Joan DeSantis Homes

Many local artist exhibit and sell their creations in nearby galleries such as The Galleries at 14 South King Street in Leesburg or the Loudoun Academy of Arts.  Others hold individual shows in private homes.  Often you will see local artists' displays in libraries, churches, and other community events.  Keep your eyes open for such opportunities in small local papers and online auction sites. Sometimes you just might stumble upon a rare but affordable treasure by word of mouth.  Let people know that you're looking for local artwork for your new home and you'll be pleasantly surprised what might turn up.

1. First, take your time adding fine art to your home.  It's great if you're starting out in a new home or resale and have freshly painted walls.  If you still have the chance, select a neutral wall color that complements your existing furnishings but isn't too dark and overpowering.  Keep some touch-up paint for each color in small containers along with some spackle.  Then don't be afraid to experiment with hanging art on the walls.  You don't have to measure precisely - stand back and use your eyes.  Remember not to hang art too high.  If you have very high ceilings, be sure to select larger pieces or create "walls of art" by grouping many smaller pieces together.

2. Leave room for new pieces as you acquire them, and remember to leave room for family photos and childrens' artwork. Reframing and matting some shabby old prints or photos can do wonders towards updating your decor.

3. Unify existing artwork with similar frames and matte colors to complement each room. 

4. For smaller pieces, consider an attractive table-top easel in your foyer or hallway. Make this a "no junk" table by keeping it small enough for the artwork displayed and nothing else.

5. Rotate pieces year-to-year or seasonally (if you like to redecorate for the holidays).  That treasured seaside watercolor may look great in the summer, but feel awfully out-of-place during the winter holidays. Switch it out for a similar-sized winter scene that goes with your holiday decorations.

6. Make a seldom-used upstairs room into a "treasure gallery" by hanging all the photos, not-so-great prints, artwork gifts, and out-of-season pieces that just don't sync up with your living room look.  It will be easier to rotate those pieces in on short notice when the season or the spirit moves you (or Aunt Alice pays a visit and wants to see the lovely print she bought you for a wedding present).

7. Highlight your true favorites in a place of honor for all to enjoy!