Artwork in the Kitchen

One of the most pinned rooms for interiors are kitchens.  It should come as no surprise since it is "the heart of the home" and arguably one of the most used areas for living and entertaining.  Because of this, I think the kitchen needs a little extra attention--mostly in the way of artwork.

Many people shy away or don't even think about having artwork on or over the kitchen counters.  "There's no room for it" they say..."It will get messed up when cooking"..."Are you crazy?"

And I combat those statements with "Yes, there is"..."Not it won't"...and "Definitely not."

Artwork is an excellent way to make your kitchen feel like any other designed space in your home.  It makes the room more personal, is a great talking point and makes a huge difference in the space with little effort.

If you're still weary, let me show you some examples. 

Here's a great example of some little pieces via Lacquered Life.  The picture light makes it even better.

Even without a lot of extra wall space, you can still prop up a small framed piece. (via Decorator's Notebook) 

This home was recently featured in Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, and I may have to give it a full post one day because it is that good.  But, in the meantime, let's enjoy this kitchen. 

The wet bar is also a great place to add some art (via Terra Cotta Design).

Lauren Liess has been a design icon for me for awhile, and her previous home's kitchen is a great example why.  Tip: Flea markets and thrift stores are a great place to get vintage oil paintings.

Over the stove is another great place to bring in a framed piece. (via The Paper Mulberry)

This last one doesn't technically have art, but I love how the leaning wood cutting boards act as a great replacement.  It just goes to show, it doesn't have to be fancy to work! (via The Proper Hunt)

Now go add some art to the heart of your home.  

*Designer tip: Stay away from themed items like pictures of utensils and coffee cups and word art for a more high-end look.

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Artist Spotlight: Christina Baker

"There will never be enough blank canvas to fulfill the desire within me to create." 

-Christina Baker

Artwork is such an intricate part of a room's design.  While I'm all for DIY pieces and black and white family photos, sometimes nothing can do the space justice like a true art piece.  

One particular artist that I love is Christina Baker.  Her paintings go so well with almost any style and have such a softness and fluidity to them.  She is excellent at marrying beautiful color combinations with abstract forms and the outcome is nothing short of amazing.

She began painting in watercolors with her grandmother, and I love that you can still see that inspiration in her work.

Here is one of her recent watercolors.   

Many of her paintings are available at galleries around Atlanta, GA, but you can follow other available works and her latest paintings on her Facebook page or website.  

Don't you just want a piece for yourself now?

All images via Christinabaker.net

DIY Acrylic Frames

My husband and I recently hung a series of frames on a tall wall in our living room, and every time I walk by them, I smile.  It made SUCH a huge impact on the room.  The right artwork and frames can do just that—completely transform a space.

One type of framing that I’ve been swooning over for awhile now is acrylic frames.  They are so understated (letting the artwork take center stage) while also being complete showstoppers because of their uniqueness. 

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Love the idea of framing a scarf.  Image via Highland Hardware

There are several tutorials for DIY versions online, including this one showcased on Home Depot's website, but you can also buy ready-made kits.  Custom framing doesn’t ever come cheap but these are actually pretty reasonable considering the size you can use—Home Depot has sheets as big as 4x8 ft.  Talk about a statement piece! 

But if you do prefer to have the work done for you, Highland Hardware on Etsy is a great place to look.  They also sell the bolts needed, if you go the DIY route, in various finishes. 

Acrylic frames are great for keeping wallpaper uninterrupted.  

I contemplated framing a dress that belonged to me as little girl in an acrylic frame for Auden’s nursery a couple of years ago but in the end decided to use what I had on hand.  Now that baby number 2 is on the way, the idea is back in full force.  I think it would make such a beautiful piece in her room, especially on those charcoal slate walls.

Image via 6th Street Design School

What do you guys think?  What would you frame in your acrylic piece?