yet, it plays an enormous role in how colors are perceived and, ultimately, how a space feels. The same painting can look completely different depending on whether it’s lit by natural sunlight streaming through large windows, warm lamplight in the evening, or a spotlight designed specifically for art. That’s why it’s important to think about not only the colors in your artwork, but also the kind of feeling you want your space to achieve.

Bright, abundant light tends to make colors appear more vivid and bold. A sunny living room, for example, will amplify the cheerfulness of bold yellows, blues, or pinks, making the artwork feel lively and fresh. On the other hand, dim or diffused lighting has a softening effect. Rather than expecting the artwork to “pop,” it may instead contribute to a moody, intimate ambiance. A softly lit corner with a muted landscape painting or abstract piece in darker tones can encourage relaxation and reflection, perfect for bedrooms, dining rooms, or cozy nooks.

It’s also worth noting that artificial light can change the way colors are perceived. Warm bulbs will enhance reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a golden glow, while cooler-toned lighting brings out blues and greens. Playing with this balance can help you highlight certain aspects of your artwork or create contrast with your wall and décor choices.

The key takeaway: by factoring in lighting as part of your design plan, you ensure that your artwork doesn’t just decorate your space but actively contributes to the emotional experience of being in it.

5. Use White Walls as a Blank Canvas

White walls are often seen as a blank canvas, and that’s exactly what makes them such a powerful design choice. They provide a clean backdrop that allows your artwork to stand out without distraction. But while white walls showcase bold colors beautifully, they can also leave artwork feeling a little disconnected if the rest of the room doesn’t echo the tones or energy of the piece. The key is to make sure your art isn’t “floating” on the wall, but instead feels integrated into the overall design of the space.

One of the simplest ways to do this is by pulling colors from your artwork and incorporating them into nearby décor or furnishings. For example, if a painting has rich cobalt blues, consider adding a throw pillow, area rug, or accent chair in a similar shade. If a piece is filled with warm earth tones, you might bring in ceramics, wooden finishes, or textured textiles that echo those colors. These subtle connections create a conversation between the artwork and the room, making the space feel cohesive rather than piecemeal.

The beauty of neutral walls is their versatility. A crisp white wall allows you to rotate artwork seasonally or swap pieces whenever you feel like refreshing the room, without having to redo your entire color scheme. It also gives you the freedom to layer textures—linen curtains, woven baskets, brass accents—that don’t compete with the art but still contribute warmth and depth.

Lighting also becomes especially important with white walls. Natural light can make both the walls and the art look airy and expansive, while spotlighting or picture lights can give your artwork extra emphasis and presence. Think of your white walls not as an absence of color, but as a stage where your artwork takes center spotlight, supported by décor that ties the performance together.

Every time we rehang a show in the gallery, we’re reminded how transformative color can be. A single piece of art can inspire a whole palette, shift the energy of a room, and even change how we feel in the space. Whether you’re planning your next paint project or just moving around your furniture, let your art lead the way.

Art Meets Design: A Living Room with Something to Say

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:15:59 GMT

A fearless mix of patterns, colors, and textures that turns comfort into a conversation starter.

A room so captivating, you can happily take the passenger seat in. Step inside and feel the energy, vibrant reds and deep, confident blues flowing effortlessly from wall to fabric to finishing touch. Every shade has been placed with intention, working in sync to create a living room that’s as bold as it is beautiful. It’s a space that draws you in and leaves you wanting to explore every detail, to claim its confident style as your own personal style.

The Mood: Energetic, Confident, Lively

This living room radiates a lively, confident energy, where classic patterns meet bold, modern colors in perfect stride. Traditional gingham adds charms paired with reimagined blooming florals through a vibrant color palette, creating a space that feels both playful and self-assured. Every detail works in rhythm with one another, giving the space an up-lifting movement and a personality that’s impossible to ignore. This room comes with a presence, you step into it as a guest, while it takes the lead with its bold personality, rich character, and unmistakable confidence.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

In this living room, the artwork becomes the bold connector between two strong personalities, the light blue gingham couch and the deep coral floral motif wallpaper. The painting’s confident stripes in coral, deep navy, and soft periwinkle play with the couch’s crisp gingham while harmonizing the warmth coming from the wallpaper. Pops of blush and plum add in a layer of unexpected depth, softening the conversation between the loud patterns throughout the space - creating the feeling of both intentional and liveliness. The result is a visual dialogue, structured yet spontaneous, where every glance reveals a new intersection of form and color.

Bringing It All Together:

This living room strikes a delicate balance between traditional charm and eclectic energy by weaving a consistent color story throughout every detail. The bold red side table acts as a confident accent, pulling the warm tones from the floral wallpaper and reflecting the vibrancy found in the art. Shades of blue flow throughout the room, from the classic gingham sofa to the structured accent chairs, creating a sense of harmony amongst the mix of patterns. To ground the design, a subtly patterned tan rug adds texture without competing with the wallpaper or artwork, allowing the eye to rest on the central pairing of the couch and wall. Crisp white side tables and a gilded shaped lantern offer a playful solid block of color that anchor the room, while a light wooden coffee table brings in a natural, timeless warmth. The result is a space that feels layered yet cohesive, a little playful yet unmistakably refined.

Designer Tips for a Cohesive Dining Room:

Pro Tip 1: Layer in Energetic Modern Art

Don’t be afraid to shake up a more traditional space, with bold, modern art. Abstract pieces full of movement and color can instantly energize the room, adding a contemporary twist keeps things feeling current. Choose art that subtly echoes your color palette - it’s a simple way to create cohesion while still making a strong visual impact.

Pro Tip 2: Mixed Materials Are More Than Welcome

Mixing your finishes is one of the easiest ways to create depth and interest in a room. Combine painted furniture with warm woods and a variety of metal accents across lighting, furniture, and décor. No need to worry about becoming too polished in a space, this intentional mix-and-match approach keeps a space thoughtfully collected, not like it came straight out of a showroom. Bonus points for including pieces that are antiques or vintage objects that leave the space feeling lived-in.

Inside My Home With A Recent Collaboration

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 14:16:13 GMT

Last week, I gave our Gallery Insiders an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what my walls have been up to. Since releasing my book Art For Everyone, I’ve been prioritizing projects in my own home—using it as both a canvas and a testing ground for ideas I share in the book. One of my favorite recent projects has been completely transforming my kids’ playroom. With the help of an exciting new collaboration with a wallpaper company (stay tuned for the name reveal), the space came to life in a whole new way.

As part of the Gallery Insiders exclusive, I hosted a photoshoot right in my home to showcase the new wallpaper designs. While the photographer captured the bigger picture, I couldn’t resist snapping a few photos myself—little glimpses into the DIY projects I’ve been pouring into every corner, tweaking and perfecting until they felt just right. From the dining room to the living room, the kids’ spaces, and even the mudroom, I realized how much inspiration hides in everyday details. And yes, I’ll admit— Pinterest and Facebook Marketplace have been my secret weapons!

Today, I’m excited to share a closer look at my home and the inspiration behind it all. In Art For Everyone , you’ll find more photos of my spaces styled with artwork from our gallery, showing how art can live side by side with family life. What started as saved pins and mood boards has turned into real, lived-in rooms—proof that inspiration doesn’t have to stay digital. With a little creativity (and some persistence), those “someday ideas” can become the backdrop of everyday life.

Sentimental Welcoming's with Style:

The entryway sets the tone for a home, and I wanted mine to feel both personal and inviting. Inspired by a Pinterest photo, I layered design with meaning by incorporating my husband’s grandfather’s brimmed hat–an item so special to us. While it may look styled, it’s intentionally placed as a symbol of warmth and welcome, greeting every guest who walks through the front door with the same generosity his grandfather did.

To balance sentiment with design, I hand painted a light blue gingham pattern that extends from wall to ceiling, creating a sense of calm and freshness the moment you step inside. The pattern feels classic yet airy, making the small space feel more expansive. It was a weekend of meticulously painting on a ladder but well worth it. To ground the look, I paired the mural with matching wood accents that echo the tones of my floorboards. The result is a thoughtful mix of charm and modernity—an entryway that functions as both a design statement and a deeply personal welcome.

Branching into Bolder Dining Rooms:

For me, a dining room should always feel like the stage for a gathering—whether it’s a Tuesday night family meal or an evening of wine with friends, the space is designed to carry the energy of a dinner party every day of the week. My dining room reflects the philosophy that walls are more than just a backdrop—they tell a story. This botanical wallpaper, alive with birds, butterflies, and blooming branches, sets a whimsical yet refined tone that instantly makes the space feel curated.

The arched doorways frame the room beautifully, offering just the right amount of separation between the dining, kitchen, and living areas while still allowing each space to breathe with its own personality. Although arches are trending now, these architectural details were part of the home long before the trend—and they add timeless character and charm that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Artwork is layered throughout: from framed pieces hung between leafy vines to sculptural accents tucked into built-in niches, every corner feels thoughtfully considered. A natural wood dining table anchors the room, paired with fresh white chairs and green-striped cushions that echo the foliage on the walls. Overhead, a modern globe pendant adds a playful contrast, bridging old-world mural details with a more contemporary touch. Even the soft blush drapery and woven rug ground the space, making it both inviting and elegant.

A Boy’s Room with Polo Varsity Spirit:

For my son’s room , I wanted a design that felt both classic and full of personality. I started with a Ralph Lauren inspired color palette, giving the walls a bold, tailored look that feels timeless. To layer in character, I created a gallery wall mixing vintage pennants, playful prints, and framed keepsakes—making the space feel collected and personal rather than overly styled. The different frame finishes—black, gold, red, and wood—add to the layered, lived-in feeling, perfect for a space that should evolve as my son grows.

One of my favorite features is the pair of vintage red stadium seats from the old St. Louis Cardinal’s stadium. They nod to our love of the team and bring a touch of nostalgia, while also serving as functional seating. The overall design blends sporty energy with refined details, creating a room that feels distinctly his yet still flows with the style of our home.

Hospitality that Glows:

When I was pulling together the design for our guest room, I knew I wanted it to feel cheerful, welcoming, and whimsical. The starting point was the green-vined wallpaper—a pattern that instantly brings life into the room and feels like a gentle nod to the patio just outside the window. Pairing the wallpaper against the soft yellow wainscoting, set the stage for a space that feels both fresh and cozy.

I layered in a thrifted quilted comforter that has a playful mix of pink, green, and yellow. There’s something about quilts that feels timeless and nostalgic, like they carry a story in every stitch. Paired with the wallpaper, it gives the room a layered, collected feel, as though it has evolved over time rather than being pulled together in one afternoon.

Details are what makes a room styled and perfectly curated, and for me, that meant adding matching side lamps from the comforter and thrifted nick-nacks throughout the room. The yellow gingham curtains frame the windows perfectly—bringing in a little farmhouse charm while echoing the happy color scheme throughout the space.

Altogether, this guest room feels like an extension of our home’s personality: welcoming, lighthearted, and full of character. It makes me happy to know that when friends or family come to stay, they’re wrapped in a space that feels thoughtful and full of joy.

For more glimpses into my home—and inspiration on how to bring art into yours—visit HERE to shop my book and secure your presale copy, arriving April 2026. I’m beyond grateful for all the love and support you’ve shown my work, and I can’t wait to share this masterpiece with you. It’s designed to transform your walls from simple and expected to truly unforgettable. Stay tuned for more details on our upcoming wallpaper collaboration, and explore how our interior designer, Hannah Jacobus , can help make your home the one everyone envies.

Art Meets Design: Where Spring Meets the Table

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 14:07:56 GMT

Blending gentle tones, seasonal textures, and springtime accents for a space that makes every meal feel light, inviting, and full of charm.

A Spring dining room that feels at home in every season. This soft, natural color palette creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for fostering open and engaging conversations. Its fresh yet timeless design makes it a space where gatherings are welcomed, encouraging connection and conversation all year-round.

The Mood: Fresh, Welcoming, Serene

When I think of spring, it’s easy to imagine flowers in full bloom - but what stands out the most to me are spring mornings. The dewy grass, the gentle sunlight, and that crisp, comforting scent in the air that’s full of promise, almost like a fresh blanket just out of the dryer. It’s a moment that invites you to sit, stay, and welcome a full day with open arms. This dining room captures that feeling: quiet, serene mornings that allow you to be ready for whatever the day may bring. It reflects the promises that spring brings, renewal and embracing new beginnings after a harsh winter. The freshness comes through in the pastel palette of soft greens and blush pinks, representing nature’s awakening. To keep the space balanced, cream and warm tan accents ground the space which creates a natural, earthy feeling that isn’t overpowering. Patterns in shades of green add depth and a sense of calm, wrapping the room in relaxation and to linger a little bit longer.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

The gentle wallpaper in this dining room creates the perfect backdrop for introducing art with a touch of abstraction. Rather than leaning into ultra-modern pieces, I balanced the soft, natural spring aesthetic with artwork that hints at impressionism, bringing movement, and warmth into the space. Each piece was selected to mirror the room’s palette of fresh greens and playful blush tones, ensuring harmony between the art and the surrounding décor. Soft blush accents in the paintings repeat throughout the room, subtly tying the florals and matching paired lamps together. Current art selections include Quilt Ⅰ by Taelor Fisher, Sandy with Dark Sage Loop by Emily Keating Snyder, and Like A Dream Rising No. 2 by Anee Shah - each adding its own layer of personality while keeping the mood airy, inviting, and unmistakably spring.

Bringing It All Together:

To create a warm and welcoming spring-inspired space, I anchored the design in soft pink tones and happy greens, subtly reflecting the wallpaper and accent details throughout. Green striped chairs carry the palette into the seating, adding depth and a touch of playful pattern to offset the wallpaper. Across the room, pleated lampshades gently echo the stripes, their painterly folds softening the more structured forms in the space. The chandelier’s crisp white finish mirrors the quiet spaces between the green on the wallpaper, while the cabinet’s neutral texture pulls in the lighter tones from the natural jute rug and dining table. The abstract and patchwork-like artwork ties together the mix of patterns and textures, lending cohesion while maintaining a quiet visual intrigue, perfectly embodying the calm elegance of spring.

Designer Tips for a Cohesive Dining Room:

Pro Tip 1: Anchor Your Space in Art

Start with a piece that truly speaks to the aesthetic you are hoping to curate. Choose something that effortlessly pulls in the key colors and sets the tone for the room. It becomes your visual anchor-piece that helps guide everything from textiles to furniture. This creates a space that feels intentional and pulled-together without feeling overly coordinated.

Pro Tip 2: Blending Organic With Tailored

A well-designed dining room lives in the sweet spot between relaxed and refined. Mix natural textures, like a jute rug or rattan chairs, with more structured or patterned elements, such as crisp stripes or sculptural lighting. The result? A space that feels fresh, lived-in, and thoughtfully layered.

Artist Spotlight: Anee Shah

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 16:19:43 GMT

In this interview, Anee speaks candidly about the lifelong juggle of working while raising kids. Her newest art series, Wild and Precious , draws inspiration from a beloved Mary Oliver quote—one of Anee’s favorite lines of poetry. Read on to hear about Anee's newest release featured in the nature-inspired show and what has shaped her as an artist today.

How did you become an artist?

Anee Shah grew up in India before moving to Boston for grad school. This led her to the path into the corporate world – specifically, a decade-long career in biotech. Like many, she followed the almost ‘expected’ trajectory of college graduates, the typical 9-to-5 that builds a “cushy” role into an unfulfilling life. But – life at home told a different story.

When her daughter was young, Anee found that her days were swallowed up by the demands of a full-time schedule, leaving only a few moments together. Anee knew she didn’t want to repeat that same cycle after having her second newborn. She was guided both by a longing for more family time and desire to explore her creative side, she made the bold decision to step away from her decade-long corporate lifestyle and find a better balance between her children and creativity.

That leap just happened to land right at the start of COVID-19, when the world shifted dramatically. At first, she dove into surface design – creating art for tea towels, kids’ apparel, baby goods, fabric, phone cases, and more. The work was exciting and varied, but the process of designing repetitive patterns meant long hours in front of a computer. Before long, she realized she missed the feeling of a painting.

So, in 2022, she pivoted again. That shift opened up a new way of expressing herself, blending her love for color and texture with a more hands-on process of painting. Here she is today, building a body of work that reflects not only her artistic evolution but also the life chapters that inspired it.

What is a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that the audience may not know?

While yes, Anee was undeniably skilled in her role as a scientist, she knew deep down she did not want to retire as one. In her quest to find an alternative career, she entertained a variety of different paths – each one bringing her closer to understanding what truly lit her up. She tried extension courses in residential interiors, attended make-up school, and even completed yoga teacher training!

The journey was anything but linear, but each step offered clarity and a sense of relief as she discovered more about who she was and what she wanted. Ultimately, the winding path led her to art – it turned out to be perfect in terms of aligning with her passions but also offered the time freedom and flexibility she had been seeking all along.

Can you walk us through your creative process - from rituals or routines to ideas to finished pieces.
Between parenting, taking care of herself (like consistent strength training and nourishing her body) and running the household with grocery runs, school emails, appointments, and extracurriculars, her studio time is precious and limited. On most days, Anee only gets a couple of hours to paint, so she makes every minute count.

Before she even picks up a brush, she checks in with herself and decides what the priority is for that day. If it’s a lighter painting day, Anee will put on some instrumental or Bollywood music, letting the rhythm set the tone and get lost in the flow of creating. If she is in the middle of something compositionally tricky or layered, she prefers to paint in silence – it gives her space to really listen to her intuition and let that guide her next movement.

Not everyday is spent at the easel. Some days are purely devoted to the less glamorous side but equally essential parts of being an artist. This means tackling the more business-focused tasks: packaging orders, replying to emails, photographing new pieces, creating content, and updating her website. Anee says “Artists wear a lot of hats, and the business side of creativity can be just as time-consuming as the making itself.”

Most of her ideas don’t come to her when she’s in the studio. They arrive during the most ordinary, everyday moments – school drop-offs, washing dishes, walking outside, or right before she drifts off to sleep. Of course, there are almost always times when she doesn’t have a notebook nearby to jot down her mental creative thoughts, so she tucks them away and hopes they resurface when she’s ready to paint.

She rarely works with a reference image. Instead, she dives in unprepared, letting her instincts take the lead. Her process is deeply intuitive and emotional – there’s no formula or step-by-step method. In many ways, her work is a mirror of her inner landscape. Whatever she is feeling in the moment – the joy, the chaos, the quiet – it finds its way onto the canvas, becoming part of the story she can tell without words.

How did you settle into the mediums you use today?

Since Anee Shah’s childhood, she loved painting with watercolors and had always been a comfort zone – the medium she typically reached for. She loved their fluidity and ability to build, but over time, she found herself craving more depth into her work. She wanted more richness of color, a texture quality, and the ability to create soft, seamless blends that watercolors couldn’t quite achieve. That curiosity eventually led her to experiment with oil paints, and once she did, she was hooked. Oils gave me the vibrancy, texture, and flexibility that she had been searching for which opened up an entirely new way to bring her ideas to life.

What was the most difficult obstacle to overcome during your artistic journey, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest obstacle she faced in her artistic journey was starting completely from scratch. She didn’t go to school for art or business, and she didn’t have friends, family, or a network in this field could guide her in the right direction. Launching a career into an art business felt a bit like climbing a mountain without a safety harness – scary, unpredictable, and honestly EXTREMELY overwhelming.

She had to teach herself everything: from understanding financial and legal sides of running a business to figuring out how to promote her work, manage inventory, and handle day-to-day logistics. She relied on Youtube videos, courses, and a lot of trial and error to figure it out. Looking back, the hair-pulling from frustration, dead ends, and moments of pure resourcefulness is something she wouldn’t change for the world.

What made her career launch even more challenging – but also deeply rewarding – was doing all of this while raising a toddler and a newborn. Anee balanced sleepless nights, feeding, and of course diaper changes – all while managing how to navigate an entirely new career – required a level of never-ending persistence and patience that she didn’t know she had. In the end, pushing through that steep (what felt like never ending) learning curve taught her resilience, creativity in problem-solving, and most importantly, that she could really build something meaningful from nothing.

Tell us about the pieces you're showing in the upcoming show - what inspired them? How does nature influence your work as an artist? Is it an inspiration or perspective?

The pieces that Anee Shah is showing in Nature collection are a part of her Wild and Precious series, which is inspired by her favorite line from one of Mary Oliver’s poems: “what is it that you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” This series is her artistic reflection on that question – how we choose to spend our time and what we nurture in our everyday lives.

Nature, and flowers in particular, play a central role in these works. Their fleeting beauty is such a gentle, yet powerful, reminder to savor the small moments and create a life filled with joy. For Anee, nature isn’t just inspiration – it’s a lens and perspective that shapes how she approaches both art and life. The impermanence of florals and nature pushes her to embrace spontaneity and follow her heart’s nudges to create a life that you love – because this life is precious and will not be here forever.

Mark your calendars — this anticipated Nature show collection will officially be available for presale starting August 22nd at 10:00 a.m.

This thoughtfully curated collection celebrates the beauty, fragility, and inspiration we draw from the natural world, featuring work from Anee alongside an incredible lineup of other talented artists like:

Hunt Slonem

Elsie Larson

Paige Barnes Dorsey

Each piece in the collection offers its own interpretation of “nature” — from sweeping landscapes and vibrant florals to more abstract works that capture the beauty of our environment. Whether you’re drawn to quiet, contemplative pieces or bold, color-filled creations, there’s something here that speaks to every collector’s sensibilities.

Art Meets Design: Small Space, BIG Personality

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 14:17:41 GMT

Proof that small square-footage can still deliver a big impact, this bold bathroom layers vibrant color, playful patterns, and vintage elegance for an unforgettable first impression.

This powder room strikes a playful balance between retro charm and sophistication. With bold details, unexpected color mixing, and just the right amount of whimsy touch, it proves that even small spaces can still make an impact. From bold wallpaper to carefully selected vintage fixtures, every detail adds its own touch of character - proving that even the smallest spaces can have a big personality.

The Mood: Elegant, Eccentric, Retro

Stepping into this little nook of an eccentrically styled powder room feels like entering a world of its own, delicate yet bold, elegant yet full of character. It’s the kind of space that invites you to linger, keeping you curious and grounded all at once. The pastel, whimsical wallpaper sets the tone, drawing you in with quiet intrigue. Every texture feels intentional—soft, playful, and layered with meaning. It’s as if the room has its own personality, one that slowly reveals itself the longer you stay.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

The wallpaper sets a bold, imaginative tone-one that opens the door to layering in color through carefully chosen artwork. To balance its energetic, abstract feel, I selected pieces with a more focused visual element. The key was creating contrast: giving the eye somewhere to land amidst the movement. I paired the wallpaper with On Cosmos by Kevin Brent Morris, Michelle Armas' The Secret Passage, and Spring Moth by Elsie Larson, all which are featuring similar color schemes as the wallpaper. Both works introduce organic shapes and grounding elements, adding clarity and calm to an otherwise whimsical space.

Bringing It All together:

This powder room is a playful mix of bold patterns with timeless elegance, brought into harmony through warm accents: the perfectly balanced color palette. To ground this bold and whimsical powder room, natural warm woods and crisp white granite countertops create a calm modernized foundation, while a mirror framed in complementary tones with subtle rattan undertones ties the color palette back together. On the floor, I paired a white and tan geometric tile that offers a strong, modern pattern that complements, rather than competes with the whimsical, abstract wallpaper. A neutral accent tile keeps the room feeling light and welcoming, avoiding the heaviness that a deeper turquoise might bring. Brass fixtures; a pairs of sconces, a retro flush mount ceiling light, and brass hardware , introduce a sense of symmetry throughout and a touch of elegance to echo the retro feeling. To reintroduce warmth and maintain balance within the vibrant color scheme, natural wood finishes bring the space back to its essence: welcoming, elegant, and full of personality.

Designer Tips for Powder Bathrooms:

Pro Tip 1: Bold Patterns with Playful Details

Powder rooms are meant to be the jewel boxes of your home, lean into bold patterns and playful details to make a big statement in a small space. Typically sterile spaces like a bathroom can be made to feel inviting by layering vibrant colors, patterns, and art, just as you would in any other room, while keeping function front and center.

Pro Tip 2: Cohesivety in a Small Space

Powder rooms are often the smallest rooms in your home, so create a cohesive look by wrapping the space in wallpaper or color-drenching the walls. Don’t forget the fifth wall, the ceiling! Drawing the eye up can make the room feel larger and more dynamic.

Inside the Pages: Exploring a Chapter of Art For Everyone

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 18:15:04 GMT

This week, I achieved a lifelong dream. On Monday, my new book Art For Everyone officially went on presale—a project that’s been five years in the making.

From the very beginning, I knew I wanted this book to be different from others in the art world. My goal? To make art approachable, accessible, and yes—affordable. So many people tell me they don’t know where to start when it comes to collecting art. They’re curious but feel like they don’t have a place in the art world. This book is my way of opening that door for them.

In February 2024, the editor at Simon & Schuster reached out with a question I’d been secretly waiting my whole life to hear: Have you ever considered writing a book? The timing felt right. The result is a 208‑page, 50,000‑word guide broken into nine chapters, each one answering the questions I hear most often in my gallery.

One of the biggest topics I dive into is affordability —a subject that truly sets my gallery apart. I break it down into four core areas:

How artists price their work
Why art can feel expensive
What to budget
What extra costs to consider

Here’s a quick peek inside the book: Many artists set their prices by square inch. For example, if an artist charges $3 per square inch, a 10" x 20" piece would be priced at $600. Others may charge hourly, which is harder for clients to predict. Beyond the artwork itself, costs like framing, shipping, installation, and insurance may also factor in. Listed are a few of the 140 artists represented throughout my book, that we also represent at my gallery: Michelle Armas , Paige Barnes Dorsey , Angela Chrusciaki Blehm , Betsy Enzensberger , AK Hardeman , Racheal Jackson , and Elisa Sheehan .

A common misconception I address is that “art is expensive.” The truth is, value is relative—what feels expensive to one person may be accessible to another. While some pieces do sell for millions, much of the art world is made up of emerging and mid‑career artists (the heart of my gallery) whose work is far more affordable.

In the book, I share how to start budgeting—often between $1,000 and $2,500 for an original work—without feeling overwhelmed. Like any passion, collecting art is a learning process. Start small, ask questions, and lean on experts (especially my book!) to help guide you. Over time, you’ll build confidence and find joy in growing your collection. That’s exactly how I became an art fanatic.

This is not a coffee table book—although it does feature beautiful work from 140 artists (including many we proudly represent). It’s a straightforward, beginner‑friendly guide meant to make you feel comfortable in the art world without intimidating “art vocab.” Because at the end of the day, art doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful.

PLUS!!! If you'd like to learn more about my book, get some behind-the-scenes insights, and get to know me and my gallery better, check out the interview featured in The Des Moines Register about me and my new book.

Where to shop?

Click any icon below to head straight to the presale of my book. I’m so grateful for all the love and support—thank you!

Art Meets Design: Pattern Mixing Without the Fear

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:33:51 GMT

Discover the simple secrets of blending patterns, textures, and colors for a bedroom to feel curated, not chaotic.

Where playful meets peaceful. This lively, yet breezy bedroom makes early mornings feel a little easier to get a great start in your day. With equal parts whimsical and relaxed, with just enough charm to make hitting snooze feel like a missed opportunity.

The Mood: Breezy, Whimsical, Charming:

For this bedroom, I embraced a soft, dreamy palette - think modern fairytale and coastal cloudscape to create a calm, uplifting retreat. The wallpaper plays a quiet but essential role here: its airy brushstrokes give just enough movement without overpowering the space, keeping things light and breathable. It’s the kind of wallpaper that lets the furniture and playful details shine without fighting for attention. Step into the room, and you’re met with a gentle wave of calm, the whimsical pastels work like a subtle mood boost, making it the kind of space you actually want to wake up in.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art:

Thanks to the airy feel of the wallpaper, bolder artwork gets a chance to shine. One of the secrets to creating a well-curated space is balancing the color palette across different elements, especially in the art. I brought in Multicolored Butterflies by Angie Heuton , a stunning realism piece that weaves together soft blues, purples, tans, and ochres. These hues call back to the room’s overall palette and help create a feeling of visual harmony. The contrast between the abstract wallpaper and the more detailed, lifelike artwork strikes a beautiful balance, letting the piece feel grounded in this space. To layer in more depth, I’d add abstract works in complementary tones, incorporating touches of green and yellow to bring emotional warmth and a sense of fresh movement to the space.

Bringing It All together:

I selected a rattan canopy bed frame in this space, paired with crisp white bedding to keep things feeling fresh, modern, and a little laid-back. The white nightstands keep things light and tie in beautifully with a charming lilac dresser that adds personality and a touch of quiet whimsy. Underfoot, a geometric rug grounds the space and draws attention to the bed, acting as a bold yet balanced statement against the otherwise soft palette. On the nightstands, I’ve paired pale blue hand-crafted ceramic lamps with purple patterned lampshades with just enough contrast to play off the white and add a calm, collected symmetry. To finish the look with warmth, I specified brass hardware throughout, bringing a soft glow that ties everything together with a welcoming, elevated touch.

Designer Tips for a Curated Bedroom:

Pro Tip 1: Start with something that grounds the room.
Every great space begins with an anchor—whether that’s a statement rug, a standout fabric, or a larger furniture piece that sets the tone. From there, let that piece guide the rest of your choices to create a look that feels balanced and intentional. In this room, the geometric rug does exactly that. Its clean lines add structure and contrast to the softer, more free-flowing wallpaper and pastel palette, making everything feel tied together without trying too hard.

Pro Tip 2: Pattern mixing is an art (but not a scary one).
Don’t shy away from mixing prints! The trick is to vary both the scale and style. Pair a bold geometric with something more organic or soft, and mix large-scale prints with smaller, subtle ones. This keeps things feeling elevated and layered—instead of busy or chaotic. Think of it like conversation at a great dinner party: everyone brings something different to the table, but it still works together beautifully.

It’s Real: My Book Is Available for Preorder!

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 13:54:25 GMT

I can finally say it out loud: Art for Everyone is live for presale!

This book has been years in the making. So many hours spent writing, photographing, revising, reworking—and dreaming. It's surreal to be at this moment, sharing the finished result with all of you. I’m so proud of what we’ve created, and I truly hope you love it as much as I do.

This whole journey has been filled with pinch-me moments. Connecting with Sam (from Simon & Schuester) through Instagram and realizing we were ready to send her the proposal immediately because my agent Kirsten and I had it prepped and polished. Seeing that Library of Congress number for the first time. Getting to share the process with my kids. Collaborating and brainstorming with such thoughtful, creative people. Every step has felt meaningful.

I’m endlessly grateful to the team who made this happen—my editors, designers, my agent, the amazing photographers (including the incredibly talented Adam Albright and Andrea Brooks—Andrea’s house even made the cover!). And most of all, the artists. This book simply would not exist without the generosity, time, and spirit of the artists who shared their work and stories.

Thank you also to the friends, clients, and family who let me take over your spaces, who supported me with every step, and who believed in this project even before it had a title. There’s so much more to share in the coming weeks, but for now—please enjoy a few behind-the-scenes peeks, and ... the FREAKING COVER. I still can’t believe it’s real. Art for Everyone officially launches April 21, 2026 —but it’s available now for preorder. Cue my happy dance. View the full press release here .

Who you'll find for Holiday in July

tina@lizlidgett.com (Tina Ehrlich) — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 13:56:58 GMT

Our annual Holiday in July collection features art under $500 (and more). This year, over 30 artists are sharing new work at a lower price point. A great time to collect your favorites!

It's always our goal to make art more accessible. So twice a year we execute our passion project (July and November) with the biggest collection possible of art under $500. Clients love the opportunity to collect from their "artist wishlist" at smaller sizes. There's usually a presale opportunity with our shows, but not for Holiday in July! It all goes live on the website Friday, July 11 at 10am CT . So be sure to set an alarm! This year, over 30 artists are participating—see the list below and plan ahead.

Participating artists

AK Hardeman | View her work >>
Alex Ackerman | View her work >>
Allison James | View her work >>
Aly Ytterberg | View her work >>
Amanda McLaurin | View her work >>
Andrea Ferrigno | View her work >>
Anee Shah | View her work >>
Angela Blehm | View her work >>
Angie Heuton | View her work >>
Anna Beurskens | View her work >>
Bethany Mabee | View her work >>
Daisy Faith | View her work >>
Ekaterina Popova | View her work >>
Eliana Bernard | View her work >>
Emily Keating Snyder | View her work >>
Fares Micue | View her work >>
Jaime McCarrier | View her work >>
Jennifer Allevato | View her work >>
Jenna Brownlee | View her work >>
Karin Olah | View her work >>
Kate Blomquist | View her work >>
Kevin Brent Morris | View his work >>
Meghan Bustard | View her work >>
Michele Aschenbrenner | View her work >>
Rebecca Stern | View her work >>
Sarah Schwartz | View her work >>
Shannon Coppage | View her work >>
Susannah Carson | View her work >>
Suzy Lindow | View her work >>
Trevor Mikula | View his work >>
Vicky Reddish | View her work >>

The Art of Design: A Bright & Joyful Breakfast Room

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 14:45:44 GMT

There’s something magical about the way mornings unfold in a beautifully designed space—and this breakfast room proves just how transformative a little color and pattern can be.

The Mood: Bright, Cheerful, and Collected

For this breakfast nook, I leaned into a fresh, feel-good palette and lively wallpaper to set the tone. The patterned wallpaper isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the life source of the room. Its geometric large scale and soft mint tone create energy without overwhelming the petite space, acting as an instant mood booster the moment you walk in.

A Conversation Between Pattern and Art

When working with a bold pattern, the key is to build thoughtful layers and mix scale. I selected artwork that speaks to the color palette of the wallpaper—soft greens, sunny yellows, and grounding neutrals—without competing for attention. Abstract pieces and still lifes with vibrant color harmonize with the wallpaper’s structure while adding depth and personality. It’s a playful dialogue: the wallpaper leads with pattern, the art responds with emotion.

Bringing It All Together

I’ve paired a corner dark blue ticking stripe banquette with a woven pedestal table to bring in warmth and texture. Classic spindle-back chairs in a citrus green add a jolt of fun. The rug beneath the table mirrors the joyful tones above, grounding the space in a soft rainbow gradient that stretches from sunrise pinks to sky blues. Across the room, a white sideboard with woven paneling anchors the design, while mint-green ceramic glazed lamps and a large-scale still life painting echo the freshness and liveliness of the morning ritual.

This breakfast room was designed to celebrate the little things—slow mornings, fresh fruit, and sunlight through the windows. It’s a reminder that good design doesn’t just look beautiful—it feels like joy.

Designer Tips for a Curated Breakfast Room

Start with Pattern & Don't be afraid to be Bold! : Let your wallpaper lead. Choose something that will set the entire mood for the space. Don’t be afraid to wallpaper all of the walls in your space and sometimes if the space calls for it the ceiling as well. Often, when someone falls in love with a bold wallpaper, their first instinct is to use it on just one wall. That approach often leaves the space feeling disjointed or incomplete. Especially in smaller rooms like a breakfast nook, committing to wrapping all the walls in wallpaper can actually make the space feel larger and more cohesive. The pattern draws the eye around the room and creates a visual flow that anchors the entire design.

Pro Tip: If your room is small, like this breakfast room, opt for a light-colored wallpaper with open patternwork. It keeps the space feeling bright, airy and inviting.

Mix in Natural Materials & Textures: Wicker, rattan, and raw woods soften the space and keep it grounded. Also, items like a natural fiber rug adds warmth and coziness to the space while also being functional as natural fibers hold up well and are simple to maintain.

Pro Tip: Sourcing wicker or wood antique pieces give the space patina and character that immediately make the room feel layered and lived in.

Do you have a space—or several spaces—that don’t feel like you? Or rooms that sit unused because they just don’t work for your lifestyle or spark emotion? At Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design , we specialize in creating spaces that not only function flawlessly but also reflect your personality, passion, and artful taste.

Introducing Hannah + Design

Wed, 07 May 2025 14:46:41 GMT

Blending Fine Arts to Make Even Finer Interiors

At Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design, we believe that art isn’t just something to hang on your walls—it’s the soul of a space. That’s why we’re thrilled to officially launch our Interior Design Program, a natural evolution of what we’ve always done: pairing beautiful artwork with thoughtful interiors that tell your story.

And to lead this exciting new chapter, we’re proud to welcome Hannah as our in-house interior designer!

Meet Hannah: The Heart Behind Our Design Services

Hi, I'm Hannah! I'm a native Iowan who grew up in Beaverdale and still calls Des Moines home. Creativity has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember—something my mom nurtured in me from a young age. That early love for design eventually led me to Iowa State University, where I graduated from their renowned Interior Design program. I still enjoy staying connected to the ISU community by visiting and volunteering at design events whenever I can.

These days, my husband and I are raising our 5-year-old son alongside two dogs and a cat—life is wonderfully full, a little chaotic, and incredibly fun.

I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Liz and the gallery team for years on design collaborations, so officially joining forces felt like a natural evolution. I’ve always believed that art is an essential part of interior design—it brings emotion, depth, and a true sense of identity to a space.

Professionally, I’m an interior designer with a passion for creating spaces that feel both elevated and deeply lived-in. With over a decade of experience—and a background in both design-build construction and interior decorating—I blend technical expertise with a refined, intuitive sense of style. My work is all about striking a thoughtful balance between form and function, always tailored to the way people actually live in their homes.

My design philosophy centers on storytelling through space. I love working with intentional layouts, layered materials, and rich textures to create interiors that feel timeless and personal. I'm known for my calm, collaborative approach and my ability to see potential where others might not.

Throughout my career, I’ve pursued opportunities to expand and enrich my perspective as a designer. I’ve participated in Design Chicago twice—once as a featured ambassador—and attended the Kravet Design Experience in New York City. I’ve also had the unique opportunity to assist in two Kips Bay Palm Beach showhouses, & attend several other Kips Bay show houses where I was immersed in some of the country’s top designers’ creativity. In addition, I’ve attended both the International Builders’ Show and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, staying engaged with the latest innovations, materials, and trends in the field. These experiences, along with my many travels, continue to inspire and inform my approach to thoughtful, layered interiors.

For me, the most rewarding part of this work is building relationships—whether it’s earning the trust of clients or collaborating closely with talented tradespeople, artisans, and creatives. Whether it’s a single-room refresh or a full-home transformation, I bring clarity, creativity, and care to every detail.

I’m looking forward to meeting and working with you on your spaces! - Hannah

Let’s De sign Something Meaningful—Together

We’re excited to offer design services that align beautifully with our gallery’s vision: thoughtful, creative spaces that highlight original art and reflect who you are. Whether you’re just beginning your art journey or ready to reimagine your home, we’re here to help bring your vision to life.

Want to learn more or start a project? Reach out anytime—we’d love to hear from you.

Contact us at hello@lizlidgett.com to get started.

Where Art Lives: Installation Inspiration #2

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 14:20:53 GMT

The Final Touch: Art That Completes the Space

Where Art Lives Part #2 might be the spark you need to imagine how a piece could live in your own space. See how thoughtfully chosen artwork turns empty walls into moments of beauty and meaning. Below, explore works that do more than decorate—they define and enrich the environments they’re part of.

Kristen Abbott

Jaime McCarrier

Hillary Howorth

Before we close, let’s take a moment to celebrate the incredible artists behind these works. Their talent fills our lives with beauty and inspiration—and we’re so grateful to share their art with you. If you enjoyed seeing these pieces installed, check out this blog highlighting even more artist installations. And stay tuned—we'll have more installation inspiration coming your way!

Eclectic Blooms Show

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 14:57:28 GMT

A Fresh Perspective on a Classic Motif

“Our team curated this show to feel like a burst of spring. Each artist’s work brings something completely different to the table—yet together, they tell a beautifully cohesive story about the enduring power of flowers in art.” - Liz Lidgett

Eclectic Blooms, a vibrant celebration of floral inspiration through the lens of seven distinct artists working across mixed media— Marcy Vreeland , Sarina Angell , Nay Bellamy , Jenna Brownlee , Brittany Smith , Michele Aschenbrenner and Nosheen Iqbal . The show opens Friday, April 11th and invites viewers to experience the beauty of blooms in both familiar and unexpected forms.

From bold abstractions to delicate textures, this show explores the endless ways flowers can be reimagined through paint, collage, textile, and sculpture. This fresh and layered collection highlights the unique perspectives each artist brings to a timeless subject, offering a rich and dynamic interpretation of floral themes.

Learn about these floral inspired artists:

MARCY VREELAND

Marcy’s art is a form of abstraction, conveying and aiming to capture moments of delight. Inspired by her work in floral design and also a response to intentional + consistent travel, music and literature, she works primarily with paint, pastels, pencil, charcoal and mixed media collage. After 6+ years of floral + event design work at her company, Stems of Dallas, Marcy now works as a full-time artist at her studio based in Dallas, Texas.

SARINA ANGELL

Sarina Angell is one of our newest artists living and working in Baltimore, MD. She earned a BFA in Fiber from the Maryland Institute College of Art, then completed the Core Fellowship at the Penland School of Craft. She maintains practices in both fine art and wearable art, and the two inform and engage with one another. Angell pulls from a dynamic collection of symbols that often reference her upbringing in the rural Southeast.

NAY BELLAMY

Classically trained artist nestled in leafy Surrey, United Kingdom. Nay's whimsical style of work explores the marriage of contemporary and classic botanical painting, inspired by the riot of colour seasonal flora shares. Nay is drawn to all things antiquated, making vintage frames the perfect canvas for her paintings. Nay works predominately with acrylic & oils creating bold stripes and colour blocked bases, with flowers that envelop the frames.

JENNA BROWNLEE

Jenna Brownlee is a Des Moines, Iowa native, painter and muralist. After studying multiple mediums of art at the Des Moines Art Center, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and Entrepreneurship Certificate from the University of Iowa. Brownlee creates concepts that enliven spaces and serve community needs. As an advocate for community pride, she finds joy in bringing a sense of togetherness and celebrating inclusion through art. She aims to show how women can have an impact and gain success through expressive art and demonstrate that art is an integral, powerful and experiential tool that unifies, energizes and beautifies our communities.

BRITTANY SMITH

Brittany Smith is a contemporary impressionist painter who lives and works outside of Raleigh, North Carolina with her husband and three children. Through an enduring struggle with anxiety and mental health, Brittany has learned to set her mind on what is true and beautiful by looking for God's goodness in the everyday. Often painting from personal photos, art has become a way for her to highlight these encounters and other parables of joy, rest and renewal she sees in creation.

MICHELE ASCHENBRENNER

Michele's inspiration of mid-century aesthetics and vintage paint-by-numbers, which she collects, is evident in her paintings. She focuses on florals alone and in patterns in vibrant color palettes. Using gouache and acrylics in multiple thin layers she achieves a smooth finish whether on wood panel or canvas. Her background in surface pattern design informs all she creates. Michele aims to make feel good florals that are both vintage and modern and she hopes her art adds joy to someones day. After spending a few decades in the Carolinas, Michele now resides in Pennsylvania.

NOSHEEN IQBAL

Welcome our newest artist, Nosheen Iqbal! Her Pakistani heritage deeply influences her artistic vision, particularly in her use of color, pattern, and texture. She draws inspiration from Pakistan’s rich history of pigment dyeing and embroidery techniques, which vary across provinces and trace back to the Mughal Empire. Her work is also shaped by the intricate and interwoven patterns found in Islamic art. By blending classical elements with contemporary craft, she invents new forms of design that honor traditional techniques while pushing creative boundaries.

A Little Preview:

The Latest on LLGD Murals

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:39:30 GMT

A glimpse at before-and-after mural shots, explore our latest murals, and learn a bit about our process from concept to completion

From start to finish, we’re here to bring your vision to life. Whether you have a clear idea or need guidance, we’ll collaborate with you through mock-ups, visuals, and revisions until it’s just right. Depending on the project, we can either connect you with a local mural artist or have our talented team take the lead. Below is a fun inside look at some recent murals in progress, created in partnership with local artists and tailored to our clients’ visions. Want to check out our full portfolio of mural projects? Click here!

DSM Street Collective Mural:

Liz Lidgett Gallery first collaborated with Vibrant Coffeehouse on a small alleyway mural by artist Laura Palmer. When it was time to expand the mosaic of murals, the DSM Street Collective reached out to work with Jimmy Navarro , a celebrated muralist known for his iconic pieces at the Iowa State Fair. After over a year of planning, Jimmy brought a vibrant scene of diverse bikers to the alleyway, infusing it with plenty of local flair. Located at the corner of E 6th St and Grand—between DSM Street Collective and Vibrant Coffeehouse—this striking new mural features the faces of actual community members who live and work nearby. It’s a heartwarming personal touch that makes this mural truly special!

Roosevelt High School Library Murals:

Liz is a proud Roosevelt alum (as is her husband) and was thrilled to collaborate with her alma mater on this project. “It meant so much that Roosevelt sought to work with alumni and other artists with a strong connection to the school. Roosevelt helped shape who I am today, so it was a dream come true to leave my mark—both literally and figuratively—on the school.” The artists involved included alumni, parents of alumni, and current teachers. Each shares a deep love for Roosevelt and has gone on to become a nationally recognized working artist.

Roosevelt Mural Artists:

Liz Lidgett (neon sign)
Anna Frederick (shine quote)
ASPHATE (graffiti)
Katie Jensen (courtyard)
Jimmy Navarro (shoes)
Reuben Cheatem (Vinyl of Woman)
Nicole James (Mosaic - TRHS teacher)
Mary Pat LaMair (mural - TRHS teacher)

a glimpse at the process

Each artist brought a different take and style to their mural in the TRHS library. The one thing they all had in common was their Rider pride and their commitment to showing off all that the school had to offer. Katie Jensen is an alumni and loves the physical beauty of the school and the front lawn. Recently, due to a storm, some trees were lost and so her mural was a tribute to the nature surrounding the school. Jimmy Navarro created a locker scene with his signature sneakers, each sneaker representing a different student style, and many stickers and pins showing off clubs and activities available to Roosevelt. Liz Lidgett wanted to create the perfect photo spot with bright color blocking and a neon sign, and Anna Frederick wanted to leave a positive messge for the students. Reuben Cheatem used a piece of artwork that celebrates the diversity in the student body. These are just a few examples of the many pieces of artwork throughout the library, each one chosen with care and a story to tell about the school.

Want to see more of our mural projects or some of the best murals in Iowa? Take a look at these: Public Mural Art & 3 Must See Iowa Murals .
Please reach out to sara@lizlidgett.com if you have an interior or exterior wall needing a splash of paint!

Who is Haneen Matt?

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:50:33 GMT

Almost a decade ago I met Haneen through the Better Homes and Gardens Stylemaker event. I immediately became a fan of her warm, charming demeanor and her incredible style. I feel lucky to know her and learn from her regularly. I’m delighted that she curate d a selection of works by our artists, and I’m sure you’ll appreciate her perspective as much as I do.

"I love designing a space, bringing it to life, and feeling something when I walk into it, completed."

Haneen has always considered herself an artist. With a photography degree from the University of Toledo, her love of art initially started with fashion and quickly shifted to a love of interior design, while home raising her kids. She started her blog, Haneen's Haven, and Instagram page @haneens_haven , in 2015 documenting all things "home." Since then, her work has been published in Better Homes & Gardens, HGTV, Real Simple, Hour Detroit, and online on Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, etc.

"There's nothing like the way a room makes you feel when you fill it with pieces you love, that tell your story. Start with the art!"

"I think sometimes people feel intimidated when choosing art because they think it needs to have a deep meaning that resonates with something super personal within them. The truth is- you can choose something purely because it makes you happy when you look at it! Having a painting of a horse doesn't have to mean you rode horses as a child. Maybe you just find their coats beautiful! Maybe you find the way their body moves as they gallop, mystifying. Hang art you love, and everything else falls into place."

Haneen's Curated Collection is Now Live!

Use Code: HANEEN10 to receive 10% off Haneen's Curated Collection ! This curated page will be live through April 27th.

Artist Spotlight: Mónica Ajenjo

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 18:28:40 GMT

Giving Heart and Soul: Mónica's Journey of Love and Creativity

Mónica's art has always been more than just a form of expression—it’s a reflection of life, love, and transformation. Through her latest collection, “I Gave You My Heart,” she captures the many ways we offer our hearts to others—sometimes wide open and vulnerable, sometimes guarded, and sometimes completely closed off. In this interview, she shares her creative journey, the obstacles she overcame to claim the title of 'artist,' and the daily rituals that keep her inspired.

Did you always want to be an artist?

Absolutely—it was always a dream. But for a long time, I didn’t think it could be anything more than that. My family saw art as a hobby, not a “real job,” and I felt the pressure to pursue something more traditional. It took time and personal growth to finally embrace the path I knew was meant for me.

What is your daily routine/ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

When it comes to getting in the creative zone, consistency is key. As Picasso said, “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.” Spending long hours alone in the studio requires discipline, so daily practice keeps me focused. A good exercise routine helps, too—and let’s not forget the occasional glass of wine with friends!

What was the biggest obstacle you faced and overcame in your creative journey?

One of the biggest obstacles I faced was simply believing in myself enough to call myself an artist. I’ll never forget the first time I answered the question, “What do you do?” with, “I’m an artist.” It was a defining moment—one of pride and clarity, knowing I was finally on the right path.

What other artists in the gallery are you inspired by?

I draw so much inspiration from other artists, and I absolutely adore Angela Chrusciaki Blehm and Betsy Enzensberger . They’re both incredible talents and, from what I can tell, even more wonderful people. We haven’t met in person, but their warmth and light shine through, even from across the ocean.

At what point did you decide to become a career artist?

My journey to becoming a full-time artist was a winding one. I’ve always painted, but I didn’t initially see it as a viable career. I earned a law degree, ran a home décor business, and studied art history—always keeping art as a side passion. Eventually, after a period of personal and professional upheaval, I realized I needed to give my art the space it deserved. I left everything behind and started fresh, committing fully to my work. That was over ten years ago, and I’ve never looked back.

How did you settle into the mediums you use today?

As for my medium, I’ve always been drawn to oil on wood. It’s the first thing I ever painted with as a child, and even though I experimented with other materials in art school, oil always felt like home. It suits my hyperrealistic style perfectly, offering a depth of color and subtlety that’s hard to achieve with anything else.

What moved you to sell your work rather than just make it?

Honestly, creating and sharing art go hand in hand for me. It’s wonderful to make something that resonates with others—and even more incredible when someone connects with a piece so deeply that they want to bring it into their home. Selling my work allows me to keep creating, and there’s nothing more fulfilling than that.

Mónica’s work is truly a hyperrealistic delight— see her newest pieces at our Ordinary Objects show debuting Friday, March 21st. Join Mónica's Presale List for exclusive early access!

Where Art "should" Live

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 15:28:44 GMT

Paige’s Snake Sculptures as the Ultimate TV Cameos

Paige Barnes Dorsey's snake are more than just art — they’re characters. Each one twists and turns with its own distinct personality, capturing elegance, mystery, and whimsy. It’s easy to imagine these striking pieces slithering right off the gallery walls and onto our screens, making their mark in some of TV’s most iconic shows.

Let’s cast them in their perfect roles:

GAME OF THRONES - Power and Intrigue

In the world of Westeros, where power struggles and ancient prophecies reign, an armored serpent would feel right at home. Imagine one of her sleek, coiled sculptures sitting on the desk of Cersei Lannister or circling the Iron Throne itself — a symbol of cunning, danger, and resilience. Their metallic sheen and dynamic forms mirror the tension and beauty of this ruthless universe. Can’t you just picture this in the King’s quarters? It’s almost like it was made to mirror that iconic Hand of the King brooch!

THE WHITE LOTUS - Beauty Can Bite

Paige’s malachite snakes offer a luxurious feel while still fitting perfectly with the opulent and chaotic atmosphere of The White Lotus. Picture one in the corner of a lavish Hawaiian suite or perched on a pristine marble table in a Sicilian villa. Their graceful curves and striking presence reflect the show’s undercurrent of elegance and unease — a reminder that beauty can sometimes bite.

BRIDGERTON - Drama and Decadence

Among the pastel-colored ballrooms and elaborate estates of Bridgerton, Paige’s magnificent pearl-engulfed snakes would add not only more beauty but also enhance the unexpected edge the show offers. Draped artfully on a mantel or nestled among lush florals, these snakes would contrast the show’s sweetness with a hint of sophistication and mischief. They’d be the perfect conversation starter at any high-society gathering.

Paige Barnes Dorsey’s snakes bring storytelling and style together in a way that’s both timeless and contemporary — much like these unforgettable shows. Whether slinking through a fantasy realm, a luxury resort, or a Regency drawing room, they command attention and spark the imagination.

Artist Spotlight: Rocky Reed

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:47:23 GMT

Blending Realism with Bold Experimentation

Rocky Reed, always knew he wanted to be an artist — a dream that’s shaped his journey from early sketches to his mastery of oil and acrylic painting. In this artist spotlight, Rocky dives into his creative process, from using traditional tools like vine charcoal and toned paper to experimenting with 3D modeling software for perspective and composition. As he prepares for his upcoming show, Rocky reveals how he’s pushing his work in new directions. Don’t miss this exciting evolution in his art!

Rocky Reed (b. 1988, Fallbrook CA) is a self-taught artist living in Des Moines, Iowa. He currently paints contemporary realist pieces, featuring still life, plein air, portrait, and figurative subjects. Rocky makes an effort to impart a sense of poetry, technical bravura, and presence to his paintings. He selects subjects and compositions based on complexity, variety, and compelling visual relationships. He also adheres to a vegan approach when selecting painting materials; completing paintings using all vegan-friendly paints/pigments, glues, and supports. In addition to painting, Rocky enjoys athletics, culinary arts, computer programming, music, and literature.

Did you always want to be an artist?

When I was in first grade I got a personal questions sheet and was asked what I wanted to do when I grew up, and I wrote "An artist". My mom kept it in a box of things like that, it's still around somewhere.

Any big news you’d like to share on the blog?

One recent change is that I've started blending in more avant garde techniques with my realism/representationalism, some of which will be included in my upcoming show.

What is your daily routine/ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

Lately I’ll put on an audiobook or music, set up my palette and easel, and then dive right in. I’ve gone through a LOT of audiobooks these last few years.

How did you settle into the mediums you use today?

I primarily use oil and acrylic paint on canvas for most of my pieces. When I began taking my art more seriously, I transitioned to painting fairly quickly. Although it has a steeper initial learning curve than some other mediums, I find it incredibly versatile and, in many ways, forgiving. If I need a specific color, I can mix it; if I want to change an area of a piece, I can simply paint over it.
For preliminary drawings on canvas, I use vine charcoal because it's quick, easily erased/wiped away, and allows for both edge and point strokes while sketching.
When it comes to sketches, I’ve experimented with various mediums over the years, including graphite, chalk, pastels, colored pencils, and digital tools (with a tablet). Lately, I’ve been using graphite and vine charcoal alongside white chalk on toned gray paper.
In recent years, I’ve also incorporated 3D modeling software (Blender) into my process to create reference models and establish underlying perspective structures for my drawings and paintings.

Available at the Gallery:

See Rocky's poetic work in person at our upcoming show debuting March 21st. Join Rocky ’s Presale List for early previews and the latest updates!

Artist Spotlight: Jennifer Allevato

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 17:13:22 GMT

From Almost-Lawyer to Full-Time Artist: A Creative Journey of Trust and Transformation

In this artist spotlight, we dive into the winding journey of Jennifer Allevato who never imagined her childhood dream could become a reality. From studying psychology and nearly applying to law school to exploring costume design and rediscovering painting, her path was anything but linear. Through years of creative exploration, self-trust, and persistence, she found her voice in acrylics and mixed media — ultimately building a successful career as a full-time artist. She shares the obstacles she overcame, her daily creative rituals, and the full-circle moment that affirmed her place in the art world.

Did you always want to be an artist?

Yes and no. I wanted to be an artist the same way little kids say they want to be a princess or a superhero – it sounded amazing, but I didn’t think it was an actual option.

After starting college as a Psych major, then declaring a double major with studio art, I finally just focused on oil painting and drawing by senior year. My next “almost” career was law school (I was thisclose to applying during the law school bubble of the mid-2000s). I then started an MFA program in oil painting, but quit after a year when it was clear the entire point of the program was pushing us into academia. No other option for an art career was even presented (this was pre-social media and even pre-Etsy). I have never felt a call to teach, so even with the prospect of a guaranteed income I knew deep down it wasn’t right for me.

A year later, I enrolled in an MFA program for costume design for theatre and film as it had a more direct career path attached. I enjoyed it and learned a lot (it’s where I was introduced to and fell in love with acrylics), but after 3 years of intense school and a year of working professionally in theatre with 12-14+ hour work days, this introvert was completely burnt out. All I wanted was to work on my own creative projects.

I eventually got a day job, opened an Etsy shop, and tried to learn as much as possible about running a creative business. It took several more years, but I finally was able to work full-time as an artist, right as Instagram was starting to be used for marketing rather than just a photo-editing app. It’s still weird to think of myself as a “small business owner,” as that was never the goal: I just wanted to paint!

What was the biggest obstacle you faced and overcame in your creative journey?

I think it was just trusting myself again. After I quit my first grad school and ended my journey with oil painting, I didn’t believe that I had kept up with the Art World enough to be an artist. While costume renderings (the costume and character design of each character in a show) can be very artistic (Desmond Heeley’s renderings were always my favorite), it’s a much different process than creating a work of art for yourself or for a gallery with the intention to sell.

Post working in theatre, my personal art projects began as embroideries and then collage/mixed media pieces; I slowly moved onto watercolors, followed finally by acrylic painting. It took several years of building back up that experience to gain enough confidence and growth in my work to start applying to juried art shows and selling my paintings. My second year of working full-time as an artist, I was accepted into a regional juried art show. At the opening reception, I discovered that a professor from my first oil painting MFA program also had a piece in the same show. That full-circle moment gave me a huge confidence boost. The first time I sold a “large” painting (30x30”) through a gallery about a year later, I truly felt like an artist. That was 10 years ago! There is no trick other than to just put in the work and keep creating.

What is your daily routine/ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

I start my mornings with a homemade iced vanilla almond milk latte and sit in my favorite chair while I do Wordle and Connections on my phone. I do not rise and grind; I rise and slowly melt awake.

Luckily my studio is in my home, so this makes the melting process much gentler.

I know they say to do your most important work first, but my brain does not allow that. If I have any outstanding administrative tasks I need to get done – responding to emails, social media posts, newsletter creation, etc. – I have to get that finished and out of the way so my brain can relax for creative work (which, as an artist, is my most important work). I then try to be good about doing my morning pages, and I usually start creative work after lunch.

I worked through The Artist’s Way last year and was resistant toward the idea of morning pages at first: I refuse to wake up early just to write. However, I found that as long as I do them before I begin my creative work, they have the same effect for me of clearing out my head and finding focus.

Depending on what I’m doing, I either listen to music, a podcast, or work in silence. (I love audiobooks, but I keep them for less creative work, like printing or packaging orders).

Music can really get me out of my head and in the zone. A few years ago I created an entire collection of work while listening to Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours album over and over! My taste varies greatly, from classic rock, to 90s pop and R&B, to 2000s-2010s indie rock and pop punk, to most of Taylor Swift’s catalog. And then… I just dive in until I lose my light in the evening. If I feel truly blocked, I will take a walk outside, visit a gallery or museum, write, collage, or watch an art documentary (Waldemar Januszczak’s always surprise and delight).

How did you settle into the mediums you use today?

I studied oil painting in college, but when I was in grad school for costume design, I had to learn to create many costume renderings quickly. A show might need anywhere from 20-100 renderings in just a week or two! (It was a luxury to have a month, and that still included all the research time). I took a class in watercolors and one in sumi-e style ink. Both were fun, but I found a true kinship when I learned acrylics. It took a while to get used to the rapid drying time, but through working quickly, using slow-dry mediums, and finding different ways to layer color, I truly found my niche.

I now work with acrylics, Flashe vinyl paint, and mixed media incorporating graphite, neocolor wax pastels, and even occasionally paper into my pieces.

Available at the Gallery:

Jennifer’s work invites you into vibrant, joyful scenes and moments of serenity — see her latest pieces at our March 21st show. Join Jennifer ’s Presale List for exclusive early access!

Artist Spotlight: Gina Julian

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 21:55:07 GMT

Bold Colors and a Lifelong Passion

Discover how Gina Julian turned her early love of art into a thriving career, from painting island sunsets on classmates’ nails to shipping large canvases across the country. In this spotlight, she shares the creative rituals, challenges, and inspirations that fuel her vibrant, color-driven work.

Did you always want to be an artist?

I knew I would be an artist from a very early age. I was constantly at the easel in Kindergarten, and throughout my youth, the thing that brought me the most joy was making things with my hands. When I got to high school I learned that I could use my artistic abilities to make money, and this opened up a whole new world for me. I did an early version of “nail art” during my lunch breaks in high school where I would paint classmates' fingernails with island sunset scenes using acrylic paint, then clear coat over it to protect it. I also got random jobs like creating price menus in calligraphy for local businesses. This helped me get a sense of what it would be like to make a living as an artist.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced and overcame in your creative journey?

My biggest obstacle was learning how to pack and ship large paintings. I had no idea where to even get a box large enough to ship a 36x48, and when I found out that you had to bulk order them and it would cost hundreds of dollars, my heart sank! So after selling my first big canvas, the manager of my local art supply store told me he would help. He gave me a box to ship it in and explained how I should pack it. He was so helpful and I will never forget his kindness. I used all the money from that first sale and bought my first bulk order of boxes, and I was off to the races!

What is your daily routine/ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

I require a minimum of two cups of black coffee, plus one cup of water to get my brain going. I have to properly hydrate and caffeinate! I go out on my back deck most mornings to soak up some sunlight, and I also answer emails first thing in the morning. I’m usually down in my studio by 8am most mornings.

What other artists in the gallery are you inspired by?

There are so many! I’m always inspired by the whimsy of Angela Blehm’s work, and for realism, I am in awe of Kevin Brent Morris and Mónica Ajenjo . Ron Giusti ’s work appeals to my bold, graphic-loving nature, and for abstract work it just doesn’t get better than Allison James ’ loose brushwork and color combinations.

What moved you to sell your work rather than just make it?

I grew up in a very small house and quickly learned that if you want to make more things, you’re gonna have to let a few things go to make room. It gives me a lot of joy to be able to send my work out into the world and share it with others, but if I’m being completely honest, the primary motivation for selling work is that I recognize it’s the only way I can continue to make more. There are always new things to explore with art, so selling my work makes it possible for me to continue the journey. I will forever be grateful to my collectors that give me the opportunity to keep creating!

Available at the Gallery:

Gina’s artwork is a true delight to experience—come see her new pieces at our March 21st show to fully appreciate their impact. Join G ina ’s Presale List for early access!

Vibrant Abstractions: A Dynamic Celebration of Color and Movement

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 18:04:48 GMT

As winter lingers, this show transforms the gallery into a kaleidoscope of creativity and color–Premiering Friday, February 14th

Featuring works from six innovative artists— AK Hardeman , Vicky Reddish , Jessi Raulet , Sarah Schwartz , Allison James , and Michelle Armas —Vibrant Abstractions invites viewers to explore expressive forms, bold hues, and dynamic compositions. The exhibition highlights movement, spontaneity, and unexpected elements, captivating the senses and celebrating the beauty found in abstraction and the freedom of creative expression.

What have these Vibrant Abstractions artists been up to?

What we know: AK Hardeman’s November solo show was a huge success, selling out all 10 pieces in just two weeks. Sarah Schwartz recently created amidst the challenges of California wildfires—show her some extra love. Michelle Armas co-hosted an art class in Des Moines, a rare treat since her workshops are usually in her studio. The team also traveled to Strasbourg, France, to visit Jessi Raulet, who partners with brands like Target, Anthropologie, and Pottery Barn. Both Allison James and Vicky Reddish joined us in Des Moines for the gallery’s five-year celebration last year–what fun!

AK HARDEMAN

"As an artist I am interested in the interaction of color; how the arrangements of colors create a work of art. I use acrylic and oil paints, oil pastel, colored pencil, and paper to create my work on canvas and paper. Color affects appetite, vision, sexuality, design, art, emotions and myriad aspects of life that impact the very psychology of people. Color is expressed in all of our surroundings especially in nature and science. Colors can be complementary, harmonizing, adjacent, or they can contrast and clash. Color is the central theme of my work. I focus on colors that express my emotions and feelings in an image that leaves the viewer room to interpret." - AK

SARAH SCHWARTZ

Sarah Schwartz navigates deliberate choices and curious moments by utilizing mixed media and found objects. She challenges traditional painting norms by repurposing unconventional supports like vintage frames, wooden trays, and even worn skateboards. Informed by her training in design, she explores duality within her work, holding certain conversations in contrasts: textured and smooth, neutral and colorful, traditional and contemporary. Oftentimes, her pieces become a reflection of the process of art-making itself.

MICHELLE ARMAS

Michelle has been painting and making things always. Her dad supplied her with endless paper and pencils and paints. He encouraged her by teaching her how to use oil paints and pastels. Her mother is also a talented seamstress and from her she learned to keep trying until you know your piece is perfect.
"I owe my creative upbringing in muggy Texas surrounded by my vibrant Spanish family for cultivating a love of composing colorful art. I live a simple life with my beautiful daughter and (very handsome) husband in Atlanta where I am surrounded by artists and makers of every description. I feel very fortunate to live in the south where the people are truly as friendly as you have heard and the pace of life is just a bit slower." -Michelle

JESSI RAULET

Jessi Raulet is an American midwest-born artist living in Strasbourg, France. She began her creative career as an Art Director, working with top San Francisco Bay Area brands. In 2013, she moved to Paris for love. Inspired by her new life adventure, she let her creativity take flight and thus the EttaVee brand was born. Jessi’s art, and the EttaVee brand, has become well-known for its bold patterns, playfulness and optimistic color palettes.

ALLISON JAMES

Allison James is continually inspired by the messy (but thrilling) human experience. Her work is fueled by personal events and memories, along with conversations overheard from strangers and inside storybooks. James reconfigures these felt emotions into a preferred outcome, translating feeling into her own abstracted storytelling. With this trio of internal processing, Allison is able to construct a new visual narrative of self through her paintings, each piece emanating with saturated color and subtle details. She uses her training as a representational artist and printmaker to build up her signature silhouettes with layers of thin paint, elusive details and recognizable shapes that she endearingly refers to as her ‘decoder ring things.’

VICKY REDDISH

Vicky Reddish is an abstract artist from Nashville, TN. Her heart is sharing happiness, love, and joy with others. Her philosophy is simple: make stuff that makes you happy, and people will be happy too. Her love of color is evident in her work. Her art ignites a sense of fun, warmth, and personality that hopes to inspire and uplift. Vicky uses acrylic paint, oil pastels and a variety of catalysts to create expressive, colorful works of art. She is passionate about capturing the emotion and complexity of a moment or a memory in her work.

Learn more about the gallery and artists at www.lizlidgett.com . Vibrant Abstractions will be on display February 14th through to our next show beginning March 21st.

Artist Spotlight: Kevin Brent Morris

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 21:21:01 GMT

Rooted in childhood ambitions—art has become not just a passion but a calling

I think you'll really enjoy getting to know more about Kevin through this blog post—Sometimes our dreams are planted early, even if it takes years for them to bloom. For Kevin, the journey to embracing art began unexpectedly in 2015 with a visit to a Richard Estes exhibit.

What is your daily routine/ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

For better or worse, I am a hyper-disciplined person. I wake up at 5 each morning, paint for an hour or so, exercise, paint again, do whatever other work needs to be done for the day, and then paint again in the evening. I listen to podcasts when I paint— lots of history and current events.

How did you settle into the medium/mediums you use today?

I am very opportunistic with my mediums and am fairly agnostic. I began painting with acrylic due to the ease of use and the fast drying times which enable me to layer paintings quickly. I moved to oils for work where I want to paint more loosely. I use gouache when I travel because it dries quickly and reactivates when wet. I’ll paint with whatever is available!

Did you always want to be an artist?

I have always loved art. I just never thought I was an artist. That is until I saw a Richard Estes exhibit in 2015. Estes is a photorealistic and, when I saw his work, it triggered something inside of me to want to create. There was a deep observation that Estes’ work required. A meditation of sorts. Anyhow, I picked up a paint brush for the first time in 2015 and channeled my love for both ecology and people into my art practice. Fast forward to today. I was recently visiting my family in Houston and my parents pulled out an elementary school memory book that I had no recollection of. Much to my surprise, I said that I wanted to be an artist when I was in kindergarten. Despite having no memory of wanting to be an artist and 37 years of not being an artist, I now definitely consider myself an artist and art a calling. It just took 37 years of germination for that seed to finally sprout.

What moved you to sell your work rather than just make it?

There’s only so much work you can stash on your walls and in your basement. It’s got to get out in the world to make other people happy. You don’t put a lamp under a basket. You let it shine out. That’s how I feel about selling my work and putting it out in the world.

What other artists in the gallery are you inspired by?

My new favorite has to be Paige Ledom . She’s from Kansas City (bonus!) and her collage work is just great. Hunt Slonem is also an art hero to me as a current king of the pop art movement. His repeat of the bunnies was a huge encouragement that I could vibe on beetles. And let’s talk about Ekaterina Popova ! Her brushwork is phenomenal. And I’ve got to give a shout out to my fellow realists like Monica Ajenjo , Jenna Brownlee , and Gina Julian .

Available at the Gallery:

If you haven't seen them already, Kevin’s pieces are even more vibrant in person, and he’ll be sharing new work in our Ordinary Objects Show on March 21st. Join Kevin ’s Presale List for first dibs!

Artist Spotlight: Paige Ledom

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 16:50:51 GMT

Finding your voice as an artist often involves twists, turns, and moments of doubt

In this Q&A, Paige Ledom shares her creative journey—one that began with frustration and evolved into playful exploration, ultimately leading her to the world of cut-paper collage. Join us as she reflects on finding clarity, embracing the winding path of an artistic career, and a few gallery artists she admires. Plus Paige is one of our newest LLGD artists–give her a big virtual hug!

Did you always want to be an artist?

As a child, I enjoyed spending time alone creating whatever came to mind. Scripts for plays, writing and illustrating little books with characters born in my imagination, designing a dream room in a tattered notebook with the spirals starting to stick out straight. I always knew I wanted to do something that allowed me to chase more of this feeling daily, as much as possible. It's the feeling of play, really.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced and overcame in your creative journey?

After leaving University, I hated everything I was making. I know that's a strong word, but it's how I felt. Yet, I would continue to show up and try, hoping one day I would feel differently. I desperately wanted to identify as a painter, because many of the artists I admired were painters. I felt like a failure because when I painted, what resulted on the canvas didn't feel like a mirror to who I was inside. I realized something needed to change and I needed to play and find the fun in my art again. That's when I began cutting up paint swatches as well as other materials I had lying around, and fell in love with creating again. That is when I made the switch to being a cut-paper collage artist.

What is your daily routine/ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

Coffee comes first! The rest depends on what stage I am in my process. If I am in idea mode or the early phases of a work, I require music to get me in the rhythm of things. If I am in the middle or later stages of a piece, I like to listen to podcasts because it's more about the rote work involved in finishing the art.

What moved you to sell your work rather than just make it?

My path to get here was a bit of the winding, crooked kind. I taught art for 5 years, then I pursued interior decorating and selling vintage goods after that. My own art was always present during these moments, but I realized piling on these other titles was a way of distracting myself from what I wanted deep down, which was to be a career artist. In 2024, I made my art my main focus. It's the first time I felt clarity in a while. I still face challenges, but they feel worthwhile because they're all on the path I want to be on. Selling my art affords me the time to do more of what I love, which is- make more art!

What other artists in the gallery are you inspired by?

Can I say all of them?! Ahh, but to name a few in particular- I love the loose organic shapes in Bekah Worley's pieces, the mark making of AK Hardeman's work, and the use of light and shadow in Kevin Brent Morris's beatle paintings.

Available at the Gallery:

Paige’s pieces are truly magical in person, and she’ll be unveiling new work at our March 21st Show (Ordinary objects). Join Paige ’s Presale List for first dibs!

Liz’s Lens: Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Hang

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 19:36:30 GMT

Take the guesswork out of hanging art—all the knowledge you need in one place!

Which motto fits you the best: measure once, hang twice, or measure twice, hang once? What if you could measure once and hang perfectly every time? With a formula, one golden measurement is all it takes!

Three Practical Tips:

Furniture placement matters, height matters and visual space matters.

1. hang art 12-14" above furniture

2. middle of the piece at 60" (average eye line)

3. generally at least 12" between two works (unless there's creative intention)

Installing two stacked pieces?

See the easy math breakdown of how to hang your art in one swing below–our version of the Krabby Patty Formula!

Here’s the math—stick with me. Measure the height of both pieces (24” here) and the distance you want between them (3”) Add that all together to get 51”. Divide it by 2 and add that number to 60” (average eye height) which is 84”. I theh take the distance between the top of the first piece and the wire on the back. Here that’s 6”. So 84”-6” is 78” and that’s where you’ll put your first nail. For the second piece, measure the distance again from the top of the piece and the wire. Here again 6” and then I add that distance in so from the bottom of the first piece we measure 9” down. That’s where you put your 2nd nail. Point being you want 60” to be in the center of the overall visual weight like you would just a single piece.

And if you're a visual learner

Follow these steps for installing one piece of art at standard eye line level.

Thanks for following along! I’ll be back soon to share more tips, insights, and wisdom in the next Liz’s Lens blog!

Who is Erika Veurink?

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 15:20:45 GMT

Welcome Erika Veurink, this months guest curator, blogger and fashion extraordinaire! Erika has all the things going for her — incredible style, amazing writer, impeccable taste, joyous connector and best of all—an Iowa girl at heart. She is one of my favorite people to follow. Her recommendations become must-haves because I know she’s never going to steer me wrong.

I’m thrilled she curate d an edit this month featuring works by our artists, and I know you’ll love her perspective as much as I do.

Erika Veurink is a writer, brand strategist, and founder of EV Salon, based in Brooklyn by way of Iowa.

Fun facts about Erika: She writes Cup of Jo’s monthly fashion column and loves shopping for secondhand clothes at Worn and the Salvation Army downtown in Des Moines. Erika collects art as a way to build a sense of home while renting in the city. "I can’t wait to have a fabulous country space where all of it can live for good," she says, "but for now, they’re city dwellers just like me."

"Living in New York, art can feel like the only permanent thing about where you live. People move apartments all the time, and when I made the city my home over a decade ago, I brought a few framed pieces from Iowa with me. They're still a part of my collection today. " –Erika

"Working with Liz was a no-brainer. When I got married a few years ago, I knew I wanted to register for a piece of art that would always remind us of that day." - Erika

Erika's Curated Collection is Now Live!

Use Code: ERIKA10 to receive 10% off Erika's Curated Collection ! This curated page will be live through March 2nd.

Where Art Lives: Installation Inspiration

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 18:42:53 GMT

Wall-to-WOW! See how art can make these spaces shine.

Where Art Lives could offer the inspiration, you didn't know you needed, to envision a piece in your own space. Discover how art can transform a home, taking it from blank walls to a stunning, personalized interior. Below, explore pieces that don’t just fill a space but shape and elevate their surroundings.

Elisa Sheehan

Emily Keating Snyder

Betsy Enzensberger

Brittany Atkinson

And before we wrap up, let’s take a moment to give our talented artists a well-deserved round of applause. Their incredible work brings inspiration, beauty, and wonder into our lives, and we’re so grateful to share it with you. Stay tuned for more installation inspiration blogs !

Sparkling: A Contemporary Celebration of Maximalism

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 19:00:10 GMT

Is ^ that an oxymoron? See for yourself at the show, debuting Friday, Jan. 17!

To begin the year, step into a kaleidoscope of color and texture with Sparkling , where every canvas bursts with layered patterns, vibrant hues, and intricate details. This collection embraces the "more is more" philosophy, blending eclectic influences to create dynamic, immersive works that captivate the senses and defy convention. Prepare to lose yourself in a world where creativity knows no bounds. Whether you visit the gallery in person or explore the exhibit online at www.lizlidgett.com , these works are sure to make a statement.

The group show highlights five talented artists: Elisa Sheehan (Easton, New York), Nate Nettleton (Ontario, Canada), Ron Giusti (Lake Oswego, Oregon), Kristi Kohut (Chicago, Illinois), Theodora Miller (Richmond, Virginia), Logan Ledford (New Orleans, Louisiana), Madison Summerlin (Tulsa, Oklahoma).

Meet the geniuses behind these innovative contemporary delights.

MADISON SUMMERLIN

Madison Summerlin is a mixed-media abstract artist based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Madison has been passionate about abstract art for most of her life. Raised on her grandparents ranch, she spent many summer days quilting with her grandmother. Madison believes working with her hands at such a young age sparked her creativity. The inspiration for Madison’s work and her recognizable collection, The Dawt Studies, comes from her attraction to color relationships, pattern, and organic shapes. Madison hopes that by using her art to illustrate beauty in imperfections and differences, she can inspire viewers to see the beauty in the differences of the people that surround them. Madison believes that by loving one another in our truest form we, in turn, learn what it means to truly love.

NATE NETTLETON

Nate Nettleton is a conceptual sculptural artist living and working in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. His art practice explores the importance of simplicity, and constructs abstract physical representations of personal & societal progress, empowerment, and possibility. Nates artworks have been exhibited in galleries across North America, he has created public sculptural works shown throughout Canada, his works have been featured in Canadian and American art publications, and he is represented by Wallspace Gallery and Liz Lidgett Gallery.

RON GIUSTI

"I am inspired by so many sources; at times it can be overwhelming. There are days when ideas, song lyrics, random thoughts are competing for attention – I’m typically out of bed by 3:30 am. The modern greats have left a significant impact on my personal style: Warhol, Kline, Basquiat, Rothko, Lichtenstein, Pollock, Takashi, Kakinuma. My Mini paintings are inspired by Kline and Kakinuma and I love their bold simplicity, standing alone or in a grouping. The Kokeshi Doll Heads was where the Mini Collection began, and inspired the rest – Abstracts, Hearts, LOVE, and my newest pieces Wagasa (based on Chinese/Japanese umbrellas) and Hebi (which is my Japanese birth symbol). My larger graffiti-esque paintings are a throwback to my career as a Creative Director. Seeing items in different contexts provides depth and dimension to those elements. I’m heavily inspired and influenced by the masterful way Asian culture can make simple items so elegant and combine ancient themes in vibrant and modern works – it’s gorgeous. On most of my bigger pieces you will see Chinese takeout cartons, origami animals, chopsticks, and vintage Chinese matchbook art – they represent the culmination of thoughts I jot down, song lyrics playing in the moment, random logos I liked. You’ll find I like to repeat visual elements – this is a nod to my personal style – that there are many sides to me. If I had to sum up my art, they are snapshots from my mind over the course days/months/years/life."

ELISA SHEEHAN

It takes a robust vocabulary to get closer to describing the indescribable. But my vocabulary isn’t just comprised of words ... It contains entire spectrums of color. Along with a varied and wide-ranging palette of joy-inducing colors and styles of mark-making, many of my eggshell paintings also include gold leaf “cracks.” I’ve always loved the Japanese art of kintsugi wherein broken pottery is repaired with gold and rather than trying to disguise the break or flaw, it is highlighted and therefore elevated to a status of beauty. Its age is celebrated, its history is seen, its flaws are revered. I think this is a great way to think about ourselves, others and our relationships as we age - not to try to look like our former, younger selves but to embrace our “breaks and flaws” and to honor them and see the beauty in them. A chance pre-dawn eggshell painting session where I dropped and shattered a shell I’d been painting led to the connection of this ancient practice to my eggshell paintings. I hand paint each eggshell before gold leaf is carefully applied as a visual representation of kintsugi. Each delicate eggshell carries not only visual beauty but representation beauty and meaning as well.

KRISTI KOHUT

Kristi Kohut’s art philosophy is quite simple: There are no rules. With so much of the art world behind closed doors or within intimidating galleries, Kristi wants her work to be inviting and uplifting. Using bold brights, shiny crystalline touches, mixed mediums and unexpected materials, Kristi creates special pieces that draw the viewer in and radiate joy. Her journey as an artist began after taking time off from her job as an advertising director when her son was born in 2007. Kristi found that she had a creative force rising from her core, so she picked up a brush and began painting. In a month, her studio was filled with canvases from wall to wall and she knew she was onto something. After honing her craft for several years, Kristi was ready to market her work. But the typical artist’s path and exclusive representation didn’t feel like a fit — she wanted to connect one-on-one with potential buyers. Bucking the norm at the time, Kristi sold her art online and began sharing her story on Instagram. In one click, someone could become a collector and own a first edition, and in one message a person could have a conversation with Kristi. Today, Kristi’s work has been featured in over 70 publications, including Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Forbes and World of Interiors, and purchased by entrepreneurs, Hall of Fame athletes and magazine editors across four continents. Demand for her work is also increasing: Pieces often sell within minutes of going live on her website, and the value of an original has increased 25% each year since 2014 when she officially established her studio. There is currently a waitlist for commissions through 2020. Kristi’s success shows there is no one-size-fits-all solution to artistry —she’s happy being an outlier — or more aptly, an artlier.

THEODORA MILLER

After a traumatic brain injury forced Theodora Miller into complete isolation and cognitive rest, artful living took on a new meaning; it became an essential part of her healing. Today, Theodora has a thriving creative practice and has cultivated a signature style as a visual artist, ceramicist, and creative entrepreneur. Studio time is her sanctuary, a way of tuning in and following her intuition. Theodora’s ever-evolving visual language and calligraphic designs are an authentic expression of her Greek identity, merging memory, emotion and history into visual statements that are uniquely her own. Each soulful creation carries intricate details, texture, and a story. Her artwork is featured in corporate collections and treasured by art lovers around the globe. She resides in Richmond, Virginia, but her spirit dwells on an island in the Aegean Sea.

LOGAN LEDFORD

Logan Ledford was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 1987. She received her Bachelor of Interior Design from Louisiana State University in 2009. She studied at the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts in 2015. Ledford previously worked within the film and advertising industry for 5 years as a professional graphic designer. She worked with Nike, Adidas, The Hyatt Regency New Orleans, Fireball Whiskey, South Walton Tourism Council, and Gulf Coast Seafood. Ledford has exhibited in Louisiana at the VanGuard Gallery, the Aquarium Gallery, The Print Shop, New Orleans Art Center, Katie Koch Home, Martine Chaisson Gallery, Claire Elizabeth Gallery, New Orleans Museum of Art, and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Her work has been reviewed by Garden & Gun, LSU Art & Design College Press, The Washington Post, and the Boston Globe. Ledford lives and works in New Orleans, Louisiana. She is currently working on a new series of work that utilizes a minimal composition using acrylic paint, birch panels, and plaster. This year she will continue to show her work at Dimmit Contemporary, Gregg Irby, and most recently Liz Lidgett in Des Moines. Logan’s work is simply about women. Being a woman. Logan expresses this through her work. Woman have voluptuous lines that are sensual and soft. Their emotions can change through time and are varied like an array of color. What are their thoughts? How do they see others? What stories to they tell? What do they struggle with most? Logan’s work uses plaster, objects and acrylic paint combined with color theory exploration to create her work.

Learn more about the gallery and artists at www.lizlidgett.com . Sparkling will be on display January 17th through to our next show beginning February 14th.

Artists Whose Work Increased in Value in 2024

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 15:14:29 GMT

2024 was a successful year for our artists, with many releases selling out in minutes or even faster! Here’s a list of just a few artists whose work saw a rise in value this year.

Hunt Slonem

Anna Flickinger

Anna Flickinger is a local Iowan, who at a young age was fascinated with the quirks and beauty of nature. This influenced her current subject matter depicting vegetation and wildlife. She uses a technique called stippling, allowing her to explore hyperrealism through small dots simulating varying degrees of solidity or shading. You can’t help but be drawn closer to admire the intricate beauty of her mark-making. Visit Anna Flickinger's page here.

Kevin Brent Morris

Kevin Brent Morris is an emerging representational artist based out of Kansas City and drastically gaining popularity. Working primarily in acrylics, he is a colorist with a strong commitment to form and light, Morris combines direct observation and expressive color to create representations that juxtapose planes of flattened space with domestic and natural objects, conveying depth and plays of light. Inspired by the nabis, fauvist, and pop art movements, Morris gives presence to small, fleeting moments—flowers, bugs, or intimate domestic scenes. Painting from his family home, often amidst the lively chaos of his children, his practice reflects a meditative yet joyful attention to life and light. View all available work here.

Above are just a few of the artists whose work saw an increase in value this past year. Others include…

Click here to view all artists at the gallery and their work.

One of the best parts of working with these artists is seeing their growth and connecting collectors with their work. Were there any artists you particularly enjoyed following this year? Stay tuned in the new year for new artwork releases from our artists , and remember to sign up for their presale on their individual artist page to be the first to know!

2024 in Gallery Numbers: A Look at Our Year in Art

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 18:44:04 GMT

Because who doesn’t love reflecting on life’s truly important numbers—like how many coffees they’ve purchased this year? Or in Liz’s case, Diet Cokes.

As the year comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the numbers that tell the story of 2024—hundreds of artworks sold, dozens of states and countries reached, and countless walls transformed into masterpieces. While others may focus on end-of-year reports, we’re celebrating the milestones that truly matter to us: the incredible reach of our artists and the joy their work has brought to new homes. Let’s take a look back at the stats that made this year unforgettable.

As seen in our Instagram 2024 recap video ...

+ 72 represented artists (7 added!)
+ 10 curated shows
+ 30 online releases
+ 1,432 artworks sold (1140 last year!)
+ 47 states shipped to
+ 7 countries shipped to
+ 698 clients (new and returning)
+ 482 nails (used and patched)
+ 125 newsletters sent
+ 124,800 minutes of music streamed
+ ??? … Diet Cokes drank (all Liz)
+ 33.8K IG followers (26.1K last year)
+ 2 new team members

and most importantly...
+ 1 very thankful small business.

And, just for fun—see last year's numbers to compare. We are so thankful that you have chosen to support our artists and small business this past year. We hope your new year is merry and bright, with your 2025 being full of art! Happy holidays and warm wishes from the Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design team!

Art Partnerships with Retailers

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:36:52 GMT

Add a Lasting Impression for your Customers and Brand

We’re thrilled to collaborate with retailers to bring art into their spaces! Incorporating artwork not only elevates the overall design but also creates a unique atmosphere that resonates with customers. It’s exciting to see how the right piece can transform a retail environment, adding character, creativity, and a lasting impression.

Below are some of our recent retailer partnerships, where we had the pleasure of sourcing original artwork for: Louis Vuitton at Hudson Yards, New York; Veronica Beard, New Jersey; and Aritzia, Vancouver, Canada.

Louis Vuitton, Hudson yards, New York

Veronica Beard, New Jersey

Aritzia, Vancouver, Canada

Art brings originality to a retail space—that otherwise can seem copy-and-pasted from space to space as a national brand. As we continue to expand our partnerships, we’re excited to see how art can further enrich retail experiences and create memorable environments. Every collaboration is an opportunity to blend style with artistry, crafting spaces that inspire and connect with visitors on a deeper level. We look forward to many more projects that bring beauty and originality into spaces where customers feel truly at home.

If your retail space is needing those finishing touches, email me at sara@lizlidgett.com

Gallery Show: Dynamic Flow

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 15:38:28 GMT

A Show that Explores Emotion, Form, and Movement Beyond Representation

After a busy November packed with holiday sales of smaller works, this new show takes things up a notch—spotlighting bold, large-scale pieces that demand attention. Dynamic Flow, features work from artists around the country inviting viewers to explore emotion, form, and movement beyond representation. Their approaches are as diverse as their perspectives. Some of the artists explore color as language, others use texture to evoke the tactile and the unspoken. Together, they highlight the power of abstraction to reflect our inner worlds while reshaping our understanding of the external. Whether you visit the gallery in person or explore the exhibit online at www.lizlidgett.com , these works are sure to make a statement and inspire. The group show highlights five talented artists represented by the gallery: Carrie Gillen , Rebecca Stern , Bethany Mabee , Kristen Abbott , Andrea Ferrigno .

And with the East Village buzzing with holiday spirit, there’s no better time to visit! The gallery, open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., is not only a haven for world-class art but also a picture-perfect spot for holiday photos.

Artist Spotlights:

For this show, we added a personal touch by asking the five featured artists to answer a few art/process related questions and share behind-the-scenes photos of their work. Each artist now has their own blog post, giving you a chance to dive deeper into their creative processes, inspirations, and unique stories. It’s the perfect way to connect with the people behind the art and gain a new perspective on their incredible pieces! Click on the artist your interested in learning more about below:

As 2024 comes to a close, Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design celebrates a year of remarkable milestones: supporting 70 talented artists worldwide, shipping art to homes in 47 states and 4 countries, and helping over 1,000 pieces find new homes. With even more to celebrate, the gallery is looking forward to an exciting 2025.

Whether you’re stopping by the gallery or exploring the exhibit online at www.lizlidgett.com , Dynamic Flow is sure to inspire and leave a lasting impression.

Artist Spotlight: Carrie Gillen

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 17:02:02 GMT

Carrie is always pushing her creative limits, learn her art-making process and more behind the work we've all come to love

I think you'll really enjoy getting to know more about Carrie through this blog post—it’s inspiring to hear about her creative path, process, and the ways she’s challenged herself to reach new heights in her work. You’ll get an inside look at her recent accomplishment, her creative inspirations, and how she’s overcome obstacles to pursue a full-time career as an artist.

Any big news you’d like to share on the blog?

I recently completed a series of some of my largest works to date. The Foundry Arts Center, located near where I live in St. Louis, commissioned three pieces as part of their year-long indoor mural program. They offer purchase awards for the project, and the works will stay on display in the space for a year. I really pushed myself in terms of both scale and style. The series includes two fabric diptychs and one sheetrock triptych. Before I began working with fabric twisting, which most people recognize, I explored a variety of materials in my art. It was really fun to get back into breaking sheetrock.

Did you always want to be an artist?

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t love making things, but turning that passion into ‘being an artist’ never felt entirely realistic. My grandmother was a figurative oil painter—more of a hobbyist, really—but incredibly talented, and she began teaching me at a young age. Even though I loved making art, I didn’t fully understand what it could look like as a career. While in school, I briefly ventured into the world of advertising, hoping to find a more practical way to apply my creativity. It turns out, I was a lousy ad person and, at best, a mediocre graphic designer.

How did you settle into the medium/mediums you use today?

I think all my work stems from a fascination with materials and exploring what I can make them do. I felt really limited by canvas, so I asked myself, What else can I use? I enjoy the physicality of creating paintings that require me to stretch, pull, and break. I prefer this type of mark-making over just painting on canvas. That said, I’m obsessed with color and color theory—its possibilities and nuances are limitless. Paint still plays a critical role in my work.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced and overcame in your creative journey?

Fear. There are so many aspects of being an artist that feel vulnerable and unsteady: public criticism, frequent rejection, and financial struggle. I don’t know any successful artist who hasn’t spent years grappling with the tough parts of this work. We mostly see artists’ careers after they’ve reached a certain level of success, but I’d wager that most of us spend at least ten years in the early stages of our practice wondering: Why are we doing this? Why does it matter? This is hard .

What is your daily routine/ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

I wish it were more inspiring, romantic, or something—but it’s truly not. Many days, I’m not inspired. I think my motivation comes from the habit of working. Occasionally, I’ll have an idea I feel compelled to bring to life, but more often, it’s just about going to the studio and getting started. Once I begin, those first steps usually guide me to the next. I don’t follow strict schedules or timelines because I love the freedom my practice provides. Sometimes, I’ll work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and other times, I’ll arrive at 4 p.m. and stay in the studio until midnight. I suppose the common thread is that I consistently show up for the work.

At what point did you decide to become a career artist?/ What was your occupation before?

The pandemic really pushed me toward making art full-time and trying to exhibit and sell my work more regularly. I had been working part-time as a set designer/builder, but that work, along with all my planned exhibitions, pretty much disappeared that year. I was left with a studio full of artwork and nowhere for it to go. So, I started an online auction of my available work through Instagram, with proceeds going to benefit local businesses and nonprofits in my town that were struggling in the early months of the pandemic. The response truly surprised me. That year, I continued to grow and connect with people online, and I became more comfortable sharing my art in this way. Before long, I could see the possibilities of being a full-time artist.

What other artists in the gallery are you inspired by?

This question almost feels unfair—the whole roster is chock-full of inventors, color wizards, and truly the most joyful collection of artwork. Since I’m an absolute sucker for sculpture, I have to mention Rebecca Stern and Paige Barnes Dorsey . I love a textured canvas, and Rebecca’s focus on form is truly dreamy. And I never knew I needed a floral ceramic snake on my shelf, but Paige’s snakes definitely changed that. I’m saving my pennies!

If you haven't seen them already, Carrie’s pieces are truly awe-inspiring in person, and she’ll be unveiling new work at our Abstract Expressionist Show on December 6th. Join Carrie’s Presale List for first dibs!

Artist Spotlight: Kristen Abbott

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 15:40:26 GMT

Dive into Kristen's World and Uncover her Daily Rituals, Creative Process, and Passion for Experimentation

Kristen is an absolute joy to connect with; she brings creative people together in the most inspiring ways! Get an inside look at her story and get ready to be inspired—I know you’ll enjoy getting to know her just as much as I have!

Any big news you’d like to share on the blog?

2024 has been an incredible year of growth for me and my work! I think the biggest realization I’ve had is that not only do I love creating art, I also love to create spaces where people can experience creativity, wonder, and meaningful connection—both with themselves and with others. I recently moved into a new studio space, a 1950s schoolhouse that I’ve been renovating for the last year into a creative haven. I am so excited to have a large studio not only to immerse myself in art making but also to welcome others into this space that is full of possibility! It has brought me so much joy to host artist circles, workshops, and retreats here in Boulder and also abroad through The Creative Soul Retreat. This June, I’ll be hosting another international creative retreat in the English countryside and I can’t wait! There are a few spots remaining for this intimate retreat and you can find all of the details here . I am looking forward to seeing how my creative community and art practice will continue to grow in the coming year!

Did you always want to be an artist?

From a very early age, I felt a strong pull toward creating art, especially with paint. I was captivated by the textures, marks, and layers that could build up on a canvas, making each piece feel alive. Painting felt so tactile and embodied in the best ways. While I always loved making art, it wasn’t until my 20s—when I worked at a contemporary art gallery—that I began to see a full-time career as an artist as a real possibility. That experience gave me the vision for what I wanted my path in art to look like, and I gained invaluable skills that changed the course of my life. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else!

Available at the gallery:

How did you settle into the mediums you use today?

I don’t think I’ll ever feel truly “settled” in my choice of mediums. Experimentation keeps my studio practice feeling fresh and exciting, so I’m always exploring new materials. Whether it’s oil paint, cyanotype, or acrylic, I like to let each medium guide me rather than forcing it to fit my vision.
My journey with the cyanotype process began as a pandemic project with my daughters, who were three and six at the time. We spent afternoons creating sun prints together, using leaves, fairy cutouts, and little treasures they collected from nature. The process felt magical—like capturing a moment through sunlight—and it quickly became a medium that brings me so much joy. I take a playful, collaborative approach with nature in my cyanotype work, embracing the unique, unpredictable interactions that emerge. Harnessing the power of the sun, I navigate a delicate balance between intention and serendipity, control and surrender. Each piece becomes a conversation between my hands and natural forces, revealing the beauty of letting go and allowing creation to unfold organically.

What is your daily ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

I love this question about daily rituals! In our society, we often prioritize “structure” and “discipline,” but I believe part of my role as an artist is to bring a deep sense of presence and ritual to daily life. Whether it's waking early for a morning routine or diving into a day of studio work, I find that the more beauty and intention I weave into my spaces, the more inviting they feel, and the fewer creative blocks I experience.

My mornings usually begin with helping my daughters off to school, followed by a quiet moment at home where I sit by the hearth with a beeswax candle and a hot cup of tea. I take a few minutes to stretch, jot down thoughts that are always swirling, read a few pages of non-fiction, and re-center my mind on the intention of the day. Then, after coffee and getting ready, I head to my nearby studio. When I arrive, I pause to breathe in the space, light a favorite candle, and put on instrumental music or a creative podcast to get into the flow. Just the act of beginning a piece or adding a few brushstrokes to another usually pulls me in for hours of painting, as long as my phone stays on silent and out of reach!

Curious to see Kristen’s work up close? She’ll be one of five featured artists in our December 6th Abstract Expressionist Show! Mark your calendar and join Kristen’s Presale List for early access!

Art Meets Design: Curating the Perfect Room & Artwork Pairings #2

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 17:35:07 GMT

Add personality to your minimalist living space by selecting artwork that brings a punch of color to the overall design

In this series, I’m thrilled to bring my passion for blending art and design to you with insights and inspiration drawn from years of curating unique spaces. “Art Meets Design” will explore the nuances of integrating art into any environment—whether it’s the subtleties of matching pieces with color schemes or the bold statements made through contrast and texture. Looking forward to diving into the world of art-infused design with you!

Who Said Minimalism Means Minimal Color?

Not me! At the heart of this room’s design is a vibrant piece of art by Suzy Lindow . It not only complements the throw pillows but transforms what could be a mundane space into an explosion of personality. It serves as the perfect finishing touch, tying the room together in a fun yet understated way.

Shop the look:

Area Rug , Side Chair , Floor Lamp , Coffee Table , Sofa , Sconces , & Throw Pillow

More Personality Pieces:

2024 Holiday Shop–who you'll find!

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 15:56:23 GMT

The holiday shop is a true passion project for me, as it provides a range of accessible price points for original artwork from incredible artists.

Each year, I invite our artists to create pieces priced around $500, making it easier for more clients to collect the art they love. My goal is also to support artists during the holiday season; every purchase helps sustain their small businesses and fuels their creative journey.

The shop will go live on the website Friday, November 22, at 10am CT . The artwork is first come, first served. And we're also offering some gallery merch—totes! Thank you SO much for supporting our artists—over and over again. We are so grateful this holiday season. And we’re so excited for these smalls to find homes.

Who is Eva Amurri?

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 15:09:54 GMT

I’ve been a fan of Eva’s work for some time, and I had the great fortune to get to know her a few months ago during an advocacy trip with March Fourth in Washington, D.C. It quickly became clear that the Eva you see online is exactly who she is in person: kind, fun, effervescent, and with impeccable taste. I already knew Eva was a lover of the arts, and her recent line with BenchMade Modern only deepened my admiration. I’m thrilled she took the time to curate an edit featuring works by our artists, and I know you’ll love her perspective as much as I do.

"I've been an art lover all my life– and I've been collecting nearly as long!" –Eva

Eva Amurri is a Lifestyle Blogger, Designer, Entrepreneur, and Actress. She started her brand Happily Eva After nearly a decade ago, as a way to share her love of style, food, entertaining, and interior design– as well as her role as a Mom of 3. Eva launched a seating collection with BenchMade Modern this year– the culmination of a lifelong obsession with home design and the search for perfectly chic (and indestructible) furniture that holds up to family life. Eva delights in sharing the Good, the Bad, and the Funny of life, love, and parenting on her social channels!

"I'm a firm believer in unique art being the ultimate finishing touch to your living spaces– and making them truly feel like home. I enjoy thoughtfully building my art collection so that each piece I own, and display in my home, has a special story and meaning behind it. These pieces become like heirlooms for my kids– I love how they each have favorites, and create their own connections to them! The right piece of art really can spark immense amounts of joy. In terms of interior design, a great piece of art can transform a room, and bring a design from good to spectacular. I love the idea that the same passion and intention that was imbued in a piece by the artist can be carried into your space and bring such great energy. I'm so excited to be curating this selection of pieces for the gallery because I think Liz represents the best things about the art world: passion, style, groundedness, humor, elegance, and just the right amount of cheekiness. Her taste, and her understanding of the works she features are impeccable. I absolutely adore all that she has built and continues to stand for!" –Eva Amurri

Uncover a fun behind-the-scenes blog about Eva’s past acting gig with Mandy Moore and Macaulay Culkin!

Eva's Curated Collection is Now Live!

Get an inside look at Eva’s world on her blog —don’t miss out!
Use Code: EVA10 to receive 10% off Eva's Curated Collection ! This curated page will be live through December 8th.

Artist Spotlight: Bethany Mabee

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 15:36:32 GMT

From Childhood Passion to a Creative Career

I had the pleasure of hearing Bethany Mabee openly share her lifelong love of art, the challenges she’s overcome, and the evolution of her creative practice. It’s always a delight to learn more about the artists behind the work, and we’re excited to feature Bethany in our Abstract Expressionist Show on December 6th. Jot that down!

Did you always want to be an artist?

I did! I’m not sure how or when it started but I always loved drawing as a kid. It calmed my racing mind and allowed me to feel good at something. I wanted to major in fine art in college but my parents discouraged it, pushing me towards graphic design instead. I hated every minute of it - it was far too technical for me. But I loved being in a creative department and the studio courses that came with it. I always knew that art had to be a part of my life some how, some
way.

What is your daily routine/ritual to “get in the mood” to create?

This is an important one...it’s all about creating the mood! I can’t just jump into creating mode or a new phase of my process. So anytime I’m transitioning out of a completed project and into a new one, I typically take a day just to move things around in the studio. I purge accumulated trash and completely rearrange the layout! It’s my way of hitting the reset button so that I can see things with a new set of eyes. I’m sure it’s also my way of procrastinating....but I think things need some time to percolate and nothing allows that more for me than a good rearrange! On a day-to-day basis it’s all about the music selection. I have to check in with my mood and what will most allow me to let go. Sometimes that’s something instrumental and other days I need to be able to belt songs out mindlessly. Podcasts or audio books are usually reserved for the more manual labor days of gluing up, painting sides, wiring etc...

How did you settle into the medium/mediums you use today?

I grew up being told I was a “good artist” because I could draw things to look like the things! This combined with my graphic design major, there was a big focus on precision that I so badly wanted to break out of. It wasn’t until my early twenties that I finally listened to my strong urge to play with abstract painting. I grew to love acrylic paint because of it’s quick drying abilities. It allowed me to quickly assess which areas of a piece were worth preserving and which ones needed covered up. And if that was a wrong choice - I could act quickly and erase those layers without losing the dried work below. Acrylic is still my choice for this reason - it allows me to act more in the moment!

I’ve since added new mediums to my studio practice: I started creating paintings on paper as warm up exercises to play with palette choices before beginning a large piece on canvas. When I move into large canvas mode, I begin by mixing colors and painting solid strips of canvas in each color mixed. These strips allow me to have scraps around that I can cut and tape up to a canvas as a guide to the composition. I grew to love the process of cutting these strips up so much that it naturally led to arranging them into collage. Meantime, my works on paper were piling up around the studio. The ones that feel worthy of selling have become a new offering, while others are cut up and used in collage along with remnants of my fabric patterns. These new mediums started as happy accidents but have become a huge part of my overall cyclical process in the studio!

What was the biggest obstacle you faced and overcame in your creative journey?

Probably myself! Navigating self-judgment, comparison, validation, expectations. You have to continually confront self talk on the creative journey. And while it’s one of the biggest obstacles - it’s what creates the most fulfillment in my opinion! Having a studio practice that allows me to observe myself, overcome myself and produce a tangible “thing” that mirrors how well I did at letting go vs controlling is a wonderful thing! I can look back over the years and pinpoint which pieces were created from a place of joy and freedom vs force and questioning. The pieces where I just let myself play without any consideration of the outside world are always my favorite and come with the most ease. So the biggest obstacles to overcome are the things within myself that prevents me from letting go to just enjoy the process.

What other artists in the gallery are you inspired by?

I am really drawn to the earthy quality and texture of Kristen Abbot’s work. As artists we tend to pick one lane that we go down that we’re most drawn to create from - for me that’s bold color and geometric shapes. But that isn’t the sum of my parts, so I’m always drawn to artists that have an essence that resonates but that’s outside of my art lane. Her pieces have such a beautiful sense of light and a strong connection to nature that pulls me in. I also really love Ron Guisti’s work. I love the way he uses texture, color and form to create a pop of color that is super impactful but not overpowering! Simple pieces are the hardest to create. They take a lot of restraint and confidence in my opinion. So I admire Ron’s work!

Do you have another occupation beside creating beautiful art?

I still work remotely as a furniture procurement consultant for high-end residential designers. This is a field that I stumbled into after college at an architectural firm in Chicago. I’ve been working in this capacity in the interior design industry for 20 years now and it’s something that I just don’t want to give up! It fulfills my analytical side that craves organization and makes my messy studio time all the more special! I also have a fabric and wallpaper line that is available to the design trade. This has been a really fulfilling offshoot of my artwork that allows my paintings to take on a new life within an industry that I love so much. My patterns are created digitally from high-res scans of my completed paintings. Another way to fulfill that side of myself that loves order and pattern seeking!

What moved you to sell your work rather than just make it?

I think the push was initially less about selling my work and more about sharing it - which just felt necessary for reasons unknown! This was a scary and vulnerable phase, but one that pushed me to find my own language as an artist. And of course every artist hopes that in sharing their work, they sell it! But it can be a vicious game of using sales or the lack there of, to validate your work. But I love that this offers yet another layer of personal growth to continually come back to as an artist.

Want to see Bethany's work in person? She will be one of five artists participating in our December 6th, Abstract Expressionist Show. Mark your calendars and join Bethany's Presale List !

This year's retreat highlights in Dahlonega

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:27:38 GMT

As I sit in the airport for my next flight, I am reflecting on the cup-filling trip last weekend to The Riverhouse Arts creative retreat with Angela Chrusciaki Blehm.

The gallery had the opportunity to partner with Angela to create our second creative retreat. Our destination was in the Appalachian mountains in North Georgia which proved to be one of the most peaceful spaces I have ever been.

Along with 8 women from around the country, we spent a weekend creating artwork with Angela and her assistant Amy. Angela started our weekend off with a morning workshop to create wooden collages in her style.

From seemingly random shapes made from wood block, each person was able to create their own piece. From flowers to eyeballs to Picasso-inspired faces, no two pieces were alike. The majority of people on the retreat were not professional artists but showed up fully open to the process and to learning and expressing themselves. It was a lovely thing to watch.

The next day’s workshop was lead by Atlanta-based artist Jessica Durrant guiding us through moody watercolor paintings. By the second day, people felt more comfortable to “go rogue” and create whatever they felt inclined to make.

Outside of making we were able to get away to a stunning winery for lunch in Dahlonega and got the chance to hike to a beautiful waterfall in a local state park. We even managed to get to the top past the sign that warned us of “175 strenuous steps.” A highlight for me was the chance to see Angela’s home in Gainesville which is truly a monument to her incredible style. Color, pattern, and really clever ideas abound throughout the space.

I am so thankful for the chance to spend four days in a gorgeous area, with incredible women while making art. It filled my cup and renewed my energy to create.

If you’d like to ever rent Angela’s riverhouse arts retreat you can find the airbnb link here . If you’d like to receive information on joining us on our next creative retreat, please send your email address to hello@lizlidgett.com and we will add you to the list when the next trip is announced.

Artist Spotlight: Andrea Ferrigno

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 14:08:46 GMT

Discover Andrea's Journey: A Story of Creativity and Renewal

Learning about an artist’s background and creative journey adds a deeper, more personal connection to their work. When you understand the inspiration, challenges, and stories behind the art, it becomes more than just a piece—it feels like an extension of their passion and vision. This connection can make the artwork even more meaningful, sparking a desire to have it as part of your own space. Now is the perfect time to get to know Andrea, as her work will be featured in our upcoming Abstract Expressionist Show on December 6th.

Any big news you'd like to share on the blog?

I spent this past summer break between Paris and an artist residency in the French countryside, painting and creating new work.

Did you always want to be an artist?

I have always loved making and being creative. After high school, I decided to pursue arts seriously, attending the Kansas City Art Institute, which set my path to pursuing arts professionally.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced and overcame in your creative journey?

I became a single mother at 20, put myself through school, and completed my MFA in 2013 at the University of Iowa. Being a mother, a young single mother was a challenge, but through a lot of hard work, perseverance, and support from family and friends, I made it through. I also have been working through a creative block after a prolonged illness and the death of a close colleague, fellow painter, and friend, Lynette Lombard. Luckily, I have not had many creative blocks in my life, and I am grateful to be working through this, getting on the other side of things, and developing a new body of work.

Do you have another occupation besides creating beautiful art?

Especially as a single mother, the idea of solely supporting myself and my daughter from my art practice didn't feel practical. I also always imagined myself as a teacher, as I love helping others find their creative voice and am a major geek when it comes to my love for art theories and history. So, yes, I teach full-time as an Associate Professor of Art at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois. While I love teaching, my daughter is now grown and on her own, and I plan to transition to being able to dedicate more time to my creative practice over the next couple of years.

What moved you to sell your work rather than just make it?

While I think most artists create work first and foremost for themselves, out of an inner need, and that is true for me. At the same time, I want this work to go out in the world to live with and connect with others.

Want to see Andrea's work in person? She will be one of five artists participating in our December 6th, Abstract Expressionist Show. Mark your calendars and join Andrea Ferrigno's Presale List to be the first to know of her new releases!

Stay tuned for the next Artist Spotlight all about Bethany Mabee . Read Rebecca Stern's Spotlight here!

Wheel of Color: Capsule Collection

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 14:28:12 GMT

Sherwin Williams Unveils 2025 Color Trends: A Curated Collection for Every Palette

“There is so much more to color than meets the eye. It’s a part of our identity. It moves us. It has the power to change the very essence of everything it touches. Color can set a mood, spark conversation, soothe, and ground us. Through color, we navigate our world, understand it more deeply, and lend it our own personal touch,” echoes the Sherwin Williams team.

After over a decade of selecting just one color of the year, Sherwin Williams decided to celebrate color differently by curating an entire collection. The best part? Imagining all the art that perfectly complements these nine trendsetting wall colors.

The 2025 Sherwin Williams Color Capsule of the Year is made up of nine colors: Sunbleached SW 9585, White Snow SW 9541, Rain Cloud SW 9639, Clove SW 9605, Grounded SW 6089 (197-C6), Bosc Pear SW 6390 (139-C6), Chartreuse SW 0073, Malabar SW 9110 (205-C2), Mauve Finery SW 6282 (190-C2).

Love this? Dive into another Wheel of Color Blog featuring everything monochromatic greens!

Art Staging & Partnerships

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 15:58:33 GMT

Attention Real Estate Agents, Home Shows, and Designers: Looking to Elevate Your Space or Property with Loaned Art?

At Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design, we understand that art can transform spaces, bringing character, comfort and authenticity to any environment. That’s why we love partnering with real estate agents, interior designers, and home shows to stage loaned artwork that elevates properties and projects to a new level of sophistication. Whether it’s a luxury home on the market, a carefully curated interior design project, or a home show display, our expertise in art selection and staging helps create spaces that leave a lasting impression.

Some of our recent collaborations include partnerships with ShowTime Homes, Century 21 Real Estate, and Westwood House of Design.

Enhancing Home Shows

Home shows are an exciting opportunity for builders, designers, and decorators to showcase their best work, and we’re proud to help enhance these displays through art staging. We provide a wide selection of artwork that complements the diverse styles and themes on display at home shows. Our goal is to highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of the designs by integrating artwork that completes the space and captures attention.

By staging artwork that aligns with the vision of each room or model home, we help exhibitors create environments that feel lived-in and thoughtfully designed. The art adds a touch of authenticity and creativity, making the spaces feel more dynamic and inviting to potential clients or buyers.

Partnering with Real Estate Professionals

In real estate, first impressions are everything, and art plays a significant role in shaping how potential buyers experience a home. We collaborate with real estate agents to stage artwork that enhances a property’s appeal, highlighting its best features and creating a welcoming atmosphere. By selecting pieces that complement the architectural style, color scheme, and layout, we help real estate professionals create a visual narrative that invites buyers to imagine themselves living in the space.

Art adds that finishing touch, making a house feel more like a home. Whether it’s a contemporary painting that brings a modern edge to a minimalist space or a calming landscape that warms up a cozy living room, we carefully choose pieces that speak to the style and mood of each property. Staged artwork can also help real estate listings stand out, offering a unique and memorable visual experience that draws in potential buyers.

Collaborating with Interior Designers

Interior designers have a natural understanding of space and aesthetic, and we love teaming up to complement their visions. At Liz Lidgett Gallery, we work closely with designers to select artwork that perfectly fits the aesthetic they are crafting for their clients. Whether it’s selecting a statement piece for a living room or curating smaller, cohesive works for a gallery wall, we take great care in ensuring that the artwork enhances the overall design concept.

Our collaboration with designers goes beyond just selecting art—we also assist in the staging process to ensure the placement of each piece is intentional and impactful. By carefully considering scale, color, and placement, we help designers bring their projects to life, adding that layer of sophistication and personalization that only well-chosen artwork can provide.

Why Art Staging Matters?

Art staging is more than just filling blank walls—it’s about telling a story, creating emotional connections, and enhancing the overall aesthetic of a space. At Liz Lidgett Gallery, we bring our passion for art and design to every project, helping real estate professionals, designers, and home show exhibitors showcase their properties and projects in the best light. Our expertise in art selection and placement ensures that each piece is not only beautiful but also strategically chosen to resonate with the audience.

By partnering with us, you gain access to a wide range of artwork from emerging and established artists, along with our commitment to helping you create spaces that stand out. Whether you’re staging a home for sale, designing a dream interior, or preparing for a home show, we’re here to bring the transformative power of art to your project.

If you need art staging or loaned art, please contact sara@lizlidgett.com with any inquiries.

Mood Boards

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 18:45:06 GMT

A Unique Exhibition of Art, Furniture, and Décor

We are proud to announce the opening of our newest exhibition, Mood Boards, today! This exhibit takes a fresh approach by blending art with design in a way that hasn’t been seen before at the Gallery.

The Mood Boards exhibition features four distinct themes—Quiet Luxury, English Country, Natural Materials, and Maximalist—each brought to life through carefully curated vignettes. These styled displays incorporate not only the original artworks of 19 artists from across the globe but also furniture and décor. This layering of elements offers a richer, more immersive experience, giving visitors a sense of how the art could transform a space.

What makes this exhibition particularly special is the way it bridges art and interior design. By including furniture and decor, each vignette has a dynamic, contextual feel, showing how the right combination of elements can enhance both the artwork and the room. This holistic approach allows guests to envision how the art would work in their own homes, something that traditional art displays don’t often capture.

Quiet luxury’s design style showcases understated elegance through high-quality materials like marble, cashmere, and polished wood in neutral tones. It emphasizes minimalism and subtle details, with clean lines and carefully curated, timeless pieces that exude sophistication without excess.

The Artists: Joy Kinna , Fares Micue , Suzy Lindow , Anee Shah , Hunt Slonem

English Country style began in rural homes focused on comfort and practicality. Over time, it evolved into a relaxed, eclectic mix of antique and contemporary pieces, maintaining its hallmark of warmth, soft florals, earthy tones, and dark woods while adapting to modern aesthetics.

The artists: Susannah Carson , Marcy Vreeland , Studio DeSimone Wayland , Kevin Brent Morris

Natural materials design emphasizes the use of organic elements like wood, stone, and natural fibers to create spaces that feel grounded and harmonious. It blends raw textures with soft, neutral palettes, promoting sustainability and a deep connection to nature within contemporary interiors.

The artists: Taelor Fisher , Kristen Abbott , Elisa Sheehan , Eliana Bernard

Maximalist design celebrates boldness and abundance, combining vibrant colors, diverse patterns, and an eclectic mix of furniture and decor. It embraces layering and personalization, creating visually rich, dynamic spaces that reflect individuality and a fearless approach to design.

The artists: Andrea Ferrigno , Gina Julian , Hunt Slonem , Katie Craig , Kate Blomquist , Anna Beurksens , Betsy Enzensberger

Mood Boards also offers something unique–the option to purchase curated art collections. For the first time, guests can buy all the artwork from a specific vignette as a discounted set, or opt for individual pieces. This flexibility gives collectors the chance to curate their own spaces with ease, whether they’re drawn to the minimalist serenity of Quiet Luxury or the bold expressions of Maximalist.

Be sure to visit Liz Lidgett Gallery to experience Mood Boards in person, or explore the exhibition online here .

A Fushion of Art and Fashion

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 16:21:16 GMT

Leatherology x Liz Lidgett Gallery Collaboration

Leatherology invited us to team-up on an exclusive line of hand-painted leather tote bags. We asked six of our artists ( Kevin Brent Morris , Bekah Worley , Angela Chrusciaki Blehm , Sarah Schwartz , Jenna Brownlee , Roma Osowo ) to create and paint their most known-and-beloved designs on this collection. Each piece truly represents each artist's style you'd normally see on stretched canvas.

On Thursday, October 3rd, we hosted a dinner in celebration of this organic collaboration. Now I want every leather bag of mine to be personalized! Being introduced to L eatherology , their beautiful collection and incredible leadership has been a true joy. They’re based in Texas but (of course) there’s a Des Moines tie—and I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate. The hand-painted bags sold out in minutes and the celebration dinner was memorable. Heavenly plates by DooLittle Farm (thank you Aaron!), exquisite wine from Wolffer Estate Vineyard and a table full of local women creatives, interior designers, BH&G editors, influencers and more. It was a dream come true, and I'm still riding the high. What will our next gallery collaboration be?

“This exclusive collaboration was such a natural fit. Both brands are rooted in accessibility and unique expression. We’ve loved partnering with Liz and these talented artists.” – Laura Osier, Leatherology Executive Director

We love working with fellow creatives and are always open to exciting collaborations! If you’re interested in teaming up with a gallery that values fun, creativity, and unique partnerships, we’d love to hear from you.

Artist Spotlight: Rebecca Stern

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:16:54 GMT

Rebecca Stern shares her unexpected path to becoming a full-time artist, from discovering photography to creating abstract paintings, and the challenges she faced along the way.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Rebecca and discovering what has shaped her into the artist she is today. She openly shared her creative journey and the various paths that led to her evolution as an artist.

Based in Fairfield, CT, Rebecca Stern graduated with honors from Lesley University College of Art and Design in 2009. Over the past decade, her work has been featured in numerous private collections and exhibitions in solo and group shows across the U.S. Using acrylic paint, collage, thread and drawing materials, Rebecca creates abstract pieces she describes as "mental landscapes," exploring the complexities of the mind.

Did you always want to be an artist?

I always wanted to do something creative, but being an artist (and a painter no less) came to me a bit later in life. I went to community college in San Francisco and took the required art credit (I was a psychology major), and ended up falling in love with working with my hands. Making something out of nothing was intoxicating. I never felt like I was good at drawing or painting, so I ended up getting really involved in their dark room photography program. This led me to seek out art school, where I ultimately ended up becoming a photography major at Lesley University in Boston. During my time there I did everything I could to not be behind the camera. My work was focused on self portraiture through alternative process photography, printmaking, installation, and performance art.

How did you settle into the medium/s you use today?

After a really transformative event in my late 20's I felt like I needed a tactile medium to express how I was feeling and the changes I was going through, so I started painting. I spent a lot of time exploring, experimenting, and reacquainting myself with the principles of art and design and how I could implement them in an abstract sense. At that time I was doing a lot of yoga and was tapping into the power of the mind and the connection to self. I started creating these mental landscapes with paint, and I felt like I had come home; I had landed on something that felt aligned with my soul for the first time in my artistic career. From there it became an obsession and just grew. I began making handmade brushes and incorporating those into my work. More recently I began sculpting with canvas which has brought in a new element to my work which has pushed my practice both technically and conceptually. I have had the opportunity to work on some really large scale sculpted canvas commissions including one with Liz Lidgett Gallery.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced and overcame in your creative journey?

Finding my own creative voice and style has been quite challenging. I think with social media we are constantly exposed to so much content, specifically art content and other artists, that it's easy to get caught up in that. Whether it's comparison, or other artists' work influencing my own, it has been (and is still) a journey to stay true to my own artistic vision.

At what point did you decide to become a career artist?/ What was your occupation before?

About 10 years ago I decided I wanted to be a full time artist and sell my work for a living. It was only about 4 years ago that I was actually able to do that. After art school I decided to become an art teacher which I ended up enjoying far less than I anticipated. This motivated me to focus not only on my studio practice, but building a network of people to help support and share my work. It was a long and glorious 6 years where I taught during the day and spent hours in the studio in the afternoon and evening. After having my son in 2020, I decided to take the plunge and leave teaching. Ever since I made that shift, my work and career have grown. But I still pinch myself every time I'm able to say that I'm an artist for a living, it's truly a dream come true.

Want to see Rebecca's work in person? She will be one of five artists participating in our December 6th, Abstract Expressionist Show. Mark your calendars and join Rebecca Stern's Presale List to be the first to know of her new releases!

Wheel of Color: Greens

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 17:26:47 GMT

Harmonious Duo of Art & their Benjamin Moore Counterparts

Our artists are masters of color, and discovering their ideal Benjamin Moore paint pairing is like solving a creative puzzle—it’s all about amplifying the mood and energy of the space. In this collection, we’re focusing on monochromatic green pairings to complement the art.

One of the most exciting aspects of collecting art is discovering how it interacts with the environment it’s placed in. A well-chosen piece can completely transform a room—but what makes it even more fun is finding the perfect Benjamin Moore paint color to complement it. The perfect duo will elevate the artwork, making your space feel curated, cohesive, and uniquely yours. So whether you’re revamping an entire room or just looking to freshen up a wall — Let’s explore some inspiring monochromatic matches using shades/hues of greens.

To find all the Benjamin Moore color details click here .
Want more paint suggestions? Check out this blog featuring more wall color recommendations!

Art Meets Design: Curating the Perfect Room & Artwork Pairings

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 14:59:17 GMT

Elevate your coastal bedroom by selecting artwork that brings harmony to the overall design

Hey there! Before we dive into this new series, “Art Meets Design,” let me introduce myself. I’m Sara, and I spent three years at a small interior design firm specializing in high-end residential interiors. One of my favorite parts? Curating art for clients or designing around their existing collections. My favorite way to elevate art is by layering it over textured wallcoverings for a rich, dimensional look. Now, I’m bringing those skills to Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design, where I help clients find the perfect pieces. Long story short—you’ll be seeing more from me!

At the heart of this room scheme is carefully chosen artwork by Meghan Bustard , which not only echoes the room’s soft, flowing lines and warm tones but also serves as the perfect finishing touch, pulling together the space in an elegant, understated way.

Shop the look: rug , chair , bed , nightstands , pillows , lamps

More Natural Fits:

Hand-painted totes in collaboration with Leatherology

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:15:49 GMT

Announcing a fun collaboration with Leatherology—selling luxury leather accessories that are designed to be timeless, colorful and customizable!

Based in Texas, Leatherology invited us to collaborate on an exclusive line of hand-painted leather tote bags. We asked six of our artists to create and paint their most known-and-beloved designs on this collection. Each one turned out so beautifully—and it truly represents each artist's style you'd normally see on stretched canvas. You will see two hand-painted totes each by Sarah Schwartz, Bekah Worley , Kevin Brent Morris , Jenna Brownlee , Angela Chrusciaki Blehm and Roma Osowo.

After a celebratory release of the line, all 12 bags will be available to purchase through our website on Friday, October 4, at 10am CT . Look for more sneak peeks to come!

Scenes from the screen (art edition)

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 19:46:51 GMT

Landscapes have the power to create an emotional connection between a time and place and a sense of nostalgia for the open space before you.

Our latest show, Sense of Place , features four artists that span all terrain. While taking in the views this week, we can’t help but feel a sense of familiarity with some of these scenes and we thought it’d be fun to share. Inspired by scenery we’ve seen on a screen—paired landscapes art edition. Maybe you feel it too (or are a big fan of one of these flicks)?

Anee Shah + Pride & Prejudice

Warm and dreamy

Aly Ytterberg + Seabiscuit

Nostalgic and isolated

Karin Olah + Netflix's Outer Banks

Lush and coastal

James Navarro + Forrest Gump

Expansive and inspirational

View the full show, Sense of Place , and take in the gorgeous views. Each artist, across the country, sees the world differently and it's a fun invitation to experience life through their lens.

Artist trios to explore

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 14:47:29 GMT

We’ve put together a few suggestions based on a purchase you’ve maybe already made. For each artist, we’ve curated two artists to explore that complement the artwork.

More often than not, our clients find us through the love of one specific artist. They’ve been a faithful follower of an artist on Instagram, hear about us and then start following along the gallery’s journey. And we’re so glad to have them join the LLGD community! As part of the community, it’s our job to introduce new artists to you—and we love the opportunity to share artists that complement the work you’ve already collected. Not to say you shouldn’t purchase more than one work from your favorite artist. We have many clients who buy multiples from their favorites! And it brings them joy, which is most important to us. But we also see value in diversifying your collection—a variety of mediums, styles and artist backgrounds. And we’re happy to give suggestions based on your current collection.

If you own a Karin Olah ...

We suggest exploring the work of Katie Craig and Rebecca Stern . Katie Craig’s stripes feel as preppy as Karin’s coastal scenes while bringing a pop of warm colors into the mix—pinks and reds to add alongside the blues! And Rebecca Stern creates sculpted canvas that almost looks like water waves. The 3D canvas creates shadows and texture that mimics the fabric and textiles Karin uses in her mixed media pieces.

If you own an AK Hardeman ...

We suggest exploring the work of Logan Ledford and Jenna Brownlee . AK uses a lot of jewel tones in her abstract floral paintings, and Logan’s palette reflects many of the same colors but her crisp, clean lines are the perfect contrast to AK’s gestural strokes. Their stark technique difference combined with their similar palettes is so powerful. Similarly in approach, Jenna Brownlee creates crisp, detailed up-close florals. It’s like you’re zooming in closer on AK’s gestural flowers and finding a perfectly meticulous painted flower. A stark style difference but both painting florals, a fun perspective.

If you own an Elisa Sheehan ...

We suggest exploring the work of Ron Giusti and Hillary Howorth . Using more muted colors, Hillary’s abstract paintings share power in the small details. The intricate lines and small details make the work. Ron Giusti’s hard-edge iconography is a fun way to reflect some of the colors Elisa Sheehan uses in a bolder way. And his gold frames complement Elisa’s use of gold and silver in her Kintsugi lining.

If you own a Jaime McCarrier ...

We suggest exploring the work of Vicky Reddish and Michelle Armas . Bright, warm colors are all shared here, but in completely different styles. Jaime’s pieces hold strong, bold lines while Vicky’s paintings have just the right amount of creative chaos. It’s full of layers and texture. And in contrast, Michelle Armas’ totems give visual “order” with stacked shapes. I love these three together—so good.

If you own a Hunt Slonem ...

We suggest exploring the work of Jose Romussi and Kristi Kohut . Similarly to Hunt, Jose Romussi is an internationally-known artist further along in his career where he’s perfected his craft. With the use of Swarovski crystals and detailed embroidery, his work reflects high value—a true investment. And Kristi Kohut’s added sparkle in all of her work mimics Hunt’s use of “diamond dust” in his work. Added sparkle to catch your attention and make it feel grand.

Artists under $500 this month

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 15:07:16 GMT

Our annual Holiday in July website releases features art under $500. This year, over 20 artists are sharing new work at this lower price point. A great time to collect your favorites!

It's always our goal to make art more accessible. So twice a year we execute our passion project (July and November) with the biggest collection possible of art under $500. Clients love the opportunity to collect from their "artist wishlist" at smaller sizes. There's usually a presale opportunity with our shows, but not for Holiday in July! It all goes live on the website Friday, July 12 at 10am CT . So be sure to set an alarm! This year, over 20 artists are participating—see the list below and plan ahead.

AK Hardeman | See her work >>
Alex Ackerman | See her work >>
Aly Ytterberg | See her work >>
Anee Shah | See her work >>
Angela Chrusciaki Blehm | See her work >>
Anna Beurskens | See her work >>
Bekah Worley | See her work >>
Bethany Mabee | See her work >>
Betsy Enzensberger | See her work >>
Eliana Bernard | See her work >>
Elisa Sheehan | See her work >>
Elsie Larson | See her work >>
Emily Keating Snyder | See her work >>
Fares Micue | See her work >>
Jaime McCarrier | See her work >>
Jenna Brownlee | See her work >>
Karin Olah | See her work >>
Kate Blomquist | See her work >>
Katie Craig | See her work >>
Madison Summerlin | See her work >>
Meghan Bustard | See her work >>
Michele Aschenbrenner | See her work >>
Roma Osowo | See her work >>
Sarah Schwartz | See her work >>
Susannah Carson | See her work >>
Suzy Lindow | See her work >>
Theodora Miller | See her work >>
Vicky Reddish | See her work >>

Bring Spring Break Home with Art

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:29:13 GMT

As the warm sunshine reappears and the days get longer, some people get the chance to escape and enjoy a well deserved break from work or school. Whether you jet set to an island, find a pool to lay by, or have a reset week at home, why not bring the joy of spring break into your home?

From the bright ink drops and luminescent frames of Michelle Armas' pieces, to the ocean-like ripples of Rebecca Stern's canvas pieces, warmer weather reminders can be a staple on your walls. Adding happy art to reminisce on a memorable trip with the family or bring vacation to your doorstop is possible for every budget!

Michelle Armas, Double Trouble, 2023

Oil, ink and dye on raw canvas, 25 x 25 in framed, $2,100.00, $210/mo with Art Money

Makiko Harris, Back To Light, 2022

Acrylic on canvas, 48 x 48 in, $4140.00, $414/mo with Art Money

Rebecca Stern, Little Things, 2023

Acrylic on sculpted and raw canvas, Diptych, 18 x 14 in, $2,800.00, $280/mo with Art Money

Karin Olah, Harbor Stripes 3, 2024

Acrylic + Textiles on Italian Paper, 9 x 11 in, framed, $360.00

Logan Ledford, Entirely Yellow #1, 2024

Acrylic on canvas, 30 x 30 in, $3,000.00, $300/mo with Art Money

Jessi Raulet, Belles Blooming, 2021

Canvas, Acrylic, Gold Metal Leaf, Metallic Ink, Gilding Wax, Varnish, 36 x 36 in, $3,540.00, $354/mo with Art Money

Currently on sale for $2,900.00!

Calling All Mural Artists!

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:08:41 GMT

We are looking for a talented artist to create a mural for the east-facing wall at 208 East Court Avenue, also known as the RoCA building! This location is a prominent photo spot for the city, at an important intersection in Downtown Des Moines and overlooking a parking lot adjacent to the Farmer’s Market.

The submission deadline is Friday, March 29, 2024 at 5:00 pm. If you have any questions regarding the RFQ, please email us at hello@lizlidgett.com. We will need to receive a .pdf including your name, phone number, email, and two references with contact information. Please include four to five examples of past work, and a brief statement about your mural idea and inspiration. Please review all of the information in whole here .

If you're an artist that has not painted a large-scale mural before, you can learn more about the process here . You also can see examples of other murals in the area here .

This mural has been funded by Operation Downtown in partnership with The Greater Des Moines Partnership.

We are looking forward to your submissions!

Our Artists, Around the World

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 18:32:03 GMT

At Liz Lidgett Gallery, we take pride in showcasing the talents of 66 artists from 7 different countries around the world! Through their unique artwork and creative processes, each artist creates a captivating narrative. Join us on a global journey as we introduce you to our diverse array of artists.

In the United States, we represent 57 artists from 24 states.

Alabama
AK Hardeman , Birmingham
Paige Barnes Dorsey , Tuscaloosa

California
Anna Beurskens , San Francisco
Betsy Enzensberger , Palm Springs
Jaime McCarrier , San Diego
Kate Blomquist , Los Angeles
Makiko Harris , San Francisco
Susannah Carson , Napa Valley

Colorado
Kristen Abbott , Boulder

Connecticut
Rebecca Stern , Fairfield

Florida
June Street Studio , Gulf Coast

Georgia
Allison James , Perry
Angela Chrusciaki Blehm , Gainesville
Michelle Armas , Decatur
Shannon Coppage , Atlanta

Illinois
Andrea Ferrigno , Galesburg
Bethany Mabee , Peoria
Kristi Kohut , Chicago

Iowa (home of the gallery!)
Alex Ackerman , Iowa City
Anna Flickinger , Des Moines
James Navarro , Des Moines
Jenna Brownlee , Des Moines
Rocky Reed , Colfax

Kansas
Kevin Brent Morris , Kansas City

Louisiana
Logan Ledford , New Orleans

Massachusetts
Anee Shah , Boston

Minnesota
Bekah Worley , Minneapolis

Missouri
Aly Ytterberg , St Louis
Carrie Gillen , St Louis

New York
Elisa Sheehan , Easton
Emily Keating Snyder , New York City
Hunt Slonem , Brooklyn

North Carolina
Angie Barker , Greensboro
Brittany Smith , Garner
Sydney Beach Zester , Wilmington

Oklahoma
Madison Summerlin , Tulsa
Raasheda Burnett , Oklahoma City

Oregon
Ron Giusti , Lake Oswego

Pennsylvania
Ekaterina Popova , Philadelphia

South Carolina
Karin Olah , Charleston
Kit Porter , Beaufort

Tennessee
Gina Julian , Nashville
Hillary Howorth , Nashville
Vicky Reddish , Nashville

Texas
Brittany Atkinson , Austin
Eliana Bernard , Austin
Katie Craig , Garland
Laurie Lindqvist , Prosper
Marcy Vreeland , Dallas
Rachel English , Dallas
Roma Osowo , Dallas
Taelor Fisher , Dallas

Virginia
Christina Flowers , Charlottesville
Suzy Lindow , Williamsburg
Theodora Miller , Richmond

Washington
Racheal Jackson , Vancouver

Wisconsin
Taylor Cox, Racine

The beautiful country of Spain is home to Fares Micue and Mónica Ajenjo . Fares is based in Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands. Mónica calls the lively city of Valencia home. Their art features bright, vivid colors and whimsical themes.

An American midwesterner, Jessi Raulet (also known as Etta Vee) now resides in Strasbourg, France. Strasbourg is known for its rich history and blend of German and French culture. We can see the European influence in her piece ' Prosecco on Lago di Como '.

Originally born in South Africa and growing up in New Zealand, Keren Fraser now resides in Perth, Australia. Nature, animals, and botanicals are a strong influence on Keren's work. Her storefront and studio, Fledge and Thread, can be found in the town of Mosman Park.

Santiago, Chili is home to mixed media artist Jose Romussi . Jose's textile pieces comment on beauty and culture, inspired by his upbringing and he continues to experiment with materials. Jose now also calls Berlin, Germany home.

Marcello De Simone and Bruce Wayland are the Amsterdam based Italian/American design duo behind Studio DeSimoneWayland . Their combination of ceramics, painting, and sculpture in their art often reflect historical Dutch art.

The country of Canada is home to three of our artists: Joy Kinna, Meghan Bustard , and Nate Nettleton . Joy and Meghan reside in Vancouver, a bustling city on the southern coast of British Columbia. Both artists' work feature calming, neutral colors and abstract markmaking. Across the country, Nate creates his abstract sculptural pieces in Ontario.

We love the diversity of culture, style, and background that come from each of our artists. Showcasing artists from diverse corners of the globe celebrates the richness of global creativity and appreciation among audiences worldwide. Do we represent an artist from your area?

A Rainbow of Art for Your Home

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 20:21:30 GMT

Whether you need a pop of color, a piece to complete a monochromatic room, or just something in your favorite hue to bring joy, we have a rainbow of artwork to choose from.

Red

Ruby Facets by Kate Blomquist

Orange

Infinite Regress by Andrea Ferrigno

Yellow

Flora: Sunshine of Life by Angie Barker

Green

Garden Song by Bethany Mabee

Blue

Pool Happ by Allison James

Purple

Symphonic World #2 by Kristi Kohut

Pink

Pale Pink to Wine by Emily Keating Snyder

White

Ty by Hunt Slonem

Black

Pink Volcano Splat by Betsy Enzensberger

Pantone 2024 Color of the Year: Peach Fuzz

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 19:42:04 GMT

Peach Fuzz was announced as 2024's color of the year. You may not want to commit to painting an entire room the trendy color, but what about a beautiful piece of art that features the tone? Our artists have been adding touches of Peach Fuzz to their work before it was mainstream.

"PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It's a velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul. Introducing soft and cozy PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz into home interiors creates a welcoming ambiance. Promoting feelings of gentle warmth whether appearing on a painted wall, in home décor, or acting as an accent within a pattern, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz infuses our most personalized worlds with a comforting presence," says Pantone.

Michelle Armas, Step Aside, 2023 , Oil, ink, dye on raw canvas, 12 x 12 in framed in rainbow acrylic

Jaime McCarrier, Alongshore, 2023 , Latex on canvas (framed in white), 25.50 x 21.50 x 2 in

Brittany Atkinson, Marcella, 2023 , Acrylic on canvas with a white floater frame, 24 x 18 in

Katie Craig, Call Me Poppy, 2023 , Acrylic on panel, 18 x 24 in

Suzy Lindow, Ursula, 2023 , Acrylic on canvas, 36 x 24 in

Bethany Mabee, This Morning I, 2022 , Acrylic on paper, 22 x 30 in

Sydney Beach Zester, play without purpose, 2023 , Antique French linen & naturally dyed linen, 20 x 20 in

Emily Keating Snyder, Peach-Candy Weaving, 2023 , Acrylic with embroidery on raw canvas, 10 x 10 in

2023 in Gallery Numbers

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:10:21 GMT

2023 was full of growth for our gallery. We grew in clients, represented artists, artwork sold, and more. These numbers are an amazing reflection of your continued support! The gallery team is so grateful, and we can't wait for next year!

As seen in our Instagram 2023 recap video ...

+ 65 represented artists (9 added this year!)

+ 87% are women

+ 125+ artists paid

+ 615 clients this year—new and returning

+ 26.1K IG followers (with the goal of 25K by the end of the year—thank you!)

+ 11 curated shows

+ 30 limited releases

+ 1,140 artworks sold (956 last year!)

+ Art shipped to 50 states (we did it!)

+ … And 7 countries

+ 2 team members added

and most importantly...
1 very thankful small business.

And, just for fun—see last year's numbers to compare. We are so thankful that you have chosen to support our artists and small business this past year. We hope your new year is merry and bright, with your 2024 being full of art! Happy holidays and warm wishes from the Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design team!

Artists Whose Work Increased in Value in 2023

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 15:38:35 GMT

2023 was a fantastic year for our artists, with many releases selling out in a few minutes or less! We gathered a list of just a few of the many artists who increased in value in 2023.

Gina Julian

Gina Julian is known for her hard-edge abstraction painting and vivid colors. She has long been fascinated by the effects of color on the human psyche. In 2023, we saw her body of work transform from optical art into her WET PAINT series. The Trompe l'oeil paintings of paint smears on wood were loved by collectors this year, and will continue to be loved in 2024! Click here to view Gina Julian's available work at the gallery.

Hunt Slonem

Every visitor to the gallery always asks us about the wall of bunnies and everyone always finds a favorite. Hunt Slonem is an American artist known for his neo-expressionist paintings of butterflies, rabbits, and tropical birds. Influenced by his interest in the mystic and his meditative practice, his figures are realized with a repetition that operates as a form mantra, giving way to a surprisingly playful exuberance on canvas. From a rabbit, to a trio of butterflies, to even a landscape, Slonem's body of work includes something for everyone. Visit Hunt's page at the gallery to see his available work.

Eliana Bernard

Eliana Bernard creates unique tile designs handcrafted using custom clays and glazes formulated in her studio. Each tile is made in her studio through various slipcasting and ceramic production techniques. She merges traditional tile methods with fine art. We especially love her wall hangings that mix metallics, brights hues, and various textures. They are the perfect addition to a narrow space in your home that needs something beautiful. View Eliana Bernard's available work here .

Nate Nettleton

In 2023, Nate Nettleton's body of work continued to wow collectors. The Ontario based conceptual sculpture artist has become known for his quirky swirls, often overlayed with bright mirrors. Visitors of the gallery love taking photos in the reflections of his pieces. His art practice explores the importance of simplicity, and constructs abstract physical representations of personal & societal progress, empowerment, and possibility. We are excited to see his work evolve in the new year! Click here to view Nettleton's available pieces at the gallery.

Joy Kinna

Joy Kinna's pieces always have a compelling and meditative quality about them. Her work is the accumulation of feelings, memories, landscape, subconscious and conscious thoughts that form into colors and shapes that she interacts with on canvas. A constant push and pull. Her work continues to show an exploration of mark making and interaction with the surface. Visit Joy Kinna's page here to view all available work at the gallery.

Rocky Reed

A local Iowa artist, Rocky Reed's work consists of contemporary realist pieces, featuring still life, plein air, portrait, and figurative subjects. Rocky makes an effort to impart a sense of poetry, technical bravura, and presence to his paintings. He also adheres to a vegan approach when selecting painting materials; completing paintings using all vegan-friendly paints/pigments, glues, and supports. We loved his use of antique frames and feature of tarot cards in his most recent paintings. Rocky Reed's work reminds us of the old masters and their studies of form, light, and color. View all available work here .

These are just a few of the artists that we saw increase in value this year. A few others include...

Click here to view all artists at the gallery and their work.

One of the joys of working with these artists is watching their growth and helping collectors find their work. Were there any artists that you enjoyed following along with their journey this year? Stay tuned in the new year for new artwork releases from our artists, and remember to sign up for their presale on their individual artist page to be the first to know!

Liz's Favorite Accessories for Displaying Art

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:44:21 GMT

From easels to lighting, here are Liz's favorites for elevating your art collection.

If you’re anything like me, you may be running out of wallspace for some of your art purchases. I love the layered look so I have begun looking to my bookshelves and table tops as the perfect place to display my art. I have a whole storefront on Amazon for some of my favorite ways to display art including the best frame ever for kids art.

And because I can’t help myself, I am sharing the easel with the *perfect* piece of art to put on said easel.

Sleek and adjustable

This Ballard Design table top easel comes in a variety of sizes and finishes. I own this one and I love that it fits a larger piece and holds it stable. The perfect piece for it is...

When you are looking to decorate a shelf or table with a smaller work, here are 3 different styles I have used and loved.

Modern and edgy

A modern easel that stands 8” tall for $25. I think a bright, punchy piece like this Andrea Ferrigno fits the bill beautifully.

Traditional

A more traditional easel that works great with both abstract and more traditional pieces. I love how K arin Olah's pieces flirt with that line of abstract and landscape art with a golden frame.

Metallic and simple

Heading on back to the modern side, I think this acrylic stand fits well with so many different design styles. Most importantly, this stand just fades into the background and lets the art shine.

Lighting

While we are on the topic of displaying art, though, let’s talk art lights I recommend too.

This is a hard-wired art light so you will need your electrician but it adds just the right amount of light to show off your masterpiece.

And this is a battery-operated light with a USB charger is great for when you’re not interested in getting the electrician involved. How easy!

Adding a thoughtful touch to your collection is a quick way to elevate your art and help you enjoy it even more. As the holiday hosting approaches, this is the perfect time to highlight your pieces!

Liz's 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 16:22:46 GMT

Hi, friends! I thought it would be fun to share what I am giving and requesting this holiday season. There’s something for everyone and all budget ranges below. Art (of course) is a perfect gift giving option but a lot of my favorite small businesses are below as well.

For the Hostess

Recently I went to Eden in Des Moines and found this great set by Homecourt (Courtney Cox’s line). They are good looking enough to sit out on your counter and smell SO much better than your normal cleaning product. This surface cleaner is the chicest cleaner I have ever seen.

For the Book Lover

I am an avid reader and I have never met anyone that didn’t love Remarkably Bright Creatures . It was one of my top 5 of last year. An amazing tale of an intelligent and crotchety octopus. It switches back and forth between the humans and the octopus and let me tell you – the octopus chapters zing. Staying on the animal theme, a book I loved this year was When Women Were Dragons . Set in the middle of the 20th century, women start turning into actual dragons. It’s an interesting metaphor for women becoming feminists and how the world adapted.

For the Art Lover

Ohhhh do we have ideas for the art lover. No surprise there. Check out our holiday shop for artworks under $500. You can find great, unique gifts for your loved ones or just buy a gift for yourself. Personally, I can’t get enough of Susannah Carson's work lately. Her Lover's Eye paintings are so beautiful—it checks all my boxes. This piece in particular is a favorite. I am also very excited about our new artists we have brought on recently including, Suzy Lindow , Susannah Carson , Anna Buerskens , Natalie Ghazali , Keren Fraser , and Ekaterina Popova .

For the Clothes Horse

Okay so that’s me. I have SO many recommendations. Lately I have loved both gifting and buying for myself Katie Kime monogrammed shirts . I’ll put an “LL” on just about anything. I am also obsessed with the entire Classic Six line . The leather mini dress has been a recent favorite. Speaking of monograms and leather – check out Leatherology for great bags too. And finally, when I am home these are my sweatpants from Cozy Earth that I have in multiple colors. You can use a code too - LIDGETT40 for 40% off. And half of my wardrobe is now from Marne here in the East Village. One of everything, please.

For the Busy Family

More screens? I know. But the Hearth Display has truly been a game changer for my family in the last month. One big, visual way to look our week and to-do lists. We can all be on the same page about what needs to be done and who where.

Lightening Round!

Okay here’s some lightening round ideas that I love and use daily: A Kindle Paperwhite . This Digital tapemeasurer. This face mask that takes away any bad decisions from the night before in minutes somehow. I do not understand how it works so well. I do not ask questions. This kids’ camera that I am getting for our daughter for Christmas. Pink (check!), unicorns (check!), creative (check!).

Is Your Home Ready for Holiday Hosting?

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 18:53:34 GMT

The holidays are when many of us are hosting friends and family in our homes and we start thinking “is the house ready?” The most basic answer is “of course it is–the people who love you only care about you and not your home.” Does this very real and logical work on me though? Of course not. I feel pride in a home that reflects my style and feels thoughtful and intentional. I know many of you feel the same way. You want to be surrounded by the things that you love and want a home that shares that with the people you love. I try to only bring in items that are either useful or beautiful. Art certainly works within that beautiful category. If you are looking for the perfect “wow” moment for your home, here are some pieces that I would recommend depending on your style. I looked for pieces in a variety of styles and price ranges so everyone can find the piece your blank wall is missing.

Just a note on the above photo – this is my home and my own Katie Craig piece that I adore. If you, too, want to drape a wreath over art here’s my suggestion - use a few pieces of folded tissue paper and place them as a barrier between the art and the wreath. Use a ribbon to hang the wreath, I tied it to the wire on the back of the piece. I also picked a VERY lightweight wreath that would not press into the wreath. I love how it looks but I want to make sure to protect the art as well.

2023 Holiday Shop—who you’ll find!

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 15:49:02 GMT

The holiday shop is always a passion project of mine because we offer so many accessible price points for original art from amazing artists.

Every year, I ask our artists to create works under $500 so that more clients are able to collect the artists’ work they love. Of course, my other goal is to support artists during the holiday season. Each piece purchased supports an artist’s small business and helps them to continue to create.

This year’s shop includes 38 artists all with art under $500! On average, about 5 pieces from each artist will be available at this lower price point. New, larger pieces will also be available. Do you have your eye on a certain collection? Here’s the full list of artists included:

AK Hardeman | about >>
Alex Ackerman | about >>
Allison James | about >>
Aly Ytterberg | about >>
Andrea Ferrigno | about >>
Anee Shah | about >>
Angie Barker | about >>
Anna Beurskens | about >>
Bethany Mabee | about >>
Betsy Enzensberger | about >>
Brittany Atkinson | about >>
Eliana Bernard | about >>
Emily Keating Snyder | about >>
Fares Micue | about >>
Gina Julian | about >>
Jaime McCarrier | about >>
Jessi Raulet | about >>
Joe Crimmings | guest artist for holiday
Jose Romussi | about >>
June Street Studio | about >>
Karin Olah | about >>
Kate Blomquist | about >>
Katie Craig | about >>
Keren Fraser | about >>
Kevin Brent Morris | about >>
Kristen Abbott | about >>
Laurie Lindqvist | about >>
Madison Summerlin | about >>
Natalie Ghazali | guest artist for holiday
Paige Barnes Dorsey | about >>
Rebecca Stern | about >>
Ron Giusti | about >>
Shannon Coppage | about >>
Susannah Carson | about >>
Suzy Lindow | about >>
Taylor Cox | about >>
Theodora Miller | guest artist for holiday

The shop will go live on the website this Friday, November 17, at 10am CT . The artwork is first come, first served. And we're also offering some new gallery merch —hats! Thank you SO much for supporting our artists—over and over again. We are so grateful this holiday season. And we’re so excited for these smalls to find homes.

2024 Interior Design Trends + Art to Compliment

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 14:49:29 GMT

It is hard to believe 2024 is only a few months away. Let’s take a look at the interior design trends you will see next year, and art from our gallery to pair with them.

In 2023, we saw bold hues, a rise in neoclassicism, nostalgic decorating, and a focus on making your home a sanctuary. As next year falls upon us, we can still expect to see a great use of color and comfortability in the home. According to Livingetc.com , the biggest focus on the home in 2024 will be finding a balance between edgy and approachable. I like to think of it as ‘high-low’. Elevated styles balanced with more relaxed, comfortable elements.

Gold Accents

Gold accents are here to stay. The addition of gold and bronze is the perfect way to add warmth to a space. Try adding art accented with a luxe gold frame. Artists like Karin Olah , Brittany Atkinson , and Ron Giusti can be found pairing their creations with a gleaming gold frame. You can also look for art that includes a hint of gold in the painting itself. We see that in pieces like Call Me Poppy by Katie Craig and Phoenix Rising IV by Kathleen Jones . The touch of gold glimmers in the light and as your eye moves around the piece.

Minimaluxe

Minimaluxe. Seems like an oxymoron, right? Lick.com describes it as “A blend of minimalism and Japandi design, ‘minimaluxe’ is the term coined by Pip Rich to describe the pared-back design style…A move away from luxury being shiny surfaces, plush velvets, and gold-plated handles, minimaluxe embodies a new wave of luxury - one that celebrates the natural, the durable, the comfortable, and the less-is-more approach as the ultimate form of luxe living.” This design style features soft textures and airiness.

Consider adding art that has exposed canvas, like Canadian artist Meghan Bustard ’s paintings. She layers soft washes of moody hues on raw canvas, adding organic lines, shapes, and strokes of complimenting color. We see a similar approach to the canvas with artist Joy Kinna , also a Canadian artist. Kinna’s paintings are even softer, with blurred edges to the stains of hues and bright beams of light across the canvas. The perfect pairing to a minimaluxe home.

Earthy Hues

We will continue to embrace color in the home, but with more earthy tones this coming year. Think dusty pink, ochre, taupe, and tan. We can find the lovely ochre color featured in the art of Kristen Abbott . An artist from Colorado, her paintings feature texture that remind us of the topography of her home state. Abbott pulls the earthy ochres and tans into her paintings, and paired with stunning surface texture, they feel like an homage to the land.

Trends come and go, but art is something that will stand the test of time. Art you love is an investment and gift to your space that never goes out of style.

Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design announced one of America's top 70 small businesses

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:34:19 GMT

Chamber’s “America’s Top Small Business Awards” celebrate small business innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement

PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release

Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design
Contact: Liz Lidgett, Founder & CEO
Email: hello@lizlidgett.com
Phone: (515) 288-8990

Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design Named a Top Small Business by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Chamber’s “America’s Top Small Business Awards” celebrate small business innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement

DES MOINES, IOWA — (September 21, 2023) The U.S. Chamber of Commerce today announced Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design is one of America's top 70 small businesses, selected amid an extraordinary year that saw a record-breaking 15,000+ applicants for its annual “America’s Top Small Business" Awards.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce selected America’s top 70 small businesses from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. They were evaluated on their business growth, ability to overcome challenges, smart strategies for success, and community engagement. Seven of the top small businesses will go on to be named finalists.

The top 70 small businesses receive a one-year paid membership to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and will be prominently featured on the CO—website, a platform that provides practical information and tips to 20,000 business owners daily and over 6 million individuals annually, spanning the United States and the globe. The winner of the coveted title of "America's Top Small Business" will receive a $25,000 cash prize.

Liz Lidgett, gallery owner and founder said, “We are honored to be named to this remarkable list of small businesses. Our team here in Des Moines represents over 60 artists from around the world. We are committed to creating opportunities for artists to work and thrive.” The art gallery is located in the East Village of Des Moines, representing 60+ contemporary artists including Hunt Slonem, Kit Porter, Hillary Howorth, Ron Giusti and more.

On October 19, the top 70 small businesses and seven finalists will be recognized and celebrated at the America's Top Small Business Summit: Ready, Set, Scale at the Chamber’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony following the summit. 

View the complete list of America’s 70 top small businesses here .

###

Based in Des Moines, Iowa, Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design represents 60+ contemporary artists from around the world and ships artwork to clients worldwide. The gallery commits to representing at least 50% women artists and supporting diversity in the roster. Founded and owned by art advisor, Liz Lidgett, the gallery has partnered with national brands including Better Homes & Gardens, Martha Stewart, Emily Henderson, Architectural Digest and more. Learn more about Liz Lidgett, the gallery or art advisory services at www.lizlidgett.com .

Color of the Year 2024

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:21:19 GMT

As announced by Sherwin Williams, Upward SW 6239—it'z breezy blue, and I love it.

I’m probably one of the few people who gets excited about the color of the year when it’s announced … it comes with the job. Sherwin Williams just shared the winner— Upward SW 6239 ! A “breezy, blissful blue” with an invitation to slow down, take a breath and allow the mind to clear. Well, I like that. And so do many of our artists. Here’s a few beauties at the gallery currently singing the breezy blue Upward color song.

Rebecca Stern, Falling From Behind

Allison James, Wavy Rost

Nate Nettleton, Lantern In The Night

Andrea Ferrigno, Spiritus Mundi

Kristen Abbott, Calm In The Chaos

Bethany Mabee, Veer I

Eliana Bernard, Wall Hanging No. 6

A Fall Cottage Dream

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 16:32:10 GMT

A knitted blanket, a crackling fire, and a comforting piece of art is the perfect combination for the coziest of homes this fall.

Summer is coming to an end and fall is quickly approaching. As leaves turn orange and the nights get cooler, you may find yourself settling in at home with a blanket and warm cup of tea. Every cozy home needs artwork to bring peace, inspiration, and comfort to the space. Warm earth tones, textural mark-making, and an animal or two are perfect elements to bring a cottage dream to life.

Anee Shah is a master of capturing dreamy worlds with paint. Every mark suggests a landscape that feels familiar and comforting. The wisps of clouds draw you in and give you a sense of something bigger in her piece Journey to You No. 1 . Her color palette is perfect for bringing warmth into a space.

If your space is feeling flat, Kristen Abbott 's textural masterpieces will solve that problem in a heartbeat. Large strokes of moody shades lead your eye across the canvas. Kristen's piece Where the Light Breaks Through is complimented with a lovely light maple floating frame. Imagine a warm fire flickering light across the room, landing on the textural planes of this painting.

Eliana Bernard 's creations combine explorations of materials, shapes, and finishes. Her blend of metallic/matte and ceramic/wooden create a refreshing piece to add to any shelf or small space. Tiled Wall Art No. 13 is a perfect addition to any collector's cozy fall home, and priced at $480, it is a budget friendly option.

Reminiscent of the beginning ideas of a quilt, or patching the worn-through fabric of your favorite jeans, Taelor Fisher 's painting brings a sense of comfort to a space. The layers or pattern and color bring balance and harmony to the linen canvas. The muted color palette of rosey pinks and soft blues are a breath of fresh air. This mixed media piece is a wonderful size at 48" x 48".

The sterling dragonfly featured in Shannon Coppage 's piece stirs up memories of fields speckled with the buzzing beauties. Catching the last months of warmth in the fall months, the dragonfly is said to represent new beginnings, hope, and change. What better energy is there to bring into your home?

Your home should be a safe space, bringing you comfort and joy. As the cooler months approach us and we find ourselves cooped up at home, it may be time to reflect on your space and bring in art that can bring you these good feelings.

Ten Minute Masterpiece: Spiders

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 15:33:05 GMT

In this episode, we focus on the work of one French-American sculptor Louise Bourgeois. Her eighty year career explored lifelong themes of childhood, motherhood, and family identity.

Louise Bourgeois’s Spider sculptures are an ode to her mother — the spider series became the centerpiece of the last chapter of her life.

Louise Bourgeois returned again and again to the image and symbol of the spider in her work. Her spider sculptures can be seen in museums and public spaces around the world.

Spiders features Liz Lidgett and artist Betsy Enzensberger . Ten Minute Masterpieces is hosted by art advisor Liz Lidgett and produced by Maribeth Romslo .

Click this link for photograph: Spider (1997) by Louise Bourgeois at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, Iowa.

Click this link for photograph: French-American artist and sculptor Louise Bourgeois photographed in her studio in the Chelsea, Manhattan, 1982. (Photo by Jack Mitchell/Getty Images)

Click this link for photograph: An edition of Louise Bourgeois's Maman at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain. LUIS TEJIDO/EPA-EFE

Click this link for photograph: Maman by Louise Bourgeois, 1999, via Guggenheim Bilbao (left); with Louise Bourgeois inside her articulated air at the MoMA, 1986, via The Guardian

Click this link for photograph: Bourgeois photo credit Bruno Nasatti

Click this link for photograph: Plate 8 of 9 from the illustrated book Ode à Ma Mère, 1995 Drypoint. Page: 11 13/16 x 11 13/16″ (30 x 30 cm). Photo: Digital Image © MoMA, N.Y.

Click this link for photograph: Bourgeois’ art was fueled by her need to exorcize the anxiety and the anguish that took root in her early childhood.Photograph by Mathias Johansson

Transcript:

Liz Lidgett 0:01

Welcome back to Ten Minute Masterpieces where we explore curious stories behind the world's most renowned works of art. I'm Liz Lidgett, and I'm an art advisor and gallery owner in Des Moines, Iowa.

Liz Lidgett 0:11

In this episode, we are focusing on the work of one of my favorite sculptors — French American artist Louise Bourgeois. Born in Paris in 1911, Louise Bourgeois grew up in her parents' antiques and tapestry restoration shop. As a young girl, she honed her artistic skills, making drawings of lost sections of tapestry as a template for the stitching repairs to follow. When Louise was a teenager, her mother contracted the Spanish flu, a disease from which she never really recovered. During her mother's illness, Louise's father took the family's British au pair as a mistress, the entangled family situation left Louise feeling abandoned and betrayed by her father.

Liz Lidgett 0:56

Shortly after Bourgeois’ mother died in 1932, Louise entered the Sorbonne to study mathematics and geometry. However, she quickly abandoned her studies and turned to art, earning a living by giving guided tours at the Louvre. In 1938, she opened her own gallery space, where she showcased the work of artists such as Henri Matisse and Eugene Delacroix. American art professor Robert Goldwater became a customer of her gallery. They fell in love, married and moved to the United States, where Louise Bourgeois spent the rest of her life.

Liz Lidgett 1:29

In 1945, Louise was featured in an exhibition of fourteen women artists at Peggy Guggenheim's gallery. Her early pieces were carved sculptures from pieces of driftwood combined with junkyard scraps. Bourgeois had mixed feelings about the exhibit, because while it brought attention to women artists, it also defined them as separate from their male counterparts. Bourgeois became friends with many of New York's most celebrated artists including Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock. She joined the American Abstract Artists Group, and started exploring marble, plaster and bronze as materials on a larger scale, all while exploring themes of fear, vulnerability and loss of control.

Liz Lidgett 2:09

In the late 1960s, her imagery became more sexual as she explored the relationship between men and women, and the emotional impact of her troubled childhood. While Bourgeois was very connected in the New York art world, her work didn't receive wide acceptance or acclaim until the 1970s. A retrospective of her work opened at the Museum of Modern Art in 1982 when Louise was 71 years old. It was momus first exhibition devoted to a female sculptor.

Liz Lidgett 2:38

Bourgeois’ arachnid forms appeared in the few ink and charcoal drawings she made as early as 1947. But her sculptural series of Spiders took her early sketches to a monumental level in the 1990s. The spider represents creativity and industry. Like Bourgeois’ mother, the spider is a weaver. Louise described her mother as deliberate, clever, patient, soothing, reasonable, dainty, subtle, indispensable, neat and as useful as a spider. Louise Bourgeois' Spider sculptures are an ode to her mother. The spider series became the centerpiece of the last chapter of her life. Bourgeois' Spiders are sized to make the viewer feel small, and yet also protected beneath its shelter.

Liz Lidgett 3:24

In 1994, bourgeois installed her first large scale Spider at the Brooklyn Museum. As she approached her 90th birthday in 1999, Bourgeois created a 30 foot tall spider for the grand opening of the Tate Modern Art Museum in London. The towering spider is titled Maman, and is her largest sculpture in the series. Visitors to Maman can navigate under the eight legs of the steel spider and look up at its body which carries a sack of marble legs. Louise Bourgeois returned again and again to the image and symbol of the spider and her work. Her Spider sculptures can be seen in museums and public spaces around the world. We even have one of her smaller Spiders, which stands about eight feet tall in Des Moines at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, right down the street from the gallery.

Liz Lidgett 4:10

Here to talk about Louise Bourgeois spiders is Liz Lidgett Gallery artist Betsy Enzensberger . Betsy is based in Palm Springs and is known for her whimsical larger than life resin sculptures of melting ice cream treats. I'm excited to share here with you some of our recent conversation about Louise Bourgeois' Spiders, what it means for an artist to focus on a theme, and more about Betsy's artistic process.

Liz Lidgett 4:33

Betsy, thank you so much for joining us on the podcast today. I'm so excited to have a sculptor here to talk about sculpture.

Betsy Enzensberger 4:42

Thanks for having me.

Liz Lidgett 4:43

You were just in Des Moines a few weeks ago for our show that had your work in it. And we went down to our local sculpture park and you and I spent time at the Spider. We were there together looking at it and in the underbelly of our particular spider, there is an open area that has been caged in shows where the spider holds its eggs. And it's like this mothering nurturing portrait. And a bird had made its nest there and had found shelter in this sculpture and that exact part. And you said something to me, it was like nature always knows.

Betsy Enzensberger 5:23

Yeah, you see this little happy bird and it's comforting nest. And it's like exactly what Louise was trying to portray.

Liz Lidgett 5:32

You know, what attracts an artist to a specific image and you want to keep diving into that?

Betsy Enzensberger 5:38

Well, for me, the shape of the ice pop, which was what I chose, was this internationally recognizable shape that is associated with reward, treat, happiness, joy. And all over the world, you find something similar to this in, you know, different flavors and shapes, of course, but you know, ice cream on a stick, I'm definitely drawing from childhood — hot summer days, when your feet are burning on the pavement and getting really, really excited every time I heard the chimes of the ice cream truck. But for me, it's more the connection between people, connecting people over this one simple object. It's not just nostalgia.

Liz Lidgett 6:22

My perspective, as someone who has the honor of repping your work, is that people are so drawn to it, they really want to get up close.I I joke all the time, that your work is the reason we have to clean off nose prints from our windows on a regular basis.

Betsy Enzensberger 6:42

Oh, that's great.

Liz Lidgett 6:44

We have so many videos from our like security feed of people just really smashing their noses trying.

Betsy Enzensberger 6:51

Oh, I want to see that. That's amazing. We should make a Reel. But it's great to know that people want to get up close, because I do spend a lot of time on the details. So I want people to enjoy that. And I don't just create these things lightly. I I spend a lot of time with each piece making it what it is. It doesn't happen by accident.

Liz Lidgett 7:13

Would you just tell us a little bit about the process in the materials because I think that's so interesting to hear you talk about.

Betsy Enzensberger 7:18

Oh, yeah, resin, it's a joy. And it's also a nightmare. It's a really complicated thing to work with. Because you need to be up close, you need to manipulate it with your hands, but you can't really touch it or breathe it. So you need to keep your distance and I'm not the most patient person. So if I could have it dry faster, I would love that. But I wait and I'm patient. And maybe that's the only thing I'm patient for really. I have patience for resin. I love the challenge of it. I love that I go in and I'm like sweating and creating all this dust and you know, and then out from the dust comes this shiny popsicle. And you know, it looks like oh, so easy. So pretty. And what it took to create that was not pretty. I worked with power tools all day. I work with automotive tools, Sanders and polishers and automotive paints. And, you know, you look into my studio, and then you can go across the street to the auto repair place, and they have the exact same equipment. So I walk out from my studio and I, you know, I take all my gear off, and I'm just like, hey, to all the guys working on cars next door. I'm like, Yeah, I can do the same thing as you.

Liz Lidgett 8:37

Betsy, thank you so much for your time and for chatting with us. It's been such a pleasure.

Betsy Enzensberger 8:43

Oh, that was fun.

Liz Lidgett 8:44

Thank you so much for all of your insight.

Betsy Enzensberger 8:46

Anytime.

Liz Lidgett 8:48

When Betsy and I visited the spider in Des Moines, it was so special to experience public art together. And it's really interesting to then hear more in our conversation about how Betsy felt she couldn't even walk underneath the Spider because of the powerful emotions that the sculpture was making her feel. Part of the reason I love Louise Bourgeois' Spiders so much is that at first her sculptures appear to be these giant looming metal creatures. You might think her Spiders are something scary out of a Tim Burton film, towering above you. Eight spindly metal legs holding up an elegant knot of coiling forms. But as you learn more you understand that Louise's spiders are powerful protectoresses, delicate weavers, and fierce mothers who are both vulnerable and strong.

Liz Lidgett 9:31

Bourgeois’ 80 year artistic career is a study in excavating memories and feelings and turning them into art. Louise's body of work, including her Spiders, explores deep autobiographical themes — motherhood, femininity, betrayal, fear, sexuality, loneliness, the body, memory, and healing from childhood trauma. I'm struck by how Louise's life is a testament to art as a lifelong practice. Something from which artists don't ever really retire. For the last 30 years of her life she hosted weekly Sunday afternoon artist salons at her brownstone in Chelsea. Artists would fly in from all over the world bringing their work for unflinching critique and conversation with Bourgeois. She created artwork until the very end of her life when she died in 2010 at the age of 98.

Liz Lidgett 10:22

To close this episode, I'd like to leave you with the voice of Spider Woman herself. Here's Louise Bourgeois and the 2008 documentary The Spider, The Mistress and The Tangerine.

Louise Bourgeois 10:34

I go back and I unwind the past. And you can see by the work there is a sequence to your work which is visible in the aspect of the weight of pieces look. And they go on and on like that. The materials are not the subject of the artist, the subject of the artist is emotions and ideas, both. The sculpture is a problem to be resolved, and it is a pleasure to find a solution, right? After you have found the solution, well you let go of the object. So that the purpose of sculpture is really self knowledge. Know yourself in order to be happy.

Liz Lidgett 11:31

Ten Minute Masterpieces is a production of Liz Lidgett Gallery and is produced by Maribeth Romslo. Special thanks to Betsy Enzensberger. Check out our Show Notes for credits to this episode and links to more info about Louise Bourgeois and her Spider sculptures. Join us next time when we take a look at Grant Woods' American Gothic. Until then, I hope you take ten minutes and look at some art today. You might just discover your favorite masterpiece. to Ten Minute Masterpieces where we explore curious stories behind the world's most renowned works of art.

LISTEN TO THE EPISODE
https://www.lizlidgett.com/podcast

CREDITS

Premium Beat: Creative Morning
Epidemic Music: Until the End , Frontiers are Where You Find Them , Finnish Friendship , Alone in Paris , The Spider, The Mistress, and the Tangerine Documentary

RESEARCH AND LINKS OF INTEREST

3 Reasons to Buy Big Art

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:15:05 GMT

Buying big may be intimidating, but is so worth it in the long run. Here are three reasons why.

1. Bang for your buck

First and foremost, it saves money in the long run. A couple of smaller works initially are easier on the budget, but if it takes 4-5 smaller pieces to fill a wall, it adds up. Your budget could have been put towards one large piece, like AK Hardeman 's impactful painting The Tightrope Broke .

2. Statement

Second, it contributes to the room's aesthetic as equally as a furniture piece. Again, going back to saving money — you can spend less on shelf staging, throw pillows, coffee table books, and ottomans. A piece like Makiko Harris ' provides color, texture, and variety to any room. Instead of endless decor, hang a piece of art that makes a statement.

3. Return on investment

The third reason to buy big is because it has a greater return on value. A larger piece generally costs more, with artists pricing per square inch. In turn, the art will increase in value at a percentage rate. Artists such as Roma Osowo and Hillary Howorth are rising in popularity, with brand collaborations and TV appearances. You are able to invest in the art while also enjoying it in your home for years to come.

And, as a bonus, you’re supporting an artist’s career as they work at such a large scale—allowing them to literally dream big !

The Do's of Buying Art

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 20:00:31 GMT

Whether you're a beginning or seasoned art collector, here's 5 major do's when buying art.

1. DO get to know the artist and their medium. Art is personal, and getting to know the creator of a piece is important. Try to learn more about their process and how that artist creates. It can help you feel even more connected to the piece. Artist Emily Keating Snyder creates paintings featuring large color blocks, then meticulously embroidering the canvas. She enjoys blending fine art and craft together in her pieces.

2. DO know your budget and where you would like the piece to go. Take a look around your space. Where would you like to add a statement piece that would bring you joy? What size would be best there? How much are you willing to spend? Karin Olah , a South Carolina artist, creates pieces for every budget and space. From smaller pieces at $450 to large works at $1,400—she creates with every collector and size in mind.

3. DO consider shipping costs as a part of your budget. It can vary by size and value. Feel comfortable asking shipping costs when inquiring about artwork. A wood piece like Angie Barker 's Who I'm Meant to Be may require a bit more packaging to ensure safe travels, and the large size may increase shipping costs. Asking the gallery for a shipping estimate when interested in a piece is always welcome.

4. DO keep a file with information on the artist and the gallery. Keep this for your records!

5. DO buy what you love. This is what matters most! Explore artists, mediums, practices, and prices. Find art that resonates with you. If you feel a connection to the artwork, you will enjoy it for years to come.

Best Bold Wall Colors for Art

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

It’s no secret that I love a bold color palette throughout my house. Lots of color and lots of pattern is what makes me happiest. Here are some examples throughout my current home and our last home that show off artwork in a wonderful way.

In the past, we have looked at best white paint col or s for showing off your art collection and we have looked at some fun wallpaper and art combinations but now let’s take a look at best BOLD paint colors for your artwork.

Truly, I think almost any paint color could work with the right artwork but how do you know if it does work? Well, my general rule of thumb is to find a complimentary color on the color wheel (example: blue and yellow) for the artwork to contrast off of or to find an accent color within the piece that is not a dominant color.

In our last dining room, I went with Benjamin Moore Baby Seal Black for a moodiness that I thought went so well with our artwork. I personally love drama in a dining room and think that this room in particular is a room where you can really go for it. A deep, almost black like Baby Seal Black also gives a great contrast point for a variety of different artworks.

In our current home, we had a room that did not have a distinct purpose. As soon as I saw the home I had a vision to turn it into a library. I turned to our amazing realtor ( Sara Hopkins ) and told her– "I want this room to be a jewel box”. Hence I turned to Sherwin Williams’ Oceanside and covered the room in the shade. It’s a true jewel tone and let’s our Roma Osowo painting stand out by pulling out the teal color throughout and complimenting the pinks and yellows.

I’ve also put together some additional pairings of artwork and bold colors that I’d love to create in real life.

I love how the subtle purple tones in Makiko Harris' Avocado Orchid are turned up a notch pairing them with a lilac background. Makiko ’s artwork is bold on its own and it can take a fun wall color that is up to the challenge of both complimenting the work but not overpowering it.

We recently used this beautiful color in the gallery on our back wall. We have kept the color but rotated the artwork several times and I’ve been pleasantly surprised with how many different artworks and color combinations have worked with it. I think this combo of Christina Flowers ' piece Summer Moon works because the light pink tones and the fuchsia are within the same color family.

This gorgeous Katie Craig piece titled I Dream in Ochre has many colors in it but I decided to pull from the repeating blue stripe. This Flyaway wall color will help tie together all of the blues in the piece and give a great contrasting color to the yellow/ochre tones. Of course yellow and blue are complimentary colors on the color wheel which helps this combo really sing.

I hope this empowers you to go bold with your wall color choice as you are looking at selecting new work or looking at your current collection. Plus, we’re always happy to talk through a color consult as you’re buying work. We love a room makeover based on art!

Met Gala 2023

Wed, 10 May 2023 16:22:52 GMT

Angie Barker + Suki Waterhouse

The red carpet of the Met Gala is always fun to watch and it's been a tradition for me the past few years to pair my favorite dresses with some of my favorite pieces in the gallery. Art and fashion partner so well together and I love finding the overlapping themes. Here's some from last week's gala. Just click on the photo if you want to know more about the pieces selected! -LL

Suki Waterhouse's stylist, Candice Birns, told InStyle that they were channeling an "effortlessly romantic Bridgette Bardot." I thought her Burberry gown paired perfectly with this Angie Barker as she had those colorful flowers and greenery throughout the dress. Angie's piece also has some beautiful cutout moments so that the wall color peaks through -- just as her dress has the translucency throughout.

Shannon Coppage + Serena Williams

I was especially proud of this pairing as Serena announced her pregnancy as she walked the red carpet. Her outfit pairs so wonderfully with the black and white of Shannon's modern piece. That little gray square represents that sweet baby she's carrying!

Raasheda Burnett + Pedro Pascal

The internet's favorite actor and meme star was wearing a bold red outfit for the red carpet. This is all about color matching for the reds and blacks in Pascal's outfit with the vibrant colors in Raasheda Burnett's piece.

Kristi Kohut + Grace Elizabeth

Of course these pink stripes were an amazing pair with Grace Elizabeth's Christoper John Rogers look. CJR is a favorite designer of mine lately because he clearly has so much fun with color and texture just as Kristi Kohut does with her pieces. Gotta love anyone who embraces color!

Ron Giusri + Duo Lipa

The Met Gala honored Karl Lagerfeld who was a designer for Chanel for years. Because of this there was a lot of black and white on the carpet and Dua Lipa's look was my favorite. Minimalist with big style which also makes me think of Ron Giusti's black and white abstract mini. Just a subtle texture and beautiful contrast of neutrals both in the dress and the art.

Hunt Slonem + Penelope Cruz

For Penelope Cruz's look has the most subtle blue and silver throughout. Hunt Slonem is known for his beautifully adorned frames for his bunnies and butterflies. These two looks look like a match made in silver heaven.

Fares Micue + Chloe Fineman

Fares Micue's photography always includes the most beautiful fashion in bright colors. Of course, the black background and florals obscuring her face in this photo made it the right choice to pair with Chloe Fineman's gorgeous dress by Stella McCartney.

Artist Spotlight: Joy Kinna

Fri, 05 May 2023 16:07:08 GMT

Joy Kinna is an abstract artist out of Vancouver Canada and we are so excited to share a little bit more about her with you.

What are three things you cannot go a day without?

Decent sleep, breakfast, and taking photos.

When did you first consider yourself an artist?

When I decided to pursue a degree in visual arts it became more "real", and I could actually start to see myself as an artist. Slowly I continued to grow into this confidence. When I began selling work and realized I was creating a business and a career, it just made sense. There is still self-doubt, humbling moments, and deep gratitude where you ask yourself "Am I really an artist?" but that's all part of the journey.

When did you start creating?

I was always creative as a child. I remember trying to catch up to my older brothers drawing skills (I never really did!). I found abstract painting at university and never turned back. As a kid, it felt like making things was in my blood, it's how I processed life - pain, curiosity, creativity, wonder, pain, all of it. I was always happiest when I was using my hands.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Truly, everyday experiences capture my attention. Maybe it's a colour, a memory or some idea/thought that has been on my mind for some time. These daily interactions make their way into my work. On top of that, I am really inspired by living on the coast. The landscape, the colours, the feeling of being close to the ocean. I want my work to emulate the same peace you feel when you're in nature.

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

I love this question. The biggest piece of advice would be to enjoy the process. Being an artist isn't the most linear career, but it's so rewarding. Ride the highs and lows and keep staying true to yourself and your artistic voice.

I hope you fall in love with Joy's work a little bit more after getting to know her a little better. Click here to read her bio and see the works she currently has available or reach out via email at hello@lizlidgett.com to talk commissions.

Gallery Listening

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 19:05:13 GMT

Listen to what we are listening to here at the gallery!

We listen to music all day long here at Liz Lidgett Gallery and decided to make a playlist of some of our favorites on Spotify . Follow the playlist and listen to what we listen to every day! The playlist features songs from Taylor Swift and Lizzo, to Sammy Rae and the Friends and Lawrence, to Stevie Wonder and Etta James - this playlist will have you dancing and feeling nostalgic. Enjoy!

Mother's Day Gifting

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 19:34:59 GMT

Mothers Day is just around the corner so here are some gifts that are sure to bring a smile to face of all the moms in your life!

Always remember to shop local to you - these are just a few Des Moines favorites!

The Earthy Mama

Gong Fu Tea has been a favorite of mine for gifting for a while now. They have a wonderful selection of teas and teacups for every kind of tea lover. My mother in law loves ginger and we have gotten her a delightful ginger blend of tea for the last couple holidays. I love Wall Hanging No 24 by Eliana Bernard with this tea and cup selection because of the connection in stone, in color and in earthiness of both the beverage and the art. This gorgeous piece can fit in just about any space and is a beautiful collection of earthy neutrals and bold accent colors - the perfect addition to any gallery wall or skinny, empty, space.

The Trendy Mama

Allison James work is absolutely incredible and so modern and energetic. This piece, Lem List , has been on my mind since it arrived in the gallery and I couldn't help but include it in this gift guide. Its colors are bright and colorful and pair perfectly with playful tee, staple claw clip and neutral, yet fashion forward, heels. The clip plays with the blending of colors on the Lem List canvas and the tee leans into the collection of bright and beautiful colors while the heels are reminiscent of the simple, elegant, light wood frame.

The Cozy Mama

Joy Kinna's work feels like wrapping up in a cozy blanket, and so does Horizon Lines coffee. What better combination than two things that make you feel comforted and energized? What better way to start the day? Especially if the mom in your life has littles - they need all the energy they can get! Family Room Conversations has to be one of my favorite of Joy's more recent work. The brightness and subtly of it would look simply lovely on any background whether that be a fun wallpaper, a deep paint or simple white walls, it is versatile and adaptable to anything you throw its way - just like some mamas I know!

The Chic Mama

Every Good Thing ii by Roma Osowo is simply stunning. It is bright and vibrant and colorful and the perfect statement piece to any space. This gorgeous chair balances between comfort and style and plays with the dark marks in Roma's work. This whole collection of gifts show both the playful side of the mama in your life, off, but also the chic, timeless, elegance of her off as well. There are so many sides to her, so why not lean into those sides of her?

To all the moms, mother figures and vilomah, Happy Mother's Day!

Easy Spring Reading Pairings

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 16:19:20 GMT

As we thaw out from a harsh cold winter, I am dreaming of the days sitting by the pool and reading.

In the last couple of years I have really started to love graphic novels. There is so much beauty in being able to use your imagination alongside an artist as they tell the story scene by scene. It is such a beautiful way to marry my love of reading with my love of art, though I will admit, it makes it much easier for me to spoil the plot for myself by looking forward.

The Arrival by Shaun Tan

The Arrival took my breath away from the moment I picked it up. The book is about a man who moves to a new country without his family to get a job and make some money so that he is able to bring his family later on. There is not a single word in the whole book as to echo the fact that there is a language and cultural difference. Each page is a masterpiece that demands the viewer to take a moment and take everything in - absorbing the beauty of Shaun's work. This pairs well with Kristen Abbott's work because it is both exciting and comforting. This piece specifically spoke to me to pair with the Arrival because of the warm earthy tones and the earthy tones in Shaun's work. They both feel comforting and hopeful. Where the Light Breaks Through even is a title that matches well with the hope and excitement with a hint of fear and uncertainty.

This One Summer by Jillian Tamaki and Mariko Tamaki

This One Summer is a beautiful coming of age story about a young girl named Rose and her friend Windy learning about the world from their summer lakeside cottages. They have been friends for their whole childhoods, but now that they are moving into young adulthood they are having to figure out more than just what names they are going to put on their paper for MASH. They are not quite ready to leave childhood behind, but local teen drama and Rose's parents turbulent relationship is forcing them to look outside the life they have lived so far. The purple hue to the book makes it feel dreamy and nostalgic. The artwork is playful and peaceful while still giving room to big topics. Betsy's work is also playful and peaceful and nostalgic. She plays with the ideas of desire, youth and nostalgia in her work, so what better pairing than Deliciousness ? Betsy will be in our next show at the end of April and she has some really fun and exciting pieces that will be in this show. Get on the presale if you want to see more from her!

Blankets by Craig Thompson

Blankets is a brilliant autobiographical coming-of-age story of the authors journey through young love and young adulthood. Thompson grew up in the midwest so all of the settings will be very familiar to what we are used to here; especially because this book is set in winter and we are not that far from the memory of being deep in snow ourselves here in Iowa! This beautiful book deals with real and deep topics while being wrapped in beautifully illustrated pages. It is a cozy read that is quick to get invested and quick to want to read again and again. This book could not pair better with Karin Olah's work. Her work has such a cozy and comforting feeling with her use of textiles along with pigment. I chose

Blue Madras 6 specifically because Blankets has a blue tint to it and this gorgeous piece has the perfect collection of blues.

Enjoy some cozy spring reading and remember to shop local. I have linked each book to our local book shop Storyhouse Bookpub .

Artist Spotlight: Fares Micue

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 18:17:12 GMT

I have absolutely fallen in love with Fares Micue’s work , and figured it was about time for a proper introduction of this amazing artist. She started her interest in photography back in 2009 just as a way to have nice images rather than pixelated phone images, and her love for the medium has blossomed into something she could have never imagined. Every element in her portraits is intentional and deeply thought out; using the colors, poses and props to tell a story. In her own words: “I am a highly positive person and this positivity often reflects on my work delivering images with a strong message on personal growth, reflection, self worth and overcoming obstacles. My images are characterized for simple backgrounds, saturated colors and strong conceptual load with a highly aesthetic charm. I want my work to be viewed as a whole story condensed in one frame.”

Why do you love what you do?

Because thanks to photography I am able to combine my love for art, positivity, and writing into one that allowed me to share my vision with the world, and spread a message of empowerment and growth. The fact that my work makes others reflect and think about their own lives, dreams, and journey is the more rewarding part of all.

What is something you cannot go a day without?

Without a doubt, I can't go a day without writing. It is my favorite activity to do, whether it is planning new images, planning about the future, or simply reviewing my day.

When did you consider yourself an artist?

Art has always been an important part of my life and I always knew I wanted to dedicate my life to create and share my ideas with the world, I wasn't sure about the medium to do so until I discovered photography, but despite that, I didn't consider myself an artist until recently, when I started to see that my work was finally putting out there the exact message I always wanted to share.

If you could go back and give yourself advice when you were just starting out, what would you say?

Follow your heart, because you already know where you want to go and who you want to be, you just need to believe in yourself, nothing is impossible. That's why I constantly share this message through my art; I want everybody to realize it as soon as possible (and not waste time on self doubt).

What is something that you have been inspired by lately?

I have been waking up pretty early these days and have been able to see the sunrise. It has been an amazing source of inspiration for me. There is something about the beginning of a new day that always makes me feel like I have another chance to make more and better things; it is very empowering.

Do you keep a sketchbook?

I am not the organized type so I do not keep it in a specific notebook instead, I have dozens of papers flying here and there with image sketches and ideas.

Fares work was featured in our most recent show Garden of Earthly Delights in celebration of spring. You can find more of her work here .

Ten Minute Masterpiece: At Segregated Drinking Fountain

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 18:06:07 GMT

At Segregated Drinking Fountain

Photographed in 1956 by Gordon Parks (1912-2006)

The Gordon Parks Foundation

In this episode, we take a look at our first photograph on the podcast – Gordon Parks’ image from 1956 entitled At Segregated Drinking Fountain.

In the summer of 1956, Life Magazine sent Gordon Parks to Alabama to document Black Americans living under Jim Crow laws in the South. Twenty-six of his images from this assignment appeared in the September 24th, 1956 issue of Life Magazine in a photo essay called “The Restraints – Open and Hidden”.

The photographs of Gordon Parks have an enduring power. Through quiet moments of dignity, he documented people who refused to be dehumanized. The gentleness of Parks’ photographs became persuasive acts of protest against injustice.

At Segregated Drinking Fountain features Liz Lidgett Gallery artist Roma Osowo . Ten Minute Masterpieces is hosted by art advisor Liz Lidgett and produced by Maribeth Romslo .

Click this link to see photograph: At Segregated Drinking Fountain Gordon Parks (1912-2006) Mobile County, Alabama, 1956 Courtesy of and copyright The Gordon Parks Foundation

Click this link to see photograph: Gordon Parks – Self Portrait – 1945. The Clarence Ward Art Library at Oberlin College

Click this link to see photograph: Known internationally as a photographer of social justice issues, Gordon Parks was also a celebrated fashion photographer for magazines such as Life, Vogue and Glamour. This photograph was shot by Parks in Hollywood in 1961 and features the fashion of James Galanos.

Click this link to see photograph: Encouraged by acclaimed film director and friend, John Cassavettes, Gordon Parks wrote, directed, and scored the first major Hollywood film to be directed by a Black American, The Learning Tree (1969).

Click this link to see photograph: Life’ magazine spread, featuring Gordon Parks’s photographs, published September 24, 1956 (courtesy the Gordon Parks Foundation and Salon 94)

Click this link to see photograph: Gordon Parks began his artistic career as a musician, starting out as a brothel pianist and traveling with a jazz band. He had been playing piano by ear since his childhood and, although he could not read or write music, he started composing his own piano pieces. (Gordon Parks Foundation)

Click this link to see photograph: Parks celebrates with fellow photographers following a portrait session featuring himself and 100 other prominent African-American photographers in Harlem, New York, 2002. Photograph by Suzanne Plunkett / Associated Press.

Transcript:

Liz Lidgett 0:00

Welcome back to Ten Minute Masterpieces where we explore curious stories behind the world's most renowned works of art. I'm Liz Lidgett. I'm an art advisor and gallery owner in Des Moines, Iowa. Today we look through the lens of a pioneering artistic voice in the civil rights movement -- American photographer Gordon Parks.

Liz Lidgett 0:19

The year was 1956, and the civil rights movement in America was gaining momentum. Rosa Parks had just refused to give up her bus seat to a white man. A year-long protest by Black Americans of segregated bus seating called the Montgomery Bus Boycott was underway.

Martin Luther King, Jr. 0:34

There's a little song we sing it our movement down in the south. I don't know if you've heard it. But it has become the theme song. We shall overcome.

Liz Lidgett 0:41

And a young pastor named Martin Luther King Jr. was emerging as a leader of the civil rights movement, a nonviolent social and political effort to abolish racial segregation and institutional discrimination of Black Americans throughout the United States. In the summer of '56, Life Magazine sent Gordon Parks to Alabama to document Black Americans living under Jim Crow laws in the South. Twenty-six of his images from this assignment appeared in the September 24 1956 issue of Life magazine and a photo essay called "The Restraints: Open and Hidden". His vivid color images intimately captured the everyday humanity of Black Americans going about daily life under unjust circumstances. Parks shot the series on Kodachrome, color transparency film known for its vivid but natural colors, providing a fresh perspective on a period in American history that largely lives in our collective memory as black and white photographs.

Liz Lidgett 1:37

Today we are looking more closely at one photograph in the series Gordon Parks created in the summer of 1956, an image called At Segregated Drinking Fountain. The photograph was taken in Prichard, a small town in rural Alabama near Mobile. The image depicts a man for children and two women gathered near two side-by-side water fountains outside an ice cream parlor. The shopfront is covered in playful signage advertising the delicious treats sold inside: "Banana Split 35 cents", "Try the Butter Pecan", "Malts & Shakes" and "Ice Milk Sold Here". But the words that take center stage are on the front of one of the drinking fountains designating and capital letters one of the fountains as WHITE ONLY, unused by the Black Americans in the photograph because of legalized racial segregation laws of the time. The subjects of the image, a Black American family, drink water from the fountain designated COLORED ONLY. If one of the subjects in the photograph would have violated Jim Crow laws by drinking from the WHITE ONLY fountain, they would have risked arrest fines, a jail sentence, or worse, violence or death. The two drinking fountains in the photograph bring into sharp focus the everyday hate and discrimination endured by families like the one pictured -- on a sunny summer day outside an ice cream parlor.

Liz Lidgett 2:53

Here to discuss At Segregated Drinking Fountain and the work of Gordon Parks is Liz Lidgett Gallery artist Roma Osowo. Roma is a painter based in Dallas who uses rich and vibrant colors to represent both her West Indian heritage and her joyful outlook on the world.

Liz Lidgett 3:09

Roma, thanks so much for joining us on the podcast. I'd love it if you could introduce yourself and tell us about your work.

Roma Osowo 3:16

Yes, thank you so much for having me, Liz. My name is Roma Osowo. I am an abstract artist living in Dallas, Texas. And I am a lover of everything colorful. I love pattern in everything I see -- in nature and in fabric in human behavior. I just observe pattern all the time. And I like to reflect that back into my work.

Liz Lidgett 3:37

One of the reasons that I connected you with this Gordon Parks photograph that we're going to talk about is that Gordon Parks did so many creative things. Of course, he was a photographer, but he was a poet, and he created movies. And I think of you and align with that. And I think of a lot of creative people, even when they're not painting or doing their thing that you were meant to do. Like you're meant to be a painter. Creativity still flows out of you. There's so many different ways to be creative. And I think artists will always find a way.

Roma Osowo 4:07

Absolutely, yeah, I was reading on him. You know, he was a jazz pianist. I played in jazz, and I was like, okay. Yesterday, I was telling my hairstylist, you know, I was a DJ for a while and she cracked up but she did not believe me. And I'm like, Yeah, you kind of find ways to express yourself. I've kind of just tried a lot of things.

Liz Lidgett 4:25

Like you were in charge at the post office for the British Virgin Islands. Amazing.

Roma Osowo 4:31

So yes, I totally agree with you. I just have done all the things and it's been great because it's given me this great perspective on life.

Liz Lidgett 4:38

I just love that because I feel like anytime I have a conversation with you, I learned something new.

Roma Osowo 4:45

Yeah, yeah, for sure.

Liz Lidgett 4:46

Obviously, Gordon Parks was trying so many different things and was leading many lives. You've done that too. And so I thought it would be so interesting to hear your perspective on this. So first, I want to just hear in your own words. Tell me what you you see, and what this photograph makes you feel.

Roma Osowo 5:02

What I see is a photo outside of an ice cream shop. There is a Black family. There are two water fountains, one that reads COLORED ONLY, and one that reads WHITE ONLY. And there's a dad helping one of his daughters drink from the COLORED ONLY fountain.

Liz Lidgett 5:23

The composition of it, it just keeps your eye going. Just all around the photograph. It's amazing.

Roma Osowo 5:31

The two women are on the right side of the photo, because they're wearing dark, you're locked in on them first. Then from there, you move down. So you've got to pass that fountain that says WHITE ONLY. And then you see this little, maybe almost four year old girl. And she's staring up at her, what I assumed to be her, sister drinking from the colored only fountain while her dad holds on to her to steady her. It looks staged, in a sense, because it's like you could not put this together any more perfectly with even the color story. It's just so elegant. And it's so subtle, but it's so profound. Especially being a color photograph for the time it was taken. Color photographs were not commonplace at this time. So to me, it's like turning on the light, literally, and figuratively, coming out of the shadows of what the true reality of so many people that are marginalized were. And there's so much style in this photo, you know, it's like in the face of injustice, there's so much poise and elegance and dignity.

Liz Lidgett 6:37

They're beautiful. I mean, their clothing is beautiful.

Roma Osowo 6:41

The juxtaposition between the pattern on the the main skirt on the right bottom with the pattern along the top of the store. There's so much beauty here in the midst of what I know was such a painful time in this country's history. And to me, I totally appreciate this photo and his photography, because it's the truth of what has occurred, you know, you can't deny it.

Liz Lidgett 7:06

And Gordon Parks was shooting for Life Magazine. And they asked their photographers to document everyday life. Yes, they're living their lives like this isn't posed, yes. This is truth.

Roma Osowo 7:20

You see their humanity. You see the kindness in his compassion towards his daughter. You can't deny that. And you see the elegance that they carry in the midst of all that you see it done with grace and dignity and poise. So I think this picture to me, is a metaphor for the reality of what that injustice has held true.

Liz Lidgett 7:40

So this is the first photograph we've been looking at on the podcast. And I'm curious even though your mediums are different, you know, you being a painter, and then the photographer, primarily, and what ways do you connect with his work or his process?

Roma Osowo 7:52

I like all over compositions. Another name for that would be like a meandering composition, I'm just a lot as a person, I think my personality is a little big. So that reflects in color and movement that you see in my pieces. And in this photo, I see the same thing. Your eye moves around. That color in, I think it's like an ice cream sandwich, the background of that, and then the pattern on the top and you see that same sort of peachy tone color in her skirt. So yeah, it's just good. Like, it's really good. It's really good.

Roma Osowo 8:28

Even you know, with the sadness that this brings, there's so much beauty there. And I think it goes against what was happening to them at the time. This level of documentation, it makes people uncomfortable. But I think why this works so well is because it's so beautiful. So even though it might make you sit and stare and make you a little uncomfortable, it's truth. And we need this type of truth. Thank God for this type of truth that you can't erase.

Liz Lidgett 8:57

Roma, thank you so much for speaking with us about this really important photograph. It was so interesting to hear your perspective. And to even have your painter's eye take a look at a photograph was really special. So thank you so much for doing this with us.

Roma Osowo 9:12

Thank you so much for having me and I feel honored to be your guest, especially on this episode.

Liz Lidgett 9:18

For me this photograph holds so much significance and power. As a mother, when I look at this image, my heart breaks to see the way the little girls patiently wait their turn to drink from the COLORED ONLY fountain, knowing they aren't allowed to drink from the WHITE ONLY fountain. This was their reality. I love how Roma talked about how the people in Gordon Parks’ photograph are living their everyday lives with so much grace in the face of hatred. This photograph was taken just 67 years ago. It's not distant history. We can only look at an image with our current modern perspective. But take a moment to think about readers opening Life Magazine in 1956. And what they were thinking when they saw Gordon Parks’ images. The pressure of creating such striking images must have been immense. As a Black photographer in the South, it was personally dangerous for him to make these images. He was pursued by white supremacists. Despite the danger he kept going. Through quiet moments of dignity, he documented people who refuse to be dehumanized. The gentleness of his photographs became persuasive acts of protest against injustice. Gordon Parks was the first Black American staff photographer for Life Magazine. He worked for Life for two decades, covering everything from racism and poverty, to fashion and entertainment. In addition to being one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century, Gordon Parks was also a poet, novelist, pianist and filmmaker. He co-founded Essence Magazine, and was Hollywood's first Black director of a feature film, and later directed the movie Shaft. Parks use different mediums to tell the story of the Black American experience. He knew the power of a strong visual message to tell a story, a story about racism and injustice that not a lot of Americans wanted to face. In spending time looking at his work, I'm struck by how Gordon Parks shaped the times in which he lived as much as he was shaped by them. To close here is Gordon Parks describing his process in his own words.

Gordon Parks 11:22

I lift my camera as seldom as possible, you know, I try to put it in my pocket, put it away. And when something important happens, I pull it out and take a picture. Back to the conversation or whatever is happening. You're always looking for that moment. And that moment sometimes catches you off guard, you have to always be ready to shoot no matter what the exposure meter tells you. You have to always be ready for it. Sometimes you're way off. And you have to take that chance but you can't see something happening and then say wait a minute, let me take an exposure meter reading to get the right light. You have to shoot them. The moment grasps you actually, instead of you grasping the moment. And you better be ready for it. {camera click}

Liz Lidgett 12:08

Ten Minute Masterpieces is a production of Liz Lidgett and is produced by Maribeth Romslo. Special thanks to Roma Osowo . Check out our show notes for credits to this episode and links to more info about Gordon Parks and his body of work. Join us next time as we learn more about the matriarchal spider sculptures of Louise Bourgeois. Until then, I hope you take ten minutes and look at some art today. You might just discover your favorite masterpiece.

Credits:

Creative Morning ( Premium Beat )
A Place for Peace , Pure Conscience , and Visa från Källdal ( Epidemic Sound )
We Shall Overcome and Martin Luther King, Jr
Gordon Parks on Charlie Ros e

RESEARCH AND LINKS OF INTEREST :

Three murals you need to see in Iowa

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:17:36 GMT

Everywhere I look there is another amazing mural here in Iowa! I wanted to introduce you to three that you might not have seen yet, but need to.

Winterset

If you have not been to Winterset, you need to, and not just to see this gorgeous mural by our very own James (Jimmy) Navarro ! His work is outstanding and we love working with him, and this has to be one of my favorite murals he has done to date. Jimmy 's work spans from small Plein Air paintings to large murals that cover and entire wall, and in this mural he was able to embody both of those styles. He has small details in the letters making up Winterset but overall it takes up a large wall. Winterset is Iowas very own Stars Hollow and has absolutely beautiful rolling hills on the drive from Des Moines. If you have seen the movie Bridges of Madison County , it takes place in this beautiful small town.

Waukee

Kinship Brewing has a whole collection of murals, both indoor and outdoor. Jenna Brownlee has beautiful pieces tucked into the bathroom. Curtis Poortinga has a beautiful piece that was made to look like a paint by number greeting you right when you enter the doors. Curtis says " I hope this mural provides viewers a moment of joy but also a lasting sense of the calm and peace that being out in nature provides ." Both of these amazing artists are local to Des Moines and we are honored to have our artwork next to theirs, because the LLG team painted and designed ( by our very own Tina Ehrlich ) the mural on the outside of the building! In fact, there is only one mural in the restaurant that wasn't facilitated by the LLG team.

Dubuque

North East from Des Moines about three and a half hours, Dubuque is absolutely full of beautiful public art. It is worth the trip to tour all of the stunning murals and sculptures throughout the city, but I am only going to mention one. Voices Production has been busy at work making Dubuque an art filled community since 2006 and have a map of all the murals you need to see on your next visit. The piece I chose to highlight is titled America Needs A Hug by artist Gera Lozano who is actually based out of Brooklyn, New York. She collaborated with WERC for this project, and together their statement on the piece is as follows " Goddess of Lighting Astrape brings forth the light, enlightenment on the wings of an eagle, the icon and symbol of higher perspective & prosperity. Her background is a native pattern inspired by art of the Meswaki people. The wild rose, Iowa’s state flower, is also present as a symbol of beauty & nature ."

This really does not even begin to scratch the surface of amazing public art in Iowa, we didn't even go west in the state, but these are three to get you started. Explore the place you live and search for art every where you go!

Artist Spotlight: Paige Barnes-Dorsey

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 18:52:29 GMT

We have absolutely fallen in love with Paige's snakes. After getting to know her a little bit better, we love them even more!

What are three things that you cannot live a day without?

1.Over the ear, padded headphones because I listen to books and podcasts while working. They're like old friends at this point and since my studio was built in 1820, practical in the cold.

2. We're a family that loves music so I'd have to say my record player. I have one at the studio and 3 at home. The hubs has nearly 2000 records.

3. Wine. I managed a wine store in my previous life, and what goes better with a record player?

When did you consider yourself an artist?

I think other people considered me an artist before I began calling myself one. Something about saying it out loud really scared me...hello imposter syndrome! I've been a "creator" all my life, and I love nothing more than painting and making one-of-a-kind things for my home. I dabbled in selling my work here and there but nothing held my interest or enthusiasm long enough to keep at it. Something shifted when I began sculpting snakes. For the first time I had vision of a final product and then worked my way backwards to achieve it; and I fell in love with the slow, messy, frustrating process. That's when I began to consider myself an artist: when I created a technique of my own and art that was recognizable as a "Paige Dorsey".

What inspired you to make snakes?

Let me begin by disappointing many of you: I hold no affinity for actual snakes. I may make them but I don't "do" snakes! This all began about a decade ago when I saw an ornate mirror in Thailand with 2 interlocking snakes. You know that feeling you get when your brain won't let go of an idea until you do something about it? That was this mirror for me. And it took 10 years and a global pandemic for me to sit with those snakes in my head and bring them to life.

Tell us a little about your process.

I'm a big thrifter so when comes to my mirrors I usually begin with a trip to the thrift store to see what round or oval ones I can find.

Once I'm ready to commit to the weeks long process I begin by forming my shapes. I rarely ever draw anything out at this point, preferring to just play and see what comes from it. When the armature comes to life I begin the messy process that gives them their porcelain-like skin. I hold my "secret recipe" close to the chest but each snake requires about 10-13 steps and can take between 5-20hrs to complete. Slow art/craftsmanship is my jam. My husband says that I have an abundant supply of project patience, but not people patience. He's not wrong!

What is something more people should know about you?

Nearly everything in my house and closet was bought at a thrift store/antique mall/flea market. Also, I make the world's most delicious roasted chicken, like put me in a competition kind of delicious...I'll take on Emeril himself! Or just come over for dinner, I promise to have wine!

We love Paige and have loved getting to know her a little better! Take a look at her work on our website or instagram .

Artist Spotlight: Sydney Beach Zester

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:22:17 GMT

Sydney is a newer artist here at the gallery, and we are so excited for you to get to know her a little bit better through a quick Q + A!

What are three things you cannot go a day without?

Going outside, coffee in the morning and looking at pretty things.

When did you first consider yourself an artist?

A few years ago. It took me a while to feel confident calling myself an artist. Looking back now, it feels silly not to!

When did you start creating?

When I was a child! I began to apprentice under my aunt who is a master seamstress starting at the age of 8. I was really lucky to have parents who recognized and encouraged my desire to be creative. My mom would let me paint my room whenever I had a new idea. We would always work on it together :)

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

I’m always trying to create something that replicates a specific feeling and so a lot of my inspiration comes from memories. I’m also always looking at ceramics, floral arrangements, interiors and furniture design :)

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

Don’t rush.
Pay attention and learn from artists who are further along in their careers.
Nothing is that serious!

We love getting to know our artists a little bit better. I hope this little glimpse into Sydney's world helped you to fall in love with her work all the more. Go here to view all of her available works and email hello@lizlidgett.com to get on her presale list so you know every time we get new work from this incredibly talented artist.

Artist Spotlight: Emily Keating Snyder

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 16:26:17 GMT

Emily Keating Snyder is a relatively new artist here at the gallery, but it is about time for a proper introduction. This brilliant artist is based out of California and is known for her beautiful color combinations and toeing the line between sharp, precise shapes and organic, soft edges. Get to know her a little better through this little Q + A!

What are three things you cannot go a day without?

1. Laughter. My alternate dream job was to be a comedy writer. I truly don’t understand how people without a sense of humor make it through the day.
2. Chocolate. I even put it in my breakfast most days and I recently discovered that you can buy countertop machines to make it at home so I’m scheming to start my own personal chocolate factory and maybe make artwork for the labels.
3. Many hours of sleep. One of my best friends once called me “the sleepiest person I’ve ever met.”

When did you first consider yourself an artist?

Even though I wasn’t that confident at the time, I somehow had the foresight early on to realize if I wanted other people to take me seriously as an artist I had to own that title. So I would say right out of college, when I was dog walking and nannying and making art in between, I called myself an artist first and foremost.

When did you start creating?

Probably the moment I could. Some of my earliest memories are of crafting gifts for family members and decorating DIY cardboard houses for my Barbies. I started painting on canvas around age 10 or 11, built theater sets in high school and studied photography and other mediums in college. I actually began incorporating embroidery into collage and photography work I was creating right out of school and the embroidery element has evolved from there.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Color, always color. It’s just such a huge part of our lives whether we consciously notice it or not. Even people who don’t think of themselves as caring much about art or design are aware of a feeling they get in different spaces and often color has something to do with it.

I especially love exploring unexpected colors in nature. We think of natural colors as blues, browns, greens, often subdued, but it’s so fun to see hot pink and purple flowers or even fluorescent fish.

I’m also inspired by the idea of creating an experience. I’ve always intuitively felt that I wanted to do that with my art, but I was really able to think of it this way when I started exploring eastern philosophies and Zen. It’s become a big part of my thought process that I really want to make art that isn’t a depiction of something else outside of it, but that it is the thing itself. The embroidery really helps with that because it’s not paint that’s creating lines or shapes in my work, it’s thread which is a three-dimensional object itself. Same with the raw canvas, which is a physical part of the piece rather than just a background.

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

As hard as it is, really try to make what you want and always ask yourself if what you’re making is for you or if you’re trying to please an imaginary viewer in your head (p.s. this is advice I give my current self too!).

It can be tempting to think what do people want, what is popular right now, but not only will you be a happier artist if you drown out that noise, but your art practice is so much more sustainable when it’s not relying on the style of the week. I don’t have to worry if certain trends will die out, I just know that if I keep following hits of inspiration that come from within I will never run out of ideas and I’m not competing with anyone else.

Emily's work is so striking. We are so happy to represent her here at the gallery. Click here to see more examples of her work and to view her available pieces.

Three ways to give your creativity a jump start in winter

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 19:46:45 GMT

Let's thaw out those creative juices this winter.

Winter is a great time for rest and reflection, but not a great time for productivity and creativity. We have some ideas for getting the creativity flowing even when the world is frozen.

Visit Liz Lidgett Gallery

Of course this is just for those of you who are close by, this might not be an option for you, but another local gallery or art museum will also do. Just surround yourself with art. Maybe take a camera or sketchbook with you and capture things that inspire you or make you feel something. Give yourself plenty of time to take it all in. Make a list of all the things you saw that you loved, or hated, while you were looking at the art. Did you learn anything about yourself or the artist from those pieces?

Art Journal

Start a journal or sketchbook. This can be daunting, especially if you haven't done it before or if you don't particularly feel like an artist, but, I promise, it is worth it. in a sketchbook nothing has to be finished or well done or beautiful. It can just be playing with color or gluing in images from a magazine you like. It can just be a dumping of thoughts and feelings, even if you don't know the right things to write, you can fill the pages with scribbles or shapes or colors that get your feeling across. I wrote a blog post about a year ago about ways to fill an art journal, so if you are in need of some ideas on ways to fill it up, take a look.

Do Something Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Whether that be joining a club, taking a class or going on a creative retreat, give yourself freedom to really feel it and make note of the way it makes you feel. Maybe write it down in your art journal. Over the summer Liz and Tina went on a creative retreat, with a wonderful group of ladies, to see the mastermind behind EttaVee: Jessi Raulet . The women who went on the creative were not all artists, in fact, most of them were not! They were just women who wanted to stretch their creative legs. While they were on the retreat they took a dance class, spent time painting and sight seeing, and made friends along the way.

There are so many ways to grow creatively while the world is cold and I hope these three ideas got you thinking about ways that you can be creative this winter.

3 ways to spice up your gallery wall

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 17:08:37 GMT

Gallery walls don't have to be stuffy, they can be just as fun and vibrant as you are!

These are the three best ways to add a little dimension to your gallery wall, while still staying true to your personal style.

Multiple Textures

Having pieces that are different mediums, sizes and color all add a lot of texture and visual interest to a space. As you can see in the image above, they don't even have to all be hung on the wall! Liz uses a thin table behind her couch to rest candles, books, blooms and even art on to add dimension and beauty to her space. This is also a great way to cover things that you may not be able to with a traditionally hung piece. If you look closely, Liz uses the art on the stand to cover up the thermostat (they never place those in cute locations, especially in classic homes like Liz's family home) which keeps it from becoming an eyesore in an otherwise lovely space. This styling features work from Allison James , Shannon Coppage and Angela Chrusciaki Blehm , three of the gallery's amazing artists.

Framing

Framing can really add a lot to a piece and add a lot to the gallery wall as a whole. This could be something as elaborate and exquisite as this Kevin Brent Morris piece, or it can be as simple as adding a thin, wood, float frame around a canvas. This is also a way to fill space in between pieces and therefore making a statement piece more of a statement as well as giving you more bang for your buck. Framing can really add a lot to art, but it can also be distracting, make sure you are picking a frame that you love, but that also makes the art inside it sing.

The Wall Behind The Art

There is no rule saying you can't go wild with a fun wallpaper or paint color on your walls under your fine art pieces. At the gallery, we have started painting a couple of our walls colors that you may have in your home already to prove that art does not need to be on a plain white wall. the artwork. This is a really good way of continuing a motif or theme throughout the whole space. It can make a space feel more thought out and complete with very little additional effort.
This styling includes pieces from Karin Olah , Kristen Abbott and Rocky Reed .

There are so many fun ways to add excitement to a gallery wall that feels like it needs a little face lift - these are just a few that we do here at the gallery! The most important thing is that it feels true to you and the home that you have curated.

Ten Minute Masterpiece: Water Lilies

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 18:39:32 GMT

Water Lilies (series - Nymphéas in French)

250 oil on canvas paintings by Claude Monet (b. 1840, d. 1926) created between 1897-1926

In the episode, we explore a prolific series of paintings – Claude Monet’s Water Lilies. In the last thirty years of his life, Monet painted more than 250 works in his Water Lilies series at his beloved gardens in Giverny , France.

Paintings from Monet’s Water Lilies series are on prominent display at museums all over the world, including Musée de l'Orangerie , Musée d'Orsay , M etropolitan Museum of Art , Museum of Modern Art , and Art Institute of Chicago .

Water Lilies features Liz Lidgett Gallery artist Kit Porter . Ten Minute Masterpieces is hosted by art advisor Liz Lidgett and produced by Maribeth Romslo .

Click this link for photograph: Claude Monet in his studio (circa 1920) Photograph by Henri Manuel

Click this link for photograph: Claude Monet Waterlilies, c. 1897-98 Oil on canvas, 66x104 cm Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Click this link for photograph: Claude Monet Waterlilies and Japanese Bridge, c. 1899 Oil on canvas, 35-5/8 by 35-5/16 inches. Princeton University Art Museum

Click this link for photograph: Monet’s Gardens at Giverny

Click this link for photograph: Claude Monet in his studio (circa 1920) Photograph by Henri Manuel

Click this link for photograph: Musée de l’Orangerie, Paris. Photo credit: Sophie Crépy. © RMN-Grand Palais / Art Resource

Click this link for photograph: Camille Lefèvre (architect) Water Lilies Gallery Floor Plan for the Orangerie des Tuileries January 20, 1922 © Archives nationales (France), F/21/165, dossier 24.

Click this link for photograph: Claude Monet Les nuages [Clouds], c. 1914-26 Oil on canvas, 78 3/4 x 502 in. Musée de l’Orangerie, Paris.

Click this link for photograph: Claude Monet The Japanese Bridge, c. 1920-22 Oil on canvas, 89x116 cm Museum of Modern Art, New York

TRANSCIPT:

Liz Lidgett 0:01

Welcome back to Ten Minute Masterpieces where we explore curious stories behind the world's most renowned works of art. I'm Liz Lidgett. I'm an art advisor and gallery owner in Des Moines, Iowa.

Liz Lidgett 0:11

Today's Ten Minute Masterpiece is not a single artwork, but actually a prolific series of paintings, Claude Monet's Water Lilies. Monet was one of the pioneers of Impressionism, a movement of art that emerged in France in the 1870s. Impressionism rejected the rigid rules of traditional art and developed a new way to observe and depict the world. Impressionists cast off the idea that portraits needed to look realistic. Instead, Impressionists, like Claude Monet, created fleeting impressions of light on their subjects and surroundings, which were often found outside.

Liz Lidgett 0:45

Monet usually painted en plein air, a French term that means outdoors. And his favorite en plein air location, where the picturesque gardens at his home in Giverny, on the bank of the Seine River about 50 miles northwest of Paris in the Normandy region. With the help of a team of gardeners, Monet laid out the property at Giverny, as if it were one giant painting filled with weeping willow and bamboo trees, exotic flowers, a Japanese style footbridge, and most famously, a network of water lilies. Monet said of Giverny, "My finest masterpiece is my garden".

Liz Lidgett 1:21

Monet painted more than 250 paintings in the Water Lilies series, all of which focused on the surface of the water. The blue of the sky and the blue of the water seemingly become one. Only the presence of the floating water lilies helps the viewer understand that the sky is a reflection. The artist once said of his beloved water flowers, "One instant, one aspect of nature, contains it all". Monet painted Water Lilies on and off throughout his career, and he dedicated most of the last 30 years of his life to gardening and painting at Giverny.

Liz Lidgett 1:54

The expression "when it rains, it pours" rings true in Monet's later years. In 1911, Monet's wife Alice died of leukemia. In 1914, Monet's oldest son died. And from 1914 to 1918, the great war now known as World War One raged all around Europe. Monet could often hear artillery fire from nearby battles on the Western Front, a painful reminder that his youngest son was serving the French army in the brutal war. Some art historians note that Monet's Water Lilies from the last decade of his life had no horizon lines, no beginning or end. His end of life Water Lilies were monumental in scale, most measuring at least six feet tall and wide. These creative choices were perhaps a reflection on how vast and impossible intense grief can feel.

Liz Lidgett 2:41

The war ended on November 11, 1918, what is known as Armistice Day. The following day, Monet offered eight of his large scale Water Lily paintings to the French government, as memorial of the French lives lost in the war. These paintings are on permanent display at the Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris. Monet worked with the museum architect to design the display space for the eight gigantic canvases that span 300 total feet in length. The large scale Water Lilies hang in two adjacent oval rooms, often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of Impressionism. The rounded double galleries create an infinity symbol, which was a significant and intentional choice by Monet in the gallery design. In Monet's words, "Viewers of the Water Lilies at Musée de l'Orangerie should have the illusion of an endless whole, of water without horizon or bank."

Liz Lidgett 3:33

In Monet's final years, his Water Lilies series became more and more experimental, sometimes because of his artistic choices, but also because his vision became impaired by cataracts. This condition causes cloudy areas in the lens of your eye, the part that helps to focus light. Signs and symptoms of cataracts can include clouded, blurred or dim vision, seeing halos around lights, double vision, and fading and yellowing of colors. Monet was frustrated with his deteriorating vision, and how it impacted his painting process. He worried about his paintings, often reworking or destroying them. But in 1921, Monet poignantly told a reporter, "Alas, I see less and less. But I will paint almost blind as Beethoven composed completely deaf."

Liz Lidgett 4:19

In his last ten years of life, Monet's Water Lilies became more abstract studies in color and form, opening the path to modern abstract painting. When Monet died in 1926, the art world in Paris in America was changing. Monet and the Impressionists were pushing the boundaries of color and light. These artistic pioneers were breaking traditional barriers to achieve greater freedom of expression in their artwork and their lives. In doing so, the Impressionists opened the door for future generations of artists to push boundaries and explore new ways of seeing and depicting the world.

Liz Lidgett 4:53

Here to talk about Monet's Water Lilies is one of the artists we represent at Liz Lidgett Gallery. Kit Porter is a mixed media artist living and working in Beaufort, South Carolina. Her paintings focus on the fragmentation and breakdown of objects in nature, like flowers and marine debris. Kit explores how these objects are shaped over time by their environments.

Liz Lidgett 5:13

Kit, I'm so thrilled that you are here with us on the podcast today.

Kit Porter 5:18

Thanks so much for having me.

Liz Lidgett 5:19

I want to have you introduce yourself and then tell us a little bit about your work in your own words.

Kit Porter 5:25

My name is Kit Porter, and I consider myself a painter of fragments. My work explores the fragility of life by depicting scenes in nature, like vast fields of wildflowers. I started painting fragments of things that I was finding on the beach -- could be plastics, or shells softened by sand, and broken by waves and faded by sunlight, just exploration of shape that was changed by time as a direct result of its environment. When looking at my work, it's definitely more on the abstract side. But I hope to kind of evoke a sense of abundance that one would have when standing in front of a vibrant field of wildflowers,

Liz Lidgett 6:12

With your work with flowers and things that have been broken down by water, it just all brought me to Monet's work, and making those connections with your work and his. So we're going to talk about Monet's Water Lilies and that entire series,

Kit Porter 6:26

Certainly, well, when I look at his work, and particularly in this Water Lilies series, I feel peace, tranquility, meditation, and I can only guess that that is a feeling that he felt when he was in his gardens, which were his happy place. The work itself is so meditative, I think about him entering this meditative sort of trance-like state that I get into when I'm painting.

Liz Lidgett 6:59

I totally agree. I think that the process of an artwork is just as exciting and meaningful as the actual work itself.

Kit Porter 7:06

I think in a lot of ways process really trumps subject, because in my work, and really in Monet's work and his Water Lilies, subject becomes secondary to process.

Liz Lidgett 7:19

If I can get personal with you for a second to you and I met for the first time over the phone, and I wanted you to join the gallery. And I think you had found out maybe two days beforehand, before our call, that you had just been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Kit Porter 7:36

Yeah, I think it was that week. It's interesting to think back, there were certainly days when I didn't feel great. And I thought, "Well, I'm just gonna go sit in the studio for a little while", and I would sit there and then after a few minutes, I would go, "Well, maybe I'll just pick up a brush for a second". And I would feel really bad, but I would just kind of start messing around a little bit, not putting any pressure on myself to create anything. And then hours would go by because, as you do when you're an artist, and you enter that flow state of creativity, I wasn't thinking about how bad I was feeling. I was just creating, it was flowing. I really, I think I painted every single day of treatment. I mean, even after having surgery, I was in the studio the next day, because it's therapeutic.

Liz Lidgett 8:24

I think about this in regards to Monet as well. He was potentially losing his eyesight. But both of you felt like despite what was going on with your bodies that you had to keep creating, because that was so a part of you. Can you talk to me a little bit about that.

Kit Porter 8:41

I plan to paint every day for the rest of my life, whether I get really sick again or start to lose my eyesight. When you're an artist you don't retire. You paint no matter what. And going through that really changed a lot about the way that I painted. I started thinking, "Why is my work shifting?" And then I was going "Oh yeah, remember, you're going through this major life thing". And it took me a minute to really understand why my work was just becoming more vibrant, and colorful and beautiful. And I really attributed that to the people that were coming together around me and surrounding me with love. Taking it back to Monet. I can imagine that painting -- it's his way, my way, an artist's way of experiencing the world.

Liz Lidgett 9:31

You just said that so beautifully. What do you hope people know or feel about from your work?

Kit Porter 9:38

It's interesting because I don't really want them to feel any certain way. As artists, we spend so much time with our work and we think we know it so intimately and we do in a way but once it leaves the studio and once it's in front of somebody else and they have their own personal history and they bring into the work. Then it's not ours anymore. It takes on its own life and it becomes a part of whoever is standing in front of it. It means nothing if we keep it to ourselves and don't share it.

Liz Lidgett 10:13

I'm so thankful that Kit shared her personal journey with us as an artist. And as a breast cancer survivor, Kit was going through a really tough time, but she came back to the canvas every day. That's where she found her comfort and her meditation, and Monet did as well. Monet shared the peace and tranquility of his private gardens with the rest of the world. By doing so he invited others to feel the solace and comfort he felt while painting. I find this act of artistic generosity so touching, how he shared his art to heal the soul of a country that was so deeply affected by World War One.

Liz Lidgett 10:48

These artists are separated by several generations. But Kit and Monet are easy to talk about in the same conversation because of how they approach their work. Kit's work is about how objects are shaped by their environments. As she went through her breast cancer journey, Kit's work was changing too. This was also the case for Monet. His work reflected how he was losing his eyesight at the end of his life.

Liz Lidgett 11:10

I'm struck by the idea that what happens in an artist's life ends up on the canvas in really profound ways. What inspires me is how they both kept painting through hardship, and how returning to the canvas was a necessary part of their healing journeys.

Liz Lidgett 11:28

Ten Minute Masterpieces is a production of Liz Lidgett Gallery and is produced by Maribeth Romslo Special thanks to Kit Porter. Check out our show notes for credits to this episode and links to more info about Claude Monet and his Water Lilies.

Liz Lidgett 11:41

Join us next time when we take a look at Gordon Parks and his photograph called At Segregated Drinking Fountain. Until then, I hope you take ten minutes and look at some art today. You might just discover your favorite masterpiece.

CREDITS:

Music credits:
- Creative Morning ( Premium Beat )
- Claire de Lune from Suite Bergamasque, by Claude Debussy ( Epidemic Sound )
- Watercolor Motion II by Trevor Kowalski ( Epidemic Sound )

RESEARCH AND LINKS OF INTEREST :

The only gift guide you'll need this Valentine's Day

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 20:55:08 GMT

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and we have all kinds of gift ideas for you.

The Pink Lover

I am not sure about you, but I had no idea there was such a thing as Ruby Chocolate . This is not dyed chocolate, but a fourth kind of chocolate! It is said to be a fruity flavor and to have a rich smoothness to it, and would be the perfect way to add a little pink to a classic Valentine's gift. Pink is the color of love, kindness and nostalgia, so it really is the perfect color for valentines day, whether you are gifting your friend, your child or your partner. Fares Micue 's work is always so romantic, but this piece feels extra romantic with her soft, fluttery sleeves and the delicate blooms around her face. The pinks she chose to use in The Venus Touch are both rich and delicate and sing in front of the dark background that she is known for using.

The Classic Lover

Hearts and roses will always go with Valentines day. The giving of roses first emerged in Greek mythology, where it was tied to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Hearts have also been a symbol of love for a very long time; some records dating back as early the 1250's! I would say that is a pretty timeless duo. Hunt Slonem 's Night Light is simply stunning. Its black diamond dust makes the mat white bunny and frame really stand out. The way the two of them fit alongside each other makes this piece a real show stopper. Hunt's work is always a good conversation starter, but this one screams elegance and romance. And what says romance more than matching? The example I put in this image is from Tiffany + Co , but it really could be anything. Whether it be a matching permanent bracelet from Leona Ruby or robes from Amour or fragrances from Eden , matching always makes you feel attached to the person you love.

The Bloom Lover

For years I fought being a flower girl because I felt like it made me "too girly" to love flowers, but I can confidently say: I freaking love flowers. The combination of Marcy Vreeland 's Aqua 2 and this stunning bouquet and a pass to a botanical garden ( The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is pictured here) as an experience gift is * chef's kiss * Giving someone a gift of a pass to a zoo , garden or museum is a gift that will keep giving. It is a way to have free date nights all throughout the year, showing your loved one that you want to continue to spend time with them in fun and exciting ways. Aqua 2 is a gorgeous addition to any collection. It is a smaller piece for Marcy just coming in at 18x18 and fits in perfectly with a variety of different styles and decorations being that the blooms have an assortment of colors and textures. This give the piece a lot of depth and visual interest.

All of the blooms in this post are from W ildflower , which is a local, Des Moines . If you cannot tell, I am a big fan of their gorgeous work, but there are incredible floral artists in every city. Check out your local florists to see if they could make something as stunning as the crew at Wildflower .

Calling all mural artists!

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 18:07:01 GMT

No matter your location, we invite artists to apply for our most recent mural RFP!

We are wanting to make a great photo op in Des Moines in the pedestrian tunnel under the Women of Achievement Bridge near the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens pagoda. This tunnel is an active area for graffiti and we would like to deter that by using a beautiful mural. The mural should create the feel of community and emulate unity, love and diversity by using bright colors and unique visuals. Operation Downtown is the proud sponsor of this mural project and we are excited to work alongside them to make Des Moines beautiful and filled with art!

If you're an artist that has not painted a large-scale mural before, you can learn more about the process here . You also can see examples of other murals in the area here .

The submission deadline is Sunday, February 5th, 2023 at 5:00pm . If you have any questions regarding the RFP, please email us at hello@lizlidgett.com. We will need to receive a brief bio about you, your background, and why you are a good fit for this project, a page including 3-5 artwork photographs and descriptions of your past work and your name, phone number, email, and 2 references with contact info. Please review all this information in whole here . We are excited to see what you come up with!

Pieces we are (currently) obsessed with

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 15:56:44 GMT

It's hard to pick favorites when there is so many beautiful pieces in the gallery, but here are some that we absolutely love.

All of us here at Liz Lidgett Gallery have a favorite piece of the moment and we wanted to share with you why we love it so much!

Liz + Watermelon

Wow - trying to choose a favorite piece is like asking for a favorite child. I fall in love with a new piece every day it seems like. One piece in particular that I really love though is Logan Ledford’s Watermelon . I have long been wanting a larger piece of hers and I think the colors are so dynamic here. The way the paint has peaks and valleys and comes up on the canvas is so special. I notice something new about the piece each time I walk by it it seems. Then with the crispness of the white negative space of the canvas — the combo is too good!

Tina + do you remember that?

I'm drawn to Sydney Beach Zester' s work because it's so unique from every other canvas in the gallery. At first glance, it looks like a geometric painting—but then you step closer and you realize that each piece of color is an individual strip of fabric that she dyed and sewn into the composition. It's a complete surprise and makes you gasp thinking about the amount of time and detail that went into sewing each strip. The fabric dyes she chose in this piece perfectly compliment my home's textiles—olive green, slate blue, terra cotta, ivory. It's just a natural love for me. And I have a big appreciation for asymmetry in design. (Okay, after writing the "whys," I probably should just pull the trigger ...)

Aly + Untitled

I have long admired Andrea Ferrigno 's work and have absolutely loved having this specific piece in the gallery. Untitled is an oil on wood piece with all of my favorite colors and such a beautiful movement to it. There are soft greens in the center along the top of the piece that remind me that summer isn’t too far gone and spring isn’t too far away. It is a reminder of the life in summer and a promise of it coming back in the spring. Going clockwise along the piece, the movement in the abstract lines draws the eyes to follow it along the piece and erupts into gold and reds with very little build up, just like how autumn arrives, suddenly and beautifully. Continuing around the piece it melts slowly into blues and greens reminding me of snow and evergreens, but, again, the ever-present promise of spring. It feels like a passage of time and an echo of memories in the past. I am simply hypnotized by this piece and am so excited to see the space it fills with its light.

Matthew + Lean on Me

Nate Nettleton's " Lean on Me " was made in 2022 and is a part of a bigger series of what the artist calls "scribbles." I was lucky enough to speak with him at his showing in October. Nettleton walked me through the creation of his current work from handrawing the scribbles, digitizing the drawings, getting them made by woodworkers, and then applying paint to the full size cut outs. I then asked about the idea behind the creation of the scribbles. Nettleton told me that it was a goal of his to elevate an art form that wouldn't have been paid the same attention from the viewer had they not been made with such care or hadn't been presented intentionally as art. Something he shares with a lot of the artists present currently is abstraction through the lens of a unique process and point of view. When done effectively, art holds up a mirror to the viewer. It makes us reflect on a feeling that we haven't been able to express ourselves. When I see " Lean on Me ," it makes me want to slow down and appreciate beauty for it's own merit, separated from context. What other beauty is right in front of me waiting to be appreciated? With Nettleton 's art, I am inspired to find out.

What piece is speaking to you right now? Is there one you have fallen in love with that you just need to make the jump on? The four of us have a hard time not walking out with new art all the time ( job hazard, I guess). Take a look at our discover section to find artwork you can fall in love with over and over again.

Artists whose work increased in value in 2022

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 17:13:41 GMT

2022 was a banner year for a lot of our incredible artists—here are a couple of the many artists who increased in value in 2022!

Angie Barker

Angie found out that she was an art lover pretty early on and has been cultivating her style ever since. She loves using bright colors and organic shapes in her work that echo molecular biology and mechanisms as well as blooms. Click here to learn more about Angie and see her available works.

Bethany Mabee

Bethany's work is an abstract, meditative process that she allows to reveal itself to her as it is coming together. In her own words " Bethany is incredibly grateful to be able to create from a place of her own, and loves that abstract work allows the viewer a similar experience of interpreting a piece from a place of their own ." Click here to learn more about her and see her available works.

Elisa Sheehan

In her own words " Along with a varied and wide-ranging palette of joy-inducing colors and styles of mark-making, many of my eggshell paintings also include gold leaf “cracks.” I’ve always loved the Japanese art of kintsugi wherein broken pottery is repaired with gold and rather than trying to disguise the break or flaw, it is highlighted and therefore elevated to a status of beauty. Its age is celebrated, its history is seen, its flaws are revered. I think this is a great way to think about ourselves, others and our relationships as we age - not to try to look like our former, younger selves but to embrace our “breaks and flaws” and to honor them and see the beauty in them " Click here to learn more about Elisa and see what works she has available.

Hunt Slonem

Described by poet and art critic John Ashberry as “ dazzling explosions of the variable life around us that need only to be looked at in order to spring into being, ” Hunt's work is both whimsical and elegant. In his own words " His work tends to embrace the ephemeral beauty of nature, a characteristic that brings a nurturing, spiritual effect to his painting suggesting metamorphosis, repose, and a sensation of touching the illimitable. " Click here to learn more about Hunt and see his available works.

Jaime McCarrier

Jaime's art journey started very young, but catapulted into what it is today when she moved to California to be closer to the ocean. Her muse is reflected in her work; family, beauty, femininity and the ocean are echoed throughout her work. Click here to learn more about Jaime and see her available works

Jessi Raulet

Born and raised in the United States, Jessi started her creative career in The States before moving to France for love and finding her true creative voice in a beautiful brand she cultivated called EttaVee. She has been featured on a variety of products such as bandages, lunch bags and stationary. If you follow the gallery on social media you may have seen a creative retreat that Liz and Tina went on with a group of ladies - this was to visit Jessi in France! Click here to see her available works at the gallery and learn a little more about her.

Karin Olah

Karin is an artist from South Carolina that combines hand-dyed fabric and paint to create her signature multi-layered paintings. Karin’s subject matter ranges from seascape to farmscape and abstract expressionism to a dreamy place in-between. Click here to learn more about Karin and see her available work.

Kit Porter

Kit Porter is an incredible artist from South Carolina. She says of her work "I am intrigued with the way an object left by the sea, exposed to the elements, wears down as a result of time and environment. For me, it is the perfect metaphor for the fragility of the physical world." Click here to learn more about Kit and see her available works.

Kristen Abbott

Kristen is a Colorado artist who is is known for her use of texture and layering to create a sense of time passing in her work. In her own words " Because our lives are loud, Kristen wants her work to feel like a small pause. A deep breath. Not one more thing adding to the noise, but a reminder to slow and notice the depth and interest in quiet moments. Beauty may very well be dazzling. But it also can be still and small—just a hint at what is to come. " Click here to learn more about Kristen and see her available works.

Paige Barnes-Dorsey

Paige is an Alabama based artist that has been an instant favorite. In her own words " Taking traditional elements and marrying them with unexpected whimsy, she creates modern heirlooms for the next generation. " Each piece is hand-sculpted then hand-painted, making each garden snake completely one-of-a-kind. Click here to learn more about Paige and view her available works.

Taylor Cox

Taylor is may seem new to the gallery, but we have had fine art prints of hers in the past and we haven't been able to keep her work in the gallery! Her playful style and creative canvas' have drawn art lovers in from far and wide to see her incredible work. In her own words " I hope when people view my work that it takes them away for a bit. I imagine my ...[work]...as another world. It’s a happier world for sure. " Click here to learn more about Taylor.

It has been an incredible year and we are so excited to see what 2023 has in store for us and our amazing ( amazing  ) artists. Here's to another banner year in 2023!

2022 in gallery numbers

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 21:09:21 GMT

Our year by the numbers! We grew so much this year in client numbers, artwork sold, artists represented and more. We are so thankful for your continued support—and these numbers are only high because of you. The gallery team is grateful. And we’re excited to do it again next year!

44 states and 5 countries—we shipped art
54 represented artists
9 new artists added
956 artworks sold (775 last year!)
8 shows curated
14 special website releases
216 IG posts—of which, 97 were videos with artist interviews, art previews, art tips and more
20.8 Instagram followers (with the goal of 20K by the end of the year—thank you!)
574 clients
16 national press features (podcasts, magazines, online interviews, etc.)—including Emily Henderson, Brit + Co, Ballard Designs and more
1 podcast started
1 creative retreat hosted
1 thankful small business

Happy holidays and warm wishes from the Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design team! We are so thankful that you have chosen to support our artists and small business this past year. We hope your new year is merry and bright and that 2023 is full of art!

2023 Color Of The Year Pairing

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 17:30:32 GMT

2023 is just around the corner and all of the paint companies are releasing their colors of the year and we are swooning!

Sherwin Williams + Andrea Ferringo

Sherwin Williams has always been a big name when it comes to the color of the year so it's only natural that we kick things off with them. This year they are going with a modern, earthy, mauve and I am loving it. It is both soft enough to blend into a room's decor and loud enough to be an accent color. Andrea Ferringo's piece Dreaming of Tulips has the perfect combination of pinks, neutrals and greens that play well with Redend Point . Andrea does such a wonderful job of creating soft dimension with the colors she places next to each other in her work and they way she worked the color and shapes together in this piece just sing.

Benjamin Moore + Christina Flowers

The color of the year for Benjamin Moore is the absolute perfect raspberry color. It begs to be on an accent wall or front door with its vibrancy and warm saturation. Raspberry Blush pulls out the pinks in Christina Flowers work Step Into The Sun ii beautifully while playing with the yellows and blues. This piece would look absolutely lovely on this color or accenting a room alongside it as a way to echo the color throughout the space.

BEHR + Joy Kinna

Joy Kinna's work is soothing and versatile and that is exactly what BEHR was going for this year with their choice in color of the year. They chose Blank Canvas which is a soft and warm white that fits in with every style and decorating style. Our Time Together is the perfect pairing with this color - they are both soft and warm, allowing for a more relaxing and serene environment.

Glidden + Roma Osowo

Roma Osowo is known for her gorgeous, vibrant, color palettes and energetic mark making and her piece Every Good Thing iii is no exception. This gorgeous piece is filled with pinks, blues and neutrals which makes it a pretty versatile piece, but alongside Glidden's color of the year, Vining Ivy , the teals that are in the piece really have their time to shine. Being a recovering teal obsessor, this color has to be one of my favorites in the piece and the pairing with Glidden's Color Of The Year really makes my younger heart happy.

Krylon + Shelby Monteverde

Green is really having a moment right now and I am here for it. Krylon , the spray paint company, came out with their color of the year and have decided on this decadent green called Spanish Moss . Because it is a spray paint it is more than likely going to be used for accents around the home and Shelby Monteverde 's piece, South Congress Hotel Lobby , has the perfect little accent tie in. While there is a soft olive green throughout the piece the couch along the edge of the painting is the same deep emerald as the color of the year and would be the perfect accent for the accent color - tying it into the space with the other colors included.

2023 is already looking like a year full of color and beauty, I hope these pairings follow you into the new year and inspire you to fill your space with things that bring you joy.

Dream Clients: Taylor Swift

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 19:08:03 GMT

In honor of her newest album, Midnight, we wanted to pair some amazing art with the overall feel of some of her most iconic albums.

Kevin Brent Morris + Taylor Swift

Taylor's, self titled, debut album is much less well known than the rest of her works, but does not make it any less of a show stopper. This gorgeous collection of songs came out in 2006 and launched Taylor into the world of country music. She sang songs about teenage heartache and the life she lead. I paired this album with Kevin's piece, Idols of the West 5 , because this beauty was around the time that he was launching himself into the professional art world and embodies a classic country feel that Taylor was inspired by in writing this first album.

Fares Micue + Fearless

Fares' work is always dreamy and romantic; each piece is a statement on how she sees the world and interprets the life she is living. Her stunning piece, Sunset Kisses , reflects Taylor 's album, Fearless , in many ways. The album cover is dominated by Taylor's golden hair and Fares' piece is dominated by the golden halo of blooms and both of them feel as though they are saying something through the pose that you just don't understand. Each song on the album tells you more about Taylors journey into fame and each piece by Fares reveals more about what she is trying to say through her photography.

Jenna Brownlee + Speak Now

Taylor 's album, Speak Now, was the last album she produced with the same feel as her previous work; it was her last country album and you could really feel her developing into the artist that she was going to be. She was still soft and sweet, but she was starting to get her edge. I chose to pair this album with Jenna 's work, Dusk, because of the elegance of the bloom as well as the darkness of the background. Taylor was starting to see the negative affects of fame and was starting to see the darkness in it, during this time, but she used that darkness to develop herself into the artist she wanted to be.

Katie Craig + Red

While stripes are incredibly timeless, 2012, when Taylor's album, Red , came out, they were having a particularly loud moment. She wore a lot of stripes and red on her tour and really leaned into dressing borderline nautical. Katie 's work often aires on the side of nautical and Deep Sea is no exception - it's both bold and familiar . This was also the album that Taylor strayed from her country roots and started leaning into pop and Katie is entering a new phase of her work where the lines are a little less structured and a little more organic. Both Katie and Taylor are transitioning into a new version of their art form.

Kristi Kohut + 1989

I'm not sure if you remember her looks on the tour for 1989 , but Taylor wore a lot ( a lot ) of sparkles. Kristi is kind of the queen of sparkles, so it was only natural that 1989 would be paired with Symphonic World #2 . This album, Taylor, also starts leaning into a little bit more of her edgy side. She was dealing with a lot of backlash from people about moving away from country during her Red album and this only heightened her fame, which was both wonderful and wonderfully difficult for Taylor. Symphonic World #2 fits with 1989 not just because of the tour looks, but also because it is a little edgy and heavy while being absolutely stunning and catches the eye of anyone who enters the room. 1989 was an album that really allowed Taylor to express that she feels more than just love, she is multidimensional, Kristi's piece echos that same sentiment.

Paige Barnes Dorsey + Reputation

When first coming up with the idea of making a blog post with art connected to Taylor's albums, this pair was the first in my mind. Paige's artist statement states "[Traditional elements]...represent polite society; and reminds us that often it's not the garden snakes you should fear, it's the ones sitting around the table at the garden party." and that is what the whole album echos that same sentiment. Taylor had been burned and she was not afraid to talk about it. She was leaning into the fact that she had a platform that she could talk about the heartache that she was dealing with and she wasn't just sad - she was angry. Along with this, she wore a lot of snakes on the tour and in her music videos, so the connections are both literal and conceptual.

Hunt Slonem + Lover

Hunt's work is playful and romantic and that could not be a better reflection for Taylors album, Lover . Throughout the promotional material and the music videos there is an underlying theme of pastels, botanicals and butterflies, which is echos all througout Hunt's work, but especially in Three Cabbage. The lines etched into the paint connect with some of Taylors more edgier songs on the album, while the subject matter echos the sweet romance that is the main theme of the album.

Meghan Bustard + Folklore + Evermore

I know, I know, Folklore and Evermore are not the same album, but they are sister albums that came out within the same year and they have a very similar feel with the both of them. They are both cozy and nostalgic and are within the same era. I chose Meghan's piece Every Once In A While because it has the same, calm, cozy and comforting feel to it. The songs on these albums echo a lot of her early works which was a really sweet way to lean into her Taylors Version era of revisiting old music and taking back the ownership of who she has been and who she will be. Because of the layering in this piece it feels as though it, in and of itself, as a nod to a passage of time and noting the different eras Meghans work has been in. These are all pieces of reflection and understanding.

Thank you for walking down memory lane with me. What piece of art do you feel goes best with Taylors newest album? As always, we are so excited to see what she creates next.

Holiday decor inspired by your favorite art

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 17:36:29 GMT

I absolutely adore Christmas decorating, but this year I am struggling to decide what route I want to go.

Green + Cozy + Kristen Abbott

Kristen Abbott 's work is already so natural and cozy, it was only natural that it was paired with an organic, green holiday theme. Kristen often works outside and uses the world around her not only as inspiration, but also as a medium - she includes little leaves and grasses that fall into the paint as she is working. I really wanted to embody that in the way I chose to design this holiday mood board and make it as earthy and nostalgic as possible. They holidays are a time for getting together with loved ones and reminiscing on the year that is coming to a close and holidays past, I wanted this to feel timeless as Kristen's work feels and cozy as the soft greens make one feel while they are in its presence.

Black + White + Leigh Suggs

Leigh Suggs ' Rolling Triangles IV is edgy because of its harsh contract in color and also because of the hard edges in the precise cuts she has made in the acrylic is this show stopper of a piece. I chose to really lean into that edgy elegance with this mood board for a black and white holiday. While this can be a very cold way of decorating, it can also be cozy.

Ballet + Gold + Jose Romussi

The Nutcracker has been a part of holiday celebrations for well over one hundred years and has been made into countless movies and books. It is a classic which plays into Jose Romussi 's piece Gold Dancer for a number of reasons. Firstly, The Nutcracker is a ballet and Jose works with vintage images of dancers in his work. Secondly, speaking of vintage, the images of dancers that Jose uses are from decades ago, making both the artwork and the theme something that started long before the idea for this holidays decorating. Lastly, there is a lot of gold used in the ballet and Jose's piece has been embroidered with gold thread, making both the decorations and the piece elegant and rich.

Floral + Sweet + Marcy Vreeland

If you know me, you know I love a good floral display and who pairs better with florals than Marcy Vreeland ? Marcy has a background in floral design and uses that as inspiration in her art and, here, we are using her art as an inspiration for a floral display! Overall, this feels like a very romantic way to decorate for the holidays and could even be a great style of decorating for a proposal or holiday wedding or vow renewal. Also, can you imagine how wonderful that floral tree smells? I'll be dreaming about it for months.

I am so excited to see the way everyone decorates their home to match their art and what pieces they purchases to match their Holiday decorations. Keep in mind that we do have limited commission openings with a handful of our artists for Holiday gifting!

Artist Spotlight: Nate Nettleton

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 17:18:05 GMT

We had the pleasure of getting to know Nate a little better when came to the gallery to help us open the show that he was in with Roma Osowo, Hillary Howorth and Emily Van Hoff. Get to know him a little better with us!

What are three things you cannot go a day without?

My 2 kids.
Hot cup of tea.
Breath of fresh air (getting outside every day is a must).

When did you first consider yourself an artist?

I've been creating art for most of my life in one way or another, but it was shortly after I sold my first piece of artwork (for $60 if I recall correctly) that I knew I wanted to pursue art more seriously. It has escalated from there and become something just short of an obsession.

How did you start creating?

I was regularly filling 200-page sketch books from an early age, drawing the logos of my favorite bands and skateboard companies. Later on, I was influenced by my father's woodworking and I began to learn my way around his shop, experimenting with various projects and getting a few stitches along the way. Eventually I ended up gravitating towards creating abstract sculptural pieces and have been exploring various concepts within this style of work for the past 10 years.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

I think that when you are passionate about something, everything you experience and interact with in life ends up relating back to your work in one way or another. I'm inspired by everything from my kids, to the color of a faded candy wrapper I noticed on the sidewalk, to a 5 second piece of music I heard on the radio. Inspiration is plentiful, and like most things in life, the best of it comes around when you aren't even looking for it.

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

Don't become too distracted by what other people are doing. Take risks, and be persistent.

We loved hosting Nate for a few days and getting to know him a little better in the process. Go here to see all of his available work and here to see the whole show.

Ten Minute Masterpiece: The Two Fridas

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 17:28:23 GMT

The Two Fridas

Frida Kahlo

Oil on canvas, 1939

Museo de Arte Moderno , Mexico City, Mexico

In the episode, we focus on Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, and her 1939 oil on canvas entitled Las Dos Fridas or The Two Fridas.

Frida explored duality in her multiculturalism, sexuality, politics, ideals and expression of gender. Her autobiographical perspective and the abundant symbolism in her work give us intimate access into the heart of this revolutionary artist.

The Two Fridas episode features Liz Lidgett Gallery artist Fares Micue . Ten Minute Masterpieces is hosted by art advisor Liz Lidgett and produced by Maribeth Romslo .

R: @OrendorffweeART, Yeguas del Apocalipsis, Rohit Chawla" title=""/>

TRANSCIPT:

Liz Lidgett 0:01

Welcome back to Ten Minute Masterpieces where we explore curious stories behind the world's most renowned works of art. I'm Liz Lidgett. I'm an art advisor and gallery owner in Des Moines, Iowa.

Liz Lidgett 0:13

In our last two episodes, we learned about perhaps the most recognizable woman ever portrayed in art, the Mona Lisa. Today we turn our attention to another iconic woman in the art world – Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, and her 1939 oil on canvas entitled Las Dos Fridas or The Two Fridas.

Liz Lidgett 0:36

Frida Kahlo is credited with placing Mexican art on the international stage. She began painting as a teenager after a devastating automobile accident. Frida was a self taught artist best known for her prolific self portraits. Her autobiographical perspective and the abundant symbolism in her work give us intimate access into the heart of this revolutionary artist.

Liz Lidgett 0:59

A specific theme from Frida's life and art that is seen clearly in The Two Fridas is the idea of duality, or having two parts, often with opposite meanings. Love and hate, black and white, up and down, fantasy and reality. These are all dualities. In a way one can't exist without the other, like two sides of a coin. From an early age, Frida explored duality in her multiculturalism, sexuality, politics, ideals and expression of gender.

Liz Lidgett 1:32

The Two Fridas is a large-scale double self portrait, where the artist depicts two versions of herself seated side by side on a wicker bench. The two Fridas hold hands. The Frida on the left wears a white dress with delicate lace and European style embroidery. The Frida on the right wears a blue, yellow and green traditional indigenous dress from the Mexican matriarchal society of the Tehuanas. Many art historians believe that The Two Fridas represents Frida's dual heritage and multiculturalism. Her mother was born in Oaxaca, Mexico and was of indigenous and Spanish descent. Frida's father was a German Jew who immigrated to Mexico when he was eighteen. Both Fritos in the painting are depicted with exposed hearts connected by a red rope like arteries. The Frida dressed in white on the left has a torn open heart with a blood vessel that extends down to her hand, which holds surgical scissors that cut open the descending artery splattering blood onto her delicate lace dress. The Frida dressed in blue on the right has another blood vessel winding down her arm to her hand, which holds a miniature oval portrait of her Mexican muralist husband Diego Rivera.

Liz Lidgett 2:42

The marriage of Frida and Diego was filled with passion, pain, love, betrayal, revolution, and above all, art. They were an unlikely pair. Twenty years her senior, Diego was a hefty man who at six-foot-one towered over Frida's five-foot-three slight stature. When they married in 1929, her parents called them the elephant and the dove.

Liz Lidgett 3:05

Even though Frida was a rising artistic star, with her mystical paintings of piercing introspection, she was lesser known in her lifetime than Diego, the older and celebrated master of Mexican frescoes. His murals gave a voice to indigenous workers seeking equality after centuries of oppression. Frida and Diego were deeply involved in controversial political movements together from communism to Mexican nationalism, with some socialism sprinkled in there too.

Liz Lidgett 3:31

Their relationship was complex. Again a study and duality, a push pull between passion and fidelity. Frida was openly bisexual. Rumors romantically linked her with artists Georgia O'Keeffe and jazz icon Josephine Baker, who was part of the French military intelligence working against Hitler. Frida also had an affair with exiled Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky, who led the Red Army in toppling the Russian Tsar establishing the world's first socialist state. Diego had numerous affairs as well, including one with Frida's sister, which led to the couple's divorce in 1939, the same year that Kahlo painted The Two Fridas. Frida and Diego remarried less than a year later. And despite their volatile relationship and subsequent affairs, they continued their lives together until Frida's death in 1954, at the age of 47.

Liz Lidgett 4:22

Frida's life and work represent rebellion against conformity and radical honesty about pain and suffering. She experienced various medical conditions and traumas throughout her life. Frida was born with spina bifida, and contracted polio as a young child. In a diary entry, Kahlo said that The Two Fridas grew from a memory of an imaginary friend from when she was six years old. The year polio confined her to bed. The virus deformed Frida's right leg, making it shorter than her left. When she was 18 years old, Frida survived a devastating street car crash which profoundly changed her life. The accident broke her spinal column, collarbone, ribs and pelvis. She suffered 11 fractures in her already weakened leg. Her foot was crushed and her left shoulder was left permanently out of joint. Again, she was confined to bed. During this time, she asked her father for his box of oil paints. A special easel was created so she could paint lying down. This is when her life as an artist began.

Liz Lidgett 5:26

Lingering pain in her right foot, leg and back followed Frida her whole life. During the 29 years between her accident and her death, Frida had 32 operations. And in 1953, her leg was amputated. Frida wrote in her diary, "Anguish and pain, pleasure and death are no more than a process". In The Two Fridas, the sky in the background is filled with ominous dark storm clouds. Yet at the same time, there is hope in The Two Fridas. In these two versions of herself, Frida sits tall, facing us with a powerful unflinching gaze. She holds her own hand as if to say, "Even when times are hard, I am my own best companion, my strongest partner and my most loyal friend".

Liz Lidgett 6:14

Here to talk about The Two Fridas is one of the artists we represent at Liz Lidget Gallery. Fares Micue is a self-portrait photographer based in Spain. Her work is dramatic, bold and colorful. There's depth and mystery in her photographs. She also puts curious objects in her self portraits like paper cranes and exotic flowers.

Liz Lidgett 6:33

Fares, I am so excited to have you on as my friend as an artist for the gallery. So we're talking about today, The Two Fridas. What I would love to hear from your point of view is, what you see when you look at this piece?

Fares Micue 6:48

This painting was created after her divorce with the husband. So it really represents how the divorce ripped her heart apart. And we can see that she's holding a picture, like an image of Diego Rivera that is in the hand, that is the husband so we can see the traditional Frida, in the other part, is already cut off. So the portrait of the husband is gone. But it's still bleeding, even if she's trying to suppress the bleeding. So that means you still have feelings for him. So although she's trying to stop the bleeding, and she cannot do it, and each one supports the other, that's why they are holding hands. So I think it's an absolutely beautiful image that we need to see through everything to definitely get the depth of this amazing painting.

Liz Lidgett 7:42

Talk to me about what it is as an artist to put yourself as the actual object and the piece.

Fares Micue 7:50

You know, at the beginning, it's weird, kind of, but it feels natural. So many times for people who do self portraits for example, like me, you know, when you start to do something, you are not confident enough. So you want to go to somebody and tell them you know, I'm practicing photography, maybe you would like to be my subject. So you're kind of afraid. So you just go ahead and say okay, I can do it myself. And then for example, for me, too, it became like trying to share a personal story. So what is more personal than just showing myself?

Fares Micue 8:26

I would love to be like Frida, definitely, because she was a free spirit, I think. She wasn't afraid to show who she was. So I think that is very important as an artist, that you are able to put yourself in your world, you are not afraid to show every single aspect of yourself, even if it's good or bad. So that is what I loved the most about Frida and her work, that she didn't try to hide behind any kind of mask and didn't want to conform with what people were expecting from her. She just was living her truth. And I think that is the best thing that an artist can do. When you create from your heart from your pure feelings. That's the most important thing as an artist to be honest with your work.

Liz Lidgett 9:21

Frida lived as an outspoken and flamboyant artist. She flouted conformity and lived life on her terms. Frida celebrated her features – her upper lip hair and her striking unibrow became fashion statements that denounce conventions about beauty and social expectations. She once said, "I am my own muse, the subject I know best, the subject I want to know better".

Liz Lidgett 9:45

For me, The Two Fridas embodies so much about what makes Frida Kahlo's life and art so captivating. She uniquely painted her way through grief, tragedy and loss. Maybe more than her art, Frida herself has become a worldwide media phenomenon. She is an icon of feminism and radical acceptance of self.

Liz Lidgett 10:05

Frida inspires me in how she gave voice to the voiceless, including the disabled, indigenous and queer communities and women everywhere by simply saying, "Here I am. This is me".

Liz Lidgett 10:17

Frida was sort of an OG selfie artist. And her confidence in her non-conformity was and still is radical. She made many people uncomfortable with her politics, as well as how she cracked open her pain and suffering onto her canvases. In every sense, Frida lived out an idea that I love -- that art can be a revolution.

Liz Lidgett 10:39

I'll leave you with these powerful words from Frida's diary, "I used to think I was the strangest person in the world. But then I thought there are so many people in the world, there must be someone just like me who feels bizarre and flawed in the same way as I do. I hope that if you are out there and read this, you know that yes, it's true. I'm here, and I'm just as strange as you".

Liz Lidgett 11:05

Ten Minute Masterpieces is a production of Liz Lidgett Gallery and is produced by Maribeth Romslo. Special thanks to Fares Micue. Check out our show notes for credits to this episode and links to more info about Frida Kahlo and her self-portraits. Hayden Herrera's book Frida Kahlo: The Paintings is an excellent deep dive into the context and symbolism woven into Frida's body of work. Join us next time when we take a look at Monet's Water Lilies. Until then, I hope you take ten minutes and look at some art today. You might just discover your favorite masterpiece.

CREDITS:

Music credits:
- Creative Morning ( Premium Beat )
- Remember the Name, Girl with a Yellow Skirt, The World in Our Arms, Midnight Train ( Epidemic Sound )

RESEARCH AND LINKS OF INTEREST:

Creative Retreat 2022: Strasbourg, France

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:16:36 GMT

The Gallery threw a creative retreat with Jessi Raulet in Strasbourg, France and invited creative people to join in. We had a wonderful time and I want to unpack the highlights with you!

It truly feels like after a magical trip, it’s hard to find the right words to accurately describe all that you felt, saw, and discovered. Of course, that doesn’t make for much of a blogpost, so I’ll try despite my limitations as a writer. Women from around the United States all flew to Paris and then took a 2 hour train ride to Strasbourg, France all with the same mission: to attend a creative retreat hosted by our gallery and artist Jessi Raulet.

The trip began with a phone call several months ago in which Jessi and I were talking about future plans and shows. Jessi mentioned she would be interested in a retreat and I had wanted to create a “creative retreat” that would help women tap into some inspiration and creativity that often results from travel and new friends. After many months of work, and the details smoothed out by travel agent extraordinaire, Whitney of Undiscovered Sunsets, it was time to -head out of the trip. Here are 3 things that inspired me:

1. The attendees. It was an act of bravery to attend this retreat. Some of the women knew one or maybe two other women at most but many of the women did not know anyone else. They trusted us (the gallery and Jessi ) and that trust and bravery inspired me. It reminded me that it’s good to feel uncomfortable from time to time (traveling internationally alone, putting yourself out there to meet new friends, trying new types of art and experiences) and that great reward can come from it.

2. Jessi , herself. Jessi has a bright light and energy that makes people feel at ease and excited for what’s next. I often find that as a curator I understand an artist’s artwork better once I have met them and this was no exception. Jessi’s artwork radiates warmth, welcomeness, and positivity. It’s for all of those reasons collectors are so attracted to it. It’s art that you want to live with. Jessi is a person you want to know. She also makes you feel like she truly wants to know you too.

3. The Alsace region. Our wonderful tour guide, Amandine, was with us for two days. She said “if you ask someone from this area where they are from they won’t say France or Germany but Alsace.” That territory throughout history has been both French and German and has a distinct collaboration of the two cultures. The architecture, food, and people feel both French and German. We all loved wandering through Strasbourg and discovering tucked away restaurants and beautiful buildings and the most beautiful clear skies. On a day trip to Germany we were all delighted by Baden-Baden (it didn’t hurt that a trip to the spa was also on that day’s itinerary). Once of the best meals of the trip came in the form of stuffed zucchini blossoms with ratatouille and we all rode home in the bus feeling zen after a wonderful day.

Below are major points of our itinerary if you are ever heading to the Strasbourg area or Alsace region. If you go, I hope you enjoy these spots as much as we did -

Restaurants:

Additional Restaurant recommendations:

Activities:

Food tour throughout Strasbourg
Tour of the Cathedral Notre Dame de Strasbourg
Bus ride and tour through Baden-Baden, Germany
Caracalla Spa , Baden-Baden
River cruise with Captain Bretzel
Karaoke at the Groove Box

Hotel:

We stayed in Hotel Hanong and enjoyed it!
Also would recommend Hotel Leonor

We will be planning more retreats in the future and would love for you to join us! If you are interested in more information please let us know.

Artist Spotlight: Emily Van Hoff

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 17:41:59 GMT

Emily is new in the gallery and we are already obsessed with her work. Get to know her with us!

Emily Van Hoff is an incredible artist out of Chicago Illinois. All of her work is informed by her background in graphic design and a constant need to be making tactile things with her hands at all times.

What are three things you cannot go a day without?

National Public Radio
My cat, Laszlo, who does not feel the same way about me
Something to keep my hands busy

How did you start creating art?

I’ve just always had a need to be making something with my hands. As a kid, it was 2 inch tall stuffed felt elephants and impossibly tiny paper cranes. Over the years, I’ve continued adding new mediums, mixed in some actual art education, a whole lot of life experience, and countless hours of creating. My ongoing goal is to find new ways to combine all of those things in unexpected and beautiful ways!

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Inspiration mostly comes from the process for me. I most often get new ideas while working and imagining the new directions I could take. It probably helps that my process is incredibly tedious and leaves much time for my brain to wander.

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

Just make stuff! Don’t think about it so much. Pick a thing that is exciting to you at the moment and try it, and then figure out how to make it better or different and make another thing. You will only want to put in the work if you’re excited about it, and if you’re excited about it, chances are someone else will be too.

Emily is part of a group show that is opening October 7th and will be on the walls next to Roma Osowo , Nate Nettleton and Hillary Howorth . Send us an email if you would like on the presale list!

Artist Spotlight: Hillary Howorth

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 19:16:23 GMT

Hillary's work has been a fan favorite, take some time to get to know her as an artist!

I had the pleasure of being able to chat with Hillary over email to get to know her a little better and I can't wait for all of you to get to know the delightful Hillary Howorth !

What are three things you can't go a day without?

Besides my beautiful husband and my three boys, on a lesser, simpler note: coffee, exercise and a sweet treat at the end of the day.

When did you first consider yourself an artist?

As a child, I can remember saying that I was going to be an artist when I grew up. I can remember in middle school taking career tests and I would purposely try to skew my answers so that it would say I was meant for the “Arts and Humanities” cluster. I grew up as a dancer and would sketch and draw my dance company’s costumes to send off to our seamstress to create. At that time I though I would end up as a fashion designer, but life took me on other paths. I so feel like our true self will always lead us back to our calling and hearts passions if we allow it to.

How did you start creating art?

While I have been creating works of art throughout my life in various forms, it was not until 2012 when home on bed rest during my first pregnancy with twin girls that I began painting. Continuing to pursue art was a way for me to heal after that pregnancy ended in a tragic loss and it pushed me back to my authentic self. I realized just how precious life was and that I wasn’t going to waste it in an unfulfilling career. This new found love for painting ultimately led me to committing to art full time and leaving my job as a pediatric dental hygienist behind. I always say that something beautiful came out of something so tragic. My career as an artist is because of my beautiful daughters and they truly live on through my work

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I love for my art to reflect the times and the world currently around us. So, the overall composition of my work is deeply inspired by nature, life’s complexities, connection, community, finding a common ground, and making a way for us all to rise together. However, when it comes to color, I am often drawing inspiration for my palettes from interior design and fashion. As long as I can remember I’ve had an affinity for both. I’m fascinated by old trends becoming new again and the way design can influence the world around us.

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

Be kind to yourself and others. Follow your instincts and try not to second guess them. Always offer and seek support and encouragement from your peers—the artists who came before you and those who will come in after you. Do not be afraid to reach out and ask questions. I was too intimidates and insecure at first to reach out to those “big” artists I looked up to. Once I finally got the courage, I regretted not doing it sooner. It would have saved me a ton of time, energy, money and heartache. The connections and advice given from others has truly been invaluable in my career as an artist as well as has helped to create lifelong and unexpected friendships. I truly believe that we all rise together and there is room for everyone at table!

I hope you loved getting to know Hillary a little bit better! She has a show opening October 9th with other amazing artists Emily Van Hoff , Nate Nettleton , and Roma Osowo ! If you would like to join presale for the show or for Hillary herself please feel free to join presale here .

Artist Spotlight: Roma Osowo

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:41:07 GMT

You know Romas work, now get to know Roma herself!

I had the pleasure of being able to chat with Roma over email about some of her practices and inspiration and I can't wait for all of you to get to know the amazing Roma Osowo!

When did you first consider yourself an artist?

I first considered myself an artist in June of 2017
For those of you who are Roma experts you know that this is six months after she came out of her twelve year painting hiatus. She felt it was coming back to her first love and there was a fire lit in her soul that she could not ignore. She and her husband prayed for her career to be revealed to her and their prayers were answered.

Where do you draw the most inspiration from?

Patterns in nature, colorful infrastructures and conversations with other creatives always inspire me.

Do you do a lot of preliminary work in your sketchbook, or do you allow the piece to take shape while you're working on it?

I do a bit of of both, it really just depends on the piece. Some pieces emerge from a concept or an idea that was sparked by some type inspiration, while other pieces begin with no plan, but takes shape based on me responding to each layer with what I feel the piece needs.

How have the contents of your sketchbooks changed throughout time?

A few years ago I did sketch out ideas in a traditional paper sketchbook, but for the past couple of years, I’ve transitioned into sketching out ideas in a drawing app on my phone called Procreate (pocket.) Since using the app, I’ve been able to sketch out ideas at anytime I am inspired.

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

1. Figure out what you love and are drawn to and do more of it.

2. Only do what feels authentic to you.

3. Trust yourself and your choices while creating.

4. Always begin each painting session with play and experimentation.

I hope you loved getting to know Roma a little bit better! She has a show opening October 9th with other amazing artists Emily Van Hoff , Nate Nettleton , and Hillary Howorth ! If you would like to join presale for the show or for Roma herself please feel free to join presale here .

Ten Minute Masterpiece: Mona Lisa, Part Two

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 14:53:05 GMT

Mona Lisa
Painted from 1503-1516 by Leonardo da Vinci (b. 1452- d. 1519)
The Louvre Museum , Salle des États, Room 711, Denon Wing, Level 1

If you haven’t yet listened to our first episode about Mona Lisa, we recommend checking out Part One before continuing with this episode about how the First Lady of the Renaissance keeps making her mark — even in our modern world.
In this episode (Mona Lisa, Part Two), we will learn about how Jackie Kennedy orchestrated the Mona Lisa’s tour to the United States in 1963. We will hear from Liz Lidgett Gallery artist Hunt Slonem who saw the Mona Lisa on that tour at the National Gallery as a middle school student. We will also examine how the Mona Lisa has inspired acts of honor and controversy over the years.

Mona Lisa (Part One and Part Two) features Liz Lidgett Gallery artist Hunt Slonem

Ten Minute Masterpieces is hosted by art advisor Liz Lidgett and produced by Maribeth Romslo

Click link to see image of: Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci, 1503-1516 The Louvre Museum, Salle des États, Room 711, Denon wing, Level 1

Click link to see image of: Jacqueline Kennedy speaking with Malraux after the state dinner at the White House on May 11, 1962. At this moment, Minister Malraux whispered to the First Lady “Je vais vous envoyer La Joconde”, meaning

Click link to see image of: Unveiling of the Mona Lisa on January 8, 1963 at the National Gallery of Art. Left to right: U.S. President John F. Kennedy, Madeleine Malraux, André Malraux, U.S. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, and U.S. Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Click link to see image of: Crowds awaiting the inauguration of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Mona Lisa exhibition in New York in February 1963. Photo: Bettman/Getty Images.

Click link to see image of: Young visitors crowd around the Mona Lisa during its visit to the National Gallery of Art in Washington. Photo: AP Images.

Click link to see image of: Andy Warhol (1928-1987) Colored Mona Lisa (1963) Silkscreen inks and graphite on canvas 125 7/8 x 82 1/8 in Photo: Christie’s Auction House

Click link to see image of: Marcel Duchamp’s 1919 Dadaist ready-made collage, created from a cheap Mona Lisa postcard on which Duchamp drew a mustache and a beard in pencil and renamed the masterpiece L.H.O.O.Q.

Click link to see image of: Mona Simpson by artist Nick Walker (2006).

Click link to see image of: Created for The 2009 Rocks Aroma Festival in Sydney, Australia, this Mona Lisa was seen by 130,000 people who attended the one-day coffee-lovers event. The Coffee Mona Lisa was made up of 3,604 cups of coffee. Each cup was filled with varying amounts of milk to black coffee. It measured 20 feet high and 13 feet wide and took a team of eight people three hours to complete.

Click link to see image of: Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou in “The Da Vinci Code” in 2006. ©Columbia Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Click link to see image of: In May of 2022, a climate activist dressed as an elderly woman jumped out of a wheelchair, smeared cake all over her bulletproof glass, and threw roses at the crowd in the gallery until he was taken into custody by museum security.

TRANSCRIPT:
Newsreel Announcer 0:03
It's Mona Lisa Day in Washington. In the West Statuary Hall at the National Gallery of Art, nearly 2,000 first nighters, including the First Lady, stunning in a long pink dress see President Kennedy introduced the world's most famous painting to Americans.

Liz Lidgett 0:21
Welcome back to Ten Minute Masterpieces where we explore curious stories behind the world's most renowned works of art. I'm Liz Lidgett. I'm an art advisor and gallery owner in Des Moines, Iowa. In this episode, Mona Lisa, Part Two, we will continue to learn about the most talked about smile in the world. If you haven't yet listened to our first episode about Mona Lisa, we recommend checking out Part One before continuing with this episode about how the First Lady of the Renaissance keeps making her mark, even in our modern world.

Liz Lidgett 0:52
When President John F. Kennedy and his wife arrived in Paris in the spring of 1961 for a state visit, they were well received by the French public. After all, Jackie Kennedy was fluent in French, interested in the arts, and loved Paris, France and the First Lady were charmed by each other.

French Newscaster 1:09
A Versailles, s'achève la visite de JFK et de sa femme Jackie, que la France était si heureuse d'accueillir. (Translation: In Versailles, ends the visit of JFK and his wife Jackie, whom France was so delighted to greet.)

President John F. Kennedy 1:16
I come from America, the daughter of Europe, to France, which is America's oldest friend. But I come today not because merely past ties and past friendship, but because the present relationship between France and the United States is essential for the preservation of freedom around the globe.

Liz Lidgett 1:34
During the visit, a friendship began between Mrs. Kennedy and the French Minister of Culture, Georges André Malraux, who took the First Lady on a tour of French cultural and artistic treasures. A year later upon Mrs. Kennedy's invitation, Malraux visited Washington D.C., where the First Lady took the French minister on a private tour of the National Gallery of Art. During this visit, Mrs. Kennedy said to Malraux, "I would love to see the Mona Lisa again and show her to the Americans".

Liz Lidgett 2:02
That evening, a state dinner at the White House was a collection of America's most influential cultural icons, meticulously curated by Jackie Kennedy herself. The guest list included renowned violinist Isaac Stern, who entertained guests with a concert in the East Room. Other distinguished guests included abstract expressionists Mark Rothko, realist painter Andrew Wyeth, Pulitzer Prize winning writer Thornton Wilder, playwright Tennessee Williams, aviator Charles Lindbergh, and his wife writer Anne Morrow Lindbergh.

Liz Lidgett 2:34
As the magical evening in Camelot came to a close, in a moment caught on film, Minister Malraux whispered to the First Lady “Je vais vous envoyer La Jaconde”, meaning "I will send you the Mona Lisa".

Liz Lidgett 2:49
Months of negotiations, logistics, and controversy about this whispered promise ensued, all while the Cuban Missile Crisis was escalating.
Newsreel Announcer 2:58
United States arrived at the decision for an arm blockade after studying reconnaissance photographs made with high powered cameras from planes flying several miles from the Cuban coast. The U.S. threw up a steel fence prepared to stop any vessel carrying materials of war.

Liz Lidgett 3:14
Safely transporting a fragile masterpiece across a frigid winter ocean in the midst of an international military standoff was no small task. Despite the numerous challenges and objections to her journey, the Mona Lisa arrived in New York Harbor aboard the SS France on December 19, 1962, where she was given her own Secret Service detail.

Liz Lidgett 3:37
On January 8, 1963, the Mona Lisa was unveiled at the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. The opening reception was a veritable Who's Who of American government and culture, including most members of Congress, the Supreme Court, and the President's Cabinet.
President John F. Kennedy 3:53
Minister, this painting is the second lady that the people of France have sent to the United States, and though she will not stay with us as long as the Statue of Liberty, our appreciation is equally great.

Liz Lidgett 4:06
Kennedy's speech at the unveiling underscored the allyship between France and the United States. He positioned the Mona Lisa as a Cold War symbol of western ideals of freedom, in stark contrast to the repression of communism.
Newsreel Announcer 4:19
The enigmatic smile acts like a magnet to both art lovers and the curious. The gallery is jammed as the crowd passes by the painting, four abreast. Some stand in line repeatedly for just one more glimpse of the smile and as launched a thousand arguments.

Liz Lidgett 4:33
The Mona Lisa was on public display in the nation's capital until February when it moved to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, before returning home to the Louvre in March of 1963. During her three month American tour nearly two million people lined up to see the Renaissance lady and her mesmerizing grin including one of the artists we represent here at the gallery. Hunt Slonem is an internationally acclaimed artist whose paintings hang in museums and galleries around the world. Hunt will always have a special place in my heart, because he was one of the first artists to say yes to be represented by Liz Lidgett Gallery. Hunt shared these memories about his first time seeing the Mona Lisa.

Hunt Slonem 5:15
It came to Washington D.C. when I was in junior high school. My parents took me to see it. It was at the National Gallery. And I remember it was in the evening. And there was a lot of protocol and not security like today. But there were guards and guns and I was surprised at how unobstructed my view of it was and how it was just right there. And now the scale was much smaller than I even anticipated. And it was on this big, red velvet curtain I remember. I don't know why the Mona Lisa has captivated the world other than for its masterful skill. It's not that it's not a great painting. I mean, nobody can paint that. I mean, nobody on this planet could do a DaVinci. And who was she? That's the other kind of mystery about it. It's one of those things it's of a moment in time, and a historical exclamation point for so many reasons. Very few things rock the world that way.

Newsreel Announcer 6:21
Nearly 10,000 people filed by the Mona Lisa the first day, making her by far the most popular hostess in Washington. Everybody wants to meet the new girl in town.

Liz Lidgett 6:32
The Mona Lisa's American tour inspired pop artist Andy Warhol to produce a collection of screen printed and multicolored Mona Lisas. The series captured the zeitgeist at the time in 1963, when America was consumed with Mona Mania, after the art icon's US tour. Warhol's series also commented on the connection between high art and mass produced consumer culture.

Liz Lidgett 6:56
Warhol's Mona Lisa series is just one of countless parodies by artists including Marcel Duchamp's 1919 Dadaist ready-made collage created from a cheap Mona Lisa postcard on which Duchamp drew a mustache and a beard in pencil and renamed the masterpiece L.H.O.O.Q. The five letter name is a gramagram. The letters pronounced in French sound like “Elle a chaud au cul”, which roughly translates to "She has a hot ass". <<whistle sound>>

Liz Lidgett 7:25
The Mona Lisa played a role in Dan Brown's best selling thriller The DaVinci Code. Here's Tom Hanks is Professor Robert Langdon and Audrey Tautou as cryptologist Sophie Neveu in a nighttime scene at the Louvre with the Mona Lisa from Ron Howard's 2006 film adaptation.
Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon 7:41
Her smile is in the lower spatial frequencies. See she appears larger from the left than on the right. Historically the left was female the right was male.

Audrey Tautou as Sophie Neveu 7:50
The sacred feminine.

Liz Lidgett 7:52
Sophie raises a blacklight to the painting revealing a cryptic message scrawled on the Mona Lisa.

Audrey Tautou as Sophie Neveu 7:58
So dark the con of man.

Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon 8:03
Sermon, charms, demons, omens, codes, monks, ranks, rocks.

Audrey Tautou as Sophie Neveu 8:09
Madonna of the Rocks.

Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon 8:11
DaVinici!

Liz Lidgett 8:12
Despite or maybe because of her fame, the Mona Lisa has been vandalized many times over the years.

Liz Lidgett 8:19
In the 1950s, the painting was placed under protective glass after a visitor poured acid on her <<bubbling acid sound>> and another hit her with a rock <<thud sound>> causing damage to her left elbow <<woman saying "Ouch!">>. In 1974, a Japanese disability rights Activist sprayed the Mona Lisa with red paint. <<spray paint sound>> In 2009, a visitor hurled a teacup at her. <<shattering ceramic sound>>. And in May of 2022, a climate activist dressed as an elderly woman jumped out of a wheelchair, smeared cake all over her bulletproof glass, and threw roses at the crowd in the gallery until he was taken into custody by museum security.

Liz Lidgett 8:55
The Mona Lisa holds the Guinness World Record for the highest insurance value in the art market. In 1962, ahead of her journey to the U.S., the Mona Lisa was insured for $100 million. <<cash register sound>> That would be 870 million in today's money. However, under French heritage law, the Mona Lisa cannot be bought or sold. She is truly priceless.

Liz Lidgett 9:19
Personally, I love the way that this mysterious woman from over 500 years ago continues to captivate the world. I feel like she's a woman with secrets. But what woman isn't? I think that's part of why the Mona Lisa intrigues people because there's so much unknown. Scholars often discuss the painting's masculine and feminine qualities. Some art historians argue whether over time the portrait became less Lisa Gherardini and more DaVinci himself because he carried it around for so long and kept working and working on it.

Liz Lidgett 9:52
For me, the Mona Lisa incorporates so many layers. There's been theft and she's traveled the world but even beyond that, she is a woman that represents all women. Her subtle smile endures with an enchanting power that grabs universal attention from First Ladies to tourists, to activists to thieves, to England's Rocket Man Sir Elton John.

Elton John (singing) 10:15
While Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters. . .

Liz Lidgett 10:19
Ten Minute Masterpieces is a production of Liz Lidgett Gallery and is produced by Maribeth Romslo. Special thanks to Hunt Slonem and Allison Dayka. Check out our show notes for credits to this episode, and links to more info about the Mona Lisa, including Margaret Leslie Davis's Vanity Fair article, "The Two First Ladies" which is a must-read for every art history lover. Join us next time when we take a look into a daring self study of duality called The Two Fridas by Frida Kahlo. Until then, I hope you take ten minutes and look at some art today. You might just discover your favorite masterpiece.

CREDITS

Music credits:

Creative Morning ( Premium Beat )

Silent as Smoke, Zoot Suit, Voyager ( Epidemic Sound )

Schubert Trio No. 1 in B flat Op. 99, Eugen Istomin (piano), Isaac Stern, (violin), Leonard Rose (cello). Recorded in 1964.

Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Elton John)

Newsreel and historic audio credits:

Mona Lisa Makes U.S. Debut

Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy in Paris

Les Kennedy à Versailles

President Kennedy’s Speech in Paris (1961)

The Cuban Crisis An Overview Newsreel

Priceless Smile: President Leads Mona Lisa Tribute

Mona Lisa scene from The Da Vinci Code movie

RESEARCH AND LINKS OF INTEREST

The Two First Ladies by Margaret Leslie Davis (Vanity Fair, November 2008)

Art News about Mona Lisa Vandalism

Colored Mona Lisas Christies

My Modern Met

Louvre Mona Lisa VR Experience

“Jackie and the Mona Lisa” children’s book by Debbie Rovin Murphy and Jen Bricking

Our Spotify playlist inspired by the Mona Lisa Spotify playlist

Ten Minute Masterpiece: The Starry Night

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 17:26:09 GMT

The Starry Night
Painted in 1889 by Vincent van Gogh (b. 1853 - d. 1890)
Museum of Modern Art , Floor 5, 502, The Alfred H. Barr, Jr. Galleries

This episode dives into one of the most recognizable works of art in the world, Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night, and features artist Jessi Raulet .

Ten Minute Masterpieces is hosted by art advisor Liz Lidgett and produced by Maribeth Romslo .

Click this link to see image of: Vincent van Gogh, The Starry Night, Saint Rémy, June 1889. On view at MoMA, Floor 5, 502, The Alfred H. Barr, Jr. Galleries.

Click this link to see image of: Vincent van Gogh's room in Saint-Paul de Mausole. Photo courtesy of Saint Rémy de Provence Tourisme

Click this link to see image of: A postcard showing the town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where the asylum was located. Photograph: Quarto Press

Click this link to see image of: The Monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausole at Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône, France. Photo: EmDee

Click this link to see image of: Vincent Van Gogh, Portrait de l'artiste, 1889. On view at Musée d'Orsay in Paris in Niveau supérieur, Galerie Françoise Cachin.

Click this link to see image of: A portrait of Vincent's younger brother, Theo van Gogh. Photo: Getty Images/Photo12

Click this link to see image of: Johanna Gezina van Gogh-Bonger (4 October 1862 – 2 September 1925) was a Dutch editor and translator of the letters of the van Gogh brothers. She was the wife of Theo van Gogh, art dealer, and the sister-in-law of the painter Vincent van Gogh and became a key player in the growth of Vincent's fame. Photo: New York Times

Click this link to see image of: The Starry Night made out of jelly beans by artist Kristen Cummings.

Click this link to see image of: A collaboration between MoMA and LEGO, the set reinterprets Van Gogh’s thick impasto brushwork in 2316 tiny plastic bricks, including a mini figure of the artist, equipped with paintbrush, palette, easel, and an adjustable arm for positioning him at sufficient distance to gain perspective on his world famous work.

TRANSCRIPT:

Liz Lidgett 0:01

Welcome to Ten Minute Masterpieces, where we explore curious stories behind the world's most renowned works of art. I'm Liz Lidgett. I'm an art advisor and gallery owner in Des Moines, Iowa. And all my life I've been passionate about art. One of the things I love most about what I do is the opportunity to help people connect with a new piece they love, or to see a new perspective through art.

Liz Lidgett 0:25

You may be able to close your eyes and picture the artwork in each of our episodes. But how much do you know about each masterpiece? Today we're going to dive into one of the most recognizable works of art in the world, Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night. Even within this episode, you'll hear his last name pronounced different ways. That's because depending on where you're from, there are various phonetic ways to say the artist’s name. In the traditional Dutch, people say VON-GOUGH. Many people in Britain in Europe use a simpler VAN-GOFF. And for this podcast, since I'm American, I'm going to say VAN-GO. To set the scene of Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night, here's one of the artists we represent at Liz Lidgett Gallery to describe this Ten Minute Masterpiece.

Jessi Raulet 1:10

My name is Jessi Raulet, and I am a painter in Strasbourg, France. The Starry Night is an oil painting on canvas. A pulsating night sky takes up almost three quarters of the painting. The sky is dominated by chromatic blue swirls, and a glowing yellow crescent moon. White, yellow, orange and blue stars are painted as radiating points of light. The brushstrokes swirl and follow each other, creating streams of dynamic energy throughout the sky. In the left foreground, cypress trees partly obscure the sky with their dark branches. Behind the trees, blue rolling hills lead to a village nestled in a valley in the distance on the lower right of the canvas. The straight lines of the village cottages and slender church steeple create an orderly corner in an otherwise turbulent scene.

Jessi Raulet 2:08

Like many artists, I am a huge fan of van Gogh's work. Last spring, I visited the sleepy village featured in the painting, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. It was a beautiful and quiet village filled with shops, cats on windowsills, colorful doors, and rose bushes. I ate lavender ice cream while strolling the colorful winding streets. Visiting little towns like Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is like an exercise in daydreaming and exploration, encouraging me to stay curious as an artist.

Jessi Raulet 2:42

In an undergrad art history class, I was fascinated to learn that if you stuck a needle into The Starry Night, you would still find wet oil paint underneath. This might be an art history rumor, but I like the idea that van Gogh's wet brushstrokes are still very much alive and awake in the painting, much like the feeling the vibrant sky creates above the sleeping town below. At the time, van Gogh's style was radical, it was outside of the box. As an artist, The Starry Night lets me explore breaking the rules of art a little bit. I'm inspired to try new techniques, to test the boundaries, to push myself creatively and to look to the night sky and beyond for inspiration.

Liz Lidgett 3:30

Thank you for that, Jessi. The Starry Night was painted by Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh in 1889 when he was a patient in a mental health institution in the south of France called the asylum of St. Paul de Mausol near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. While van Gogh had similar rolling hills outside the bars of his asylum window, he painted The Starry Night from his memory and imagination. Van Gogh suffered from paranoia and epileptic fits for most of his life. A year before he painted The Starry Night he fell into a deep depression after a fight with his fellow painter, Pierre Auguste Renoir. He cut his ear and then admitted himself to the asylum where he was hopeful he could find healing for his mental illness. From the asylum, Vincent often wrote to his brother Theo. From these letters, we know that Vincent completed The Starry Night on June 19, 1889. Due to his insomnia, Vincent was often up very early in the morning. In a letter to Theo on June 1st, he wrote:

Vincent Van Gogh (Quote) 4:26

"This morning I saw the country from my window a long time before sunrise with nothing but the morning star, which looked very big."

Liz Lidgett 4:35

In 1985, University of California art historian Albert Boime compared The Starry Night to a planetarium recreation of the early morning sky view from van Gogh's asylum in June 1889. With the help of UCLA astronomers, Boime concluded that the morning star that Vincent saw from his east-facing barred windows was the planet Venus. In 1889, Venus was passing through the end of an eight-year cycle where it attained maximum brightness and it dominated the pre-dawn sky. In a letter to a sister, Wilhelmina, Vincent wrote about the stars:

Vincent Van Gogh (Quote) 5:11

"If only you pay attention to it, you will see that certain stars are citron yellow, others pink or green, blue and forget-me-not brilliance. It is obvious that putting little white dots on the blue-black is not enough to paint a starry sky."

Liz Lidgett 5:28

It's clear that Vincent van Gogh was an observant student of the cosmos. If you look closely, the stars in The Starry Night almost seemed to flicker. The effect is caused by luminance, the intensity of the light and the colors on the canvas. Our visual cortex has two different parts that process luminance in opposite ways. One part of our brain blends different colors that have similar luminance. The other part of our brain sees contrasting colors without blending. This dissonance causes the squirrels and lights in the starry night to appear as if they are pulsing, flickering or radiating.

Liz Lidgett 6:04

In 2004, through The Hubble Space Telescope, scientists saw a distant cloud of gas and dust swirling around a star. The swirls reminded the scientists of The Starry Night. Jose Luis Aragon and his colleagues at the National Autonomous University in Mexico analyzed the swirling structures in The Starry Night. The researchers found a nearly perfect mathematical correlation between van Gogh's brushstrokes, and the turbulence measured in natural phenomena, like ocean waves and molecular clouds that give birth to stars.

Liz Lidgett 6:41

Vincent van Gogh died by suicide in 1890, just one year after painting The Starry Night. His brother Theo inherited all of his works. Theo soon passed away and his widow, Johanna Gezina van Gogh-Bonger helped elevate Vincent van Gogh to artistic fame. Van Gogh considered The Starry Night a failure. He felt it was too abstract, too difficult to understand. This, of course, was through the lens of the 1880s, about 50 to 60 years before many artists fully embraced abstract expressionism.

Liz Lidgett 7:15

From college dorm posters to gift shop umbrellas, to creations made entirely of LEGO bricks or jelly beans, The Starry Night has woven its way into pop culture. In 1972, songwriter Don McLean catapulted from a little known folk singer to a major recording artist, with the hit single from his album of the same name, American Pie. The next single on the album was Vincent, which was inspired by van Gogh and The Starry Night.

Don McLean (singing) 7:47

Flaming flowers that brightly blaze, swirling clouds in violet haze, reflect Vincent's eyes of china blue.

Liz Lidgett 7:59

Here's Don McLean in a 2011 interview with Dutch Public Television about the song:

Don McLean 8:04

I read a book about him written by his brother, Theo. I took his most famous painting and used the colors and the energy and the forms and everything to try to grab hold of his essence as a human being. He is his art.

Don McLean (singing) 8:24

Starry Starry Night.

Don McLean 8:26

So much of his life is about feeling

Don McLean (singing) 8:29

Portraits hung in empty halls.

Don McLean 8:31

Sensation. Pain. Pain is a very important part of art. Artists are missionaries in a sense, they're on a mission to change the world a little bit.

Don McLean (singing) 8:45

How you suffered for your sanity. How you tried to set them free. They would not listen, they're not listening still. Perhaps they never never will.

Liz Lidgett 9:06

The Starry Night is a piece that has mesmerized audiences for over a century. But beyond how the masterpiece is entwined with pop culture, the story of its actual creation, Vincent's time and a mental health institution, and the artist considering the work of failure is lesser known.

Liz Lidgett 9:22

For me, The Starry Night illustrates how we all can fall into the trap of self doubt. How even one of the most incredible painters in history felt that his work wasn't good enough. It reminds me not to be so hard on myself and my work because who knows? Maybe 150 years from now, someone will be discussing my work on a podcast about art that has changed the world.

Liz Lidgett 9:47

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, there is help. United Way's 211 Helpline provides free and confidential health and human services information, 24 hours a day 7 days a week. If you need assistance locating long term mental health resources, talking through a problem, or exploring mental health treatment options, dial 211 in the US to speak with a live person who can help. Additional mental health resources are also linked in our Show Notes.

Liz Lidgett 10:15

Ten Minute Masterpieces is a production of Liz Lidgett Gallery and is produced by Maribeth Romslo. Special thanks to Jessi Raulet and Dutch Public Television. Check out our show notes for links to our research about The Starry Night and credits for this episode. Join us next time when we uncover stories behind the most mysterious smile in art, the Mona Lisa. Until then, take ten minutes and look at some art. You might just discover your favorite masterpiece.

CREDITS

Top 2000: The Untold Stories // Starry Starry Night (Dutch Public Television)
American Pie and Vincent ( Don McLean )
The Sounds of Space ( Melody Sheep )
Creative Morning, Italian Waltz, Presage, Emotional Piano ( Premium Beat )

RESEARCH AND LINKS OF INTEREST

Ten Minute Masterpiece: Mona Lisa, Part One

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 17:31:53 GMT

Mona Lisa
Painted from 1503-1516 by Leonardo da Vinci (b. 1452- d. 1519)
The Louvre Museum , Salle des États, Room 711, Denon Wing, Level 1

Our eyes are on one of the most renowned and visited works of art in history – Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

And since she’s so famous and enchanting, there are just too many details to fit into ten minutes. We’re giving Leonardo da Vinci’s leading lady not one, but two, episodes. Both episodes feature Liz Lidgett Gallery artist Hunt Slonem .

Ten Minute Masterpieces is hosted by art advisor Liz Lidgett and produced by Maribeth Romslo.

Click this link to see image of: Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci, 1503-1516 The Louvre Museum, Salle des États, Room 711, Denon wing, Level 1

Click this link to see image of: Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519)

Click this link to see image of: A New York Times headline from August 24, 1911, reported the investigation into the disappearance of the Mona Lisa.

Click this link to see image of: The four bare hooks on the Louvre wall that once held the Mona Lisa. From the Mary Evans Picture Library/The Image Works.

Click this link to see image of: A pictorial representation of the theft shows Vincenzo Peruggia stashing the painting inside his coat.

Click this link to see image of: Mug shots of Vincenzo Perugia, the man accused of taking the Mona Lisa. From Rue des Archives/The Granger Collection.

TRANSCRIPT:
Liz Lidgett 0:01
Welcome to Ten Minute Masterpieces, where we explore curious stories behind the world's most renowned works of art. You may be able to close your eyes and picture the artwork in each of our episodes. But how much do you know about each masterpiece?

Liz Lidgett 0:15
I'm Liz Lidgett. I'm an art advisor and gallery owner in Des Moines, Iowa. And all my life I've been passionate about art. One of the things I love most about what I do is the opportunity to help people connect with a new piece they love or to see a new perspective through art.

Liz Lidgett 0:32
Today, our eyes are on one of the most renowned and visited works of art and history, the Mona Lisa, and since she's so famous and enchanting, there are just too many details to fit into ten minutes. We're giving Leonardo da Vinci's leading lady not one but two episodes.

Liz Lidgett 0:48
Painted in the early 1500s by the Italian Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci, the Mona Lisa is an oil portrait on a poplar wood panel. The masterpiece features a seated woman with her arms folded, wearing a dark silk dress with gold embroidery, and a thin black veil. She gazes at the viewer and appears to softly smile. Behind the woman a misty landscape rolls into the distance with jagged mountains of foggy lake, a winding river and a rustic bridge.

Liz Lidgett 1:18
The Mona Lisa measures just 30 inches tall by 20 inches high, surprisingly modest in size given her global fame. Leonardo used the painting technique of sfumato, which allows colors to blend gradually into one another, producing softened outlines and hazy forms. The Italian word sfumato means "to evaporate like smoke".

Liz Lidgett 1:38
Most scholars believe the woman depicted in the Mona Lisa is Lisa Gherardini, wife of the Florentine cloth and silk merchant Francesco del Giocondo. The Italian name for the painting is La Gioconda, which means merry or jovial. Similarly, the French called the Mona La Joconde, but most of the world knows the painting as Mona Lisa.

Liz Lidgett 2:00
The foreground of the Mona Lisa is a captivating portrait, and an intricate landscape of the natural world unfolds behind the seated woman. So, I've invited an artist who explores both nature and portraiture and his work to discuss this Ten Minute Masterpiece.

Liz Lidgett 2:15
Hunt Slonem is an internationally acclaimed artist. His paintings hang in museums and galleries around the world. When I was starting my own gallery, I had a short list of artists that were my dream to work with. Hunt was on that list. I got him on the phone and we chatted, he believed in my mission that artwork is for everyone. When he said yes to being represented by the gallery other artists began to say yes to because of how well respected he is in the art world. Hunt is an incredible portraiture artist who is well known for his portraits of Abe Lincoln and Queen Elizabeth. His bunnies and cockatoo paintings have become iconic -- they are reprinted on wallpapers and fabric and in the line for Bergdorf Goodman. Hunt joins us from his New York City studio, where he works with his team as well as a collection of exotic birds, which you may hear from time to time during our conversation.

Bird Noises 3:05
<< birds sqwaking >>

Liz Lidgett 3:05
Hunt, tell us about yourself. Of course, I know you but I want our audience to know you too. So how do you describe yourself as an artist?

Hunt Slonem 3:13
My birds are competing with me. <<laughter>>

Hunt Slonem 3:17
My stuff is mostly entirely based on nature. People say "Why do you paint birds in Manhattan?”. Well, why did Rousseau paint tigers in Paris? I mean, why not, you know? I have to create an urban jungle within the urban jungle. I surround myself with birds and orchids. I've had birds since I was a child. Painting is a very solitary thing at best. And they're very good companions. They're very intelligent. I asked them what they think of things. I've been painting since I was a little kid. That's all I ever wanted to do. So I grew up with wet oil paint surrounding me and my grandfather painted and did something else – he would send me cocoons of great moths, and I would put them in my room and I would come home from school and I'd have a giant Cecropia moth flying around are or a Luna moth. Where he found them I will never know. So that was a big part of my childhood -- my grandfather's influence.

Liz Lidgett 3:17
This podcast is called Ten Minute Masterpieces. And we talked about the most famous works of art in the world. And today's episode is the Mona Lisa. The reason I thought of you was because of the portraiture work that you do. People know your work for the bunnies and your cockatoos and your birds so well. But I have always just truly loved your portraiture work. I think it's astounding. And so I really wanted to get your thoughts on what it's like to be a portraiture artist.

Hunt Slonem 4:53
Well, I started out in the 70s, late 70s, painting saints. Any saint with a New World connection. I love painting people.

Liz Lidgett 5:03
I know so well your Her Majesty pieces with Queen Elizabeth and then also Abe Lincoln. Are you trying to represent them in a certain way to make them look like they do in real life? Or do you want to put your own spin on it?

Hunt Slonemn 5:17
Who knows what they looked like in real life? <<laughter>> We do have photos, right? I mean, Lincoln was photographed as much as Jackie O, probably. Gertrude Stein said, "Oh, but Pablo, it doesn't look like me". And Picasso said "It will, Gertrude."

Liz Lidgett 5:33
<<laughter>> Well, let's talk about the Mona Lisa, then too, because of course, that's what the podcast is about. Pretend you're my art history professor, or that I can't see it myself right now. And would you tell me what it looks like to you? The Mona Lisa, how would you describe it?

Hunt Slonemn 5:51
Well, it's a very thought out portrait of a woman with a mystical background with trails leading to eternity all behind her. Her expression is kind of all knowing, like there's an attainment of some kind of inner strength. Mona Lisa's really just become so incredibly important. And I think it's because it's really a portrait of a woman that has high, high, high spiritual attainment, even though that's not what it's officially about. I mean, I can't think of a single religious painting that has as much of an impact on humanity.

Liz Lidgett 6:34
You are such an interesting person and such a talented artist, and I'm really honored that you took the time to be on the podcast.

Hunt Slonemn 6:41
Oh, my pleasure.

Liz Lidgett 6:42
Thank you so much, and we'll talk soon.

Hunt Slonem n 6:44
I can't wait.

Liz Lidgett 6:48
Da Vinci was a true Renaissance man. Due to his many interests as an artist, inventor, and writer, he would often take extraordinary amounts of time to complete a painting. Sometimes he would stare at a painting for hours at just one brushstroke and then leave it untouched for a long time. This might be why Leonardo never delivered the painting to the Giocondo family, who commissioned the portrait of Lady Lisa in 1503.

Liz Lidgett 7:10
Da Vinci worked in earnest on the painting until 1506 and continued to refine the Mona Lisa on and off over the following decade. Leonardo brought the unfinished piece with him to France in 1516, where he worked for the French king, Francois the First, until the artist's death in 1519 at the age of 67.

Liz Lidgett 7:30
Leonardo's favorite apprentice and lover, a man named Salai, inherited the Mona Lisa. He sold the painting to the French king. The Mona Lisa then hung in the palace Fontainebleau bathroom for more than 100 years until Louis XIV took the painting to the Palace of Versailles. In 1804, after a short stint hanging in Napoleon's bedroom at the Tuileries Palace, the Mona Lisa made her way to her now-permanent home at the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Liz Lidgett 7:56
As much as the Mona Lisa was a favorite of the French royalty, the painting did not achieve worldwide fame until she was stolen in 1911. In the early hours of an August morning, an Italian handyman who worked at the Louvre lifted the Mona Lisa off the wall. He removed the painting from its frame, wrapped her in a blanket, and in broad daylight hustled to the nearby Quai d'Orsay station. He boarded a morning express train out of the city making a clean get away with the masterpiece.

Liz Lidgett 8:23
It took 26 hours for the museum staff to realize the painting was stolen. During the two years that the Mona Lisa was missing, visitors flocked to the museum to see the empty wall where the painting was hung. The world was fascinated with the heist. Hundreds of people were interviewed as suspects, including J.P. Morgan and Pablo Picasso. The image of da Vinci's masterpiece was printed on the front pages around the world. The New York Times reported "60 Detectives Seek Stolen Mona Lisa -- French Public Indignant!". The flurry of press made the Mona Lisa a household name, and it made the smiling portrait too hot to hock.

Liz Lidgett 9:02
After years of hiding the Mona Lisa under the floorboards of his Paris apartment, the Italian handyman thief, Vincenzo Peruggia, tried to sell the painting to an art dealer in Florence who alerted the authorities. When Peruggia was brought into custody, the thief said he was returning the painting to its rightful home in Italy. The court gave him a lenient sentence given his patriotic reasons, and he served seven months in jail. On New Year's Eve, 1913, the Mona Lisa returned to the Louvre.

Liz Lidgett 9:34
For nearly 500 years, the Mona Lisa, and her mysterious smile had been a source of mystery, intrigue and reverence. Join us for the next episode -- Mona Lisa, Part Two --where we will learn more about when the First Lady of the United States brought the First Lady of the Renaissance to America, and how da Vinci's masterpiece has inspired both acts of honor and of controversy throughout the years.

Liz Lidgett 9:59
Ten Minute Masterpieces is a production of Liz Lidgett Gallery and it's produced by Maribeth Romslo. Special thanks to Hunt Slonem and Allison Dayka . Check out our show notes for credits to this episode and links to more info about the Mona Lisa.

Liz Lidgett 10:13
I hope you'll take ten minutes and look at some art today. You might just discover your favorite masterpiece.

CREDITS

Creative Morning ( Premium Beat )
Tour de Louvre, King’s Hall, Silent as Smoke, Maze Heist, National Anthem France, Moments of Clarity ( Epidemic Sound )

RESEARCH AND LINKS OF INTEREST

Artist Spotlight: Shelby Monteverde

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 18:48:11 GMT

Shelby is an artist based out of Memphis, Tennessee that makes breathtaking still life paintings. Her work speaks to her motive of taking a moment to appreciate the moment she is in and in turn inspire the viewers to appreciate the day-to-day. I had the honor of chatting with her a little about herself and her creative process and I am so excited for all of you to get to know the incredible artist behind the beautiful work.

What are three things you can't go a day without?

Coffee, Yoga, and Kisses from Rue (Our dog).

When did you first consider yourself an artist?

I would say I have always loosely considered myself an artist - moreso "artsy." Creativity and drawing skills came natural to me from the start. My abilities became more evident in elementary school then into high school and college, but I never pushed it because I didn't consider being an "artist" an optional occupation. I'm passive in a lot of ways and I don't like thinking about the future too much, so must've assumed I would follow in my parents footsteps and take over the family business - Kelly's Designer Draperies. I bought a $100 sewing machine in college because I started making custom pillows on the side while I took classes at the University of Memphis. That little white sewing machine brought out every bad quality inside of me. I can't tell you how many times I fantasized over ripping the plug out of the wall and sending it crashing through my second story bedroom window. Safe to say, sewing was not for me.

In short, I painted for a friend in college and after posting the painting, I got more and more requests for commissions! I painted only commissions from 2017-2019, along with three other part-time jobs. There simply wasn't the time or capacity for me to take the time to paint what I wanted, but the hunger grew deep and strong and angry. There I was again, fantisizing over ripping the commissions to shreds and tossing them out my second story bedroom window. I promise I'm not a violent person, but when there's a change that has to happen.. God likes to make it real painful for you to stay where you are, at least that's been my experience.

My new hubby at the time listened to all my drama and "literal heart wrenching drowning" over commission work, and encouraged me to quit the other jobs. Lulie Wallace also felt my pain and encouraged me to let go of commissions and just paint what I wanted to paint. She thought I was good enough? That still felt so scary. Do I stay stuck or venture into the unknown? Well it hurt too much to stay stuck, so I had to get moving and pray for the faith to keep going forward.

So for the past few years, I've still done commission work, but figured out a little better of a balance in making the space for me to paint what I so desperately desire. It has been so freeing, sustainable, and affirming!

I'd say I'm still processing the fact that this is actually my job right now. It's taken years for me to accept that I am, in reality, a real life working artist. And that will probably be a lifelong process. Deep down I've always felt pulled, called, made for this. It honestly makes more sense than a lot of things in the world that God created me all along to be the artist he planned me to be from the start.

Where do you draw the most inspiration from?

I draw most of my inspiration from noticing the natural magic in the simple moments of the every day. The way the light strikes something and changes it's color, the personality of an avocado chilling on a kitchen towel, an interaction between strangers, unexpected color combos.. quiet, stillness, sounds, smells, feelings, warmth. The truth is, the things I choose to paint are not from my own creation, it's just me noticing what is already there. I consider God the creator of all things and being able to paint and appreciate even the smallest details of this life feels like such an honor. It's hard for me to take full glory for anything that I paint because it originates from someplace higher than myself.

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist?

I feel fortunate that I've received such good advice from other artists (and I hope I can pass what I've learned to others), but there's still so much that you can only learn by going through it. I'd probably tell a younger Shelby that it's not selfish or prideful to think you're good at paintings and pursue it. And just because you feel scared doesn't mean you don't paint anyways.

View all of Shelby's work featured in our most recent show, Terrain . Only a few pieces are still available!

Motherhood in creativity, business and life

Mon, 02 May 2022 18:49:09 GMT

We asked a couple questions about how motherhood has effected, or hasn't effected, these wonderful women in life, in creativity and in business. This is what Jaime McCarrier, Jenna Brownlee and Liz Lidgett had to say about it.

Jaime McCarrier

I would say, absolutely yes. Motherhood impacts me as a person and an artist. Growing up with a single father, I had a pretty clear vision of becoming a mother myself one day. I wanted to make sure I could fulfill those important moments for my kids that were absent in my own childhood. Motherhood has strengthened me, shown me childhood through a different lens, and allowed me to see myself through a different lens. It has shown me a type of challenging, selfless love that has forever changed my identity, which in turn influences what I choose to paint.

I paint a little piece of me and my experience with being a mother in each "mama" piece. I want to capture the beauty in the everyday moments of motherhood, because those are the ones I remember and miss the most as my own kids grow. Oftentimes simply holding your child. Or their little hand in yours. That time you can never get back. I think that feeling is universal, and I hope other mother's connect with it and can see themselves and their own memories through these pieces.

There will never be enough words or paint to describe or show how much becoming a mother has meant to me, but I will continue to try my best :)

Click here to learn more about Jaime McCarrier and see her available work.

Jenna Brownlee

I have two kids, Elle (4 years) and Ben (2.5 years). Motherhood has changed me to my core in both my daily life and as an artist. After my daughter was born, it was like everything came into focus and it was time for me to become who I had always intended to be - I left my corporate job to become a full-time independent artist. Now, there isn't as much separation from my work life and mom life - the balance of work/family is much more blended. This shift in my career as an artist which was encouraged by becoming a mom has given me the time and space to do what I love and be with who I love most.

I was surprised by how natural and instinctual it was when my first was born. Don't get me wrong...there were (and often still are) moments when I don't know what the heck I'm doing but also an assured confidence that I'll always be there for this little person. I think that assurance has translated into my art, too. Less doubt and insecurities and more of an "I've got this" attitude. It's made me both stronger and more vulnerable at the same time.

I don't know if being an artist changes the way I parent but it enhances my family's lives, for sure. Especially my daughter, Elle (my son, Ben is more of a sports kid like my husband) - she loves to color and paint so I lean into it with her and embrace her creativity. I include her in my studio to draw while I paint, I bring her to the gallery (she calls it mommy's work), take her to the Art Center, we fill our house with art (mine, hers and collected), etc. Seeing her kind of follow in my childhood footsteps and those moments of "that's definitely my kid" through art brings me so much joy and pride. I truly think my love and passion for art was passed onto her.

Click here to learn more about Jenna Brownlee and see her available work.

Liz Lidgett

Motherhood is such an interesting topic to dive into. It can be both a universal experience between mothers and totally unique at the same time. It’s an experience that can be entered into in so many ways. There’s no right way to “mother” and so I say my experience with the humility of understanding that this is just that– my own experience.

I often think of the gallery as my third baby. My son Rocky was born in March of 2018, we opened the gallery in May of 2019 and a little over a year after that our daughter Effie was born in June 2020. (and then we got a puppy in 2021–what was I thinking?) I say all that to say, the kids and the gallery have grown up together. They’ll never remember a time when it didn’t exist.

We talk at home about how much I love them, and how much I love the gallery. I want them to know that when I leave in the morning I am excited to go do what I do, and then I am excited to be with them when I am at home. I want them to know they had a mother who worked and felt passionate about what she did. I hope it teaches them lessons for their adult lives.

The way that my work has changed since becoming a mother is how I prioritize what gets done in a day. I often say, “if it’s not a hell yes, then it’s a hell no.” Time is my most precious resource and I guard it fiercely now. I love my kids and love working and have learned to not have guilt about anything surrounding it. I’m proud of the work I do and I hope it sets a wonderful example as they set their own paths.

Lighting For Your Home Gallery

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Lighting is one of the most overlooked items in decor. I recently saw Julia from Chris Loves Julia on instagram say “You may think you have enough lighting in your living room but you don’t.” I add on to this, you may think your art is properly lit but it probably isn’t.

There are a few fast tips and products that I love to give to clients when I am talking about lighting.

First things first, how do you light your artwork?

A smooth, even wash of light is best instead of spotlighting the artwork. If you do have spotlights, use two to three so that their lightstreams can cross and evenly light the work.

Try to have the beam of light hit at a 30 degree angle. This angle will help both light the art and minimize shadows. If you have a light too close to the work and the light is casting straight down, then there will be long shadows that accompany the piece.

Natural light and artwork do not mix well. Direct sunlight can fade artwork, especially works on paper, so if possible, keep them out of the sun. UV and infrared light will also fade artwork so stick with LED lights because they emit less heat and limit the ultraviolet light.

Recently, I decorated our back entry. It works hard for our family as it holds all of our go-to items and has become the perfect spot for our puppy, Woofie. Of course, no matter the use of the space I want it to be beautiful and include great lighting and art. You can see the gorgeous light from Claxy that I used to re-do the space which perfectly hits the artwork where it was previously quite dark.

This beautiful piece can be found on Claxy.com along with a bunch of other beautiful, artistic lighting options . If you need tips on reading lights head over to their blog .

Lighting in your home is so important to really show off your home gallery. I hope these little tips and tricks helped you make your home ready for it's closeup.

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 14:32:00 GMT

Moms do so much for us all year long, take a moment to celebrate all the mother figures in your life with things they'll be excited to receive.

For the flower loving mama go with a Rocky Reed like this beautiful Roses No. 2. Flowers are a Mothers Day tradition and what sweeter way to keep that tradition going than blooms that will never fade—just like her love!

If roses aren't really your thing, yellow carnations are a beautiful option. There is a tradition of bringing mothers yellow carnations on mothers day as a token of good luck. Mama needs good luck all year round—gift her blooms that bring luck that never fades.

For the mama who is a breath of fresh air, or is a big fan of laying in the grass and making shapes out of the clouds, Rachel English has amazing pieces. Her work is photo-realistic and dreamy.

For the mother figure that brings joy and vibrance into your life Raasheda Burnett is a great fit. Bring her as much joy as she brings you.

Betsy is a good choice for any occasion, but for the mom that is playful and keeps her youthful spirit alive a pop from Betsy is the perfect addition to any space.

Give mom the serene escape she needs through this piece by Karin Olah . This way she can retreat from the comfort of her own home.

Elisa 's work is always breathtaking and meticulously detailed and recently, in order to work a little larger, she has created these show stopping prints. Each is a limited run and is signed and numbered by Elisa. These are the perfect piece for the mom that holds you together even when you are falling apart.

For the funky, spunky, artsy moms out there who always have a fantastic story to tell go with the fabulous Michelle Armas ' playful collection!

For the mama that warms your heart through your belly, T aelor Fisher has a lovely collection of bowls that are just begging to be put in a home chef's kitchen.

For the sweet mamas who love their pink this piece by Shannon Coppage is a show stopper.

Last but not least, the mom who appreciates a story. Each frame is an antique frame that has lived a life before being wrapped around one of Hunt Slonem 's stunning works.

To all the moms, mother figures and vilomah, Happy Mother's Day!

Best Ways to Add Art to Your Events

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 16:06:14 GMT

Warm weather is just around the corner which means party season is underway. There are many ways you can support your local artists with your special events that you may not have thought of so here I am to give you a couple ideas!

Live painting

Have an artist paint the space while you are in it. Live paintings are very in style right now and can add so much to the day! Whether it be a wedding, a family reunion after a couple summers apart, or dinner with friends, it is a sweet way to capture the memory that isn’t someone being on their phone or behind a camera. It’s also such a great conversation piece while it is being created as well as on your wall in your space.

Invitations with original art

Have a local artist create something either digital or a physical piece that they are okay with you scanning and putting on your invitations or stationary. Make sure you get permission from the artist for this, but it is a great way to show off the feel for the event whether that is playful and spunky or timeless elegance.

Wear the art

Have the artist make you the art. Commission an artist to paint the clothes you are going to be wearing whether that be your shoes or your jean jacket you can be the walking art piece. There are also some pretty incredible textile artists that would be able to cover you in embroidery or macrame.

Rent the gallery

Have your event in an art gallery! In the month of February we had a beautiful ceremony in our space. The couple was able to commit their lives to one another surrounded by amazing art. We have also had things such as business lunches, baby showers and release parties within theses walls. The sky is the limit—and limited decor is needed. Let us know if you'd like to rent the gallery for your next event!

I hope this sparked some inspiration for adding another layer of creativity to your upcoming events!

Dress Like Your Art 2.0

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 20:31:29 GMT

I don't know about you, but when I get a new favorite piece I want to show it off to everyone I meet. What better way to show the new piece you are obsessing over than in an amazing outfit from an incredible local shop? I've picked three of my favorite pieces right now and three great East Village shops to make beautiful pairings meant to show off your great taste in art and fashion.

Velvet Coat + Katie Craig

This duo between Velvet Coat and Katie Craig is preppy and timeless. While curating a look to go along with Katie's work I focused on the feel of the piece rather than the colors or the fact that it is striped. Katie Craig's work has a timeless nautical feel to it that really pairs perfectly with Velvet Coat's overall catalog. The ambiance is a perfect pairing with a Katie. The breezy feel the the silk blouse reflects the nautical feel of the piece, the red clutch being the little pop of surprising color that Katie often puts in her pieces and the dark denim completing the preppiness of the look.

Janes + Kristen Abbott

Kristen Abbott's brushstrokes are both playful and elegant which couldn't be a more accurate description of Jane's . While it is a children's shop, Jane's does a really good job of making sure the clothes are a good brand and as cute as could be. Both have a calming presence while still being playful and energetic. The eyelet's on the little dress echoing the feel of the leaflike ovals falling along the piece, the knit rattle is a reflection of the actual leaves adhered to the wood board and the little sunnies and bow to have the little pop of green Kristen out into the edges of the piece.

MARNe + Rebecca Stern

Rebecca Stern is the queen of the subtle texture and this outfit I picked out from MARNe has that same feel to it. Each piece I selected to be part if this look has a different texture from a different section of this Rebecca Stern piece. The smooth vegan leather bag mimicking the smooth back ground canvas, the textured ivory top mimicking the rippling brush strokes and the pleated trousers mimicking the layering of different fabrics throughout the canvas - every element reflecting Rebeccas beautiful piece.

Shop local this spring and dress like your favorite pieces of art. I hope you have as much fun with these pairings as I did putting them together.

Dream Clients: Olympian Edition

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 15:49:05 GMT

I don't know about you, but in my house the olympics were on all day and night and we were able to witness some really awesome historical moments. After being able to get to know the olympians briefly through the screen I feel moderately confident that I can pair them with an amazing artist of ours based on their on screen personality.

Christina Flowers + Nathan Chen

Nathan's hard work paid off this year winning him a gold medal and a score that was record breaking and left the crowd breathless. I chose Christina Flowers' Summer Moon 2 because the piece speaks grace and elegance as well as a hint of playful youthfulness. He is an absolute professional and the distinct lines in Chistina 's piece speak into that. The arch through the middle of the piece gives it movement and grace which reflects the gorgeous lines Nathan was able to create in his Olympic routines.

Racheal Jackson + Jessie Diggins

Jessie seems to be easy going and subtle, but is, without a doubt, a trail blazing star. This year she won the silver medal in the 30 kilometer freestyle and the bronze medal in the individual sprint which made her the most decorated American cross-country skier of all-time. I chose to pair her with Racheal Jackson 's Rituals 4 for many reasons. If you watched our Instagram Live where Liz talked to Racheal about her collection with us you will remember that she talked about the inspiration behind the series being the ritual of repetition in daily life. If anyone understand the love (and need) for repetition it is an olympian. This piece spoke to me in particular because of the subtly in the color - smooth and well thought out while still being a bold statement - sounds a lot like Jessie.

Makiko Harris + Chloe Kim

Makiko Harris' work is bold and energetic just like Chloe Kim. Her bubbly energy and exuberant excitement for her sport is the same energy that Makiko put into this incredible piece. Water Library has enough blues to tickle the fancy of any winter lover, but her energetic textures are anything but frozen.

Laurie Lindqvist + Kaillie Humphries

Kaillie has such a sharp and bright wit that absolutely screamed Laurie Lindqvist . This pairing was a no brainer. Lauries sharp lines and bright colors match the beautifully colorful bobsled career. Joy 1 is my new favorite piece by Laurie (this changes every time I see new pieces by her, but here we are) and this beauty absolutely screamed Kaillies name- the strong colors and sharp lines in contract with the bright and beautiful colors are a goof reflection of the beauty and hardship of her career.

These amazing athletes are not current clients of ours, but we can dream!

EttaVee In The World

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 20:01:20 GMT

EttaVee has become a global sensation. You can find her joyful artwork on just about anything and we are so here for it!

If you keep up with our girl Jessi you know her work is everywhere. From phone cases and notebooks to quilting fabrics and door mats, her work is on anything you can think of. Her work is available on products in Target, Trader Joes, Homegoods, Pottery Barn, Barnes and Noble, and Hallmark (just to name a few). This girl even has a couple books that she wrote!

Aimee Kestenberg

EttaVee has partnered with Aimee Kestenberg to create the most fantastic line of bags and wallets. They are adorned with her iconic heart design and adds a little joy to any outfit you pair it with.

Casetify

Phone cases are the perfect way to show off your great taste. Casetify's line of EttaVee phone cases, tablet cases, smart watch bands, wireless chargers and headphone cases bring just as much vibrant, joyful, energy as you would expect. Here at the gallery we actually have a piece that is very similar to the design on this case! Click here to see all of its details.

Tervis

Yet another way to keep yourself accessorized (and hydrated) is with a beverage cup you take everywhere with you! This gorgeous partnership can be just what you need to round out your EttaVee accessory collection. A piece that would go beautifully along with these brighter cups is Jessi's untitled piece that is filled with the same warmth and energy.

Erin Condren

I don't know about you, but I am a sucker for a good planner and Erin Condren is the reigning queen. EttaVee has had a lot of fun creating an entire line for the stationary company and has a myriad of designs that grace the front of the Erin Condren products.

Expression Med is a company that makes medical grade stickers that hold diabetic instruments in place while the person wearing them goes about their daily lives. The company was founded on the idea that the diagnosis shouldn't keep anyone from being their vibrant and energetic selves. Jessi couldn't be a better fit for a partnership with her EttaVee artwork.

These aren't even a quarter of the amazing brands Jessi has partnered with but she continues to grow and make the world a happier place one partnership at a time. We are so proud to showcase this fantastic artist and are looking forward to what the future holds for her.

Celebrating Black History Month

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 16:49:31 GMT

February is a perfect time to take a moment to celebrate the amazing Black artists that we support at the gallery.

We have made a commitment to support and represent BIPOC artists and strive to share their work with our clients. Below are Black women artists who we currently represent. Their work is full of beautiful color and wonderful energy.

EttaVee

Jessi is an American abstract artist living in Strasbourg, France. We will be having a special release later in this month and she has given us a sneak peek and, let me tell you, they are pretty breathtaking. Jessi’s work is sought after and we are proud to be the only American gallery to showcase her work. She has had her art on everything from canvas to bandages to notebooks to technology cases. Her work is featured on products at Casetify, Target, Pottery Barn Teen, Hallmark, Barnes & Noble, Tervis, Erin Condren and many more. She is known for her bright colors and the playful patterns that really make her work exude joy; just like her personality.

Below is an example of her available work. We have new work headed our way in the near future. Click here to look at all of EttaVee's available works.

Fares Micue

Fares is a Spain native who started teaching herself about photography back in 2009 and her work has absolutely blossomed. What started out as a hobby to make sure her social media had “nice” photos of her on it became a way for Fares to express herself and allow her voice to be heard. Each piece has meaning and thought behind every square inch. Being a self portrait artist, her work is filled with heart and emotion. She uses the interactions she has and life she lives to influence her breathtaking pieces. Her goal is to make a whole story come to life in a single frame and does a beautiful job doing so. Her attention to detail is beautiful and seemingly effortless.

Below are a few of Fares' available works. Click here to see all of her available work. We have new work headed our way in the near future.

Roma Osowo

Roma’s work is bright and playful in such a unique and simply Roma way. She was born and raised in the British Virgin Islands but now resides in Texas with her husband and two children. Painting was her first love and it took her 12 years to get back to the brush. Her stunning work is featured on Erin Condren products as well as phone cases and stunning leather bags. Her goal is to invoke joy through her vibrant and energetic work and succeeds.

Below is an example of Roma's work. Click here to see all of her available work. New work will be available in the near future.

Raasheda Burnett

Oklahoma based artist, Raasheda works with layering to make her works both sculptural and flat artwork. Like many of our artists here at Liz Lidgett Gallery, her work is colorful and bright in addition to her work being a creative exploration of dimension, color and layering. She involves herself in her community to help others express themselves through creative outlets and using those creative outlets as a wellness practice. Her inspiration comes from people, multidimensional concepts and nature and calls her art practice a “ …divine gift of love and expression that is a pleasure to share…” and equates its impact on a space the same as if magic was filling the space.

Below are a few available works. Click here to see all of Raasheda's available works.

We absolutely adore supporting these amazing women and look forward to what they will continue to do throughout the 2022 year - so many exciting things to come.

Creative Outlet: Sketchbook/Art Journaling

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 18:13:29 GMT

Happy New Year! Get the creative juices flowing - start an art journal.

I struggle a lot with the “Blank Canvas Effect” . It is very hard to start the process of making art even if it is “just” in a sketchbook, but it can be therapeutic to get your creative juices flowing and release some of what is bottled up out onto paper.

Don’t worry too much about your sketchbook being cohesive or a finished product - it is just there for your creative outlet, not to impress anyone. Just put something on the page. I know, easier said than done, so here are a few prompts to get you started.

Start With A Color

Fill the whole page with color. Fill it to the edges with pigment and see if that inspires you to move forward. Maybe it will lead to a landscape with rolling hills or a seascape with rolling waves or a skyscape with rolling clouds. Maybe it will be the perfect backdrop for abstract shapes or a journal entry. Maybe it is the perfect spot for you to do some light sketching of your favorite spring flower or crawling creature. Use the color to drive the page into something beautiful, or not beautiful - art can be either or both at the same time. We have so many colorful artists that use color and texture, but a good artist to look at the way colors play together with textures are Makiko Harris or Rebecca Stern .

Use Collage

Pick out a couple old ( or new) magazines or books and your favorite form of adhesive - my personal favorite is rubber cement - and allow your scissors to take control. Cut out an advertisement with a hand you really like the shape of or the title of an article that you really enjoyed reading. Layer them up however thick you want and then play with what you can do with them. Use Marcy Cook for inspiration. Cut an image in half and finish it through whatever medium you want and make it as absolutely absurd as you possibly can. Use it as a canvas and write and draw abstract shapes over it. Take inspiration from our artist Jose Romussi and sew over the top of the images - give them details they didn’t have in print.

Write Something Down That You’ve Heard Recently That Stood Out To You

Write it in the messiest handwriting you can or in calligraphy. Take the time to try to copy a font you love or write with your non-dominant hand so you really have to think about the words you are using. Allow what you are saying to branch out your creativity. Write a poem about it or allow the words to turn into a sketch that has the same feeling as the words you are writing. Allow yourself to feel the words you are writing and give them permission to move you. Angela Chrusciaki Blehm makes beautiful artwork out of simple words such as "Oh" and "wow" which you can use as inspiration, but don't feel like it has to be as stunning as her finished work, remember, this is a process. It does not have to be a finished masterpiece - this is just your own personal sketchbook.

Make Random Shapes

Simple as that. Make shapes that turn into other shapes. Use colors that go together and ones that don’t. Play with the way the shapes work with one another. Have fun with it. Remember - this is for you, not for perfection or for anyone else to see. Use Andrea Ferrigno as inspiration. The way she uses color to add depth and visual interest.

Give Yourself Perimeters

Sketch out a shape that you have to fill and draw flowers or abstract shapes or squiggly lines. Then make another shape next to it that you have to fill until the whole page is filled. Or keep it minimalist and just fill the one shape with whatever you can fit inside it. You could just use paint that is left over from a project or a previous prompt and make little dollops on the page. Use Logan Ledford for inspiration and the way she allows the paint to react the way it wants to - allow the medium to speak for itself. Maybe add something to the outside - a color block, writing about what happened that day or an excerpt from your favorite book, stickers that your loved one sent you in a letter - use whatever you have near you. Inspiration is everywhere.

Use Accidents

I left my sketchbook open and my puppy came in from outside and stepped on the fresh page I had just turned to, and I am going to be honest, I made her come back and put another footprint on the page. Everything can be inspiration whether it was meant to be inspiration originally or not. Maybe I will make that into a drawing one day, maybe I won't, but I will always love that she made her mark in my sketchbook.

Use It To Unload Thoughts

Who said that a sketchbook and a journal couldn't be the same thing? Mix the two and allow yourself to reflect a little with art and your words. Art is already so therapeutic.

Be Okay With Starting Over

It is so important to know that it is okay to start over if something isn’t going the way you wanted it to, maybe that page will speak to you later on and the old you will be an inspiration for the new you. Be your own muse!

I hope this list has helped you get your creative juices flowing and you enjoyed taking a look through my personal sketchbook. Be sure to tag our instagram page to any sketchbook pages you feel proud of and post on social media. We would love to see them!

Chasing Away The Winter Blues

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 16:57:33 GMT

I don't know about you, but my winter blues get pretty heavy this time of year.

With the holidays past us it seems like all we have to look forward to is spring, but this year I am working very intentionally to make the most of every season. I did a little research as to how to chase those blues away and, because I love you guys, I am sharing with you what I found.

Fill your space with inspiration and beauty

First things first: your space. In the winter months we tend to spend more time inside and at home which makes the way your home looks very important. If you come home and it feels like either someone else’s space or lacking in inspiration or you-ness there is no way it will bring you life when the world outside is cold. Put up a new wallpaper, accent your current furniture with new pillows or throws, add art or reframe that gorgeous piece that could use a little face lift, dig out that antique clock you inherited - whatever makes the space feel more like a reflection of you. To browse through our available art for your space take a look here and always feel free to reach out with any questions.

Lighting Matters

Most of the time this season we will be in the dark. Whether that be because we work in an office and get there when the sun is about to rise and leave right when it is setting or because the sky is a little moody it is so important to have lighting that makes you feel cozy and safe. Pull out all your candles and put warm colored bulbs in your lamps to give your space more of a cozy winter feel than a cold and harsh winter. Even when the sun is out the light is cool and blue. Also, I will let you in on a little secret: Liz is working on a lighting guide that will be a helpful tool for learning how to light your art beautifully and correctly. This should be available for purchase early this year.

Spend time outside (and with loved ones)

I know this sounds counterproductive, but it is helpful to get fresh air and move a little bit. Get all bundled up with your loved ones, grab a hot tea or cocoa and go for a little walk. Tell them all the things you are thankful for from 2021 and all the things you are looking forward to in 2022. Whatever you do, don’t complain about the cold. When we complain we wire our brains to be cranky about whatever we are doing. That doesn’t mean you will instantly love being cold and shivery, but it will at least remove your mind from it. This all being said, that might not be super possible with large amounts of snow. If you are unable to get out of the house our artist Rachel Walter has stunning skyscapes to bring you a little breath of fresh air. No matter how you are getting outside, make sure you are spending quality time with loved ones taking about things you are grateful for.

Journal

Allowing yourself to reflect is so important when you are not feeling emotionally your best. I wont spend too much time on this because journaling can look however you want it to - sketch journaling, sketch booking, writing, poetry and the list goes on and on. But, while I am on the subject, EttaVee has a beautiful line of journals with Lauren Conrad and we also have a local small business called moglea that makes beautiful, hand painted, journals and stationary that might inspire you to journal however you see fit.

Self Care/Taking the time you need

Make sure you are getting enough (but not too much) sleep, drinking enough water and taking things slow. This time of year can feel overwhelming and exhausting, but if you allow yourself to spend time taking care of yourself it will be a much easier pill to swallow. Take the time to read books to yourself or the little ones in your life, take time to listen to your favorite music, take the time to give yourself a little back rub or a back rub to someone you love.

I hope some of these tips allow you to feel refreshed and a little less overwhelmed by the cold and darkness of the winter.

Gallery year end numbers

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 17:40:52 GMT

We are so thankful that you have chosen to support our artists and small business this past year. This has been a year of amazing growth for us and we look forward to bringing you even more incredible art by our talented artists next year. We wish you joy and health during the holidays and in 2022.

Our year end numbers! There’s so much to say but it all sums up to—we are so thankful. Thankful to work together, with these talented artists, with the most incredible clients, and to share this journey with all of you. Thank you, thank you. Let’s do it again next year.

Artists whose work increased in value in 2021

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 17:04:59 GMT

2021 was a banner year for a lot of our incredible artists! Take a look at all of these incredible artists whose value increased during 2021.

Allison James

Allison James is an incredible artist from Georgia that is inspired by memories from her childhood, graffiti, an anxious mind, balance, street style, feeling, pattern mixing, and the conversations around her, truly nothing is off-limits with her work. Click here to learn more about Allison and see her available works.

Betsy Enzensberger

Betsy is a brilliant sculptor from California that sculpts works that create a visceral longing and remembrance of the most nostalgic delights from childhood. The artist uses the familiarity of those sweet treats to help us remember the simplicity, value and culture of desserts so often associated with positivity and joy. Click here to learn more about Betsy and see what works of hers are available.

Elisa Sheehan

Elisa's work is truly unique. She is New York based and describes her artwork as a description of the indescribable spoken not with words but with color. Click here to learn more about Elisa and see what works she has available.

EttaVee

EttaVee is an incredible France based artist that has become well-known for its bold patterns, playfulness and optimistic color palettes. Click here to learn more about EttaVee and view her available works.

Hillary Howorth

Hillary is one of the gallery's newer artists, but in the 2021 calendar year her works have increased roughly 35%! She is from Tennessee and is a self-taught, instinctual, contemporary and mixed media artist. Born into a family of do-it-yourselfers, creatives and musicians, her creativity and passion for the arts was encouraged and supported from an early age. Click here to learn more about Hillary and see her available works.

Hunt Slonem

Hunt is a New York based artist who is best known for his Bunnies. His compositions often consist of flat spaces with simple forms pushed to the front of the picture plane. His work tends to embrace the ephemeral beauty of nature, a characteristic that brings a nurturing, spiritual effect to his painting suggesting metamorphosis, repose, and a sensation of touching the illimitable. Click here to learn more about Hunt and see his available works.

Karin Olah

Karin is an artist from South Carolina that combines hand-dyed fabric and paint to create her signature multi-layered paintings. Karin’s subject matter ranges from seascape to farmscape and abstract expressionism to a dreamy place in-between. Her pieces increased in value in 2021 and is planning to again early 2022. Click here to learn more about Karin and see her available work.

Katie Craig

Katie is a a Texas artist that is known for her striped works and is attracted to maximalism. An extension of her mind, getting it out brings her peace. Stripes, dots, lines, strokes; beautifully busy art, laying pieces of time, moments of zen (or frustration) into a cohesive and wild compositions, transferring energy from herself to the canvas and finally, onto the viewer. She says seeing it on canvas makes much more sense than when it is bouncing around in her mind. Click here to learn more about Katie and see her available works.

Kit Porter

Kristen Abbott

Kristen is a Colorado artist who is is known for her use of texture and layering to create history and a sense of story in her work. Because our lives are loud, Kristen wants her work to feel like a small pause. A deep breath. Not one more thing adding to the noise, but a reminder to slow and notice the depth and interest in quiet moments. Beauty may very well be dazzling. But it also can be still and small—just a hint at what is to come. Click here to learn more about Kristen and see her available works.

Laurie Lindqvist

Laurie is a Texas based artist that is very focused on the way that colors dance together and though she has worked in several mediums, she has always been consistent in her use of bold color and design. She is known for her hard edge lines and vibrant color pallets. Her works have increased in value about 17% in 2021. Click here to learn more about Laurie and to view her available works.

Leigh Suggs

Leigh is a Virginia based artist that is ". ..interested in an in-between space during the act of seeing. The in-between space lies on the spectrum of the reality in front of us and what our brain tells us. It is within this “pure” space, that an individual can experience an unaltered, unaffected, and unchanged vision. While this purity can only exist for a fleeting moment, that moment defines the highest peak of personal experience. After this moment passes, the sight/vision can never be the same. We are constantly bearing witness to the inexpressible, and this fleeting moment of pure seeing is something we should all revel in." Click here to learn more about Leigh and view her available works.

Lesley Grainger

Lesley is a California based artist that works intuitively and thoughtfully while discovering new and interesting color and compositions. Painting is a reflection of experience, Lesley has found that each painting is translated to the next, like an ongoing story. Lesley says that her value has gone up significantly and she has sold more volume than any other year, which makes this year a banner year for her. Click here to learn more about Lesley and to view her available works.

Makiko Harris

Makiko is a California based artist that, through texture, color, and composition explores the tension between subtlety and exuberance, composure and expressiveness, the organic and geometric. Her work has increased around 25% the past year. Click here to learn more about Makiko and take a look a her available works.

Marcy Cook

Marcy is a Texas based artist that aims to capture the UNSEEN, but FELT elements of a moment; the light, sound, energy and weight – to deconstruct and then reconstruct her surroundings, ultimately invoking the ideas of rest, peace, movement, grace and light. Click here to learn more about Marcy and view her available work.

Paige Barnes-Dorsey

Paige is an Alabama based artist that is relatively new to the gallery and has been an instant favorite. Taking traditional elements and marrying them with unexpected whimsy, she creates modern heirlooms for the next generation. Each piece is hand-sculpted using a technique all her own then hand-painted, making no two alike. She says her work has tripled in value since the beginning of this year. Click here to learn more about Paige and view her available works.

Rebecca Stern

Rebecca is a Connecticut based artist that creates dreamy abstracts. She considers each piece a "mental landscape" that investigates the complexities of the mind. She is intrigued by the juxtaposition of intentionality and expressive freedom that exists within the materiality of different mediums and the process it takes to find a balance. Click here to learn more about Rebecca and view her available works.

Roma Osowo

Roma is a Texas artist whose work exists between her love and use of the rich and vibrant colors represented in her West Indian heritage, and the expression of joy she aspires to evoke, as a result of her deeply rooted Christian faith. Click here to learn more about Roma and view her available works.

Shelby Monteverde

Shelby is a Tennessee based artist who hopes to connect specifically with those longing for pause and reflection in an era of hurry. Whether you’re overwhelmed with to-do lists or feeling out of control and anxious, she wants her paintings to offer healing by grounding you back down into the present moment. Click here to learn more about Shelby and see her available works.

We have had a pretty incredible year and are so proud of the artists that are on our team. Heres to 2022.

Film Classics and Fine Art

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 20:14:27 GMT

What better time to be watching classics than when the weather is changing? I love a cozy evening paired with great company, good movies, gorgeous art and generous amounts of popcorn.

There are some films that stick with you longer than others - films that touch our hearts and we go back to over and over. Here are some pieces that give off the same energy that some of the greatest classics give.

Singing in the Rain + Makiko Harris

Singing in the Rain has been one of the most beloved films since it's release in 1952. It is a film with a lot of movement and playful moments. There is a dissonance between the characters desires and the way that life is quickly changing as the world moves from silent film to film with talking and sound which is echoed in Makiko Harris' work in Summer Gingham because she has both soft organic sections next to precise and intentional lines. Summer Gingham is also the perfect pair because of the colors used in the film - being that the title is "singing in the rain" there are going to be blues and yellows and greens. New beginnings and exciting life ahead.

Roman Holiday + Angela Chrusciaki Blehm

One of Audrey Hepburn's most iconic roles with one of Angela Chrusciaki Blehm 's most iconic pieces feels almost too perfect to be true. The glamor and playfulness about both the film and the sculpture really create such a sweet, timeless and elegant duo.

Casablanca + Kevin Brent Morris

The intricate details of the background of both the film and Kevin Brent Morris' Untitled (beetle on pink) reflect each other so beautifully in that they both have a focused item on top of a focal point. They both feel dangerously beautiful and exiting.

Vertigo + Roma Osowo

Alfred Hitchcock was the master of suspense and the king of color. He used a wide palette to express moods and psychological states, never better than in the very artistic Vertigo (the plot of which centers around a painting!), in which green and red are brilliantly used in a swirl of emotionality. Roma Osowo uses the same sea green and bold choices to create a similar effect (with less murder, of course) which grabs the eye and the imagination.

Timelessness always pairs nicely with timelessness. Find what speaks to you.

Mood Boards + Introductions

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 20:10:26 GMT

You know we love a good mood board here at the gallery and what better way to introduce you to some of the artists that were in our November show?

Last month's show, Enamored , had some pretty amazing new artists making their LLG debut that I am so excited to talk about. These incredible women have such a stunning way of speaking through their work and I want to share with you the way I heard these pieces speaking to what kind of space these beauties would fit in.

Bedroom + Hillary Howorth

Hillary Howorth is an amazing Nashville-based artist with a knack for the art of perfect layering. She was born and raised in a very artistic household filled with arts and music and dance but did not make the career her own until 2012. Using her work to heal from a heartbreaking loss, she bloomed into an incredible artist and fills each piece with a bit of herself.

I chose to pair her with a bedroom because her work is both energizing and soothing. The movement of the lines are bold and crisp as well as perfectly interlaced. I filled the space with clean crisp whites and cozy jewel tones to make the elegance of Hillary's piece really shine.

Reading Corner + Gina Julian

Reading corners are for dreaming and inspiration. For transporting you to another place; a place where anything can happen. This piece by Gina Julian plays into that inward adventure because it is a bit of an optical illusion; a bit of an adventure itself! The amount of energy that Gina puts into her work radiates off the canvas and fills the space with life. Gina has over 20 years in art directing and it really shows through her work and the way she plays with the colors she uses. She classifies herself as an optical artist because she uses different saturations of the pigment as well as the hues and values of each color and they way that saturation plays with the eyes and the emotions.

Playroom + Shelby Monteverde

Shelby Monteverde's work is so playful and fun and expressive. She is the third gal on this list working out of Tennessee residing in Memphis and loves to see the romance and beauty in everyday life. Her work screamed playroom to me. A playroom is a haven for imagination and glee which plays along with Shelby's work beautifully. Her goal through her work with everyday objects is that she really wants to pause and reflect during a time of endless to-dos and hustle. Spending time to enjoy the moment and taking time to smell the roses is so important with littles - they grow up fast.

Breakfast Nook + Carrie Gillen

Carrie Gillen is a St. Louis based artist that works in sculpture in a multitude of ways. She works with live plants as well as materials that are traditionally used for home building, and lastly, fabric. Her fabric sculptural paintings are absolutely exquisite. This image does not do it justice. I paired it with a breakfast nook because the way the fabric twists feels like home; like an unmade bed, a favorite item of clothing or a table cloth with family around it. Breakfast nooks make me think of taking time to start the day intentionally, slowly and with the people you love. The colors in this piece feel both vintage and modern. Almost a mixing of the past and the future or a reflection of what was and what is to come. It feels effortless and intentional at the same time. It is truly a breathtaking, show stoping addition to any space.

Timelessness always pairs nicely with timelessness. Find what speaks to you.

Christmas decoration inspiration

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 22:03:05 GMT

I absolutely adore Christmas decorating, but this year I am struggling to decide what route I want to go.

Silver + Gold + Hunt Slonem

Hunt Slonem 's Blue Eyes is the perfect companion to a silver, gold and natural Christmas. While looking through images I was very drawn to the sparkle and shine of the silvers, golds and glitters next to the warm, natural woods. They have such a gorgeous contrast and effortless class. Blue Eyes , has gorgeous silver and gold back ground with a natural wood and antique metal frame which marries the two looks together beautifully.

Color + Candy + Betsy Enzensberger

Betsy Enzensberger's Biggest Rose Sprinkle Pop paired with a bright and colorful, candy-filled, Holiday. Bright pom-pom garlands and candy shaped wrapping makes for the season to be merry, bright and extra sweet.

Beachy + Warm + Jaime McCarrier

I don't know about you, but I love the idea of a starfish as a tree star. Jaime McCarrier was an obvious pick for a beach house Christmas. Her stunning Cerulean Coast brings in the warm sandy colors and the cool winter blues to make this Holiday decorating warm and sweet. I love the way the colors she used plays with natural woods and the blue ornaments.

Organic + Scandinavian + Nate Nettleton

I am loving the use of the natural colors next to dried citrus and greens. While this piece by Nate Nettleton has sold since making this mood board, he does have some spots open for commission. The organic feel of the decorations pares beautifully with Nate's work being that it is so natural with its organic, almost handwriting-like, loops and lines.

#LetsAddArt: CB2

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 17:33:28 GMT

We recently purchased our new working table from CB2—big fans over here.

And as we were browsing their collection, we couldn’t help but notice their elaborate vignettes—with bare walls. Not every page, but a good majority, was needing that extra splash of color through original artwork.

+ Laurie Lindqvist

After flipping through the October look book, here’s a few artwork suggestions that complement CB2’s contemporary aesthetic . It’s far too easy for a client to think that an industrial, modern room is better off without artwork. Just like every other decor style, there are artwork choices that naturally add interest and enhance the stylized room.

+ Jehra Patrick

With CB2's emphasis on dramatic contrast, original artwork is the perfect way to bring in some color and texture. The artwork choices can mimic the room's drama while bringing a lighter feel to the space.

+ Leigh Suggs

+ Fares Micue

Art in the home: California collector

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 17:33:40 GMT

Over time, our clients become dear friends—connecting on a regular basis as another artist catches their attention. It's a time to catch up on life news and share the joy of a new piece of art at the gallery. Our client, Aubrey, is one of these friends. We connected from across the country on Instagram and became fast friends as she was a fan of so many of our artists. She kindly took the time to share what she loves about her newest art additions. Meet Aubrey from El Cerrito, California and hear her "whys" behind buying art!

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

I think that the importance of having art in my home goes back to my childhood. My parents let me paint my room any color I wanted and didn’t have limits about hanging things on the walls. I filled the space with photographs, posters, concert t-shirts, and sports memorabilia, and displayed my treasures on shelves. When I was in middle school, my friends and I started buying art prints for each other’s birthdays. There was a store at the mall where you could choose a print and have it mounted on foam-board—it felt so grown up. Now, when I choose art, I consider the feeling that I have when I look at the piece and the energy that I want to invite into my home. Also, I like supporting artists and galleries because I value the effort, time, and perseverance that goes into having a small, creative business.

LL: What drew you to Hunt Slonem's artwork?

One of the things I’ve always appreciated about Hunt Slonem as an artist is his commitment to his craft. I remember reading a story, years ago, about how Hunt paints bunnies each day as a warm-up exercise. I feel inspired by that level of dedication and devotion. In addition, I am awed by how each bunny has its own unique personality and expression. We think of our bunny as being both calm and curious—two feelings that we work to cultivate in our lives.

LL: What drew you to Karin Olah's artwork?

The intentional interplay of fabric and paint in Karin Olah’s work pulls me in every time! I love how she uses different types of fabric—from linen, to seersucker, to denim—to create textured, dimensional work. Although I realize that Karin meticulously places everything in her pieces, I like how the raw edges of the textiles give off a free-spirited vibe. I chose this particular piece for my home because it reminds me of the landscapes I saw during an amazing road trip I took a few years ago.

LL: What drew you to Allison James' artwork?

We are extremely grateful to share our space with two of Allison’s piece s. I look at these pieces every day, and without fail, I get lost in their layers and wind up somewhere new each time. I think that is one of the things that I enjoy most about Allison’s work. Allison shares beautiful stories through her work, but leaves it up to each individual to witness and interpret the meaning for themself. Each piece holds so much energy, emotion, life, and symbolism. I appreciate that. I like to imagine that Allison uses color to set the mood and tone of the tale—from moody, to romantic, to playful, to dramatic. Each story is complete with plot twists, metaphors and allusions to be unpacked, and the clever use of repetition for emphasis.

LL: What would be in your ideal art collection? Or what artists are on your collector's "wish list"?

Oh, my goodness! The wish list is too long to mention all of the things that I hope to add someday. But, a few of the items that I would love to add to my collection include:

A pair of lips by Angela Chrusciaki Blehm : I like the bold colors and patterns that Angela uses to make each pucker powerful and sexy.
Kintsugi eggshells by Elisa Sheehan : I have only ever seen these online, and I cannot believe how gorgeous her work is. The detail is incredible. And, I appreciate the significance of kintsugi—accentuating the flaws, cracks, and scars—showing that what was broken can be repaired and be even stronger and more beautiful on the other side.
Sneakers by Jimmy Navarro : I love shoes! I truly have an embarrassing number of shoes and fun sneakers are definitely my favorites. I like the way that Jimmy turns an everyday item, like sneakers, into a stunning work of art.
A skyscape by Rachel Walter : Honestly, I am torn between Rachel’s cloudscapes, starry skyscapes, and moon portraits. Her attention to capturing each nuance is commendable. I cannot get over how much her work looks like astrophotography, but is actually a painting. Incredible!

Early holiday shopping in the East Village

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Call me crazy, but I have already started my holiday shopping.

In fact, I am almost done with a couple people on my list and it feels really good to be getting shopping done early! I was chatting with someone at Gong Fu Tea and she was mentioning she wasn’t aware of all the fantastic things in the area, which made me realize we need to talk about these fantastic shops. I have a goal of, at least, 75% of my gifts from local and small businesses, which is hard if you don’t know what there is to choose from, so I am here for a little gift guide.

Amour

I love the self love and body positive movement we are in the middle of. Angela Chrusciaki Blehm has absolutely stunning pieces celebrating womanhood called Peek-A-Boob. I love Angela’s work because all of it is very empowering and vibrant. Nothing goes with self love like pretty intimates. Amour has a lovely collection of bras and undies and sets to make one feel beautiful.

Velvet Coat

I’m not sure if you have a fancy family member, I feel like every family has to have one, but mine is my aunt. She goes to New York regularly and drinks the nicest wines and has taught herself to make sushi. It’s hard to get gifts for her because she is so fancy, but I am sure the duo I came up with would please even my picky aunt! Hunt Slonem makes the sweetest bunnies, but he has been making his bunnies even more elegant lately with adding gold and silver metallic paint to his line up and 2 Play has to be my absolute favorite. It comes in one of his stunning antique frames as he usually plans, but this piece is oval and the soft golden frame is the perfect compliment to the metallic paint inside the frame. The second half of this duo comes from Velvet Coat and is, in fact, a coat. They have this stunning forest colored Aluna coat that I know my aunt would just die over. The duo is the perfect for-someone-who-has-everything gift especially coming from the midwest with or unforgiving winters.

AllSpice

Being in the east village I often have to walk past AllSpice and you know if you’ve been in the area just how mouth wateringly amazing it smells to walk past the door. Allspice has these wonderful gift sets to make gift shopping a little easier. You can always pick out your own favorites to give the chef in your life if you would like as well. As for the chef’s wall I’ve selected three pieces to go along with this gift: Quilted Bowl I, II, and IV by Taelor Fisher . I am a huge fan of trios and these three would look absolutely exquisite in a dining room.

Leona Ruby

I was browsing Leona Ruby’s website for gifts the other day and I stumbled upon their fruit shaped earrings and I am obsessed. They are so fun and playful and they even have a set that is called “fruit basket” and has four different fruit shaped earrings and I couldn’t help but think of Thats a Wrap by Lesley Grainger . The colors are all so vibrant and flamboyant and would complement the colors in the earrings so well! This duo is made for the playful spirit. Happy holiday shopping!

Art to match your favorite football team (without the tackiness)

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 19:00:36 GMT

If you are a die hard fan but still want to live in a space that doesn’t give off serious teenager-bedroom energy, add art that makes the space classy, not tacky.

Patriots + Jen Pack

Cleaving to an Essential Wound by Jen Pack has to be one of my favorite pieces at the moment and it fits beautifully in with not only the colors, being that is primarily red and blue, but also with the overall shape of the logo. The logo for The Patriots has a forward slanting sort of movement to it as does Jens piece which has similar movement to one another.

Steelers + Stephanie Henderson

Steelers are another team that is relatively easy to find art that goes along with the general color scheme of the team. Scoop in Lemon by Stephanie Henderson is a beautiful example of the primary colors tweaked a little to make a little more visually interesting. Stephanie's piece has those colors arranged in a beautifully abstract display. Her pieces are always conversation pieces but having your team's colors, rather subtly, hanging from the wall will make her work all the more show stopping.

Rams + Rebecca Stern

Rebecca Stern has such a beautiful blue and yellow piece that is just the perfect shade of golden yellow and royal blue to go along with the colors of the LA Rams. It is called Unraveling and is one of my favorite pieces of the moment. It is a calm neutral piece with little pops of both vibrant yellow and cool blue making it really versatile all the time. Let alone when the Rams are playing!

Dolphins + Jaime McCarrier

Jaime McCarrier’s Horizon slips right into half the color palette of the Dolphins, while giving the beachy feel because, well, they’re dolphins. The navy in the piece ties in the navy from the underbelly of the dolphin in the logo, and the teal brings in the color from the body. A good way to add in the pop of orange would be placing sunflowers throughout the room; the late bloomers are great for the late summer/early fall anyway. Even after the game is over and the guests are gone, sunflowers brighten up the space to make it feel happy and cheery.

All of this being said, these are pieces we already have. A lot of our artists work with us to make custom works for art lovers that fit their color palette perfectly. We could even include a little of everyone’s favorite. I know at my sister's house she would have to include both the red and gold of the chiefs and Iowa state and the black and gold of the University of Iowa, which could be a really sweet way of coming together in spite of not being fans of the same team.

Back to School Art Ed: 4 art styles you’ll see in the gallery

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 18:37:08 GMT

With our forever goal to make art approachable, that includes breaking down some of the art lingo that may feel intimidating.

There are so many different types of art—cubism, modern, pop, realism—the list is never-ending. And we love representing all different styles of art at the gallery. But there are a few styles that you will see more of and we wanted to highlight their style for you to better recognize!

Abstract

This is the largest percentage of our artists in the gallery. It is a very expressive way of making art that is often focused on the way the piece makes you feel rather than just the way it looks. Some examples of this in the gallery are Rebecca Stern , Makiko Harris , Angie Barker , Bethany Mabee and the list goes on.

“A trend in painting and sculpture in the twentieth century. Abstract art seeks to break away from traditional representation of physical objects. It explores the relationships of forms and colors, whereas more traditional art represents the world in recognizable images.” - Dictionary.com

Landscape

Examples of a few gallery artists that create landscapes are James Navarro and Karin Olah . These artists allow the natural world to be the inspiration for their work. James Navarro also paints other subjects such as shoes, plants and inanimate objects, but we have had quite a few of his beautiful landscapes in the gallery. Karin uses her understanding of the countryside to inspire her quilted rolling hills.

“...Landscape art is a somewhat broad term, but paintings in this genre typically include natural scenery that may feature fields, forests, mountains, and valleys although figures may also form part of the subject matter. Sky and weather may also play important roles in landscape art.” - Arthistory.net

Still life

One of the most traditional still life artists we have at the gallery is Rocky Reed . Rocky arranges things such as blooms, fruits, bottles and small statues into a visually interesting display and then paints them in his soft and romantic style. Another still life artist that fits in the category of still life is Jehra Patrick . Two pieces of hers in particular are From the Norton Simon Collection and Ten Centuries That Shaped the West. Kevin Brent Morris also creates beautiful still life works with flowers (beyond his beautiful beetles which are the most familiar).

"A picture consisting predominantly of inanimate objects; the category of graphic arts concerned with inanimate subject matter.” - Merriam-Webster.com

Studies

Jenna Brownlee and Kevin Brent Morris are queen and king of this genre. Jenna’s studies are in florals and the details in the petals whereas Kevins’ are in the bugs and beetles he is famous for creating. A study is often much closer than a still life would be and is focused on one subject rather than the way that multiple subjects relate to one another in the space that they are occupying .

"Careful or extended consideration or a careful examination or analysis of a phenomenon, development, or question.” - Merriam-Webster.com

This all being said, you'll see many art styles come through the gallery, but these four are some of our most popular. And we always continue to expand our artist roster—inviting new art styles to resonate with faithful (and new!) clients.

Fill your Zoom background with art

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 16:10:20 GMT

The kids are back in school, but many of us are not back in a corporate office setting which means that the Zoom calls will continue. In the last year, we have helped a number of people find a beautiful piece of art for the blank wall that sits behind them.

Since opening the gallery over two years ago, I have taken a lot of “test” photos and video to share how artwork would look in a variety of situations. One I have to consider frequently recently is how artwork would act as a Zoom background for an office.

I look for artwork that add visual interest without being too busy. Additionally, I usually head towards abstract unless it is clear what the object in the painting is. The art in your Zoom background should act as a compliment and not a distraction. There are plenty of situations where it is appropriate to purchase a piece of artwork where objects are open to interpretation but your office and Zoom background is usually not one of them.

Here are the pieces in the gallery right now, I would suggest as a wonderful piece for your office.

Andrea Ferrigno, Breathing

Stephanie Henderson, Scoop in Lemon

Taelor Fisher, Quilt I

Rebecca Stern, Unraveling

Lesley Grainger, You Gotta Feel It to Heal It

James Navarro, Thistles (2)

Gallery Wall of the Month: September

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

In September, I often think of the Oscar Wilde quote, “And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.”

I love the sunny but chilly mornings that September and the fall brings. It’s also this wonderfully strange time where you could spend your weekends at the pool or a chilly football game.

I was thinking about all of this as I was putting together the September Gallery Wall of the Month. There’s some beautiful, bright colors along with some deeper moodier colors.

The Rebecca Stern painting plays with great color with lovely blues and pops of pink. The raw canvas that she paints on also has great texture plus she often layers bits of canvas and fabric to add more dimension. This plays so well with the light pink acrylic, hand cut piece by Leigh Suggs . The back of the piece is also painted and the acrylic is floated inside of the frame so there’s a really nice pink glow created from the reflection of the stark white mat.

Then we come down to the stunning Fares Micue self-portrait. The pink blossoms obscuring her face and contrasted against the black background is just visually perfect. It evokes that moodiness of fall that I mentioned.

Then finally, we have the prettiest little Kate Blomquis t. Kate paints on top of pieces of aluminum so that there’s a metallic shine that peeks out from below the paint. I love when the light hits it just right and it seems to change before your eyes.

When putting together a gallery wall, I like to put together pieces that play well together but then also give a little something unexpected whether that’s in the materials or concept. This gallery wall offers all of that and more.

Sketchbook Series: Betsy Enzensberger

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 17:57:25 GMT

We asked Betsy what her preliminary process/sketching process looks like and she gave us a sweet peek into what being Betsy looks like day to day.

"Most of my work magically takes shape as I create. My inspiration has always been the resin itself, not anything else. Resin acts differently in different climates, so my projects are highly dependent on what type of day it is. For example, if it's a chilly day, I don’t choose to pour clear resin because too many bubbles will get trapped inside."

"My process changes greatly with the size of the sculpture. The mock-up shown is for a large sculpture for a themed restaurant. I was given color samples and images of the murals that were to be painted in the space. From there I created this mock up. This design was approved, but in the end, they requested an extra long melt and a deeper purple stick, resulting in the finished sculpture shown."

"I LOVE being given a challenge and each custom order is just that. I always learn something new. Then I use that new skill in future work."

I absolutely love being able to see into artist's plan for their work. Thank you Betsy for allowing us to see some of your process!

Met Gala 2021 favorites

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

With a break between the last two gala's we had to know this year would be one to beat.

There is no way we can include all of the incredible looks from this year's Met Gala, but let’s talk about a few of my favorites. This year's theme, after taking a year off for COVID, was American Independence and some of these looks really hit it out of the park.

My personal favorite was Quannah Chasinghorse. Quannah is an indiginious model who has ancestry from Hän Gwich’in ( Alaska and Canada) and Oglala Lakota ( South Dakota) and used this as a driving force for her Met look. This was her first year at the Met and has taken the fashion world by storm. She was very excited to be representing Indigenous people at the met and the opportunity to show the beauty of native indignity. Her gown was designed by Peter Dundas and all of her jewelry was authentic Navajo turquoise and silver. The gown was gold, making her look like a ray of sunshine, and the contrast between her long, raven black, hair and the brilliant gold was absolutely breathtaking.

Naomi Osaka was dressed by Louis Vuitton and designed by Naomi and her sister Mari along with Nicolas Ghesquière at Louis Vuitton. She is a Hatian Japanese - four time grand slam winning - tennis player that used her roots to make a statement about America being a melting pot. The gown began as a digital watercolor by her sister Mari that Nicolas then turned into the koi fish print and her hair was inspired by traditional Japanese hairstyles.

Another one of my absolute favorites from the night was Billie Eilish. She was a vision in an elegant, blush, Oscar de la Renta but with one condition: they stop selling furs altogether. Billie is a vegan and animal rights activist and used this moment to make a difference. Billie channeled her inner Marilyn Monroe with a short, blonde, hairdo and a stunning dark liner. She was the embodiment of classic Hollywood glamour.

You didn't think I would not talk about Lil Nas X’s did you? He came in ready to make a statement. He came in with, not one, not two, but three looks. This was his first Met and it’ll be one to beat. Donatella Versace designed all three looks to perfection and allowed Lil Nas X to be able to tell his story beautifully. The first look was a long, beaded, cape designed to look regal. Look number two was a suit of gold armor that fit Lil Nas X like a glove. The last look he served was a stunning bodycon bodysuit that was completely covered in Versace’s signature house print in head to toe crystals. He described the look as his own morph into the public sphere and the way he broke into it and allowed himself to be himself.

I didn't touch on even half of my favorites, but these are a few that really made waves.

Peeking through our mood board lens (with a birthday surprise)

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 13:18:07 GMT

It’s art all day, all the time over here.

And beyond art alone, Liz and I often talk about how we do way too much “mood boarding” in our free time. Whether it’s for our own home or a client, we put a lot of thought into the home accessories to pair with artwork choices. Wallpaper, mirrors, throw pillows, lamps—it’s all choices that can amplify the room’s overall mood. So, this week we’re sharing just a peek through our mood board lens—choosing gallery pieces that just needed a little complementary pairing in their surroundings.

As a birthday special (happy birthday week, Liz!), these pieces are 10% off . And an additional 10% of Logan Ledford’s collection will go towards a New Orleans disaster relief fund. We’re thinking of you and praying for safety during this unknown time!

Powder room // Logan Ledford

View artwork

Entryway // Jehra Patrick

View artwork // Bench // Throw pillows // Fake 60" Fiddle Leaf Fig tree

Dining room // Kristi Kohut

View artwork

Living room // EttaVee

View artwork // Cabinet // Chair // Vases // Wallpaper // Light // Sherwin Williams Naval color accent

Art and wallpaper

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 15:41:26 GMT

Art and wallpaper has become a combination that I can’t get enough of both around my own home and when designing for clients.

In more recent years, I have slowly evolved into somewhat of a maximalist. I don’t need a lot of things but pattern on pattern is a love language of mine. You can see, for example, a piece by Kevin Brent Morris on a gold and white patterned wallpaper in my powder room that I recently designed.

The pattern behind the beetle, the pattern in the frame, and the pattern in the wallpaper all come together to both accentuate and contrast against each other.

In my dining room, you’ll see a Hunt Slonem bunny on top of a wallpaper mural in the perfect spot. The pink brings out the pretty light pink in the mural and it looks like a bunny might be frolicking through this scene full of greenery and florals.

Finally, in my living room (yes, I really went all out with wallpaper) you’ll see a lot of art that goes so beautifully with the subtle leafy vine pattern.

This light blue color is one of my favorite colors to decorate with and again, I love the contrast of the more organic pattern with something more solid and geometric like both Angela Chruschiaki Blehm’s “Oh” and Katie Craig’s striped piece. Wallpaper and art are just a winning combination in my book.

Below are some offering from the gallery and my pick for a fun wallpaper combination.

Kristi Kohut, Symphonic World + Brunschwig & Fils Les Touches Green Wallpaper

View the wallpaper // View the artwork

Hunt Slonem, Audrey 4 + Hunt Slonem Groundworks Hutch Silver Wallpaper

View the wallpaper // View the artwork

Roma Osowo, Love Surrounds Me + Katie Kime’s Cottage Stripes Wallpaper

View the wallpaper // View the artwork

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm, We Met + Katie Kim’s Black and White Stripe

View the wallpaper // View the artwork

Kevin Brent Morris, Untitled Beetle + Anthropologie Blazing Poppies Wallpaper

View the wallpaper // View the artwork

Gallery Wall of the Month: August

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 18:32:36 GMT

On the very long list of reasons why I love my job, one of the reasons is that I love to put art together to create collections for clients that consist of multiple artists. Just as in a museum or a gallery, often times an artwork can stand alone or becomes even stronger when in context of other artwork. These pieces I selected for this month’s gallery wall would look amazing all together side by side in an arrangement like this or just in the same room on different walls.

When I am putting together a gallery wall, I look to put together pieces that have connecting factors like similar colors or “energy” meaning are they all calming or energetic. Additionally, I like to find pieces in different mediums and styles that still fit well together. I always like to have one piece that has an unusual material such as Elisa’s eggshell pieces . We also have pieces here that are both abstract ( Andrea Ferrigno and Allison James ) and include hyper-realism ( Rachel Walter’s cloudscape ).

If you’ve been waiting to put together the perfect artful gallery wall for your room, we’ve taken the guesswork out of it for you. This might be the perfect collection for you.

Art in the home: Des Moines collector

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 16:59:38 GMT

We ship artwork all over the world on the daily, but it's always special to work with clients right next door. We connected with a local collector who has come back to the gallery again-and-again to expand her original art collection. Meet Lindsay from Des Moines, Iowa, and hear her "whys" behind buying art!

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

I just really love the tone and mood that art can set for a space, and makes it feel more homey. Like many people, I've been working from home for 15+ months, and feeling a little lonely or uninspired at times. It's especially nice to have calming or provocative work to zone out at during a Zoom call or conference call—letting my mind wander while staring at the intricate details of Elisa Sheehan's kintsugi eggshells, or overanalyzing the precision and shading of Laurie Lindqvist's diamond.

LL: What drew you to Elisa Sheehan's artwork?

I love the 3D nature of her Kintsugi shells, and how unique it is. It seems so delicate yet enduring. I bought one piece as an anniversary gift for my (now) husband; we've been through a lot together, and I thought the principles behind Kintsugi was a good analogy for our relationship.

LL: What drew you to Angela Chrusciaki Blehm's work?

It reminds me of a ribbon streamer—the movement and whimsical nature of it makes it an expected addition to an otherwise still room.

LL: What drew you to Laurie Lindqvist's work?

I loved the vivid colors and the crisp lines, and the optical illusion of a square canvas being a "diamond."

LL: What would be in your ideal art collection? Or what artists are on your collector's "wish list"?

I like having art that represents the different experiences and phases I've gone through. And I want my collection to tell the story of who I am; I want someone to walk into my home and feel the same hospitality that I try to convey in person. I pine for a Hunt Slonem bunny, but I just haven't been able to make a decision. I also really want a lovely still life or floral scene but haven't found the right fit yet.

Liz at home: Hanging art on a bookcase

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 19:17:07 GMT

My family and I moved to a new home in April of this year, and although it’s only been a short two months that we have lived here, we are already running out of wall space for art. This seems to just be one of the things that comes with owning an art gallery, I fall in love with work as I unpackage it and hang it on the gallery wall. Over time, some pieces just stick with me, and I know they are meant to come home.

As I run out of wall space, I have started to become creative with where new pieces are hung. For me, just about nowhere is off limits. I am a true believe that you should learn the “rules” of design so that you can immediately learn how to break them. This is why, when I brought home a glorious new Roma Osowo piece to our collection, I felt the perfect place for it was on the bookshelves.

Over the last two months we have worked hard to create bookshelves that looked custom (but most certainly were not) and painted them a bright bold color. Roma’s energetic, colorful, and happy piece became the perfect compliment. Few pieces could standout from the bright color and books behind it, but this abstract piece was up for the job.

Lucky for you, Roma created two pieces in this series and one is still at the gallery. As much as I want to, I can’t bring every piece home. The colors, pattern, and texture compose a piece that continues to amaze and delight over time.

As we continue to decorate our home with art, I’ll keep sharing styling tips that may help you think beyond just hanging art on your walls. I’ve got a window frame I have my eye on next for art.

Art in the home: Arkansas designer, Andrea Brooks

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 20:08:05 GMT

We love working with designers—whether they need art for a client or their own home, it's always a treat to connect with fellow art-lovers. And through social we've recently connected with designer Andrea Brooks based in Arkansas! It's funny how through social all you need is common ground—starting with our shared love for Hunt Slonem's bunnies—you can quickly became friends from afar. With her walls covered in original art, here's a few peeks at her home and some of her most recent gallery finds!

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

AB: It’s a physical expression of me. It brings up questions and stories and memories. It brings out parts of my personality that I might not otherwise be able to express. It inspires color palettes in my work. I think it brings the spirit, magic, creativity, emotion from the original artist into the space. It’s the #1 thing guests in my home comment on and what sets my home apart from everyone else’s. It’s the most important element I use to connect my design clients to their own home.

LL: What drew you to Hunt Slonem's artwork?

AB: I’ve been a fan of Hunt’s for many years. I love the simplicity of it but the color packs a punch! It’s also one of the only art purchases I’ve made with long term investment in mind. I’ve watched his art gain in value year after year. I know it will be a treasured piece to pass on to my children and on down the line.

LL: What drew you to Kit Porter's work?

AB: I was first drawn to Kit’s art when searching for a client who was a new collector. Original Art purchases can be intimidating at first and I just felt Kit’s work had such a lightness and joy with simple shapes mixed with happy color. The longer I followed Kit, I learned her of health journey with cancer. As someone who received an early breast cancer diagnosis, and watched both my mom and sister go through their own journeys, it added an extra special connection to her art. The one I purchased was different from what I used to seeing from Kit – that uniqueness and over-scaled modern element to it completely spoke to me and my home.

LL: What types of art do you most enjoy?

AB: I most enjoy art that the color palette grabs you first, has a touch of whimsy to it, doesn’t take itself too seriously. I own a mix of watercolor, oil, acrylic, mixed media, sculpture and photography – don’t make me pick a favorite!

LL: When did you start collection original artwork?

AB: My first “real” purchase was 20 years ago in my early 30’s around the same time I started my own Interior decorating business. It’s by a local artist (now in her 80’s) from my hometown gallery South Arkansas Art Center in El Dorado (an “oil-boom” town with a huge focus on the arts) – she just received a “glow up” last month with new framing and is still a favorite piece of mine.

LL: What would be in your ideal art collection? Or what artists are on your collector's "wish list"?

AB: I’m always looking at new, emerging artists and love following Instagram accounts with that focus as well. I’m drawn to artists that are thoughtful but don’t take themselves too seriously – basically my own design philosophy. Ideally, I prefer a mix of vintage and contemporary works. I recently discovered Katelyn Taylor, who creates these amazing paper flower sculptures and would love to have one of her orchid pieces.

June's color: Commodore

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 16:07:37 GMT

Every month Sherwin Williams chooses a color to highlight—usually a trending color that has risen to the top. I've found it one of the best ways to stay current with my wall colors. Currently, I have 3 of their "color of the month" choices in my home—with one of my absolute favorites for any room, Cavern Clay. When there's so many paint colors to choose from, it truly helps to have the experts share a favorite.

So this month's color? Commodore —a rich, slate shade of blue. With this color top of mind, we're sharing a handful of pieces that would perfectly pair with this wall color. It's fun to dream!

Hope Springs Eternal

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 21:12:05 GMT

Our new show opens Friday, March 26, 2021.

Hope Springs Eternal was a show created around the feeling of joy these paintings elicit. These works are bright, energetic, and ebullient on the gallery walls. Over and over again, I have described this show using the word “joy”, like the type of joy in the spring after a long winter, like the type of joy we are beginning to experience seeing the hopeful end of the pandemic and isolation.

When I begin to curate a show, I ask myself, “Why these artists? Why these works?” and there’s no question that the answer was color and joy for Hope Springs Eternal. Throughout the show you will see works by Angie Barker, Katie Craig, and Ettavee.

Angie Barker is a new artist for our gallery and she hails from Greensboro, N.C. Her current series, The Molecular Series, is to create tangible representations of living energy that makes us all who we are. Each work is a visual meditation of how her body functions and reacts.The quote by Carl Sagan, “We are made of “star-stuff,” made her think of the chemical elements that make us who we are and how the same elements can be found amongst stars. She explores that small part of human molecular anatomy and give is a technicolor, abstract representation.

Katie Craig has been a popular artist at our gallery for sometime. Our clients are always drawn to her beautiful mastery of color and the outgoing energy throughout each piece. From her home studio in Dallas, TX, Katie says of her work “I am attracted to maximalism. An extension of my mind, getting it out brings me peace. Stripes, dots, lines and strokes; beautifully busy art. Seeing it on canvas makes much more sense than when it is bouncing around in my mind.”

We are proud to be the only gallery in the United States who carries the work of Ettavee. Also known as Jessi, she is an American living with her family in Strausbourg, France. You can find her work all over her incredibly popular instagram account and even in the card aisle at Target currently. Jessi calls herself a “joymaker” and she is drawn to the colors and energy that she finds while walking down the winding streets of her small French village.

I am so proud to carry work by these incredible artists and have their stunning artwork grace our walls. The show is, you guessed it, a joy, and I have loved working beside it this last week.

Color Study: Pink

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 19:07:25 GMT

In honor of Valentine's Day this weekend, our very own Aly Jensen rounded up some of her favorite pink works for a color study. -LL

I have told myself for years that I don’t like pink, but the truth is, I have been lying to myself. I love the fact that there are so many variations of this one color and that each variation can say a little something different. Hot and bright pinks add energy and playfulness to whatever they adorn, while a soft blush pink adds a comforting femininity that can be both soothing and gentile. Pink takes the passion and vigor of red and soothes it to a playful, excited energy rather than one with assumed movement. It has the power to both excite the senses and soothe them depending on the tone and hue. A little more blue or white and the pink is soothing and comforting, but a little more orange or red and the pink is energizing. Here's my top pink picks currently at the gallery—enjoy! -Aly

All Together

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 20:02:37 GMT

Last week we debuted a new show that is all about collaboration and building an art collection. We are so excited to partner with Amanda Reynal Interiors on this collection and share the work of 17 artists. There are five clusters around the gallery and each pairing shows how artwork by several artists pairs well together and compliments the decor around it.

I understand that most people do not live with white walls and art lighting like a gallery--nor do I think they should. Instead, I think people should live with art and furniture that means something to them, that is beautiful or is just really, really comfortable. The best moments in design happen when you bring beautiful artwork and interesting furniture together to create a feast for the eyes. The best interiors work when art and furniture are working all together. Hence the name of the show -- but also, there’s an added meaning of wishing we could all be together. Alas, this is another virtual show that you can see here. There are five groupings around the gallery that combine artwork by several artists and are paired with furniture from Amanda Reynal. All of the pairings were based off the idea that a client could place an entire one of these collections in a room together to start a collection and have the artwork feel complete. Each furniture grouping gives an example of how that artwork pairs with great furnishings.

It’s been a pleasure working with this artwork and with Amanda. Her eye for design is unmatched and on a personal level it is always fun to work with a dear friend.

Enjoy these amazing photos by Rick Lozier and I look forward to a time soon where we can be all together.

Mural Opportunity: Marshalltown

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 19:38:53 GMT

Mural Opportunity for Marshalltown

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Artwork design for a public mural to be created on an exterior wall. The wall is approximately 80’ tall and 132’ wide. Every inch of the wall does not need to be painted.

BACKGROUND

This mural will be located on a building in downtown Marshalltown, Iowa, and is sponsored by the Marshall County Arts & Cultural Alliance (MCACA). This mural will be seen daily by large crowds of people who visit the downtown district. The wall is the most visual mural location in Marshalltown’s downtown.

Photos are attached at the end of the document.

Mission for Alliance: The Arts & Culture Alliance connects our community to arts and culture by supporting, promoting and enriching existing opportunities, and by seeking new possibilities.

For more information about the Alliance, please visit their website: www.artsandculturealliance.org

DEADLINE

Sunday, February 28 th , 2021 at 5:00pm to hello@lizlidgett.com

DESCRIPTION

● Location: The mural will be situated on the west wall of a building in downtown Marshalltown.

● Objective: The mural should provide a wow-factor, creating a significant impact as you enter Marshalltown’s downtown. The mural will act as a destination and monument to the area.

TO CONSIDER

● Artist must feel comfortable working a boom lift and wearing a harness while working.

● Should have large scale mural experience.

● The selected artist will be asked to provide a 1-hour Q&A with local Marshall County Artists and be present for the ribbon cutting in celebration with the community of the new mural.

TIMELINE

● Deadline for proposals: Sunday, February 28 th at 5:00pm to hello@LizLidgett.com

● February/Early March: RFP review, initial interviews (if needed) with artist finalists

● March: Final artist and design selected and meet with Liz Lidgett to go over sketch, information from the client, timeline and budget.

● Weather dependent (May/June) Mural completed.

PAYMENT

$17,000 — 50% to be paid upon starting and 50% within 2 weeks of completion of the mural. This fee includes materials, artist fee, and any lodging while in Marshalltown. A lift will be provided.

TO APPLY

● Email a .PDF to hello@lizlidgett.com including the following information: ○ Your name, phone number, email, and 2 references with contact info

○ A page including artwork photographs and descriptions of your past work, including any mural or large-scale work if applicable.

○ A completed sketch/draft for the suggested mural design

○ A brief bio about you as an artist and your process.

Photo of exterior wall in Marshalltown, IA – Max Building above.

*faded paintings can be covered up as there is no historical value

Backstory: Orange Takes Flight by Jen Pack

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 16:54:26 GMT

Orange Takes Flight by New Mexico artist Jen Pack has been a favorite of mine since starting at the gallery. Its gorgeous colors and its sheer size is captivating and the combination of sculpture and “canvas” brings in a harmonious dissonance to life. Recently, I asked Jen to chat with me a little bit about this piece to better understand it’s beauty and I’ve fallen even more in love.

“At some point I began creating pieces in the shape of chevrons—it is an expanding shape and one of balance and open welcome."

"This was one of the first chevron pieces I was able to create in an asymmetric form. I generally tend toward the ‘hot’ end of the color spectrum and went all in with yellows, pinks and orange in this work. The yellow is particularly vibrant and is silk I purchased while on a visit to Korea and haven’t been able to find since. It is the brightest, most luminous yellow I have come across—one so ‘pure’ in hue that it nearly shimmers a lime tone underneath the yellow (at least that is what I see vibrating in the undertone). When I completed the piece, it seemed ready for lift off, like a butterfly. Orange Takes Flight is a name in reference to the migration of monarch butterflies. It may seem a misnomer because there is more yellow than orange in the work, but orange is, as we all know, a combination of yellow and red. It is a reference to integration and the unseen symmetries that create the structures for colorsight.”

#LetsAddArt: IKEA

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 15:51:00 GMT

If you are anything like me, IKEA is like a big toy store. There is endless potential in those walls! But, as usual—their spaces could be so much grander with a little original art. So, #LetsAddArt and see how it enhances their furniture collections!

Vallentuna + Orange Takes Flight, Jen Pack

This bright and fresh space needs to have a little vibrancy, a little movement, and a little excitement. The space already gives off a very spring-y energy, but adding in the radiance of Orange Takes Flight transforms the space from being bright and stark to fresh and exciting; new beginnings are coming and taking flight.

Knotten + Patchwork Farm 7, Karin Olah

It seems as though the person using this standing desk is a no-nonsense kind of person; they get their work done and are focused, but needs to be reminded to relax a little. This is where Karin comes in—this piece by Karin is absolutely stunning and takes me back to growing up, driving across Iowa, road trips with my family and visiting friends. Patchwork Farm 7 stirs sweet memories and nostalgia that can ease the hard worker's mind and ground them back to who they are.

Myllara + Botanical Arrangement II, Mo Lashbrook

This room is both playful and timeless, it has been decorated to grow up with the child dwelling in it, and a fine art piece can really make a room timeless. Mo’s stunning botanicals add a mature sense of personality to the space while allowing the childlike playfulness dance in its reflective surface; it will show the reflection of growth allowing itself to be a poetic representation of time passing and standing still all at once.

Savalanas + Andrea Ferrigno

As many of us are doing these days, the person IKEA built this room for works from home and needs to keep their space as work-focused as possible, which can be hard in the home. I would actually not like to add just one piece to this space, but two: Sharing Space and La Canicule . Both pieces include a beautiful, soothing, shade of green that is a reflection of life and growth and movement which is exactly what we need when feeling cooped up inside for months on end. A depiction of life still moving on, even when it seems to be standing still.

Sundvick + Live the Dream #2, Kristi Kohut

IKEA's designers put stars all over the walls and a cloud light next to the changing table giving the space a dreamy, bright, feel. Live the Dream #2 is a beautiful, soft, piece there to remind the parent, as well as the child, to express themselves and dream bigger than imaginable.

Omtankasam + Throwback, Shannon Coppage

Clean and contemporary, Shannon Coppage’s artwork perfectly reflects IKEA’s aesthetic. When thinking about a space, it’s fun to brainstorm additional locations for original art besides hanging on the wall. Throwback , placed in a thick, white frame, stands on its own and makes a beautiful side-table addition.

Our year in numbers

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 16:06:16 GMT

76 artists supported—local, national, and international, more than 350 artworks sold, 15 murals commissioned and 2 babies made. All these numbers and more come together to help one small business thrive. We can never thank you enough, but we’ll try. Thank you. We love you.

Dream clients: top brand edition

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 16:50:54 GMT

’Tis the season to be thinking about your favorite brands and which ones you’ll gift this year. Well, as we always admit—it’s an occupational hazard to subconsciously pair artists with the brands we see as we walk through the mall. Each brand is so unique and purposeful in the color and imagery they select for their brand. Here’s our dream client list—top brand edition! If the CEO of any one of these brands called us today, we’d be ready with our top-pick artist to represent their brand and message. (And, if someone on your gift list just loves one of these brands, it could be fun to gift artwork that reflects the brand in place of merchandise!)

Tiffany & Co. and Roma Osowo

This duo was a no-brainer. The vibrant colors with subtle pops of that Tiffany green and the organic movement in the brush strokes that echo the movement of a necklace or a bracelet as it is being put on. The Bonds Between Us II is fun, young and bright—and still doesn’t lack the modern elegance and charm that Tiffany’s is known for.

Anthropologie and Marcy Cook

Everything about Marcy Cook’s work seems like it needs to be in an Anthropologie photo shoot. Botanicals and beautiful, luxurious colors grace each piece and All Around Me has a sweet subtly that would be lovely in contrast to some of Anthropologie’s bright and vibrant prints.

H&M and EttaVee

Both EttaVee’s work and H&M are very fashion forward and in tune with self expression. EttaVee includes bright colors and gorgeous gold leafing, revealing both the spunkiness of her personality and the elegance of it. H&M is known for having very on-trend items that allow the wearer to express themselves and that could be a better reflection of EttaVee’s work!

Louis Vuitton and Katie Craig

Louis Vuitton just screams class and timelessness and Katie Craig’s work has an effortlessly stunning, nautical, feel. Not to mention, Where We Go (pictured) perfectly matches their brand's color palette!

Patagonia and Rachel Walter

Earthy, environmentally conscious and lovely, Patagonia and Rachel Walter’s work have a lot in common. They make you feel connected to nature and stir an adventurous spirit.

Nike and Jose Romussi

Ballet is a sport like none other, and Nike’s goal is to be a sports brand like no other. WIth their recent brand initiative of women empowerment, Jose Romussi's Dance Pas de Quatre is a lovely pairing highlighting the variety of sports that one may not initially think of as "athletic."

Sunshine on a cloudy day

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 17:04:40 GMT

I don’t know about you, but months and months without sunshine is hard on me, and Iowa winters can be pretty brutal. As we are inching our way into the darker, cozy months, we need to bring a little bit of that sunshine indoors.

A happy lamp can add a lot to a space. A happy lamp is a lamp that produces light that mimics the sunshine we get in the warmer months. By replicating the effects of the sun, these little lamps (that you can find on Amazon and local retailers) improve mood, energy level and the overall ambiance of the room. If you are not feeling like a happy lamp is something you want to have in your home, even just putting a couple more lamps in heavily trafficked areas can really add life to the space!

Buy yourself flowers or keep a plant at your desk at work (whether that be the kitchen table or your office). Having that extra living thing in your space brings a brightness to the space.

Lastly, there's a few special pieces at the gallery that will definitely add that splash of sunshine to your home on a dark winter day. And, it's an investment that brings joy all-year-round!

Hunt Slonem, Palm Beach

This piece just screams sunshine to me. It is bright and vibrant and filled with summer nostalgia. The colors are fun and inviting and the subject matter is simple and sweet. Slonem’s work often includes soft and sweet, sunshine-y subject matter with an edgy twist, and this piece paves the way.

James Navarro, Untitled (Orange Field)

I love Jimmy’s brush strokes and timeless interpretation of the subject matter really draw the viewer in and invite them to be present. This Iowa farmscape is a wonderful example of this. The way he made the sun dance with the clouds and reflect along the field makes one almost believe they can smell the soft summer breeze and feel the warm earth beneath their feet.

Kate Blomquist, Reacher

The shine, variance in golden pigment, and the beautiful layering is reminiscent of sunshine dancing off a body of water. The movement of the golden hues reflect movement and exciting things to come.

Jaime McCarrier, Palms and Stripes

Part of a handful of new arrivals at the gallery, Jaime McCarrier’s collection screams the ultimate beach girl. Her coastal colors and scenery make you dream of stepping right into the painting. The warmth radiating in each of her paintings is exactly what I need during the winter season.

Logan Ledford, Summer Color

And, finally—right there in the title—Logan Ledford's Summer Color is the perfect pop of color to keep the warm tones shining all-year-round. The combination of mauves, nudes and yellows is so beautiful and such a happy piece to spend time with all day.

Tees, puzzles and art—oh my!

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 22:08:31 GMT

I am thrilled to bring you the perfect gifts for the art lovers in your life this holiday season. It was important to me that we create gift opportunities at all price points whether it’s an actual piece of original art or a puzzle that is based on an original piece.

These gifts also check all of the boxes for doing good through your gift giving. Our puzzles were created in collaboration with another local small business, The Rook Room, and each purchase supports two small businesses and the artist featured.

Additionally, we created a line of t-shirts that shows off your love of art. I even dressed most of my family in them. Don’t you sit around your home with your family in matching tees as well?! The embroidery for the ‘original artwork’ tee is perfect for that fashionable, art-loving friend and the ‘I am a Limited Edition’ has the most adorable onesie version too.

The “Anonymous was a woman” quote tee is adapted from a Virginia Woolf quote that said, “for most of history, anonymous was a woman.” This quote represents all of the women artists, scientists, and creative thinkers whose names are lost to time. History shows that men were the great thinkers and artists of the ages but we know that women were also working and creating when able but often did so anonymously. I proudly wear mine knowing that I represent so many incredible women when sporting it.

Thank you for your support this holiday season and no matter your gift recipient I hope we have something that they will love in stock.

Shop local: Des Moines gift wishlist

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 22:08:29 GMT

Now that we're in the last week of November, I'm really gearing up for all the gifts I am waiting to give to those I love. While I can’t share with you what I am getting them quite yet, I have quite a few fun things on my wishlist that I think you’ll love too! It's important to shop local every year, definitely, but this holiday season it's especially meaningful to support the local small businesses who have been so greatly impacted by COVID. The holidays are a chance to boost the local economy, showing small business owners you care and support their initiative! And, truly, you can't beat the local finds when it comes to original, unique gifts. There's so many more to mention than what's listed here, but here's a few favorites I've noted for this year:

DSM Mercantile. The cutest basket backpack I have ever seen. It is cute enough that it can be casual and filled with picnic blankets, snacks and a bottle of wine, but it is flexible enough to turn around and become a computer bag with plenty of space for wires, a planner and a water bottle! Might as well, while you’re there, grab some of their old fashioned sweets and a cozy Amana blanket for that picnic!
Eden. All of the self-care rituals can be started here. Everything from bath salts in the yummiest smells you can think of, to candles that can transport you to another place, to treatments that make you feel all fresh and new! They’re the perfect stocking stuffers that still leave room for the candy canes and fuzzy socks.
Art Terrarium. I can never have enough plants, and Art Terrarium has the cutest selection of plants and pots. I just recently got a new desk and it is much larger than the one I had before, so a plant is much needed. The fun with Art Terrarium is that they will make sure you know how to take care of your new plant baby and a variety of easy and difficult plants to take care of!
Beaverdale Books. This year has been all about reading both for educational purposes and for entertainment, and I can’t get enough. This quaint little bookstore has a cozy ambiance, a fair selection, and helpful staff to make sure you are getting the perfect book for your loved one.

Happy holiday shopping and #supportlocal when you can!

The Space Between landscape show

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 20:21:09 GMT

Since March of this year, my family and I have spent more time outside than ever. I have felt reconnected with the Midwestern landscape and all that it has to offer. Taking long drives to get out of our home safely, and exploring new spots where we can find wide open spaces has been a refuge to us.

I named the show “The Space Between” because the Midwest is so often thought of as flyover country but there is so much more to this area of the country. You’ll be able to see in these pieces by Jimmy Navarro , Karin Olah , Olivia Valentine and Mo Lashbrook the beauty that the Midwest has to offer.

Jimmy’s works are quite stunning. He has been working in a new color palette for this show and while you may recognize his work, I think you’ll be amazed at the fresh take to the traditional landscape. The pinks and oranges in his palette in particular are favorites of mine and I look forward to working amongst these works for the next several weeks.

Karin Olah’s works continue to amaze me. Karin works in a variety of sizes making it affordable to own one of her spectacular pieces. Her application of fabric to her paintings is so seamless and adds the perfect amount of texture. These are works you’ll want to spend time with. From far away, they look like a beautiful landscape and up close you’ll want to inspect her application and process. I find myself wanting to get closer and closer with each of her works to not miss a detail.

Olivia Valentine’s works offer a perfect compliment to the larger landscape paintings that we have to offer in this show. Olivia works in mixed media, pairing photography with embroidery. A majority of the pieces included in the show are from her “Field Edgings” series, from Olivia’s site, "All of the works involve photographs of the landscape, taken at the edges of the day, combined with sewing thread and sewing 'findings' such as clasps, snaps, and pins. These small-scale constructions pursue ideas about boundaries and edges in the landscape and create relationships to the edges found in textiles, clothing, and garments, creating a scale shift that relates the edges of the body to the edges we make and perceive in the land.” These photographs specifically are from 20 Artists, 20 Parks , a project that came together to celebrate the centennial of the Iowa State Parks in 2020.

Finally, we have three works from artist Mo Lashbrook. Her circular, glossed floral paintings are truly beautiful. Depicting midwestern wildflowers with vibrant and deep colors that feel both moody and joyful.

Although things at the gallery look a bit different currently, we are still sharing these works with the public both online through our social channels and by appointment. The pre-sale list is sent out this Thursday morning, so let us know if you'd like to be added for first dibs on the artwork! We are also open 12-3 Tuesday-Friday and will have extended holiday hours Wednesdays 4-8pm and Sundays 11am-3pm along with the rest of the East Village.

Cozy fall listening

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 19:57:43 GMT

Spring is lovely and summer is sweet, winter is nice but autumn is my favorite. The changing of leaves, the warm beverages and cool winds, and the anticipation of the coming months make this time of year unlike any other. While there is no specific fall music, there are certainly songs that feel a lot more like autumn than others, so I made a playlist of cozy songs I am listening to and gorgeous pieces I am staring at that just perfectly reflect the mood.

Shaky Graves (Ft. Esme Patterson), Dearly Departed + Fares Micue, Dreams are Made of Gold

Donnavan Woods, Katie Pruitt, She Waits For Me to Come Back Down + Andrea Ferrigno, Generator

Charlotte Leigh, Give in to Me + Logan Ledford, River Clay

NEEDTOBREATHE, Banks + Oliva Valentine, Field Edging #16

Now cozy up by a fire, with a warm beverage in-hand, and enjoy the somber autumn mood. Happy listening!

Love blooms in Des Moines

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 17:46:46 GMT

The next time you’re driving down Court Ave you’ll see a new splash of color on the side of the RoCA building!

Local artist, Jenna Brownlee , completed this design in just 2.5 days and it’s a special piece celebrating diversity and inclusion with vibrant bursting florals collaged with symbolic typography for an impactful message of global love and peace. In partnership with Des Moines' World Food & Music Festival , her floral selection was intentional to represent the global diversity throughout the state of Iowa with national flowers:

Plum Blossom, China
Bunchberry, Canada
Dahlia, Mexico
Lotus, India
Protea, South Africa
Bosnian Lily, Bosnia
Rose, United States
Prairie Rose, State of Iowa

The mural is funded from an anonymous donor connected with the project through the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines .

Jenna has been busy this year continuing to color the state—in the last few months, she’s created a mural in Marshalltown, Des Moines, Waukee and more. We’ve worked with Jenna since the beginning of our art advisory business in 2012 and it’s been a privilege seeing her mural portfolio expand so rapidly. Her most recognized murals include vibrant florals and beautiful lettering—including the Parker Apartments on 7th street and The District in Ankeny !

We also now represent Jenna Brownlee at the gallery and her canvas florals are just as stunning. From 10 inch to 10 foot flowers, it’s interesting to learn more about her process!

How do you capture all the inspiration you come across on a daily basis?

I love to paint flowers, so I get most inspiration from things I see in nature. If I stumble upon the perfect flower-form in-person, I make sure to snap a pic on my phone and keep a digital catalogue. I also scroll online and have books on flower arrangements to search for the right shape or composition of the subject I am looking for.

Do you do a lot of preliminary work in your sketchbook, or do you allow the piece to take shape while you're working on it?

Having a reference and mockup works well for me. I primarily sketch as a part of the creative process for a specific project and have different methods depending on the concept and how flushed out it is in my mind—with pencil on paper, a digital sketch or a collage in Photoshop whether it's a graphic design piece, watercolor, canvas or mural.

How have the contents of your sketchbooks changed throughout time?

My methods, subject matter and mediums have evolved a lot over the last 5 years but there's still continuity with how I bring an idea to life with pencil on paper. There's beauty in the simplicity of it ... it feels the most free and flexible.

Always up to something creative, you’re bound to run into one of Jenna’s murals throughout the Des Moines metro —if you haven’t already! And, when you do—we hope you'll snap a picture, because they make the most perfect Instagram moment.

Art in the home: Charlotte collector

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 12:29:38 GMT

We circled back with a collector who recently purchased a Shannon Coppage pair and we asked her why she was drawn to the pieces. Meet Christina A. from Charlotte, North Carolina !

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

CA: A room without art just doesn’t feel complete and I love finding pieces that add that finishing touch to tie the room together. Plus, art just makes me happy!

LL: What drew you to Shannon Coppage's artwork?

CA: I love Shannon’s style! The big brushstrokes and gorgeous colors would look great in anyone’s space. This pair was exactly what I was looking for in our breakfast room.

LL: What types of art do you most enjoy?

CA: I am big into abstract art these days. A well-done abstract really elevates a space, and can pair well with any style home. We have abstract art in almost every room of our house at this point!

LL: When did you start collection original artwork?

CA: The first original art I purchased was as a birthday present to myself six years ago, and I haven’t stopped collecting since! I still love to look at that first piece—it’s hanging in a very prominent place in my living room.

LL: What would be in your ideal art collection? Or what artists are on your collector's "wish list"?

CA: I love collecting pieces from different artists, and there are so many I would love to have in our house. My wish list right now would be to have pieces by Renee Bouchon, Vesela Baker and Allison James . They all use such striking colors and their pieces really make a statement.

Pre-holiday treat: phone backgrounds

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 15:10:25 GMT

We partnered with a few recent favorites to give you a pre-holiday treat—free phone backgrounds! Download the images below to add some happy color to your every day screen. The original artwork is by Jenna Brownlee , Katie Craig and Karin Olah .

Jenna Brownlee

Download Jenna Brownlee's floral phone background here .

Katie Craig

Download Katie Craig's striped phone background here .

Karin Olah

Download Karin Olah's landscape phone background here .

The color blue

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 19:08:07 GMT

This is the first post in a series where I take a deep dive into a specific color. Blue was a natural place to start for me. It’s often the foundation of rooms that I design, in my own home and for clients as it’s a calming, grounding color. The color blue is often associated with natural elements like the sky and the ocean and studies show that the color blue actually has an effect on the metabolism and creates a chemical calming effect. Isn’t it amazing that color can do that?

Blue also symbolizes truth, loyalty, wisdom and confidence. Once when I was in college a friend had just come back from Italy and had seen the Sistine Chapel. I said, “Wasn’t it incredible?! It brought tears to my eyes when I saw it.” My friend shrugged and said “the sky was a tight blue.” Well, Michelangelo, even you can’t win them all but at least your “tight” blue stuck in his mind. Blue has a way of doing that. So here’s a few of my favorite pieces in the gallery right now that have blue as the star.

Sketchbook peek: Rachel Walter

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 15:21:33 GMT

Continuing our behind-the-scenes peek into some of our artists’ sketchbooks—next up, Rachel Walter from Dallas, Texas!

In her hometown of Austin, realist painter Rachel Walter graduated from the University of Texas with a BA in studio art, before establishing a fine art career in Dallas. She quickly found a niche in portraying stellar constellations, lightning storms, and resplendent sunrises, as she drew from her formative years observing the wide Texas skies. Her practice builds layers of color and detail into large-scale compositions, to evoke the fragility—and significance—of humanity amongst cosmic forces of nature.

How do you capture all the inspiration you come across on a daily basis?

I’m a big proponent of note taking. My sketchbooks primarily serve as repositories for raw data: words, phrases, doodles, clippings, etc. I cast a wide net, then curate what becomes a thumbnail sketch, a drawing, a color study, and finally a painting.

Do you do a lot of preliminary work in your sketchbook, or do you allow the piece to take shape while you're working on it?

The main thing I rely on sketchbooks for is filtering content for my paintings. Seeing all those rough ideas lined up next to each other, page after page, allows me to explore different ideas and subject matter, while simultaneously registering what may or may not be worth pursuing in a full-scale painting.

How have the contents of your sketchbooks changed throughout time?

I used to be so careful about every drawing I made in my sketchbook, because I wanted it to be a work of art in itself. There are plenty of artists who treat their sketchbooks that way—which is admirable, if not enviable—but over time it grew clear that going about it that way wasn’t useful to my personal studio practice. Nowadays, sketching is far less precious; it's not so much an elegant physics equation to solve for a complicated variable as it is just some hasty math on a bar napkin to make sure I'm tipping enough.

A mural for Effie's room

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 19:15:15 GMT

Once we found out we were having a girl, I immediately started designing the room. Kids rooms are some of the most fun to design and find art for because of the playful and whimsical touches you can add. I soon decided that I was just mural-obsessed enough to need to add one to my home—and the perfect spot would be Effie’s sweet room. As I was perusing for inspiration, I found promotional images from the movie Emma . It was just what I had been looking for.

The next step was to take those images and project them on to the wall. There are many ways to create a mural, but I find this to be the easiest one. The Emma images were meant to be inspiration and we (Tina and myself) did not want to create an exact replica so we projected portions of the image around the room. From there, we lightly penciled in the images to give us a design to work from.

Next, Tina and I divided and conquered specific areas and items in the mural. (That beautiful bird was all Tina, for example). Using minimal colors, just paint samples that I had chosen as my color palette at the local Lowe’s, we selected the colors for different portions of the mural—highlights and lowlights for the branches and leaves, and fun accents like the berries.

If you decide to do something like this for your own home, my biggest piece of advice is don’t worry about perfection. We played, we made “mistakes”, and we created a mural that is based off a movie still but also unique thanks to our own creativity. Also, music and a creative partner in crime (mine is almost always Tina with these sorts of projects!) helps too.

Additionally you can see some other peaks around Effie’s room. Art is always a big part to any room design in my home, no surprise there, and I included several prints that I that I had picked up through the years. One of the most special pieces in the entire room is the Besame piece from Angela Chrusciaki Blehm . It was such a wonderful surprise in honor of Effie’s birth. I still smile any time I am in her room and see that piece.

I can’t recommend adding a mural to your home enough. They’re not just for big buildings anymore.

Iowa artist opportunity: Des Moines mural

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 19:15:12 GMT

We’re inviting artists to submit an original design for a public mural to be created on exterior walls of the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families (EDCWF) in Des Moines! The wall to be painted is approximately 20-30’ tall by 150’ long.

View the complete RFP details here to see the details and how to submit artwork. The submission deadline is Sunday, November 8.

Rolling Triangles IV by Leigh Suggs

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 19:34:45 GMT

Rolling Triangles IV by Leigh Suggs has been an eye-catcher since day one at the gallery. We asked Leigh, the artist, to tell us a little bit about this piece we have absolutely fallen in love with.

“Referencing a dark landscape, with a dark sky. Rolling Triangles evokes a nightscape in the rolling mountains and hills where I grew up. It is also reminiscent of the edges of a skirt or fabric flowing in movement or a blanket in motion—in preparation to drape over something."

“Rolling Triangles evokes a nightscape in the rolling mountains and hills where I grew up.”

"The work evokes thoughts of comfort, protection, and familiarity but contradicted by pointy jarring jagged triangles that could never roll. The 'fabric' is composed of sharp triangles cut and removed from one sheet of large paper, starting at the bottom and created row by row based on the one before. Undulating triangles shift and change based on subtle movements formed by the one before it. Making flat look not flat. The possibility of impossibility.”

"The possibility of impossibility.”

I absolutely love this sentiment. The dissonance between the solace in the ripple of fabric and the disquieting, sharp, triangles is both moving and thought-provoking. I couldn't have said it better: the possibility of impossibility. There is a disconnect in their connection that really draws you into the piece and ignites your imagination.

Ways to save for that must-have piece

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 19:00:45 GMT

So, you have had your eye on a gorgeous piece by your favorite Liz Lidgett artist and you are ready to make the leap and buy it. Art is an investment that increases in value and improves the value of the space. We have a couple tips and tricks for saving up for the piece of your dreams!

Setting aside 10% of each paycheck. There are a couple apps that will actually do this for you—my husband and I use Digit . It pulls the funds out of our account each month without us even having to think about it. It's handy and easy to set up and forget about.
Skip your “splurge” for a little while. Instead of going out to lunch every day, pack a lunch and set the money aside that you would regularly spend on lunch to save up for that piece. Have a specific savings account that you can put this “lunch money” or “movie money” or “coffee money” in and you'll be pleasantly surprised how quickly it adds up!
Art Money. We have worked with this partner for a while now and it has allowed so many of our collectors to purchase those big pieces they are dreaming about without having to pay the entire thing upfront. This glorious system allows you, as a collector, to pay 10% a month! It’s like lay-a-way but you can take the artwork home right away! Please let us know if you'd like to learn more about this payment option.

Hands down, the best part of our job is seeing our clients—you—fall in love with a piece of art. And, we work hard to make it possible for beginning collectors to start their original art collection without breaking the bank. We believe in art for everyone!

Sketchbook peek: Kevin Brent Morris

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 19:34:37 GMT

Continuing our behind-the-scenes peek into some of our artists’ sketchbooks—next up, Kevin Brent Morris from Kansas City, Kansas!

Kevin Brent Morris is an emerging representational artist working primarily in acrylics. A colorist with a strong commitment to form and light, Morris combines direct observation and expressive color to create representations that juxtapose planes of flattened space with domestic and natural objects, conveying depth and plays of light. He is interested in giving presence, depth, and space to small, seemingly insignificant, ephemeral things such as flowers, bugs, or interior scenes of domestic life.

How do you capture all the inspiration you come across on a daily basis?

I tend to travel with a sketchbook and usually with a set of gauche paints. I try to sketch and paint on a daily basis, so keeping the tools of the trade close-at-hand is critical.

Do you do a lot of preliminary work in your sketchbook, or do you allow the piece to take shape while you're working on it?

I experiment a lot in my sketchbooks. They are a place where I try new things and techniques, some which work and some that are horrible. It's all part of learning and innovating in my art practice. The majority of my gallery paintings do not directly originate from sketchbook work, but the sketchbook work influences them, without a doubt.

How have the contents of your sketchbooks changed throughout time?

Over time, I've found that I worry less about what I produce in the sketchbooks. They are for me only. (And for my kids when I die.) The less precious I am with them the more precious they become to me.

Standing out is the new fitting in

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 14:19:28 GMT

I am thrilled to bring you our next show, Standing Out is the New Fitting In. These are works that are large, bold, and energetic. Tina and I installed the show this week and there was an instant wave of positivity that swept through the gallery. Whether you walk in and see Kristi Kohut’s stunning crystal-infused pieces or Stephanie Henderson’s glossy color bombs, a smile will creep across your face.

So why the name of the show? Well, first and foremost, these are pieces that command your attention and stand out compared to neutral works. It’s also, a show that feels very “me” as a curator. When I was beginning this gallery, many people had ideas for what this place could be. All of their comments and advice were well-meaning and it was easy to see their vision but it wasn’t the gallery of beauty and inclusivity that I was trying to create. After a year of the gallery being open, I feel we have truly hit our stride. This is the gallery I always wanted to create and a show that represents that. I’m happy to say we’re a gallery that stands out rather than fits in with the standard gallery mold.

Another reason this is an exciting show is that we are introducing several new artists. I think you will truly love the work of Roma Osowo , Jessi Raulet , Stephanie Henderson , Jenna Brownlee and Fares Micue . Additionally, you’ll see the works of favorites Kristi Kohut , Katie Craig , Betsy Enzensberger and Shannon Coppage .

We’ll continue to have limited hours where visitors are able to see the show. Additionally, you are able to see everything in the gallery from the comfort of your own home with our show page live on September 11 . I hope you love the show as much as I do, and stay healthy and safe, friends.

Sketchbook peek: Rebecca Stern

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 14:21:53 GMT

We love helping people fall in love with art—the transition from our wall to a client’s home is such a fun one to see.

But, as we’ve been thinking about what we love about a certain artist’s technique or aesthetic, it’s also a lot of fun to see the behind-the-scenes progress—how did such a beautiful piece come to be? Did the artist create as they go? Did they already have the color palette and composition in mind? I thought it’d be fun to highlight a few artists’ process by sharing a peek of their studio sketchbooks! Seeing a collection of their quick sketches shows how their style is truly unique and natural to them. Kicking it off with Rebecca Stern from Stamford, Connecticut—thanks for sharing, Rebecca!

How do you capture all the inspiration you come across on a daily basis?

I use my phone a lot as a means of keeping a record of things on the go—photos of interesting color combinations or abstracted shadows, interesting juxtaposing shapes, etc. I also take notes of thoughts, ideas or emotional responses while I'm away from the studio. I use these two modes of capturing inspiration as a kind of "idea bank" I can pull from while I'm working.

Do you do a lot of preliminary work in your sketchbook, or do you allow the piece to take shape while you're working on it?

All of my work is completed without any premeditation. Because of that, my sketchbooks serve as a place of experimentation without the pressure of turning it into "something good." Playing around with different tools, layering of materials, color combinations and mark making are what fill the pages.

How have the contents of your sketchbooks changed throughout time?

They have become much more layered and complex. I used to try to complete a sketchbook page before moving on to a new page. But I now realize that my sketchbook is a space where I can be nonlinear. I can make a big swath of color on one page and jump back to an old page to glue on a piece of fabric. I will often look through my sketchbooks if I'm stuck while working on a painting, and inevitably I come upon a page that inspires my next move in the painting, but also a page that I see that needs something else.

Iowa artist opportunity: bus shelter artwork

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 15:08:30 GMT

We’re inviting artists to submit an original design to be placed on a bus shelter within Des Moines’ Roosevelt Cultural District. There are two bus shelters available and one artist could be selected for both or an individual artist for each shelter. Artwork should illuminate the rich cultural tapestry of the neighborhood. The Roosevelt Cultural District put together the following potential inspiration for the shelters: whimsical, colorful, recreational activities for both the neighborhood and schools, diversity of individuals, geographical beauty with mature trees and flowers, connectivity—both as a gathering place for eating, shopping, the arts, and connecting neighborhoods. Designs may also include arches and bridges that are notable to the area. Learn more about the local district here .

View the complete RFP details here to see the details and how to submit artwork. The submission deadline is September 27.

Finding new artists inspired by the classics

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 02:25:14 GMT

I went to Iowa State University for Fine Art and had to take many art history courses and fell in love with some of the masters' work. It has helped me figure out what my favorite subject matter is, what my favorite mediums are and the style I am the most drawn to. The amazing part about artists is that they are constantly absorbing, and reflecting, new inspirations and muses. Through conversations with our artists and clients, we’ve heard a few repeated comparisons between historical painting masters and our current pieces. And they’re fun to share!

Vincent Van Gogh + Karin Olah

Van Gogh will always be one of my favorite artists. His dreamy paintings are both soothing and jarring. While he is known for making a large collection of self portraits, he is also famous for his abstracted landscapes. The landscape is seen through the eyes of the artist; it is his interpretation of the places he is painting. While he was a post-impressionist, and therefore had a very soft feel to his pieces, as does Karin Olah . Her works are a view into the way that she sees the landscape, the countryside and the homes that are planted there. While Van Gogh's work was chaotic and frightened, Olah’s is very reminiscent, cozy and lovely. They both have altered reality to show the way these places have touched them and the way they feel about them. Olah, as you can feel from her work, loves the farm and it stirs a familiar familial memory.

Andy Warhol + Stephanie Henderson

Andy Worhol is known for his pop art work; vibrant and colorful. He is known for his repetition and abstracted reality. Stephanie Henderson has the same feel about her work. It is bright and filled with color. They also have a familiar feel - like they are a scene you have seen before, just not quite in this way. Both Warhol and Henderson see life as colorful, bright and moving.

Leonardo Da Vinci + Lino Lago

Da Vinci is one of the most recognizable artists of all time. He is known for his Mona Lisa and his extensive sketches and for being the best painter of all time. His style is romantic and timeless as is Lino Lago . The underpainting is romantic and classic while the over painting is modern and contemporary, making his work an instant eyecatcher.

Jackson Pollock + Rebecca Stern

Recently we’ve worked with a client who initially mentioned his love for Jackson Pollock—the dark, rich tones and extreme movement. He isn’t naturally drawn to bright colors. We immediately paired Rebecca Stern’s artwork, comparing the earth-tones used in her palette and the dramatic movement in every paint stroke. There are many different types of abstract artists, so it’s important to make note of your favorite kind of abstracts—soft or hard lines, vibrant colors or earth-tones, multiple layers or simplistic.

When picking your next piece of art for your collection, it’s helpful to reflect on the masters and think about which ones are your favorite and why. That’s a great starting point!

How to know what art size for your space

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 17:28:15 GMT

Finding the perfect piece can be hard when you have a really small, or really large space—but once you find it the whole room is made!

The first step is always to measure the space you want to fill; edge to edge and top to bottom. I often forget to measure top to bottom and this really matters for making sure it isn’t going to be at a weird height over the back of the couch, over your bed, on your coffee table, etc.

Next, look at your surroundings and see what kind of a color palette or feel you are going for. We can help you with this part if you’re unsure what would look best with the colors you are already using in your space—just send us a message and a picture of your space! Or maybe you want to redo the room around the piece. Think about how you want the room to feel. Comfortable? Empowering? Soothing? Bold? Here's a few ideas for discovering your personal art taste along with thinking about how your art collection reflects who you are .

There is this unwritten rule that you have to have small pieces if your space is tiny; that if you put a big piece on the wall you are making the space feel smaller. This is not true at all. If you get the right piece for your space and it adds to the aesthetic feel, rather than takes away from it, you’ve made the right decision. It can almost feel like a window into another world, right there in your living room!

The opposite is also true with this unwritten rule—that you cannot decorate with smaller pieces if you have a huge space to fill. This is also not true! Gallery walls are always a good idea, and that way you can include a little bit of everything you love!

And, finally, after evaluating your wall size and how you want the room to feel, you find an art piece that you love! I know this sounds so much easier than it is to just pick one. But knowing the dimensions you have to work with and the feel you want to communicate in the room, it's a lot easier to narrow down the options. And, as always, we're happy to help —let us know your dimensions, aesthetic and budget and we'll put together a few ideas for a starting point. And, sometimes, it's fun to just break the rules ...

Framing art prints (on a budget)

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 15:55:02 GMT

Framing an art print can really make-or-break the print and can be so hard to pick the best one.

Framing can also be really expensive, but here are a couple cheaper, and easy-to-find, options! The very cheapest route is finding a thrifted or vintage frame at your local second-hand store. This being said, you might have to search a little longer than just popping by the store once and finding exactly what you need.

If you find yourself too impatient for the thrifting process (like myself), I’m a sucker for Target frames . They are often general sizes however, so sometimes they’re a little difficult to find exactly what you need—but they are simple and minimal.

Another great framing source is Michaels —they have a wide range from minimal to elaborate frames. Floating frames are my current favorite way to hang up my art at home.

If you are looking for a little more quirky, creative way of hanging your prints, Michaels also provides more "DIY" options. I picked out a cute little laser cut frame that can be stained or painted however best goes with the decorations around it. I choose this specific frame, even though the print would need to be altered, because it is reminiscent of a mirror, and what confidence is seen in the way we present ourselves before anything else. It's fun to think about how a frame can complement and represent the artwork hanging inside.

Beyond frames, another idea that really pinches the pennies and is a fun option or kids rooms or play areas—using colorful Washi tape to stick the print directly to the wall. Washi tape is sticky enough to hold the piece up, but it doesn’t peel the paint when taking it back off the wall. We’ve found really fun and unique patterns at Etsy.com ! Here’s a display we put together last year for the East Village Holiday Promenade using prints and Washi tape. It's best to mixup the tape placement—corners on one print, maybe one piece on top for the other. Have fun with it!

If you’re feeling inspired, and wanting a quick wall refresh, we’re sharing a limited-time 15% off all our fine art prints with code SUMMER15 . Browse the collection here and have fun with the framing! And, as always—let us know if you have any questions along the way.

Styling Betsy Enzensberger's balloons

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 17:41:49 GMT

If you follow us on social media, I am sure you have seen Betsy’s incredible popsicles —but have you seen her balloons also made of resin and glitter? I am loving these little cuties and their playful, bubbly nature; they are an instant show stopper and conversation piece! Though, you may ask, where would you put these balloons? Well, I am glad you asked!

Kids room

These little guys are an everlasting balloon! What kid wouldn’t want this in their room or play area? It is a classy, and sassy, way of adding a little bit of the kid in the adult space, and a little bit of the adult in the kids' space. It is a classy way of making your playroom more spunky! This being said though, these are not toys, and should be hung up high and out of reach for the safety of your kids and of your art.

Office

My home office—currently my kitchen table because I live in an apartment—has to have things that inspire me around it or I lack inspiration. These adorable balloons instantly add a flare of fun and carefree spirit about them, plus they are easier to hang than any inspirational quote I’ve ever tried to put on my office wall. Little metal instruments are on the back of each balloon making them utterly effortless to hang—all you have to do is put a nail in the wall. Also, it’s a balloon so if it gets a little off kilter it just adds to the fun, playful quality of the piece. Also not pictured, each balloon has a curly ribbon tail making it even more "realistic"! If you're not a fan of the tail, it can be removed.

Gallery wall

Something I am loving right now is a mixed media gallery wall. Different textures, colors, styles all coming together to describe you and your household. All these pieces coming together to weave the tapestry of your personality, your story, your relationships with those around you and the home that you are living in.

Only four left in her collection, Betsy’s balloons can be seen here ! If there's one you particularly love, let us know and we can send you more pictures of how it's hung.

Dream clients: pop artist edition

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 14:14:47 GMT

We have way too much fun pairing artwork with our “dream clients”—clients, if they were to call us up today, that we already have a piece in mind that reflects their personality and brand. We’re thinking art day-and-night, so whether it’s while flipping through a magazine, watching the news or listening to our favorite songs, we’re pairing art with the world around us.

Beyoncé + Fares Micue

If for no other reason, Lucid Dream could be an album cover for Beyoncé. Like the contrast between the bright yellow of the dress and the deep blue of the bushes, her music contrasting between the emotion of the lyrics and vibrancy of the beats. She has a dreaminess to her aesthetic, but it does not lack in any boldness. This piece reflects her beauty and boldness as well as her independence and dreamyness.

Justin and Hailey Bieber + Hunt Slonem

Justin Bieber has been known for his way paving fashion choices from the beginning of his career and Hailey, being a model, has always been on the frontlines of fashion movements. Their clothes are vintage inspired and trendy as well as funky and playful to match their playful relationship. Hunt Slonem’s bunnies are the perfect addition to their home because they are a reflection of their spunk as well as being fashion forward. Hunt is known for his eccentric pieces and prestige; the perfect fit.

Lizzo + Kristi Kohut

Lizzo is bold and bright and beautiful and, quite frankly, Kristi Kohut’s Blooming could not be a better fit. Lizzo is not afraid to be herself, Kristi’s piece is vibrant and I can just see this piece next to Lizzo’s vanity. It is feminine and unapologetic and is an exquisite reflection of both her personality and music.

Harry Styles + Marcy Cook

Harry Styles is unapologetically himself. He is bold in his fashion and often sports a vintage and earthy motif with floral shirts and bright colored suits. Even his tattoos reflect this motif; always on brand. His music is often beachy and easy-listening but has a bit of edginess. Marcy Cooks flowers are soft and easy to look at but has an edgy side; the literal edges of the images and the hand drawn elements. The light pink of the background is romantic, like much of Harry’s music, and the flowers are soft and dreamy.

Maddie & Tae + Karin Olah

Maybe this one is a little too on the head, but I love the idea that Maddie & Tae would have this gorgeous little barn hanging up in their homes or recording studio! Karin Olah works in the feeling of memories as well as a tie to home. I couldn’t think of a better description of country music; tugging on your heartstrings while reminding you of where you came from. This piece, specifically, has a beautiful combination of the earthy greens of the rolling hills and the bright pinks of the sun setting on the dreamy field. This really reflects the combination of country and pop that Maddie & Tae are known for, as well as showing off both sides of them —spunky and girly as well as country queens.

Art in the home: Des Moines collector

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 17:41:22 GMT

We circled back with a local collector who purchased a Kevin Brent Morris beetle and we asked her why she was drawn to the piece. Meet Lily C. from Des Moines! Within the last few months, she's also purchased an Elisa Sheehan and Karin Olah . Her original art collection is growing and lovely!

Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

I have three main reasons why it is important for me to have art in my space. First, my parents’ house is filled with art, so I’ve been surrounded by art since I was born. It never occurred to me to live somewhere without art all over the walls. Second, I live in an apartment where I can’t paint the walls, if I didn’t have art I’d live in a blank white box. That would be awful. Third, the art in my apartment makes my apartment feel like my home. The first thing I did when I moved here was hang things on the wall. I didn’t feel truly at home until the pictures of my friends and family, the pieces of art I had found or been gifted, and the hundreds of postcards I’ve collected were on the walls.

What drew you to Kevin Brent Morris' artwork?

There are a few things that appealed to me about my Kevin Brent Morris’ piece. The first was the frame. I love ornate frames; they are one of my favorite things about art museums. Next, I really liked the idea that something I would find so horrifying in real life (I am generally not a fan of bugs) could be transformed into something so beautiful in a painting. And, I think the yellow magnolias in the background provide such an interesting contrast to the beetle.

When did you start collection original artwork?

The first piece of original art I ever purchased was in college. I spent the summer of 2016 interning at an art gallery in Cape Cod and one night we were hanging up a show for an artist based out of Boston named Brigid Watson. The pieces were all 6 x 6” canvases inspired by song lyrics. My piece is called “Send Me Photos and Souvenirs,” and the moment I saw it I fell in love with the colors and the texture. I still remember how exciting it was to put the little red sticker on the wall next to my painting and the painting will always be a great memory of a truly wonderful summer.

What would be in your ideal art collection? Or what artists are on your collector's "wish list"?

My completely unrealistic ideal collection would include a seascape by J.M.W. Turner and a poppy by Georgia O’Keeffe. More realistically, I’d really love to start adding some larger pieces to my collection. Most of the pieces I have now are pretty small, which is fun because I can be creative and move them around every few months, but I’d love to have one (or two or three) big stand out piece.

Artist spotlight: Kate Blomquist

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 12:39:56 GMT

Kate Blomquist is multifaceted. She has beautiful metal pieces, covered in beautiful, glacial strokes, but also creates short films chasing light patterns and painted film. Her work is fascinating and stunning and one of a kind, and so is she! I had the honor of being able to ask her a couple questions about herself and her work:

What are three things you can’t go a day without?

Well, I can get by without much, but things that give me a lot of joy everyday are a good cuddle with my cat, Max, a hot cup of coffee, and some alone time in the studio.

Why do you love what you do?

Making things with your hands is a very special practice. I love being able to create beauty with simple materials.

How did you start making art?

I started being interested in making when I was really young. I have a very vivid memory from when I was around 5, I shared a room with my older sister and I wanted to use her colored pencils without her knowing, so I very carefully and gently shaded a sheet of paper with each pencil. I layered the colors, using every pencil in the box. The paper came alive with my little hatch marks.

Give us a rough outline of your process. What makes it easier/more difficult?

My process is most strongly connected to mood and experimentation. I have a certain feeling I want to express, and I like to play with the different materials in my studio to create it. This can be exciting because I feel open to possibility and finding new ways of making, but also its difficult because you have to accept that things don't always work and the search for creating a certain mark, color, light—it can be endless.

What is your biggest inspiration? Where do you draw inspiration from?

I try to zero-in on the small everyday moments that ignite my creativity. Right now, the shifting daylight hours are really inspiring. The sun breaking across the horizon is one of the most beautiful things, and I try to absorb the warmth of sunlight into my studio process.

What advice would you give yourself as a young artist if you could go back and talk to her?

Lately I’m really feeling the Martin Scorsese quote, “The most personal is the most creative.” Being open and willing to share your vulnerabilities is a powerful strength as an artist.

Central Iowa artist opportunity

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 02:10:19 GMT

Two large, digital screens are being installed on DMACC’s Urban Campus as part of the new Student Life Building and we are inviting central Iowa artists to submit a piece of artwork to be showcased in the “digital gallery.” Twelve to twenty-four artists will be selected. View the complete RFP here to see the details and how to submit artwork.

How to support art during a summer without the arts festival

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 18:02:02 GMT

What a year it has been! We got the news that the Des Moines Arts Festival is canceled this year and, though I am in support of the decision, it still makes me sad. It has been a staple part of my summer for as long as I can remember and even served as my inspiration to read Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon as I looked to some of the festival's incredible artists for my own work.

Here are some ways that I will be supporting the arts even in the midst of a pandemic:

1. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park: We are so fortunate to have an incredible sculpture park here in Des Moines. Take the time to walk around the sculpture park or even sit down and enjoy some coffee or tea from your favorite coffee shop and take in the beauty around you. Bring a sketch book along and draw some of your favorite pieces or journal about why you love that piece so much. Get out your phone and do a little research about the piece that you are inspired by; learn about the artist and what they are saying with this piece. You can even listen to the Spotify Playlist the Arts Festival put together while you’re doing it. It features music from artists who have performed at past Arts Festivals.

2. Social media: Start following those artists' work you have been dreaming about. Look more artists up and start following them. Follow those who inspire the artists that inspire you; you are making a family tree of inspiration! Repost some of their work that you are a fan of and show this incredible artist off to your friends.

3. Watch Films: If you have participated in watching the incredible films produced for the Arts Festival you are still able to watch them on Vimeo this year. To make sure you watch the films you are wanting to see, make sure you check out the schedule and have your popcorn ready!

4. Purchasing work: For a lot of these artists, the arts festival is a major source of income. If you have an artist that you are a big fan of, find a way to still support them! Request commission work, purchase some of the pieces that they were going to sell at the Arts Festival, or, like I said before, just share their work via social media. Who knows, maybe your Great Aunt Louise has been looking for something just like that for her entryway!

5. Come walk around the gallery: Lastly, come visit us! We would be more than happy to have you come into the gallery and take a peak at all the incredible artists we have on our walls.

#LetsAddArt Anthropologie

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 15:48:24 GMT

I’m a big fan of Anthrolopologie’s bold color use in their furniture, home accents and accessories. While I was recently perusing their website, I couldn’t help but notice there were a few bare walls that could really benefit from the addition of original art. So, I decided it was time to again highlight our #LetsAddArt series!

Dining Room + Lino Lago

I love the setup of this dining room. I love everything about it—the walls are just a little bare. Everything nods toward vintage and modern simultaneously, which couldn't be a better description of Lago’s Untitled (Ingres) . The small details in Ingres’ dress at the bottom edge of the painting reflects the etching in the vase on the table as well as pulls both the blue of the wall with the pink of the chairs and the light fixture with the modern foreground element.

Bedroom + Taelor Fisher

This whole room is an orange dreamsicle dream come true. I chose this piece by Taelor Fisher to pull in the color of the wall and the headboard and the natural tones of the nightstand and florals. It is energetic but is familiar and homey. I love the way the colors and shapes in the painting reflect its environment.

Living room + Logan Ledford

This couch is spunky and fun while being timeless and sophisticated. Someone with this beauty in their home more than likely is someone like Logan Ledford , the artist of this masterpiece, bright and bold. This statement piece would be an excellent addition to the sitting room to wrap in the love of patterns and textures while adding bright pops of energy to the space.

Bedroom + Allison James

I love the bold rug and pillows in this space. The color of the comforter and the walls are two of my favorites—the way they compliment each other and the creamy white headboard poking out from behind the pillows is absolutely dreamy. This space needed a funky and sophisticated piece of art to wrap it all in bow.

Art in the home: Houston, Texas

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 15:41:22 GMT

We circled back with a collector who purchased an Angela Chrusciaki Blehm original and we asked her why she was drawn to the piece. Meet Allison O. from Houston, Texas!

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

AO: Art silently sets the tone of the room. It reveals a little bit about the person who lives or work in the room, so choosing and displaying art, I think is deeply personal. Art is often a conversation starter, it greets you, it’s typically the first thing one notices in a room. For this reason, I like to chose art with a story. When I see it in my own home, I am reminded of the story, and when someone new comes over and perhaps asks about a piece, I get to share the story. The closeness art creates is very unique.

LL: What drew you to Angela Chrusciaki Blehm's artwork ?

AO: Her boldness and use of color. I first saw one of her “Kiss Me” sculptures at my friend Kathleen’s home and fell in love. I also love anything black-and-white; it is the chicest, most timeless color combination, so when her black-and-white bow sculpture became available, I jumped on it.

LL: What types of art do you most enjoy?

AO: love the mix and feel that the way art is paired—with other art, furniture, and textiles—is art itself. In our bar, I have a very traditional landscape painting (by my grandfather) next to a pair of acrylic cubes by Klash Inside. So I truly can’t pick one type.

LL: When did you start collecting original artwork?

AO: My grandfather was a painter, so I have always been surrounded by original artwork. I loved visiting his make-shift studio in the attic of my grandparents Brooklyn home. He painted mostly landscapes as well as some portraits. When we moved from New York City to Houston a year ago, I had some of his paintings reframed and love being able to see more of them now that we have more space. I also have a few pieces by friends of my grandfather’s that are really special and also quite different from one another.

LL: What would be in your ideal art collection? Or, what artists are on your collector’s “wish list”?

AO: A Natasha Law painting is highest on my list—one, because her paintings are so beautiful and two, because they remind me of the friend who introduced me to her work, and the many many happy times we’ve had together.

Judging a book by its cover

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 13:57:40 GMT

One of the better parts of quarantine has been an increase in the amount of time I can read—and I am burning through books left and right. My dear friend and realtor, Sara Hopkins mentioned that she loved the cover of Untamed by Glennon Doyle and that it reminded her of an artwork by Kristi Kohut—well Sara, I love the way your mind works! Let’s pair books and art for this blogpost; two of my favorite things!

Untamed by Glennon Doyle and Butterfly Blooming, Kristi Kohut

Untamed has been the book that my friends and I have discussed during quarantine. As with many books there were parts I connected with, and many I didn’t but I think the overall message of living a life that is most true and wonderful to you (outside of other people’s expectations) is an important one. The cover has the most beautiful swirl of texture, bright colors, and a good dose of glitter. Kristi’s bold colors , touch of glitter and kaleidoscope image seems to fit right in. Plus the neon frame is the perfect unexpected choice that aligns right with the author’s idea of thinking outside the box and living a life without barriers.

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and Valley Layers, Karin Olah

I’ll be honest, I’m just on the library waitlist for this one (Do you all use OverDrive and your local library’s app? It’s amazing.) but many of my friends and my husband have read this book. It’s set in the very rural country of North Carolina and, I’ve been told, has beautiful descriptions of nature in the Carolinas. Part mystery, part love letter to the south’s landscape—I am very excited to get my hands on this book. Karin Olah’s Valley Layers is a similar tribute to southern landscape and feels like it could be the cover itself.

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling and Comet, Rachel Walter

This is the book I go back to again and again when I need a “reading refresh.” Do you have a book you go back to when you need to fall in love with reading again and you’re in a rut? It’s not my favorite book of all time—that’s The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo—but it’s the perfect mix of creative, beautifully written, and a speed read that gets me in the right mindset for the next book. I read it recently again while I was in my own quarantine rut and it was just the soothing balm to my soul that I needed. I instantly loved Rachel Walter’s Comet when it walked into the gallery, and I think partly because it reminds me of magic and that wonderful Hogwart’s Great Hall ceiling

Beach Read by Emily Henry and Silver Linings Rainbow, Betsy Enzensberger

This book gives you a bit more than your idea of a “beach read.” It feels weightier but gives you that same wonderful feeling of speeding through a book and the perfect mix of happy and sad that you finished a book you liked. It follows two writers over a summer long challenge and is all about second chances. Betsy’s melting popsicles have always given me that summer feeling of a delicious (and beautiful) popsicle that you can still save and eat while it’s beginning to melt. They’re both all about summer and second chances.

Sure, you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover but I have found people can fall in love with artwork for a myriad of reasons and one of those might just be it reminds you of a favorite book. That’s the wonderful thing about artwork—you can connect with it for so many reasons.

Cohesive pairings

Tue, 26 May 2020 19:56:03 GMT

One of the main questions we receive the most is, “How do I expand my collection with different artists and still have it go together?” I made a little IGTV video in my own home during quarantine to show my most recent purchase and what I consider when I am adding new works to my collection.

But here’s the TLDR version; first, I think it’s okay if a collection of artwork doesn’t “go” together—buy what you love. Second, if you really do want it to feel cohesive then follow the idea that artwork in the same room can share some of the same colors, shapes, patterns, or even just framing. Having something in common from piece to piece will help a collection in the same room feel cohesive.

I’ve also put together a few different pairings that I think look beautiful together.

Taelor Fisher, Collect and Gather and Lino Lago, Fake Abstract (Ingres)

I would love to see these two paired in a preppy room full of light blues and ginger jars. Here their common denominator, of course, is that perfect shade of pink. They also are representational but share the fact that neither are a straight forward still-life or portrait. Each artist has their own unique take on the genre and they would like beautiful paired in the same room.

Marcy Cook, Red and Andrea Ferrigno, Circulation

Again, these two share a common color with that bold red but are two completely different styles. Don’t be afraid to pair an abstract with a beautiful floral piece in the same vicinity. The colors work together but it’s more than that. Andrea’s energetic style compliments Marcy’s organic floral mixed media bouquets.

Allison James, Downtown/Down Right and Rachel Walter, Blue Sky and Elisa Sheehan, Indigo Cluster

Now, let’s look at a cluster of 3 small works that give you the impact of a large piece without the price tag. Here we have a variety of mediums that are cohesive through color, mixed media and movement of the artwork. The clusters of eggshells, groupings of clouds, and patterns in Allison’s piece all keep your eyes moving throughout the artworks.

And finally, let’s look at the current gallery wall we have installed. You have over 15 artists represented in this gallery wall and yet it feels cohesive thanks to similar colors, patterns, media, and framing. Keeping the framing to three or fewer types of framing is a simple way to make a large grouping of artwork to stay united even though there are several types of artwork and artists represented.

Artwork can be paired in a variety of ways even if the only common denominator is your love of each piece. Growing a collection that builds a “conversation” with the artwork around it can happen through many different factors—framing, media, color, energy, movement, pattern or style. We curate work and artists throughout our roster who have work that compliment each other well so that each year you can come back to our gallery and find a new work to fall in love with that will work perfectly in your collection.

Quarantine Creations: Jimmy Navarro

Tue, 26 May 2020 18:08:41 GMT

It’s been a tough season for artists all around the world—both financially and creatively—and we’re working hard to support them during this time. With that in mind, we’re working with local artist Jimmy Navarro on Quarantine Creations as part of a larger series—a commission that will bring joy into your home and help you remember this strange time in years to come. If you remember, he's the artist we recently worked with on the downtown Des Moines prints !

Jimmy creates original paintings using oil and acrylic paint. He specializes in home portraits, pets and travel locations/landscapes. Made at home while in Quarantine, of course, he works from a photograph to create a unique, vibrant painting. Two sizes available as part of our Quarantine Creations series:

8 x 10" canvas, $250
11 x 14" canvas, $475

Let us know if you’re interested in a Quarantine Creation! We’ll get you on Jimmy’s list, collect the photo you'd like him to use and it should be finished within a month’s time.

Introducing Karin Olah

Mon, 18 May 2020 20:14:01 GMT

It seems a little late to the party, since you've already seen (and fallen in love) with her work over the last few weeks ... But, we want to give Karin a proper introduction as a new artist on our roster! Karin Olah is an East Coast native who studied both fine art and fine fashion.

She combines textiles and fabrics with graphite and paints to form quilts of landscapes, seascapes and abstracts. Every piece has an extra layer of depth because textiles rest on top of the exquisite paintings and give it a homey and relatable feeling.

The layers of fabric stir the memories of an old quilt and the paintings make new of gorgeous lands filled with dreamy colors. Karin uses her art to reveal the importance of the marshy wetlands and the benefits they have to the land around them including a reduction of flooding and carbon in the atmosphere. Her stunning work is made for artistry and to make a statement and there could be nothing more beautiful.

10 things I've learned from one year in business

Wed, 13 May 2020 13:31:51 GMT

It’s been one year since the gallery opened and what a year it has been! Adding a retail arm to my company has taught me so much and although I had had my art advisory company 7 years before opening, in many ways it felt like I was starting for the first time. With that in mind, I put together a list of 10 things I have learned from the gallery in the past year.

1. There are too many talented people in the world to have to work with jerks. We say this over and over again. Whether it’s artists, designers, or anyone we collaborate with—we want to work with people who have a passion for their work, love what they do, and are kind. Those are the people who we want to promote and further their careers and we ultimately have the most successful projects with. Our shared respect and ability to collaborate always shines through to the final project.

2. Create the type of company you want to run not the one people think you should. Early on, when I decided I was going to start a gallery, I took a lot of meetings. I asked people I truly respect what they thought about my idea and for feedback. Ultimately, it has become clear that their vision of what my business could be and how it thrives today are completely two different things. I don’t fault them for their advice—I asked for it! But the things they advised me against—like committing to representing at least 50% women artists—are now important hallmarks of my business that set us apart.

3. Don’t be afraid to go against the grain. Some people may say to you, “oh that’s not how the industry does it,” about whatever idea or service you may offer—and then you have to ask yourself if that’s a good thing or not. The times we have gone against the industry grain are the times that we have set ourselves apart for our clients. They take notice when we are trying to create a better level of service for them and it pays off.

4. The extras matter. Speaking of taking notice, our clients see that we believe that details and extras matter. For example, we have to wrap each piece of artwork we send or deliver. This protects the artwork, of course, but there’s no reason it can’t be beautiful. We want the unwrapping and experience of the artwork delivery to feel like a gift. We hand-write thank you notes. We create a relationship with our clients, installing the artwork if needed, and following up after so they know how much we care and appreciate the sale.

5. Start before you’re ready and start before you’re good. This is one of my favorite sayings I turn to over and over again. Start before you’re ready and start before you’re good—because that’s how you’ll get ready and that’s how you’ll get good. With everything we do, we bring in years of experience in the art world, of course—but—we also love to take on new projects we’ve never done before. This is how we have grown the business so quickly because we have been willing to live in the discomfort of figuring things out as we go.

6. Never stop learning. One lesson leads to the next and starting before you’re ready, means you have to be willing to learn. We spend a lot of time learning, researching, and honing our craft. We want to be the best and that means we need to continue to educate ourselves about best practices. It also means making mistakes from time to time, owning up to them, and learning from them. Mistakes have been made this year but we commit to learning from them and not letting them happen again.

7. Honesty and integrity are everything. Without these things, you will lose. Doing the right thing may be the harder route from time to time, it may cost more money, or even some opportunities but ultimately you’ll never regret it. It may be a month from now or 10 years from now but it always catches up with you if you forfeit your integrity.

8. Don’t equate hard with bad. Year one of a business—or even year eight of a business—is going to be hard. You’ll come across issues, opportunities, obstacles that you’ve never seen or done before and in some cases, the answers will be hard. Some of the most important, most fun, most rewarding things in my life are hard and they are wonderful. Dive into your business knowing things will not always come easily but hopefully, it will be worth it.

9. What starts with hard work, ends with champagne. Anyone else watching the Bulls documentary on ESPN? Michael Jordan said this to his team before a playoff game in one of the most recent episodes. With any luck, you’re going to have the opportunity to work your ass off because the opportunities won’t cease. With commitment, passion, and drive you will work hard but you will find success.

10. Don’t forget to celebrate. Speaking of champagne—take time to stop and celebrate. It’s so easy to want to keep the ball rolling when you get big wins. Even if it’s only for an hour, take time to celebrate with your teammates. It keeps the team motivated and gives you the opportunity to feel the reward of a job well done. I wish that feeling and opportunity for all small business owners.

And here’s a bonus number 11—choose your team wisely. I feel incredibly lucky to work with Tina and Aly and our incredible group of artists. Like I said, I’ve made plenty of mistakes owning a company for the last 8 years, but teaming up with those two were some of the smartest decisions I’ve ever made. I feel lucky to do the work we do with people who are as passionate about art and service as these two. People make or break your business—choose wisely. I’m lucky to say I did.

A garden inspired by fine art

Tue, 12 May 2020 13:49:30 GMT

In the summer of 2019 I worked at the marvelous PepperHarrow Farms down in Winterset, Iowa. I was there from seeding to bouquet for almost every bloom that they have available and I fell in love with plants. I love the way that they make you feel and the incredible colors they can produce, I love the sentiment different flowers have and the delicate strength of stunning blooms. There was a lot I learned while working under Jenn and Adam O’Neal, and a lot that I would still like to know. If you want to pick their brain or take a peek at some of their incredible blooms, they will be at the Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market this summer and they have classes that they host on the farm! All your gardening dreams come true.

And with that, I picked a few gallery favorites that inspire particular blooms for your garden this season. Even a garden selection needs a source of inspiration—happy planting!

Palm Beach by Hunt Slonem

Hunt Slonem is known for his vibrant neo-expressionist bunnies, butterflies and birds (say that three times fast). His focus is already on the natural so who better to pair your garden with than Hunt?

Bluestar is a stunning perennial that grows big and tall and demands attention just like your Hunt price will! But while your Hunt piece does best in the light; Bluestar wants to be a little shady, but can put up with the spotlight as long as there is plenty of rain.

Lavender is an amazing addition to any garden any time. I am a huge fan of Lavender for the color, the tiny blooms and for its natural calming fragrance. This being said, I am not the only one that loves Lavender; pollinators love them too! These are a little more difficult to grow - they like more rough soil and we here in the midwest tend to have soil a little more on the nutrient rich side, so if you find a patch of your garden that is a little less rich that would be the place to plant it.

Coneflower (or Echinacea) is a great finish off for the season! They are bright and beautiful and are one of the best flowers when it comes to attracting butterflies. These guys are also perfect for midwestern soil being that they last though even the harshest Minnisota winter and are pretty hardy in even wet/dry soil. In addition to them being beautiful and attractive to Butterflies, they also make really great tea. Echinacea can be dried in its second year of blooming and is known for its illness replusing qualities (we all need a bit of that). These beauties bloom in summer to autumn.

Falling Into Place by Rebecca Stern

Rebecca Stern uses all of my favorite colors in her work, so I am so naturally drawn to her work. This piece in particular really speaks to me. It reminds me of sunshine and birds flying and blue skies.

Bachelors Button is a great choice if you are looking to have pollinators and songbirds in your garden, as well as pulling the beautiful tones from the piece. These beauties can be a large variety of colors, but I have seen them most in a deep periwinkle blue. They’re hardy little wildflowers that are sure to catch the eye of anyone who passes them by.

Sunflowers are known for their bright, summery, feel and their huge seedbeds in the middle of their petals, but did you know that songbirds love these happy flowers as much as we do? As you may know, sunflowers bloom in late summer and even into early fall and are a great source of food for the little birds that are preparing for the cooler months ahead. These happy flowers are also heliotropic, which means as the sun moves, so do their blooms so that their faces are always toward the sun.

Fake Abstract (Ingres) by Lino Lago

Lino Lago is known for his dreamy abstract paintings with beautiful, classic looking, women hiding underneath. They are delicate and strong and classic and abstract, all wrapped in one.

The stunning blush pink foreground and romantic lacy top instantly make me think of Lisianthus. These stunning blooms are just incredible all the way around. They seem to be delicate spring flowers; with their soft, lacey edges but they bloom in the mid to late summer and can survive in the most extreme heat and humidity that our midwestern summers have to offer. And if you have been outside during the summer months, you know how strong these little beauties really are.

Ranunculus are another one of my favorite blooms. They come in a variety of colors both soft and sweet, and bold and bright; which is a great reflection of the strength and beauty in Lago's work. This is an early summer bloom and they are a little on the more difficult side to grow.

Dahlias can be big and bold, small and delicate, bright colors, soft colors, short petaled, or long petaled, and I am obsessed with every single one. They are a late summer bloom with endless bouquet potential. Dahlias are strong and can withstand a lot of summer heat. Native to Mexico and Central America they are used to the heat and actually thrive in it, but can also survive well in a mild to warmer sided climate; we are a little intense for its tubers (like a bulb for a tulip— it is their kind of seed) because of our harsh winters. Happy planting this season!

Carrie Colbert x Liz Lidgett Gallery

Wed, 06 May 2020 13:15:32 GMT

The internet is an amazing place where people who may never have met otherwise can come together due to shared passions. This is just the way we met our dear friend, Carrie Colbert. You may know Carrie from her incredible blog or Instagram page —both of which we would highly recommend—but we feel lucky to know her beyond that and her amazing creativity and generous spirit. So when we had an idea to partner with a style influencer for the gallery, Carrie was the perfect fit—she’s great to work with, has a strong sense of personal style, and she LOVES color.

For our first ever collaboration, Carrie selected around 50 works for her own virtual show from the gallery that represent her, her style, and her art collection. She truly has an incredible art collection and has works from several of our artists in her collection including Hunt Slonem, Betsy Enzensberger, Stephanie Henderson and Angela Chrusciaki Blehm! We really do have a shared passion for art and it is so fun to see the works that she chose to be a part of her collection.

Carrie and I will be talking more on Instagram live soon (details to come!) about why she chose the artwork she did, why she loves to collect art, and who she has her eye on next for her collection. Take a look at the virtual show Carrie Colbert x Liz Lidgett Gallery and you can see how well this show goes together. There is a consistent line that connects these pieces (as with all of Carrie’s style) that includes a sense of joy, and of course, all the color. #morecolorplease

Art in the home: downtown Des Moines apartment

Tue, 05 May 2020 21:54:36 GMT

We circled back with a collector who recently purchased an Allison James pair (along with a few Elisa Sheehan Kintsugi eggshells) and we asked him why he was drawn to these artists. Meet Chris B. from here in Des Moines! He continues to grow his original art collection within his downtown apartment.

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

CB: I prefer a more neutral décor, then adding depth and life to a space through the art. It is especially nice to know the backstory of a piece and to be able to incorporate that into something that resonates with me as well ... to use that story and create my own narrative. What's the story behind the story? Obviously, that's always up for each one's own personal interpretation, and that's the beauty of art.

LL: What drew you to Allison James' artwork?

CB: The main living area of my loft is pretty masculine. Therefore, I wanted my bedroom to have a more relaxing and tranquil environment, a space where I could clear my mind and exhale. Allison’s work is very bold and dynamic but also warm and personable. Almost as if you’ve watched her create the piece. She creates great statement pieces that can stand on their own but don’t overwhelm a space. But like I said before, I have a desire for my artwork to have a story, a meaning. So, I took to Google and checked out Allison's website. With her being an Atlanta based artist, that brought back some good memories for me as my sister and her husband lived in Atlanta's historic Kirkwood neighborhood in the early 2000's. It's a neighborhood that reminds me of a mix of Sherman Hills and the East Village, which is where I live. I then saw her blog post "2019: My Year, My Revolution." Some of her post paralleled my 2019 as it was without a doubt a transitional year for me as well, and I could see the reflection of that post in the artwork. Now, I have no idea what her true intentions were with the pieces, but I took the liberty to create my own interpretation and give them meaning for myself.

LL: What types of art do you most enjoy?

CB: Contemporary and abstract pieces speak to me the most. I prefer bolder colors and something that may appear a little off kilter, energy wise … like it grabs you and makes you pause.

LL: When did you start collecting original artwork?

CB: Just recently. Most of the “artwork” I’ve owned in the past were just prints. They were just décor that looked nice and filled space. However, they lacked depth. I’ve come to understand the value of having original works especially in regard to the aesthetics, originality, and of course, “the story.” In addition, I’ve gained a newfound respect for the hours, days, months, and sometimes, years, it takes an artist to produce a piece.

LL: What drew you to Elisa Sheehan's artwork?

CB: One word: Kintsugi. It's the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery by mending the areas of breakage with lacquer dusted or mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. Rather than try to disguise or conceal the flaws or worse, cast away the broken pottery, this art is about embracing those flaws and taking something that once was broken, putting it back together, and making it even more appealing and meaningful than before. It's a good way to think about ourselves as well, and if any type of art reflects me as a person, it's Kintsugi. However, most Kintsugi pieces are vases, pottery, and ceramics and not necessarily "my style." And then randomly around Christmas time, I saw a Liz Lidgett Gallery post on Instagram featuring one of Elisa's eggshells and I bought it instantly! It was perfect. The colors. The framing. And the fact that an eggshell (something even more fragile than pottery) was used just made it even more special. I've since bought 3 more and created a small grouping (pictured above).

Introducing Rachel Walter

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 13:35:07 GMT

So many exciting things are happening here at Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design and we are so excited to introduce to you a new artist we are working with! Rachel Walter is a realist artist with her head in the clouds.

Her subject of work is often focused on the sky, the stars, the clouds - anything that causes us to look up. Her work is made with layers upon layers of paint that are highly detailed and focused on making the viewer feel the mightiness of nature, and in turn, the fragility and significance of humanity. Being a Texas native, Austin skys inspire Rachel to dream and she turns that into a beautifully rendered masterpiece of light and atmosphere dancing together miles and miles from earth.

Her hope with her work is that it draws a connection between physical laws and themes such as awakening the human spirit, morality and fragility, and suffering. She wants her work to awaken an admiration and appreciation toward the cosmos and we are able to see the world through her eyes with her amazing, realist oil paintings.

Mother's Day: a gift guide

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 13:35:01 GMT

Mother's day is always a day that is really hard for me—I have an amazing mom and I want to spoil her! Let us help you out this year with a little art inspiration for your hard working mom.

Betsy Enzensberger

For the fun-loving, spunky mama there are colorful popsicles by Betsy Enzensberger . Betsy makes these good-enough-to-eat pops in all sorts of colors and filled with glitter. Sweet and filled with personality, just like your spunky mom! She even makes fun balloons that would look incredible next to her desk or in her work area because, let's be honest here, she's probably been looking at that same picture of you from halloween when you were six for way too long. Give her something else to make her think of you at work!

Andrea Ferrigno

For the nostalgic mama, A Mother's Prayer by Andrea Ferrigno . Andrea is known for her abstract statements on emotion, memories and interpretation. I love this piece because it is out of the norm for her in that it is black and white and filled with mesmerizing lines. Because it is black and white, it will go with any room that mom wants to put it in! She can put it in her blue kitchen or her yellow office or her gray powder room and it will look incredible in every single one. Your mama has been caring for you and looking after you from the moment that you two first met—let her see how much you’ve noticed.

Taelor Fisher

For the earthy mama, Stacking Stones by Taelor Fisher . Taelor made these beautiful, delicate little paintings that are perfect for any little space that your mom can find. They are simple enough that they can be placed in a gallery wall, but sweet enough that they could be displayed on their own. The colors Taelor used evokes memories of calm rivers and a steady breeze. They bring the quiet of a sweet spring day onto paper and are a great addition to a Magnolia Farms inspired garden shed, an end table next to mom's favorite chair or next to her teapot in the kitchen. These are the perfect way to let mom know she is the calm among the storm; she is someone you can count on no matter the circumstance.

Elisa Sheehan

For the mama who is also your best friend there are Kintsugi Eggshells by Elisa Sheehan . Elisa makes works that are small and easy to find a place for, but she also makes large statement pieces that mom will have a hard time not to talk about. She paints these eggshells with all different shades and colors and accents them with gold. The reason she has gold on these eggshells is based on the Kintsugi method of mending things that are broken with a beautiful and valuable metal making them more beautiful than they were before they were broken. Moms do a lot more than put bandaids on our skinned knees, they can heal wounds of the heart as well, making us more beautiful because of it.

Rachel Walter

For the mama with her head in the clouds, Blue Sky 5 by our newest artist Rachel Walter ! Rachel creates stunning realistic paintings that revolve around her love of constellations, lightning storms, sunrises and billowy, white clouds. Your dreamer mama will love the peek into a bright blue, sunny day, where anything can happen and the world is her oyster! She is a thinker, dreamer, doer and this gorgeous painting is an excellent way to show her that the sky is the limit; she can do anything she sets her mind to. She is always encouraging you, now is your chance to encourage her.

It's controversial but ...

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 13:16:29 GMT

You know, for weeks I have been planning to write a blogpost about a controversial topic—those darn “live, laugh, love” signs. How could those be controversial you may ask? Well, I wanted everyone to rip them off their walls and put real art up. I wanted you to boycott big box store art sections where they don’t attach an artist and their name to the work of art being sold. I wanted you to support art and therefore support artists and designers who create the item you’re hanging on your walls.

But here’s the thing, this pandemic has changed the world and changed me. I sat down to write about how terrible those signs are and I just can’t muster the words. If you like those signs, and they bring you joy, then keep ‘em up I say. Joy is needed right now, and you should surround yourself with the items that bring you joy. (So somehow, this post is turning back into a controversial topic because designers and artists and other galleries may disagree.) It’s just that, now more than ever, your home should be your sanctuary.

You should be able to walk into your home and have it bring you a sense of happiness and love. Your home should be the place that reflects you and your family. It should show off your love of travel or be covered in the colors you want to be around. And honestly, if those “live, laugh, love” signs are an important reminder to you, then by all means, have one in every room.

If I may though, I’d love to offer a non-judgmental alternative to those signs—why not try some original art? Whether it’s from our gallery (and of course, I hope it is) or from a local artist whose work you adore—try art first. By buying an original work of art you will simultaneously be supporting another human and their passions and also fill your blank walls with something beautiful. A double whammy of goodness and you can feel great about where your hard-earned dollars went. And speaking of those dollars, it doesn’t have to be expensive. Sure expensive is relative but you can find original work at a huge range of price points. I’ve personally purchased original work starting at $30.

So my my thoughts are not-so-controversial anymore, I just want you to live around the things and the people (at a safe-distance when needed) that you love. That’s what I think the world needs, and maybe just maybe, consider original art that makes you live, laugh and love.

Custom pieces: a reflection on what's important

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 20:26:47 GMT

I love custom work. I think it's incredible to have work on your walls that not only reflects the artist that you love, but also reflects you. Not in the sense that you can see what they are seeing in a painting that they made or a feeling from sculpture, but rather, this is something that this artist made just for you—this is part of your story. As we are spending this time secluded in our homes, what are things that are coming up as important to you? What are you missing the most? What are you enjoying the most? As an introvert, I am loving this time that I get to be by myself, and so I am finding that I really am loving that my home is a haven; that it is a safe space for me to feel calm and like I am able to be whoever I need to be. While this is said of me as an introvert, I am also well aware of how my extroverted friend is feeling in being cooped up and unable to see her friends as often as she would like to. In my home I have custom pieces that make me feel at home, whereas my friend has custom pieces in her home that are conversation starters for when she is entertaining. She is often inviting people over—or FaceTiming them now—so a conversation piece is more her style.

We are working with some pretty incredible artists and have put together a list so that we can pair you with the perfect artist to paint a portrait of your family, your furry friend, your childhood home, your favorite landmark, the place you got married, the place you were born, or whatever you can dream up! Let us know if there's something in mind that you'd love to capture in a painting to cherish forever.

Where Healing Lies: Taelor Fisher + Marcy Cook

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 15:41:47 GMT

As with all businesses, big and small, our gallery has been working diligently to adapt to the time at hand. For the first time ever, our show opening will be virtual. What exactly does this mean, you may ask? Well, as much as we want to see your smiling faces, give you hugs, and welcome you with open arms to the gallery—it’s just not the safe thing to do. But, as they say, the show must go on, and we’re thrilled to create a virtual showroom on our website for the Taelor Fisher and Marcy Cook collaborative show, Where Healing Lies.

Along with a dedicated virtual gallery on the site, we will be going live on our Instagram page with the artists at noon central while they are safe at home in their studios. We’ll be talking about their processes, their inspiration, and about the work that has been created for the show. Additionally, we're sharing an IGTV video with Taelor in her studio giving a quick "art tutorial" so you can better connect with her as an artist.

The show name, Where Healing Lies , spoke to me after seeing the name of one of Marcy’s pieces. Art can be a healing balm for so many different ailments and has the added double-meaning of the literal healing that needs to take place during this pandemic.

Taelor and Marcy’s work flow so beautifully together as they both have an element of newly interpreted botanicals. Taelor’s paintings are reminiscent of quilt work that weaves together pattern play, the built environment and florals. Marcy’s former profession as a florist is clear with her bold collage work that brings together a number of sources to create floral bouquets that you can’t believe aren’t photographs. Together their cohesion and looks belong in the same collection, apart each work is beautiful and a standout.

“Adapt” and “pivot” are going to be words for the year 2020 and we have tried to do just that to bring you this virtual show. Marcy and Taelor’s work deserves to be seen and adored and we will be doing our best to make sure that happens in-person show or not.

As always, please let us know if you’d like to be on the pre-sale list at hello@lizlidgett.com or have interest in any specific pieces. Thank you, as always, and we hope you’ll engage with our new online offerings.

Collector conversations: Nate H.

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 14:14:25 GMT

New artwork arrived to the gallery last week from Kristi Kohut and it’s just what we needed—the bright, happy colors are a joy to look at in this challenging season. We love Kristi’s bold color choices—and so do our clients. We circled back with a collector who recently purchased a Kristi Kohut original and we asked him why he was drawn to the particular piece. Meet Nate H. from here locally in Des Moines, Iowa! He continues to grow his original art collection—recently purchasing a couple Elisa Sheehan Kintsugi eggshells, as well.

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

NH: For me, having my home filled with art is necessary to provide the space with personality, to tell a story, and to make it feel like a true representation of me.

LL: What drew you to Kristi Kohut's artwork?

NH: The very first Instagram sale Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design put on featured four Kristi Kohut prints and that was my introduction to her work. I bought all four prints and have them hung together (below). Kristi often utilizes bright colors and I love the vibrant nature of her work. I tend to keep my wall colors very neutral so that the art pops. I recently moved and had a tall blank wall that was screaming for a large, special piece. I purchased Kristi’s piece Making You Smile (above); it is the perfect piece, the colors jump off the wall and it really does make me smile. This piece receives the most comments and compliments from friends and family.

LL: What types of art do you most enjoy?

NH: I am very appreciative of the art I have that is representative of family and travels. I have a beaded tapestry of the Taj Mahal that my grandfather brought back from India that I had framed when I inherited it. I also have a beautiful large gold and copper platter that my grandparents brought back from a trip from Mexico that I have always hung on the wall since I inherited it. Both my grandparents and parents have made it a tradition to purchase art as a souvenir when traveling, and I have followed in their footsteps. I am also a fan of art that uses bright color to evoke positive feelings.

LL: When did you start collecting original artwork?

NH: I started collecting original pieces as soon as I purchased my first home when I was 22. I was very lucky to have inherited pieces from my grandparents. I also received a cool sculpture my uncle that he purchased from an artist in Orange County, CA that was built from scrap metals—it is very unique and something I still proudly display in my home.

LL: What would be in your ideal art collection? Or, what artists are on your collector’s “wish list”?

NH: In just the last year, since Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design opened a physical location in the East Village, I have bought pieces from Kristi along Ashley Mary , Elisha Sheehan and Olivia Valentine . My ideal collection will continue be represented by a multitude of artists and be of various mediums. I have an appreciation for sculptural pieces and would like to start including more in my collection. I have my eyes set on a couple of Betsy Enzensberger pieces; they are so fun and unexpected! I hope to have Logan Ledford and Angela Chrusciaki Blehm represented in my collection in the next year; I love how textural Logan’s pieces are and as with other artists, I am drawn to the colorful nature of both Logan and Angela’s work.

Thank you for supporting artists!

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 15:44:05 GMT

When I was a grad student at the University of Southern California, I interned for a brief period of time for an organization called United States Artists. The organization was founded on a study conducted by the Urban Institute in 2003 that found 96% of Americans valued art in their lives, while only 27% valued artists. The organization was launched to illuminate the value of artists to American society and address their economic challenges. Although I was just a small part of the organization for a short time, it profoundly affected my career and my outlook on the arts.

It’s with this study in mind, that I want to take a moment to thank our clients . We are in the middle of an unprecedented time and you have continued to support our small business and our artists. Every purchase creates income for these artists to put food on their table, shelter overhead, and takes care of themselves and their families.

We need art now more than ever. Can you imagine being safe in your home for several weeks without art on your walls? Without music to listen to? Without tv shows and movies and Netflix? It’s all art—made by artists—that’s making your time at home more enjoyable. By buying a piece of artwork, you’re making it so that our small business can live to fight another day, and these artists can survive and thrive to create another day.

Your purchase is more than just a beautiful way to decorate your home or office—it’s supporting a small business, our families, and our artists. Your dollars act as a vote for the kind of world you want to see. Thank you for supporting artists—now more than ever.

Stephanie Henderson: a proper introduction

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 14:49:40 GMT

We are so excited to announce that we have a new artist in the gallery! Stephanie Henderson is a Georgia native who has always loved making art, but didn’t start out thinking that was her calling. Her modern, abstract pieces are the perfect combination of energy and calm in that the shapes she uses are familiar and comforting, but she often uses fun, vibrant colors.

Each piece is, firstly, an exploration in color—she loves experimenting with the way that colors bounce off one another! She pulls inspiration from outdoors and seeing the way colors naturally play with one another by using harsh, defined lines, she allows them to say what they need to say on their own—no explanation needed.

We are overjoyed to bring in another amazing female artist and look forward to showing off her incredible work as soon as our doors open up again!

Home tour inspiration

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 14:08:37 GMT

With the extra time at home this month, you may be noticing your blank walls a little more than usual. Follow Liz Lidgett, gallery owner, and Tina Ehrlich, Director of Operations, through their home tours to see different ways they display artwork in each room. The best way to get inspiration for your own home is by seeing new ideas!

Follow Tina through her home tour! As a new homeowner, she works hard to balance her artwork budget—a combination of thrifted ideas and purchasing original artwork.

How to support your favorite artists while quarantined

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 20:18:25 GMT

Social media is such a gift. We live in a time that we can be so connected with one another and still be keeping our social distance. While I have plenty of qualms with social media (and how much I myself use it), it is a magnificent tool that can be used for so much more than just sharing what we ate for dinner and how adorable our pets are.

1. Sharing art you love via social media and giving them credit

A great way to show a little love is through your Instagram/Facebook story! There is a little button along the bottom of every instagram post that looks like a paper airplane. If you push this button it should ask who you want to send it to, and give you the option to share it to your story. So find your favorite artists' Instagram and post your favorite images from their feed on your story and tell all your followers why you love them so much.

If you already have a piece by an artist, post pictures of it up in your home! If the image is far enough away you can even make it a double and promote two of your favorites at once.

2. Buying their work via online

This is 2020, there are so many ways to buy things these days. We are more than happy to work with you to purchase the piece you have been dreaming about while we are both in the comfort (and safety) of our own homes! In the coming weeks, we are working to make all artwork available to purchase online—the option to immediately add it to your cart and check-out. Look for those changes to come!

Buying smaller pieces is also incredibly helpful. If you have a little bit of a smaller art budget at the moment, a lot of our incredible artists make small works as well! Elisa Sheehan has gorgeous, hand-painted eggshells and we have stunning little 11 x 7.5" originals by Taelor Fisher .

3. Get a piece commissioned

You can also commission a unique, custom piece! Give them something to work on and be excited about while they are in quarantine. We are very excited about the artists we are pairing with currently to do some amazing custom made pieces and we would be happy to get the ball rolling if you have another artist that you were dreaming of having a commission piece from—you just let us know .

These are scary times, but we are filled with hope for what is going to come in the wake of this chaos. Thank you for walking alongside us and supporting us amidst the pandemic. Take care of each other and stay healthy!

Share your blank wall

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 20:48:15 GMT

With the extra time at home this month, you may be noticing your blank walls a little more than usual. If you send a picture our way, we’ll share our art suggestions! Absolutely obligation-free, we’ll digitally place artwork on the wall for you to see how it transforms the space.

Last week, we received a slew of room types—bedrooms, dining rooms, living rooms, you name it—in all different styles.

We love seeing how artwork changes the feel of a room. Email us a picture of your blank wall (a phone picture is all we need), and we’ll get back to you with ideas within 24 hours!

How we "social distance"

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 15:32:56 GMT

I’ve always loved this quote but it feels like more than creating the future right now, we need to protect it. These are strange (and scary) times for us small business owners—and, really, everyone. We both need to operate as usual to continue to bring in an income and distance ourselves to protect our community. So how can we do both? For now, we have closed the gallery to be by appointment only and are only taking on jobs where we can continue to distance ourselves from others. We are taking it week by week and will let you know as things change. And, as always, you can still see all available artwork on our website! We will continue to ship artwork as long as shipping agencies are up and running.

Yesterday, we practiced “social distancing” by painting an interior mural for a client in an empty building as they still finish up construction.

As many of our murals do, this one started with an original design we created and a projector to trace the design onto the wall. And, after about seven hours of our own quarantine together, Tina and I finished the mural and are thrilled with how it turned out. We also really loved the chance to take a moment of quiet, step away from our phones and just paint—no pandemic updates and no news headlines. If you're looking for a zen way to spend your time at home, we highly recommend picking up a paintbrush.

As you can imagine, this is an incredibly challenging time for artists. As advocates for our gallery artists, we're going to work even harder to continue to support their work in the coming weeks which allows them to provide for their families.

During this strange time, we’ll also be using our social and digital channels in a more creative way to share more about the artwork and gallery artists . We’d love to interrupt your daily COVID-19 news updates with beautiful art—doing my best to spread a little more beauty around the world in these uncertain times. If you’re not already, follow us on Instagram and look for new twists on our social updates in the coming weeks.

For all small businesses, this is a difficult and uncertain time. Thank you so much for your continued support. And, please— send us a message if you’d like to still come in this week to see a piece of art by appointment, or have us deliver a piece you’ve had your eye on.

How to clean your original artwork

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 19:34:01 GMT

What you'll need:

1. A new, soft, make up brush or toothbrush

2. Cotton swabs

3. Warm water

4. Clean rag

What to do:

Take the piece off the wall, if it makes you more comfortable, and set it on a steady table. If this piece is covered in glass, use a cotton cloth and window cleaner. Spray the window cleaner on the cloth—rather than the glass directly—and wipe the glass clean. If the piece has a frame but no glass, use a damp, clean, cotton cloth and wipe it clean while avoiding the art that it surrounds.

Start with a soft makeup brush that has not been previously used for makeup and dust off the top layer of your artwork. Be very gentle. If that doesn’t seem to be doing the trick, grab a damp, clean, soft rag and wipe the surface gently. Use cotton swabs or cotton balls to get the little nooks and crannies.

If you feel like you still need a little extra muscle feel free to reach out to us or stop by!

Dress like your favorite piece of art

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 19:33:05 GMT

We love being in the East Village—and lifting up our nearby neighbors. We can start the day with a cup of coffee at Dreiberge , swing by Clyde's Fine Diner for lunch and finish the day with a drink at Peace Tree . Beyond the food and drink scene, there are beautiful clothing shops within a few blocks here—Dornink Couture, Velvet Coat, Aimee and so many more. For a fun idea this spring season, we're thinking about how we can dress like our favorite pieces of art here at the gallery! So, I've picked just three art pieces I love and three stores that I'm positive I could find an ensemble that makes me feel like I've walked right out of the painting myself.

Taelor Fisher + Preservation

Untitled (Eucalyptus) by Taelor Fisher is one of my favorite pieces—of the moment. The soft, subtle colors and exuberant, lively shapes make for a really visually interesting work of art! The shop that I recently chose to pair with it reflects that feeling to a tee. Preservation is a gorgeous little shop in the East Village filled with both vintage and new staple fashion. They excel in simple staples for your closet that have a trendy flare and a timeless aire. It was hard to choose just one outfit from these gals! These effortless accessories with a fun pair of repaired military trousers, basic white tennies and a funky top completely mimic the piece. The neutral colors beautifully represent the calming nature of the piece and the feeling of foliage that Taelor subtly embodies.

Kevin Brent Morris + MARNe

Kevin Brent Morris’ Acinaces Laceratus on Magnolia Blossoms is another one of my favorites. The use of exquisite blooms and jaw-droppingly intricate bugs is an instant show stopper. MARNe is a boutique that supports brands that really put thought and effort into what they are making. Everything in store is fairtrade and vegan. I chose bright gold accessories to mock the elaborate framing Morris is so known for and does a particularly fantastic job with on this piece. These pieces are strong and bold, but not so very much that they distract from the gorgeous, floral print.

Olivia Valentine + Fontenelle Supply Co.

Olivia Valentine is an amazing artist that works in multimedia; embroidery, photography and memories. The local shop I chose to pair with her is Fontenelle Supply Co . Fontenelle is a Midwestern-born gang that has a high appreciation for the American Heritage and American-made goods. The olive chinos and striped, short sleeved button-down pull from the green thread Olivia uses. The base outfit is fashion forward, but also is ready for adventure at any moment. The belt, shoes, and mug are a waxed, natural leather, to reflect the outdoorsy nature of the piece. The paired jacket is the color of the bright, autumn field and Olivia Valentine is local herself so including their DSM hat was a no-brainer. Many of her back pieces have essences of home—no matter how far they go, no matter how far she goes, she will always hold a bit of home.

#5WomenArtists

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 14:59:10 GMT

Can you name 5 women artists? That is the question NMWA has been asking since 2016.

Their campaign has been supporting amazing women who are using their art as their voice all over the world. They have focus on key issues like immigration, racial justice, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights and climate change, among many others.

We have so many amazing woman artists represented in our gallery, it was hard for us to choose just five to highlight, but we're excited to share this handful that we feel are truly using their artwork to communicate a powerful message.

Betsy Enzensberger

Betsy is best known for her fun and spunky, resin popsicles and balloons. She told us that she very specifically does not touch on the key issues, but rather focuses on joy and nostalgia—which is a key issue if you ask me. We have grown so tired and sad, and being able to look back on a time where there were popsicles and summer sunshine and grass between our toes is very important.

“Do you remember spending summers barefoot, with the warm sun shining on your back, skipping through the cool spray of the sprinklers? How about hearing that familiar jingle of the ice cream truck, then racing to the street as the music rang louder? Sticky hands. Blue tongues. Sweet treats. Oh joy!

You’ll never see me go into a deep explanation of my work or add any sort of political, racial, gender, immigration issues to the meaning. I love to talk about the grueling process, but my intentions are quite simple."

"In a world where the daily news makes you tremble in fear and the effects of social media on your own ego are a daily concern, I like to remind people to be happy. With bright colors, sparkly glitters, magical pearls and shiny resin, my work creates a sense of positivity. If you identify with the ice pop shape, the feelings go deeper into joy and nostalgia, while remembering the days when life was simpler."

"I recently had a solo show in Hamburg. It was my first exhibit in Germany and I had no idea what to expect. Would they like my work? Is it too colorful? Will they take me seriously? Have they seen it before?

The weather was cool and gloomy. It even rained a bit on opening night. While chatting with the locals at the reception, I noticed that each and every person commented that my work reminded them of their summer vacation, or their favorite treat as a child, or that it just made them happy to look at my work during a difficult workday. I immediately realized that I had achieved my ultimate goal; I have brought this group of people joy! By the end of the reception I had sold the entire exhibit. This just goes to show how powerful joy can be.”

Jehra Patrick

Jehra Patrick is an excellent example of an amazing woman artist using her art as her voice. She is not going to shy away from talking about key women's issues such as fertility and barrenness, biological clocks, supporting one another, potential and growth in that potential and so much more. She is very interested in the repetitive and ritualistic actions of daily life and finding the vulnerability in it. This specific piece, Stilleven, has an especially rich meaning:

“An adaptation of a Dutch Golden Age painting by Rachel Ruysch, not only one of the most regarded painters of the era but a woman, a wife, and a mother of 10 children. The painting also features the addition of flowers from a tattoo I have in my left arm, symbolizing my own aging and passing of time. “Stilleven” is the Dutch word for “still life,” or to bring the motionless to live. My etymology suggests “balanced up to now,” and also questioning leveling off or flatness. Themes of fertility, biological clock, and work-life balance are imbedded within this painting, as is a romance for painting history.”

Marisa Baumgartner

Marisa loves pulling her own duality, being that she is Austrian American and has been traveling between the two countries her whole life, into her artwork. She loves using this as a different lense in which to look at the world and showing ways that they can easily coexist. Playing with digital and natural, dark and light, abstract and realistic in a romantic dance, she lets the differences not only speak on the fact that differences unite, but also uses her subject matter to be a conversation on the current climate changes.

“Duality forms the basis for my practice as a visual artist. He/she, black/white, gay/straight, yin/yang, positive/negative, analog/digital, visible/invisible: I am interested in the formal use of the binary as a tool to mask and reveal notions of how we occupy, perceive and interpret our world."

"My formal process of obstruction reveals political discussions of the traces left behind from climate change, emotional reactions of what we hide/show of ourselves to others and to ourselves and psychological layers of distance in how we inhabit our environment."

"Over the past decade I have embedded into my practice my personal fascination and fear of the digital Internet age of online cameras and exchanges of images with the use of found surveillance webcams and public domain satellite pictures. I create images that are largely white or black, creating a conversation with the “white” and “black” painting of Minimalism. I use painted gold leaf on a NASA satellite image captured and manipulated by scientists to study the effects climate change has had on the water volume of rivers because visually it relates to a Gustav Klimt or Egon Schiele painting; thus a tool for using beauty to comment on the terrifying environmental crises of today.”

Elisa Sheehan

Elisa is best known for her incredible eggs. She is deeply focused on brokeness and the beauty in it. We all have brokeness; some of it we are ashamed of and some of it we are proud of. She touches on issues such as aging, heart ache and nature. She is even using this voice she has developed to promote and facilitate healing. Egg shells make up a majority of her artwork, but she also creates beautiful, abstracted floral pieces. Just because they are not the Kintsugi doesn’t mean that these are not healing as well.

“ All beautiful things have a story and a history. By using the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi as my muse and guide, I bring forth this concept of revealing a history through one of the most delicate things imaginable; eggshells. With each fragile, broken eggshell I use paint and gold leaf to elevate these shells to represent something more meaningful. They are visually beautiful precisely because of their cracks, not in spite of them. This philosophy of acceptance and celebration of our imperfections is what we need more of now more than ever. The very act of taking these fragile eggshells and turning them into works of art, reminds me to think about myself and others, our relationships as we age - not to try to look like our former, younger selves but to embrace our "breaks and flaws" and to honor them and see the beauty in them. They are a daily reminder that we are not broken, but rather that we are stronger and more beautiful than ever for having fully lived.”

Andrea Ferrigno

Andrea recently had a solo show with us so her work probably looks pretty familiar to you! She is an amazing artist that uses color and shadow and geometry to sing the song she is writing. She draws inspiration from the places she has called home, science, femininity, geometry and life moving around her.

“The visual language of my work is rooted in analytic studies of geometric forms and patterns. I also frequently looked to the sciences for inspiration. The analytic objectivity of these systems and their ability to convey truths about the world has been very seductive. Judy Chicago, a forerunner of feminist art practices, described the creation of her early work as performing “male drag.” In other words, she was aiming to create work that appeared to be made by a man."

"Much of my interest in the analytic systems of science and math was fueled by a similar desire—to avoid emotion and gendered identity. While I am still pulling from these areas, particularly geometry, I am working to infuse these systems with the personal, autobiographical, and the emotional. At the same time, my interests in these analytic systems, I also see a way to advocate, in a micro-political manner, for the sciences. My embrace of color in my work over the past few years is decidedly feminist, pulling from personal experience, memories, and emotions."

"The recent shift in political power, the “me too” movement, the Kavanaugh hearing compelled me to create a series of drawings titled “Resume Papers.” In this on-going work, I am directly addressing past traumas and working to embrace my body and sexuality from a more empowered perspective. Some of these drawings have been translated into prints such as “Body Memory”, and “Bodily Structure”. In these works, I am more directly presenting notions of the figure. I find the intimacy of prints appropriate for pushing this subject matter. In my paintings, while more ambiguous, I have been pulling from these drawings as well, working with recognizable features of the female body. For example, in 'Body Double,' I am exploring the dichotomous ideas of what a woman is “supposed” to be. In this painting, shrouded Mother Mary form is intermingled with a sexualized gesture of confident curves. I am not interested in being overtly didactic with these issues or creating work intended to be understood one particular way. However, I hope viewers, women, in particular, find resonance with both the joy and celebration, as well as the deeper complexities of womanhood in my work. For me, the defiant joy of creating, of seeking beauty, meaning, and truth in these trying times is the ultimate political statement of my work.”

Commission process: Angela Chrusciaki Blehm

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 15:28:58 GMT

We often work with our clients to commission a specific piece for their home. Whether it’s a certain artist they like but they’re looking for specific colors, or they want a painting of their house and we pair an artist based on their style—we work hard to make sure our clients absolutely love the piece. We recently partnered with a client based in Colorado, Julie, on a commissioned piece by Angela Chrusciaki Blehm and we thought we’d share the process with you—it’s enlightening. And, it’s fun to see how the client sparked the start to then see the final piece hung in her home!

First, Julie knew exactly where she wanted the piece—she sent us a picture of her empty wall to share with the artist. This allows us and the artist to get a feel for the style and color of the space.

Next, Julie had seen two pieces created by the artist she was already drawn to—see the two images below. She liked a combination of the colors and compositions used. The first piece she saw during our Pop Wow show featuring Angela's work.

She saw this piece on Instagram, while scrolling:

Using these two images, and Julie's ask for the main colors to be blue, red and green, we connected with the artist, Angela, on Julie's empty wall. Taking all these factors into consideration, Angela then created a few digital drafts for Julie to approve before moving forward on the actual piece.

After seeing the digital drafts, Julie picked her favorite—and Angela got right to work! About 6 weeks passed for Angela to create the piece and then she sent over a final picture for Julie to approve. Julie loved it! So, Angela packed it up and sent it Julie's way to Colorado (from Georgia!).

And now the piece hangs in Julie's home—right on the wall she had in mind. The piece's retro, muted colors perfectly complement the furnishings. And, with the vaulted ceiling, the vertical composition of the piece fills the space beautifully!

It's a special thing to go through the commission process—you pick your favorite colors and textures to create a truly unique, one-of-a-kind piece to have in your home. Almost all our artists create commission pieces and we love working with them all. They each have their own process and it's so interesting to see how they create. If you're interested in a commissioned piece for your home, let us know —we're happy to start a conversation for what best fits in your space!

Call for sculpture artists

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 16:17:05 GMT

No matter your location, we invite sculptural artists to apply for our most recent RFP opportunities!

Throughout the year, we distribute multiple Request for Proposals (RFPs) for all types of projects—murals, client events, sculptures and more. Our most recent RFP is for two sculptures to be placed in the new Johnston Town Center in Johnston, Iowa. We invite artists to apply and to share with any artists that may be interested!

There are two separate RFPs—view the first one here and second here . The submission deadline is March 27, 2020 at 5:00pm . If you have any questions regarding the RFP, please email us at hello@lizlidgett.com.

Artist spotlight: Marcy Cook

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 16:35:55 GMT

Marcy is an amazing artist. In addition to being a fantastic painter, Marcy is a florist. She previously owned Stems of Dallas and was a full time artist along with being a full time florist. Talk about multi talented! When creating, Marcy pulls inspiration from the natural world and her focus is on the feeling rather than what one can see.

She focuses on rest, peace, movement, grace and light and fills the canvases with a reflection of her love for the natural world. Painting is an extension of one’s self and Marcy uses it to convey the way she sees the world and through her work we are able to see things through her eyes; bright, natural, and colorful. Each one of her pieces comes matted and placed inside a gold frame.

“The first time I realized I loved creating was with my dad as a little girl."

"[...] I remember staying home from school one day because I was sick, and he taught me how to draw a house, with a white picket fence and long driveway, in perspective. Later on, in high school, I picked up a paintbrush, loved it and decided to study visual arts for my college degree. Creativity in painting, for me specifically, is an outlet in my life that I can’t even really explain. I have to feel rested, inspired and refreshed to paint, but when those moments come, I make the pieces I’m most proud of.”

Look for further announcements to come about her upcoming spring show at the gallery alongside her dear friend, Taelor Fishe r !

3 ways to discover your art taste

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 16:32:13 GMT

Finding the art of your dreams doesn’t have to be a painful, stuffy process.

There are ways you can figure out what you love just by doing what you’re already doing: scrolling your Instagram or Pinterest feed, going to local events and even going to the library.

1. Instagram and Pinterest

Instagram is a wonderful tool that you can use to your advantage! While not every artist has an instagram for their art, most of them do. Ways I have found artists I love and am drawn to via Instagram is by looking up hashtags like #portrait #watercolor (or whatever medium you are interested in) and #artprocess . I also look at other artists that I follow already and see who they are following because, chances are, if they are inspired by them I will be too. Pinterest is a vast, glorious, pit of endless potential. Start making a board of art that you like just from looking through the art section. Don’t think about it or put limitations on it; instead just pin anything and everything you like. Follow every rabbit trail that you get on and see where you end up. I never knew I had a style that I really liked until I looked through my board and saw consistency in the things I was pinning.

2. Going to art festivals and events

While these are not an all year long thing—at least here in Iowa they sure aren’t—they can be a great way of seeing many different art styles and mediums all at once. You can see what you are drawn to and what you can easily walk past. Can you not take your eyes off that landscape photography, but could walk right past that sculpture of a mother and a child? Or maybe it’s the opposite. Maybe you had no idea that you loved the color blue until you see an artist that uses primarily blues and you can’t get enough of their work. Ever year, the Des Moines Arts Festival invites artists from all over the world for a three-day event! It’s a really fun experience and opportunity.

3. Visit your library

Growing up I spent a lot of time in libraries, not because I am a great reader, or really that I even love to read, but rather that I wanted to look at the covers of the books. I wanted to see what colors they used, what they chose to be the illustration on the cover and how they bound the book. Even before looking into the chapter books' covers, looking through the children's books can help you find things you’re drawn to. The great thing about books these days is that many new forms of art have made their way onto their pages. When I was little I loved books by Molly Bang and I have no doubt that that has shaped my love for art that displays everyday settings with beautifully illustrated people. Another book that I have long loved was Chicka Chicka Boom Boom and from this I gained a love of blocky, colorful work with simple shapes.

And, as always, you’re welcome to step into the gallery to peruse the work on our walls! We host a variety of mediums and artists with all different backgrounds—we want there to be something for everyone. Finding the art you love is a journey that will continue to evolve over time. Be open to new ways to find art that you love, but know we are always here to help you out with it too! We love talking art—all day, every day.

Collector conversations: Anna P.

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 18:40:05 GMT

We recently chatted with a collector that purchased a Kevin Brent Morris beetle from the gallery and we circled back with her to talk about why she was drawn to the particular piece—meet Anna P. from San Francisco, CA! All paintings by Kevin—based in Kansas City—come with an elaborate, vintage frame he finds himself.

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

AP: I think having art around allows me to escape the more mundane moments of life. My job can be very literal and non-creative, so I like to bring beauty and perspective into my home. And it's pretty.

LL: What drew you to Kevin Brent Morris' artwork?

AP: I love that he took something from nature, a beetle, that I normally don't particularly like or find attractive and made me take a second look. He's able to capture beetle shells' sheen and make them look colorful.

LL: When did you start collecting original artwork?

AP: I've bought photography and maps, but this is my first painting.

LL: What would be in your ideal art collection? Or, what artists are on your collector’s “wish list”?

AP: I'd love to collect from female artists. I've been eyeing the gallery's Logan Ledford and Allison James pieces!

#LetsAddArt Pottery Barn

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 05:03:07 GMT

It’s an occupational hazard to look at practically any room, any magazine, any interior on a tv show and think about the artwork that I would place for that imaginary client. Recently I picked up a magazine for a furniture retailer and thought—my there are a lot of blank walls in this magazine. So I’ve decided to create a little series of blogposts called “#LetsAddArt” and I’ll pick on a random retailer and add artwork to their photography. Let’s start with Pottery Barn and try this, shall we?

Beginning advertisement

Love the dark walls, side table and upholstered headboard they have going on here but #letsaddart. Art Tip: When you’re selecting a piece of artwork for above a piece furniture, like a bed, you want your artwork to be 75% the size of the piece it is above. For this, I chose a beautiful Taelor Fisher work that brings a bit of lavander into the room and pops off the black wall. Better, right?

#LetsAddArt

Okay next up we are heading to a Dining Room.

Beginning advertisement

Truly, this is a lovely scene but if we put up artwork instead of candles? Also, I totally understand it’s a styling trick for stylists to leave walls blank so that words and prices can go on a wall in a magazine—I’ve done it myself (although it kills me a little inside) when I have styled for magazines—but let’s put some art on that back wall too.

#LetsAddArt

Okay, I’m obsessed with these two works together. The Logan Ledford piece in the foreground gives the perfect pop of tonal color in the otherwise neutral room. The grays and taupes play beautifully together with the rug. The Elisa Sheehan painted eggshell piece in the background works so nicely off of the Ledford piece. The circles keep some consistency in the artwork even though they are different artists and mediums. Also the pops of orange in both pieces are really cohesive. I’d actually love to see these two pieces go to the same home because they feel meant for one another.

Finally, we’ll take a look at a living room and breaking some art rules.

Well I’d definitely live in this room. The sofa looks comfortable, the architecture is stunning but where’s the art? Here’s a time I’d go for breaking an art rule. You could put two nails in either of the window moldings and hang this beautiful Rebecca Stern work so that it partially covers the windows. Is it risky? Sure but rules are meant to be broken—especially art rules. I think it looks fun to play with a small wall with windows but hang an oversized piece. The pop of caramel in the piece is so nice with the leather color and the rest of the subtle colors add both warmth and movement to this room design.

What do you think? I think these pieces add great energy to these beautiful Pottery Barn pieces. Their stylists and designers are clearly talented so it’s fun to add art by equally talented artists to add personality.

But maybe you have a perfectly styled room but are dealing with blank walls. Let us help and work with you on an art consultation! Just give us a holler at Hello@LizLidgett.com and we’ll make your walls sing—so come on, #LetsAddArt.

Guest artists: Mary Carol Fitzgerald + Brad and Sundie Ruppert

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 15:20:28 GMT

We’re often asked how we find the artists that we represent at the gallery.

For the 23 artists included in the roster, it’s a variety—some of them we knew we wanted to include their work and reached out directly, like Hunt Slonem , Lino Lago and Kristi Kohut . Others, the artist first reached out to us, like Taelor Fisher , Marcy Cook and Elisa Sheehan . As a gallery, we’d love to say “yes” to every artist submission we receive, but our inbox sees 1-2 artist submissions every day. Because we’re committed to supporting and advocating our represented artists well, it's never been our goal to maintain a roster of 50+ artists.

But, we often include guest artists in our shows—not on contract, but just including artwork temporarily for the current show. We love the chance to support additional artists, both near and far! For the current show, Texture , our guest artists include Mary Carol Fitzgerald and Brad and Sundie Ruppert.

Mary Carol Fitzgerald

We’re so happy to include Mary Carol’s work in the show. We don’t often include photography, but we felt her up-close texture shots were too perfect to ignore.

She is a lifestyle and event photographer currently based out of San Diego, but she travels across the country for her work. Her photography depicts portraits and lifestyle design in settings cohesive to brands. She’s an avid seeker of beauty, wanderlust and mindfulness—aiming to inspire and motivate her audience. These three pieces included in our Texture show are great for a neutral space, with their brown and tan topics.

Brad and Sundie Ruppert

Brad and Sundie Ruppert have a fascination with texture and the need to innovate by creating unique mixed media sculptures. Their most recent body of work gives new life to perhaps the oldest textile used today, fur felt, specifically the remnants trimmed from the brims of felt hats. They have developed a process of cutting, bending and layering the intricate felt pieces over carved wood, creating incredible likenesses of their natural subject matter.

From here, in Des Moines, we're excited to showcase their work. They'e become well-known in central Iowa and beyond!

You can learn more about Liz Lidgett’s “why” behind the Texture show or browse our represented artists . Our last group show, Not Your Muse , also included guest artists including Whitney Warne and Martha Rich. We like to surprise our followers with unique guest artists!

The growing value of art

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 20:13:20 GMT

Adding art to a space doesn’t just make your space beautiful but is also an asset that gains financial value over time.

We asked a couple of our artists how their prices have changed so far in their careers and it’s pretty amazing! They all have said their work has at least doubled in value since they started selling their work professionally.

Logan Ledford said in 2014 her 48 x 48" pieces were going for around $600 and now, in 2020 , they are being sold for about $5,700 ! Crazy to think how much her value has gone up in such a short amount of time. If we break that down, she started out at a little over a quarter per square inch, and now it’s a two-and-a-half dollar price point per square inch. Which means her work has just under ten times more value today than it did when she first started.

Our artist Kristi Kohut told us that her pieces have a 25% increase in value each year since opening her studio in 2014. A piece that she made in 2010 (before her studio was even open—what a go getter!) that was 30 x 30" was $750 and now, in 2020 , she sells the same size at $3,750 .

We asked Leigh Suggs what her prices were like in 2010 and she said her pieces that were 30 x 30" were selling for $2,000 and now, in 2020 , they are being sold at $4,500 a piece. She also mentioned how that is intentional not just for her sake, but also for those who have supported her and bought her work.

"One of my goals was, and always has been, that if anyone purchased work of mine, that it would be worth more money one day. If someone believed enough in what I was doing to purchase it, I wanted it to mean something to them personally and financially. I've worked hard to make moves in my career that I thought would not only benefit myself, but also the people who have helped me, supported me, or bought my work." - Leigh Suggs

Art does not go down in value like a car, but goes up in value as it is enjoyed. It can add value to the space and be accumulating value at the same time. In addition to this it can also become something that you pass down in your family throughout generations. A financial asset, an heirloom, and an eye catcher in your home. Sounds like a great idea to me, but I might be a little biased.

Texture group show

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 20:30:02 GMT

One of my biggest joys with this gallery is exploring certain topics, mediums, and ideas through artwork by multiple artists. Our group shows have also been an exciting way to introduce new artists to the gallery and vice versa, our audience and collectors to new artists. Opening Friday is Texture, a show exploring just that—texture.

As you’ll see, some of these works included are quite literally textured but others are 2D but represent texture beautifully. The idea for this show came from the fact that I’m a very tactile person and often want to just reach out and touch a work of art. I’ll have to watch myself around this show because all of these works tackle this idea of texture in such interesting and unique ways.

I have worked with Jose Romussi for years as an art advisor, and I am thrilled to be representing his work here in Iowa officially. His images of dancers where he has embroidered their costumes and movement have gone viral and have been adored by audiences all over the world. He continues to update these images by also adding crystals their costumes to add another layer of dimension to his work.

Elisa Sheehan has quickly become a gallery favorite as we cannot keep her work in stock! This will be Elisa’s first official inclusion in a show and I’m very excited to be sharing her new acrylic boxes that she has begun experimenting with. These Kinstugi-inspired painted eggshells just pop off of the canvas and you’ll want to practically press your nose against the glass to get a closer look. (Don’t worry, it won’t be the first time we’ve cleaned a nose print off the glass.)

Betsy Enzensberger is another fan favorite who will be included in the show. Betsy recently sent us a larger-than-life popsicle sculpture covered in more than 1500 Swarovski crystals. The acrylic popsicle stick seems to glow perfectly and her resin sculpture represents the perfect point of mid-melt of the most glamorous popsicle you’ve ever seen.

We’ll have work by over 10 artists in the show, including the three above and new work by Olivia Valentine , Leigh Suggs , and Brad and Sundie Ruppert. We hope to see you Friday night at the opening, January 31, from 4-7 pm. Our doors are always open M-F, 10-5 if you’d like to come see the show next week too. I have a feeling these works are going to fly!

To frame or not to frame?

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 15:50:29 GMT

It's all about preference and the aesthetic in the rest of the space.

Some pieces have edges that are left intentionally exposed. For example The Last Dance by Andrea Ferrigno has beautiful drips along the side of her painting that add another layer of visual interest to her piece.

At the same time, there are pieces like Kevin Brent Morris’ paintings, which come with a beautiful, sourced frame already. But these are black and white, what about all the gray spaces in between?

If the piece is an original and on paper it is a must to frame it. This will keep the piece free from bumps and bruises or even smearing. I have often used pastel on paper canvas and if that isn’t framed it will grow smudgy and fuzzy. As always, we’re happy to help frame any piece—sharing a variety of frame and mat options to choose from in partnership with Tandem Brick, our local framing partner.

On the other hand, if the artwork is a print you have a little more wiggle room as far as how you want to frame them. When I was in college I would buy prints and tape them up on my wall with washi tape, or use poster bars simply just to keep them flat. Similar to how we created our gift gallery wall during the East Village Holiday Promenade, if you stopped in!

If the print is on a little thicker board you can hang prints with little hooks around the edges. This makes the print almost look like it is floating on the wall, which can be really fun in a gallery wall. Because they are prints and not originals they are a little less fragile—the image is in the paper rather than on the paper.

When it comes to work on a stretched canvas it really depends on your preference. I have really fallen in love with the subtle framing around a beautiful canvas and it makes it look a little more clean and polished. Framing canvas would go especially well with a more minimalistic space while a space that is filled with fun bright colors and a little more quirky flare it may look too polished for the space to have it framed. This is really up to you and the feel that you are going for in the space that you have. If you're unsure, you're always welcome to ask us! We're happy to share our thoughts with you.

Collector conversations: Jenny H.

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 14:55:04 GMT

Whether you’re a beginning collector or you have 20+ art pieces always looking for more, we think it’s inspiring to hear from our collectors—their “whys” for buying art, what inspires them and how their artwork influences their lifestyle. We recently had a conversation with a collector that purchased an Angela Chrusciaki Blehm from the gallery and we circled back with her to talk about why she was drawn to the particular piece. (You'll also spot another gallery artist— Hunt Slonem —in her living room!) Meet Jenny H. from Fort Worth, Texas!

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

JH: Art in my home is the cherry-on-top and more important than paint colors or fabric. When I dress, I prefer accessories to the garments—art is the ultimate accessory. The right piece can literally change the way that I feel. I want art to stop me in my tracks to admire it.

LL: What drew you to Angela Chrusciaki Blehm’s artwork?

JH: Blehm’s piece makes my imagination run wild. The large scale of the painting and use of positive and negative space gets my attention and the legs stir something within me. Is it my leg with the blue shoe? Is one male? Are they falling? Are they flirting? Do the two legs belong to same person, representing two different roles in life? My opinion changes often.

LL: When did you start collecting original artwork?

JH: My mother collected art and had a beautiful collection. She taught me that art should not match a room and collection should only be things you love, not just to fill a wall. She encouraged me to hang things untraditionally and to study the artists.

LL: What would be in your ideal art collection? Or, what artists are on your collector’s “wish list”?

JH: I don’t have a next piece in mind or a wish list—it’s more of an, "I see it and if I’m still thinking about it days later, I inquire." It's the feeling I get when I see "the one" and just know.

Your collection reflects who you are

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 18:42:52 GMT

Hey everyone, Liz here to introduce you to Aly. You have may have had the pleasure of meeting Aly on a Friday at the gallery or at one of our many events. We have been thrilled to have her a part of the team. She’s also an avid blogger about her own personal life so we recruited her to help out around the blog here too. Aside from being an art lover, she also has a degree in Fine Art so we are lucky to have expertise around here too. Take it away, Aly! - LL

Whether you're making it, collecting it, or admiring it, art reflects who you are. It reflects the state of mind you are in at the moment and what you are in need of. For example, my busy mom friends are really drawn to pieces like Taelor Fisher's Eucalyptus which is both chaotic and calm. It is a reflection of what is going on in their lives, but pulls in the calm that they so need from day to day.

Another example is my friend who is studying at the university—he is more interested in bright colors and familiar shapes. He chooses bright reds and oranges like in this Andrea Ferrigno titled Open Source , to keep him motivated and focused rather than blues and greens which are more soothing. I could get on a whole spiel on color theory, but you get the picture—warm colors draw energy and cool colors evoke a sense of calm.

This also being said, once lifestyle, or the season of life changes then what if your art tastes change? What if you no longer feel like it is speaking to you? What if that university student becomes a busy parent?

Your collection is a reflection of who you have been. It is a reflection of what has been and what you were feeling and doing at that point in your life. Each piece tells a different part of your story and fills the walls of your home with a beautiful display of the life you have lived, the places you have gone and the person you were when all of that was happening. You are walking around in your scrapbook, filling the pages with memories along the way. Change is inevitable, but who you are now is making who you are going to be in a couple of years when your taste changes.

Best wall colors for artwork

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 15:16:20 GMT

Let’s talk paint colors. We paint our white gallery walls over and over each month as we sell art and repair the nail holes on the wall. We’ve become experts in white paint and some beautiful accent colors that help show off your art collection.

At the gallery, we use on our walls Sherwin Williams Pure White . The undertones are a bit warmer than some very stark whites and end up complimenting the wide array of artwork that we display on our walls.

In my living room seen above, I went with Benjamin Moore White Diamond . Again, I love a warm white. It’s crisp and clean but doesn’t feel cold which is how some white paint can make you feel. Again, it compliments the very colorful artwork in my collection. Am I thinking too much about white paint? Who’s to say? But really, go with a warmer white, not an ivory or cream, and you’ll have success.

Now I also love a dark room, especially a dining room, that makes all of your artwork feel a bit moodier. For my dining room, I went with Baby Seal Black by Benjamin Moore . Depending on the light, it shuffles back and forth between black and deep navy. It picks up the most beautiful undertones in the several pieces of artwork I have in that room and and white just pops off the wall.

We have had a lot of fun painting our accent wall in the gallery though with off the wall colors. It’s been yellow, bubblegum pink and metallic gold so far. Our Benjamin Moore Pure Joy yellow accent wall, was our first color and a snap decision but it became very hard to part with once it was time. The bright yellow picked up beautiful pops in so many different pieces of artwork and was a gorgeous statement in and of itself.

And finally, I am itching to pair a loud wallpaper with some beautiful artwork for a client. What about pairing this gorgeous Red Poppies Wallpaper from Spoonflower with this Andrea Ferrigno drawing. How stunning would that be?

Sure, there are beautiful paint colors in the white and black family that will help your collection sing, but let’s all get a little weird too and try the unexpected from time to time.

Midwest Living: How to create an artful living room

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 20:06:40 GMT

As seen in Midwest Living magazine, Liz shares her living room's artful highlights.

You'll spot a few of our gallery artists in her home, including Angela Chrusciaki Blehm , Kristi Kohut and Allison James . She also mentions her love of Midwest-based artists Ashley Mary and Kevin Brent Morris .

"Liz Lidgett likes to call her new Des Moines gallery her happy place. Discovering art has always been a draw for Liz. Now she has a dedicated space to help other people do the same. In addition to selling art, Liz advises people and institutions on art purchases and helps nurture the art scene around Iowa’s capital. And she definitely takes her work home. Liz uses her light-filled living room as a testing ground for creative ways to display artwork. She also constantly tinkers with the layout, shifting to incorporate furniture and baubles nabbed at estate sales or online auctions. (Scouring sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, 1stdibs and Everything but the House for bargains is a bit of a hobby.)"

“It’s a room that will never be complete,” Liz says, “because I love playing with the furniture and experimenting with art.”

Read the full Midwest Living feature online here with tips on how to create an artful living room. And view our additional press mentions here .

Artist features: Elle, Chairish and Architectural Digest

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 14:36:39 GMT

With the recent addition of Des Moines artist Jimmy Navarro , our gallery roster now includes 23 artists across the globe—from right in our city all the way to Madrid, Spain. And each one is up to big things! We’re always excited to share their career achievements as a creative.

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm

A corner of Angela Chrusciaki Blehm’s home was featured on the cover of Elle Decoration magazine for the first issue in 2020. Her use of color in her furniture, art and decor has been noticed by many notable designers. An exciting start to the year for her!

Andrea Ferrigno

The Digital Executive Director of Architectural Digest , Keith Pollock, compiled a list of his interior favorites this season from Chairish and Andrea Ferrigno’s “Breathing” was one of them. His curated collection points toward the aesthetic he’s turning to for inspiration.

Lino Lago

Continuing with Architectural Digest’s notice, Lino Lago was also recently included in a featured client home—a New York City pied-à-terre . Designed by Alexander Reid , you’ll find an oversized canvas by Lino in the main room. His large pieces are absolutely stunning.

Ashley Mary

Ashley Mary was recently named one of the “ 12 Twin Cities artists of the year for 2019 .” In the last couple of years, her career has taken off with large-scale murals across the country. She also has collaborated with numerous national companies, including a swimwear line, Summer Salt , and jewelry designer, Larissa Loden.

2020 is going to be a big year for our artists, we can feel it. We’re thrilled to promote their talent and love seeing their success stories unfold.

Guide to an artful Des Moines stay

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 14:51:16 GMT

Whether you’re coming to Des Moines for the first time, or the hundredth, there’s always something new to experience. Our amazing blog readers have LOVED our Instagram worthy spots recap and so we are following this up to include an itinerary for Des Moines that have beautifully designed and artful locations throughout. I love the New York Times travel series “36 hours in…" so here’s our beautiful Des Moines version.

Friday

12:00pm: Lunch at Bubba (200 10th St., Des Moines). I’m a huge fan of their deviled eggs and cheese board and don’t sleep on the fried chicken. Beyond that, I may be biased because I worked on their art, but this is a beautiful restaurant. It’s full of thoughtful design and art throughout tying owner Chris Diebel’s Texas southern roots back to Des Moines.

1:30pm: Walk off the food by heading to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park . Is this a cliche recommendation? Maybe, but things become cliches for a reason. This is a world-class park and you’ll see work by Keith Haring , Yayoi Kusama , and Olafur Eliasson . If you walk from Bubba to the park you’ll pass by buildings by world-renowned architects David Chipperfield ( The Des Moines Public Central Library ) and Renzo Piano ( The Krause Gateway Center ).

2:30pm: Head down to the Renaissance Savery Hotel (401 Locust St., Des Moines) to pose in front of the Des Moines mural by Ben Schuh created for the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines and commissioned by our gallery. How will people know you’re in Des Moines if you don’t take a picture in front of a giant placemaking mural? Picture or it didn’t happen.

3:00pm: Ready for some more walking? Downtown Des Moines is incredibly walkable to head about half a mile to the East Village. First stop? Liz Lidgett Gallery , of course. (111 E. Grand #110, Des Moines). We’re open Monday through Friday 10-5 pm and we’d love to show you our current exhibit or talk about any of our artists. Next, fuel up at Dreiberge Coffee next door and start walking around the beautifully appointed shops. For clothing, take a look at Velvet Coat , Dornink and Aimee . For all your Des Moines and t-shirt needs— Raygun . For home design, Sticks Gallery , She and Porch Light . And for beautifully appointed stationery, both Pink Print Stationery and Ephemera .

7:00pm: Want a beautiful meal with seasonally prepared food and delicious cocktails? Great. Head to Proof (1301 Locust St., Des Moines). Our gallery changes out the artwork in the space quarterly so you’re also guaranteed to eat amongst lovely artwork as well. Plus, I’m a huge fan of the two all glass walls so you can see the city passing by while you eat.

9:00pm: You’ll definitely want an after dinner drink, right? Right. So, Bellhop (440 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines) is the perfect place to go. This is one of those spaces that’s so cool and designed so well, I wish we had something to do with it.

Saturday

10:00am: If it’s in season, definitely head to the Des Moines Farmer’s Market . Walk amongst thousands of your best friends, and buy from a huge variety of local farmers and vendors. I’m biased but this is the best farmer’s market in the country. There, I said it. Also take a look at the RoCA mural wall where 12 local artists have created a “quilt” of murals up a 150 year old building.

12:00pm: It’s noon on Saturday—which of course, means brunch. You can’t go wrong with Centro or Django depending on how you’re feeling. American cuisine beautifully appointed or french cuisine equally as well done? Both restaurants are by restaurant group Orchestrate Hospitality and they are the best in the business for what they do.

2:00pm: Want an artful stay in Des Moines? Then you must, MUST, head to the Des Moines Art Center (4700 Grand Ave., Des Moines). This is a nationally-renowned museum that hits well above its weight for the size of our city. Stunning architecture, world class artwork, and it's free. Can you believe it? I hardly can either and I go on a monthly basis.

4:00pm: Time to head down to Valley Junction and check out a different part of Des Moines. These shops specialize in antiques, vintage, and specialty stores. There’s a great Iowa store, Heart of Iowa (211 5th St. West Des Moines) for any of your souvenir needs. Plus, there are so many wonderful bars and restaurants to duck in to get a bite to eat if you have worked up an appetite.

7:00pm: If you haven’t eaten yourself silly already, head out a bit to Clive and go to Table 128 (12695 University Ave #140, Clive). They specialize in eclectic, modern, american cuisine and have great gluten-free options if that’s your bag. I, of course, have nothing to do with the food but I am particularly proud of the artwork and gallery wall I created a few years ago for them which includes a framed menu from the owners’ honeymoon and a signed apron by Julia Child. The gallery wall is just as personal as the beautiful food they create each night.

9:00pm: For tonight’s after dinner drink? Head back to Des Moines proper to Bartender’s Handshake (3615 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines). It’s a cozy bar that’s well designed and serves great drinks. You couldn’t ask for more.

Sunday

And that concludes your trip! I hope this guide gives you a hint at just how beautiful our city truly is both inside and out. For the locals, leave us a comment if there are any other beautifully designed or artful places you’d recommend. For those that use the guide, we’d love to hear how you use it and any other places you discover!

Artist spotlight: Betsy Enzensberger

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 16:21:39 GMT

Her artwork was featured on Forbes.com this month as a "luxury decor gift for the person who has everything."

Betsy Enzensberger sculpts works that create a visceral longing and remembrance of the most nostalgic delights from childhood. The artist uses the familiarity of those sweet treats to help us remember the simplicity, value and culture of desserts so often associated with positivity and joy.

"Have you ever seen cured resin? It looks like candy. Often times I hang out in my studio and pick resin drips off my work table. I examine them closely and continuously resist the urge to lick them. This is why I began making the melting treats. The sweet, sticky, child-like lure of these treats, paired with the frustration of dropped or melting pops practically beg to be rescued and consumed."

Enzensberger was born and raised in New York. She graduated from Tulane University and is now a Los Angeles-based artist with a studio in Mar Vista. She has shown with galleries domestically in Los Angeles, Miami and New York, and internationally in Hong Kong, London, Stockholm, Hamburg and Byron Bay, Australia. You can find her sculptures in multiple public and private art collections worldwide.

Betsy Enzensberger has become quite well known for her realistic, larger-than-life sculptures of dripping, frozen treats. Resin looks like candy. It appears delicious and sweet. The shiny exterior has a wet, melting quality. Her Melting series plays with the desires of everyone’s inner child.

"Resin—I love it. It's beautiful, sexy, mysterious. It's also toxic, messy and annoyingly exhausting to create. However, I enjoy the challenges that resin presents. There's something about it I can't resist. If the process was easy, I wouldn't be doing it."

In her studio picture, you'll also see the resin balloon sculptures she creates that hang on the wall. Also made with resin and glitter, they even include a balloon string. Between her popsicles and balloons, her playful sculptures draw all ages to her work—and they emphasize nostalgia and joy.

Collector conversations: Amanda Reynal

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 17:02:08 GMT

It’s such a privilege to work with the clients that we do. We truly love the process of understanding a client’s aesthetic, experiencing their living space and pairing a piece of art that complements their style.

Whether you’re a beginning collector or you have 20+ art pieces always looking for more, we thought it’d be inspiring to hear from our collectors—their “whys” for buying art, what inspires them and how their artwork influences their lifestyle.

We recently had a conversation with a collector (and interior designer) that recently purchased a Logan Ledford piece for her home from the gallery and we circled back with her to talk about why she was drawn to the particular piece. Meet Amanda Reynal from Des Moines, Iowa!

Q&A with Amanda Reynal, collector and interior designer

LL: Why is it important, to you, to have art in your space?

AR: Homes without artwork lack soul and personality. We can create a beautiful interior for our clients however it is not completely theirs until we have installed artwork which speaks to the residents and accentuates their personalities and passions.

LL: What drew you to Logan Ledford's artwork?

AR: I was originally drawn to the bold palate and geometry of Logan’s artwork when I discovered her on Instagram ages ago. Then, I saw her pieces at LL Gallery and realized that there is more to the paintings than a brilliant color combination. Logan’s work is extremely textural and three dimensional. The application of paint is thick and viscous which contrasts with the stark canvas making me want to touch it. I was drawn to the element of surprise of seeing the pieces in person and getting something completely different from them. The two I purchased look sharp and crisp from afar but also offer a different experience close up.

LL: What are some art or interior trends that you are loving right now?

AR: Both in art and interiors there is a strong movement away from quiet neutral and minimal modern design. Instead the industry is moving towards more diverse, colorful and layered interiors. We see this direction with art walls installed gallery style and infused with personality and a dynamic variety of styles side by side. In interiors, designers are using more traditional prints, colorful wall coverings, and natural materials such as wicker and rattan. Another trend that is not going away is a movement towards prioritizing durability and longevity. Opting for the quick fix of inexpensive and poorly made furniture goes against the need for both sustainability and preservation. Clients are wanting to invest in pieces that will last both stylistically and structurally. We are working with a lot of regional and local vendors to create one of a kind custom pieces for our projects that can be passed down and used for generations.

LL: You just went on a fabulous trip to London with Design Leaders Network! Tell us about what you saw that inspired you?

AR: I am always inspired by the past, especially when visiting places that were designed and built centuries before our time. There was so much to look at in London, I took hundreds of photos of architectural details, art, and interiors. One of the most memorable spaces I visited was the Tulip Stairs at the Queen’s House in Greenwich. Designed by Inigo Jones and built in 1638, every detail from material to scale is awe inspiring . The staircase is an age old architectural feat and looks current and fresh making it timeless. The iron railing is painted a bright nautical blue and is unexpected but stunning.

Whether you have one or one-hundred pieces of original art in your home, a collector is defined as someone who enjoys art and makes an effort to bring it into their living space. Even with one piece, you can still call yourself a fine art collector! Buying art doesn’t have to be out of reach—we make it as easy as possible .

Ashley Mary exclusive print sale

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 20:19:09 GMT

Known for her geometric shapes, we're partnering with Minneapolis-based artist for an art print sale with our gallery!

For those of you who have been following us for a while, you’re familiar with our Insta art print sales. Since opening the gallery, we haven’t had one with our focus elsewhere. But, just in time for the holidays, we’re excited to announce our next sale! We’re partnering with one of our gallery artists, Ashley Mary —she’s been blowing up recently with a Summersalt swimsuit design, Nooworks clothing collaboration, Untold Rebel sock pattern and so much more. She also has been busy with murals across the country!

As part of the sale, three different designs will be for sale—only 25 prints of each, 12x16”, hand-signed by Ashley and $50 (including shipping in the US).

Soon-to-be available prints

The prints will first be available in-store this Friday, November 22, as part of Des Moines' East Village Holiday Promenade . The prints will then become available online via our Instagram this Saturday, November 23 . Printed in limited quantity, they will be first come, first serve!

How the sale works on Instagram

Follow us on Instagram at @lizlidgettgallery .
We post a picture of each print at 10am CT on Saturday, November 23 .
You fall in love with the print(s).
You comment on the Instagram image #SOLD (make sure you use the hashtag!).
We DM you for your email address and send you an invoice for payment.
Once we receive payment within 48 hours, we ship the print to you.
Receive your art print(s) and make your walls oh-so-happy!

Gift guide: $50 art prints

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:11:00 GMT

Our art prints are exclusive, meaning you can't purchase them anywhere else for this size and price. Each print is hand-signed and numbered by the artist!

Anna Frederick, Give 'Em Hell, 11 x 14", $50 + free shipping

Maggie Cole, Sharing, 12 x 16", $50 + free shipping

Amy Putney Koenig, Radiant, 11 x 14", $50 + free shipping

Daisy Faith, Dame Judy Dench, 12 x 16", $50 + free shipping

Taylor Cox, Lemon Beach, 12 x 18", $50 + free shipping

Kate Waddell, Lime with the Coconut, 12 x 16", $50 + free shipping

Britt Bass, Aquamarine, 12 x 12", $50 + free shipping

Britt Bass, Amethyst, 12 x 12", $50 + free shipping

Jose Romussi, Flower Girl 2, 12 x 18", $50 + free shipping

If you're interested in purchasing an art print, please let us know . We also have additional art prints available by both the same artists and different artists!

Gift guide: Sculptural

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:10:57 GMT

Leigh Suggs, Own Place II, 41 x 28", $5500

Logan Ledford, Blocks #1, 24 x 24", $1200

Logan Ledford, Blocks #2, 24 x 24", $1200

Elisa Sheehan, Kintsugi Eggshells 49 (4), 20 x 20", $2000

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm, Leg Up, 29 x 46", $2100

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm, Enzo Bow, 46 x 46", $1700

Kristi Kohut, Sailing Stripes, 27 x 37", $1995

Kristi Kohut, Symphonic World Sculpture #5, 11 x 11 x 2", $789

If you're interested in purchasing a piece, please let us know . We're happy to gift wrap it for you!

Gift guide: Large paintings

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:10:56 GMT

Ashley Mary, Untitled, 48 x 60", $2800

Taelor Fisher, Untitled (Lavender), 40 x 60", $3600

Rebecca Stern, Middleground II, 36 x 48", $2250

Andrea Ferrigno, Moving On, $48 x 36", $4800

Bethany Mabee, Silver Lining, 48 x 36", $2200

Taelor Fisher, Untitled (Eucalyptus), 48 x 48", $3500

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm, Bow, 48 x 36", $1750

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm, We Met, 60 x 36", $1950

Logan Ledford, The Ode to Deep Blue, 40 x 40", $3200

If you're interested in purchasing a piece, please let us know . We're happy to gift wrap it for you!

Gift guide: $500 and under

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:10:52 GMT

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm, Lilac Knot, 13 x 13", $425

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm, Blue Knot, 13 x 13", $425

Kevin Brent Morris, Acinaces Laceratus on Magnolia Blossoms, 5 x 7", $500

Whitney Warne, Control #4, 11 x 14", $279

Olivia Valentine, Goose Island print (framed), 15 x 22", $500

Martha Rich, T-bone, 13 x 11", $95

Ashley Mary, Untitled, 12 x 16", $475

If you're interested in purchasing a piece, please let us know . We're happy to gift wrap it for you!

Buying art is easy

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 22:58:19 GMT

Not only do we want the gallery artwork to be approachable—we also want the process to feel accessible. We understand it’s a big investment to grow your art collection and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to buy art. We have created new ways to buy art at our gallery to make the payment process less intimidating and completely feasible.

Art Money

If a buyer prefers to pay for a piece of artwork in monthly installments, rather than the total price up front, Art Money is the available platform through the gallery that allows installment payments. Any piece of artwork purchased at our gallery can be paid for through a 10-month payment plan with no interest penalty. Have a piece you love but it’s out of budget? Breaking it up into those 10 payments may make it within reach.

Gift + wedding registry

With the holidays close, we’ve put together a gift registry to make it easy for you to communicate with friends and family a piece of art that you’d like gifted. You simply pick the piece that you’d like and friends and family are invited to make any contribution toward the piece for your ownership. For following thank yous, we will provide the complete list of contributors.

Similar to the gift registry, we also provide wedding registries where the couple is invited to include one or a handful of pieces they like. Additionally multiple guests can put money towards the artwork(s). A complete list of contributors is provided to the couple in a wedding card.

Let us know if you'd like to move forward on a gift or wedding registry. We're happy to share more with you!

Gift cards

Gallery gift cards are also available for any amount to be gifted. Plus we’ll nicely wrap it for you so it feels like a true present! And we truly believe that there is no greater gift than original art.

Any artwork purchased through the gallery, through any payment option, includes installation at no additional cost. We’re always happy to install the artwork for our clients! If you have any questions about our payment options or process, please let us know. From selection to installation, we want the process to be enjoyable and for you to love your new piece of art.

To hear Liz share more about the new payment options (and how important it is to vote at the local level), watch our Instagram live video from this week below!

Artist spotlight: Hunt Slonem

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 17:40:58 GMT

It’s a daily privilege to work in the gallery where we’re surrounded by artwork created by nationally-known artists. Our current show, Not Your Muse , features local artist Whitney Warne from right here in Des Moines to Logan Ledford based in New Orleans.

The gallery maintains a roster of emerging and mid-career artists focusing on introducing international artists to Iowa and the wider Midwest market. One artist’s work we were particularly excited to bring to Des Moines is Hunt Slonem . Globally, more than 100 museums include his work in their collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City. By including his work in the gallery, we hope to heighten Des Moines’ international art notice for both local and international collectors.

Of our represented artists, Hunt is one of the most developed in his career. Beyond his inclusion at internationally-awarded museums, there are a handful of celebrities that are collectors of his artwork. Most known for his bunnies and tropical birds, his clientele includes Kris Jenner , Julianne Moore and the Clintons. Earlier this year, he was also featured on Real Housewives of New York—one of the characters is a big fan of his. In the episode , you’ll see how Hunt has translated his bunny paintings into an original suit design for himself!

Hunt has been painting his infamous bunnies since the 1970s, but his addition of “diamond dust” is a newer addition to his creation process. We often get asked, “Is it real diamond?” No, it’s not real diamond dust, but it’s a fine glass that makes the oil paintings sparkle!

Each one of his paintings includes a vintage frame that he sourced himself, which adds to the story and originality of the piece.

His bunny pattern is more recognizable than ever now as it’s been made into a wallpaper, pillow cover, curtains and more. As we’ve worked with Hunt, his team and his artwork, we’re excited to see his work only increase in value. We feel so fortunate to include his work in the gallery and to be able to share his story with Des Moines and beyond.

Gallery Reads: A Big Important Art Book (Now with Women) by Danielle Krysa

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 19:38:16 GMT

It feels fitting that our next Gallery Reads book club book would celebrate women artists just as our current show “ Not Your Muse ” celebrates them too. Danielle Krysa aka The Jealous Curator has been one of my favorite instagram and blog follows for years. She has a similar passion for supporting and celebrating artists, she loves to lift up women artists, and encourages others to pick up a paint brush too. With so many shared interests, Danielle and I have become “internet friends” meaning we’ve never met in person but I’d probably hug her if I saw her on the street.

Danielle’s book, A Big Important Art Manual: Now with Women! , is the book I was always looking for in my art history classes. She dives deep into 30 women artists—their background, inspiration, and artistic journey. With each chapter she also adds in an activity page that gets you motivated to also create as well. Danielle’s writing and the work of these women were so motivational, in fact, that it was the first time in years that I got out my paint brushes and created two pieces of art myself.

You may even recognize one of the artists, Martha Rich, from having work in our current show.

The entire book was a joy to read. It reminded me of artists that I love, taught me of new-to-me artists, and encouraged me to pick back up my artistic practice and for all those reasons I am thankful to have read it.

Now—let’s get to 5 questions with the author, Danielle Krysa.

Liz: It’s no coincidence that I am asking you these questions while I am working in my gallery, surrounded by our show Not Your Muse, a show by female artists. You and I both know that women are working in the same numbers as male artists so the difference in sales and representation is so frustrating. What can we all do to help female artists bridge the gap?

Danielle: Buy their art, share their art online, curate their work into shows… and don’t be afraid to point out the fact that they aren’t represented fairly.

Liz: The number one question I am asked on a daily basis is how do you find your artists. So now, I’ll ask you the same—how do you find your artists? Is there something specifically that you feel like is a thread that connects these artists in your book?

Danielle: Hm. No. Sorry, not a great answer! I am just always on the hunt because for the past ten and half years I have written a daily post about a contemporary artist … I have to keep my eyes open at all times if I’m going to have a post for tomorrow. I added a submission button to my site a few years ago, and that’s been really helpful. I also spend a lot of time going down rabbit holes on Instagram and Pinterest. For example, I check out the artists I already love to see who they're following and posting about … that leads to gorgeous artwork every single time!

Liz: I want to take this time to thank you for encouraging people to create. As silly as it sounds because I am surrounded by art each day, your book was the catalyst for me to start creating art again. What do you hope is the result of your book?

Danielle: Oh, thank you so much! That is exactly what I want. I took a self-imposed fifteen year “break” because at the end of my art degree, I was told by one of my professors that I should “never paint again." Sadly, I believed him. I’ve always said, if any of my books can help just one person not feel the way I did for so long, well then, I’ve done my job. As far as the two books about women (the new one is being released on October 18, 2019!), my goal is the same, with of course the addition of shining a spotlight on as many female artists as possible. I can’t tell you how many “big important art books” I have that, on closer inspection, actually have no women in them. Seriously, no women. How is that possible? Anyway, yes, I want to use my platform and voice to inspire people to create no matter what anyone else tells them, and to bring attention to the fact that women have been creating art since the beginning of time and should be noticed, respected and celebrated.

Liz: As an artist yourself, what have you learned about your own work and process through researching these artists?

Danielle: I’ve learned that I have to make art that reflects ME … not what’s trendy, not what might sell like hotcakes, but work that reflects who I really am. All of us need to take a moment (or several moments) to truly think about what makes us unique, and then make artwork that celebrates that. If you’re weird, make weird art. If you’re quiet and poetic, make quiet and poetic art. You’re the only you there is, so own it.

Liz: You have already done so much and I love watching each of your projects come to fruition. What’s next for you? How can we support you?

Danielle: I WROTE A KIDS’ BOOK! I am ridiculously excited about this, hence the all caps. It won’t be out for another year (Fall 2020) but I hope everyone buys it for every kid they know AND for themselves. I can’t give away too much just yet, but the general gist is that it’s a book about how special it is to be an artist, and that you can totally do it… even if someone says YOU CAN'T. I’ve wanted to do this project for about four years because I noticed a pattern when talking to people at my book signings. Countless people shared stories with me about being told (usually when they were between the ages of 6 to 9) that they couldn’t be artists. WHAT? Yep, teachers who told kids they weren’t good at drawing, parents saying that art was just a silly hobby, and the list goes on from there. The saddest part is that most of those people believed the grownups in their life and stopped making art. I wrote this story in hopes that kids won’t believe that junk if they happen to encounter it. And, if they don’t run into it until art school (like me), hopefully they’ll remember that book they had as a kid and forge ahead with confidence anyway!

Artful pairings

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 18:55:23 GMT

We received a question from a client this week asking, “Can you ever be too matchy-matchy with your art? Should you only have pieces from the same artist in one room?” These are really great questions—and not the first time we've been asked.

When it comes to being “match-matchy” with your art, we have a few helpful rules. We definitely believe in the power of cohesion when it comes to the art in your home. It doesn’t have to perfectly match color or texture, but in general, you can incorporate all types of mediums and styles while seeing a continued thread throughout the pieces.

ALLISON JAMES // A ZIG AND A ZAG, $1100 + LOGAN LEDFORD // THE ODE TO THE DEEP BLUE, $3200

We work hard to include artists in our gallery roster that all work well together—they’re all different artists from different backgrounds with different mediums—but the aesthetic and vibe reflect one another. Just as we’ve selected these artists in our gallery, you can do the same with the artwork in your home.

KATE BLOMQUIST // REACHER, $2500 + LOGAN LEDFORD // THE ODE TO SHERBERT, $3200

ASHLEY MARY // UNTITLED, $2800 + ALLISON JAMES // PLAYGROUND RULES, $1500

And to answer the “one room, one artist” question—yes, you can definitely also highlight just one artist with multiple pieces in the same space. Depending on the artist, many have enough variety in their medium that they can complement each other perfectly, while being different enough. A great example of this tactic is Logan Ledford ! We love this collection together in one room.

LOGAN LEDFORD // I REALLY DON'T LIKE CHAOS #1, #2 & #3 + THE ODE TO SHERBERT

Pairing the right two art pieces together in a room can transform the space into a brand new room. If you’d like to see how we would style artwork in your home, send us an email at hello@lizlidgett.com with a picture of the space and, just like these pictures, we’ll place our art suggestions on your walls. Absolutely no commitment necessary—we just truly love pairing artwork with a room! Our creative brain starts rolling, and we can’t help it.

We welcome all

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 18:55:05 GMT

Our mantra is that we believe in art for everyone. And we really do. We think a lot about how we can setup the gallery, communicate on social and interact one-on-one with people in a way that communicates art is approachable. With all that in mind, we’ve created coloring pages from some of our represented artists for any younger ones who come through the gallery and may not be so engaged with the art on the walls. We can’t blame them. But, we still encourage their engagement with art!

PBS.com conducted a study of the importance of art in child development and they came to the conclusion that, “Teaching children to recognize the choices an artist or designer makes in portraying a subject helps kids understand the concept that what they see may be someone’s interpretation of reality.”

So, the next time you stop by the gallery with your mini-me, ask for a coloring page and crayons!

Local mural: Cafe Diem

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

We do a lot of things in the name of art—waking up at 4:00am being one of them.

Last week, we posted on our Insta stories before 5:00am with behind-the-scenes on our mural tracing. We had so many people respond asking, “Why so early?” It’s because you can only trace a mural design when it’s completely dark to use a light projector—just like you used to see in the classroom when the teacher had to turn the lights off. Using a projector is the easiest way to transfer a design to a large-scale wall while keeping the design proportional. We also got the height we wanted by placing the projector on top of an SUV!

We use crayons to outline the design, because it’s not as noticeable and permanent as a Sharpie. Crayon also doesn’t blend with the paint colors like chalk does (we learned that the hard way).

We now have worked with a handful of Ankeny businesses to bring more public art to the city. A few of Ankeny’s mural artists include Jenna Brownlee, As Phate and now yours truly, Tina Ehrlich. I was onsite for two days at the well-loved and well-known coffee shop, Cafe Diem, creating “This is home” on the drive-thru side.

Right when I started painting, the client asked, “How long will it take?” I think he saw the size of the wall, and the size of my [small] paint brush, and thought my commitment of two days seemed tight. But, I responded, “Once I get going, it goes quickly.” As long as you don’t hit too many hiccups, which I didn’t, it really does—I was finished in the said two days. More time is usually designated to the design process, before supplies are even picked up. This client had a specific phrase and design in mind, which means there is a good amount of back-and-forth conversation about design drafts before a final is selected. I first created the bones of the mural with Adobe software, which was traced, and then artistic liberties were taken as paint was applied to adapt to the wall’s characteristics.

As an artist, I’m always surprised by how naturally the technique and style of small-scale paintings transfer to large-scale work. It truly is just a big canvas. And a much bigger brush.

This is my second mural in the Des Moines area and myself, as an artist, and we, as an art advisory company, are so honored to partner with business leaders to bring more color to the cities in the Des Moines area. We feel satisfied and happy when we know we’ve contributed to yet another “pride point” !

Dream clients: influencer edition

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 17:41:56 GMT

It’s an occupational hazard that when I meet someone or look at someone’s Instagram page, I start to shop for art in my mind for them.

Over the last seven years of being an art advisor, I have developed a specific questionnaire that gets to the heart of the matter—what people would love to have hanging on their walls. These questions range from how the client would like to feel in their space to inspiration they have seen and loved. I haven’t worked with any of these women (although I would love to), but in the way that social media makes you feel like you know a person, I have shopped for each of their walls.

@blaireadiebee

Blair has been a longtime source of fashion inspiration for me. She loves to play with prints and patterns and most importantly, her aesthetic is so joyful. I immediately paired her up with Angela Chrusciaki Blehm’s Enzo Bow . It’s got everything that I think Blair would love—polka dots, color, a bow—and joy!

@justinablakeney

Justina has such a wonderfully defined aesthetic. She is the boho queen on instagram and has carved a niche for herself perfectly. Kevin Brent Morris’s Flea Beetle feels so much like her to me. Kevin and Justina have a similar love of playing with pattern and nature and the palm leaf background is so beautifully done. The vintage frame that Kevin handpicked is what seals the deal for me when picking this piece for her.

@juliahengel

Julia has the most charming and sweet aesthetic. She and her husband, Thomas, moved to Charleston a couple of years ago and their home has been a delight to watch. Recently, on top of her incredible fashion line Gal Meets Glam, she also had her first child. This sweet new family of three immediately makes me think of Hunt Slonem’s Myconos . From the three bunnies, to the aqua blue color and antique gold frame, it feels like this piece could just slip on to any wall in their home.

@emilyschuman

I have followed Emily on instagram for quite a while because I love watching her business grow in new and interesting ways, her aesthetic both in fashion and in her home (her bathroom is to die for and inspired my living room curtains), and she has a similar love of sweets—specifically rice krispies treats. Emily has a fun and colorful look which doesn’t take herself too seriously, which I appreciate. For all of those reasons I chose Kristi Kohut’s Blooming . This artwork is beautiful, it’s joyful, it’s covered in glitter, it looks as though it’s glowing—it would fit right in Emily’s happy, sugar-filled home.

@kathleen_barnes

I have recently started following Kathleen and her blog, Carrie Bradshaw Lied, and followed her recent move from California to Georgia. In the glimpses I have seen of their new home, it is so lovely and fits in with Kathleen’s southern charm. Naturally, I had to pair her with another southern artist— Logan Ledford of New Orleans. As you can see in her photo above, Kathleen has a love of neutral artwork and I just cannot get over how much I love this Ode to Deep Blue that Logan recently sent to us. From one southern girl to another, it’s a perfect match.

I’ll be sharing more of my dream clients and the artwork I match for them in coming months. If there’s a genre you’d love to see— movie stars, television characters— let us know and I’ll start pairing artwork to client!

Call for mural artists

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 00:00:00 GMT

No matter your location, we invite artists to apply for our most recent mural RFP!

Throughout the year, we distribute multiple Request for Proposals (RFPs) for all types of projects—murals, client events, sculptures and more. Our most recent RFP is for an artwork design to be painted on an exterior wall in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. We invite artists to apply and to share with any artists that may be interested!

If you're an artist that has not painted a large-scale mural before, you can learn more about the process here . You also can see examples of other murals in the area here .

Please review the RFP details here . The submission deadline is October 20, 2019 at 5:00pm . If you have any questions regarding the RFP, please email us at hello@lizlidgett.com.

Not your muse

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 20:09:43 GMT

Women are no longer the muse and this show proves it.

For centuries, women weren't allowed to be artists but only a muse—the source of inspiration. It's now 2019, we celebrate the incredible artwork created by females and our gallery is committed to representing at least 50% women artists.

We’re excited to announce our next show, Not Your Muse , that highlights the work of both local and international female artists! We hope you'll join us for the opening reception tomorrow, Thursday, September 26. Stop by the gallery between 4-7pm to say hi and to celebrate women artists across the country! Let us know if you'd like to be added to the show's pre-sale list, to be the first to see all available pieces.

Some of the featured artists include:

Martha Rich, Philadelphia, PA

Whitney Warne, Des Moines, IA

Jehra Patrick, Minneapolis, MN

Logan Ledford, New Orleans, LA

Taelor Fisher, Dallas, TX

Rebecca Stern, Stamford, CT

Kristi Kohut, Chicago, IL

And many more! We’d love to see you on Thursday. But, if you’re not able to make it, the show will be up for the next 8 weeks. If you’d like to have the first peek at what’s available to purchase, let us know to add you to the show’s pre-sale list.

Our artists far beyond Des Moines

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 20:15:28 GMT

We are so privileged to represent the roster of artists that we do.

From all over the world, they display a variety of mediums, backgrounds and passions. Beyond gallery representation, they’re all hustling to expand their art career in creative ways. We love seeing the opportunities our artists create! We wanted to share a few recent highlights with you.

Lino Lago

While strolling through one of Italy’s gas stations , Liz noticed a familiar sight. Sitting on a bookshelf for purchase was a book with artwork by Lino Lago as the cover. This book PHI by Azra Kohen is one of a trilogy--all of which have Lino Lago’s artwork as the cover.

Ashley Mary

Previously having worked with national brands like West Elm and Anthropologie, Minneapolis artist Ashley Mary recently collaborated with Summersalt on a limited edition swimsuit print. The pattern was created directly from her collage work. Available as a one-piece or two-piece, you can purchase the swimsuit here !

We still have two pieces available by Ashley Mary. Let us know if you're interested!

Leigh Suggs

Our gallery piece, The Background III, by Leigh Suggs was recently featured in Midwest Living . Included for a photo shoot, the piece looks lovely in the styled bedroom! Also still available to purchase at the gallery , it’s a special opportunity to partner with Meredith Corporation on a national level. We love seeing our artists’ work shared far beyond Des Moines’ borders.

We also have one additional piece available at the gallery by Leigh Suggs. See below!

Kristi Kohut

Kristi Kohut was spotted in the most recent issue of Rachael Ray , highlighting her styled home and original artwork. She also mentions how she’s growing her own collection with pieces by her artist friends. We noticed she’s sitting under a Logan Ledford original, another artist included at our gallery!

Angela Chrusciaki Blehm

We said goodbye to our vintage lip sofa last week! We loved our time with it, but was so happy to find it a permanent home in St. Louis, Missouri. Designed by Angela Chrusciaki Blehm , her lip sofa was featured in the Pop Wow collection first seen at our gallery in July. While perusing the most recent Architectural Diges t, we noticed a complete spread on vintage lip sofas, highlighting their original inspiration by Salvador Dalí. We’re certain the lips will be cherished in their new home!

Here's a few Pop Wow favorites that are still available at the gallery:

Local spotlight

Jenna Brownlee

Local artist Jenna Brownlee is not represented at the gallery, but we’ve worked with her on so many local projects that we love sharing what she’s up to. She’s partnered with Kate Wagner, the founder of Lidgett. (and Liz’s sister), to create a custom-designed pattern for the entrepreneurial clothing line. The brand’s fall line has been announced and a new pullover jacket includes Jenna’s florals! We’re so proud of both Kate and Jenna as they make killer designs together.

These are just a few highlights. Our artists are constantly creating. We love seeing their newest projects and sharing them with you. It reminds us how fortunate we are to have these talented artists’ work in the Des Moines community!