Nature’s vibrant colour emerges with autumn upon us.

In the gentle hush of fall, light softens as daylight shortens. Crickets chirp as the busy hum of summer fades to the quiet rhythm of fall.

 Autumn 8×10 oil on board.

In Canada, focus shifts from outdoor to indoor pursuits. Garage sales pop up as houses are purged. Nature’s influence is ever present when homes are “spruced up” and refreshed. This time of year, dwellings often undergo home improvements in preparation for winter.

My Auntie Beth lovingly called it “nesting”

.“Winter Trail” 20×24 oil on canvas

Fall is also the season when artist’s studio phones ring non-stop.

 In recent weeks over half a dozen clients all in the midst of reno’s have been actively seeking art and advice. Projects range from new builds and major renovations, to minor ones. I commend them for including art collection in a renovation budget, too often art is an afterthought.

 A few tips in preparing your space & adding to your collection.

• Fresh wall paint will renew the space and enhance the art. For great palette options for your art collection, click here. Favourites for showcasing the work I do are: #3, #5, #7 & #10. (Keep floor colour, lighting and room size in mind when choosing wall paint.)
•  iArtView makes it possible to peruse and exhibit art digitally on your own walls. Click here to read about this remarkable app.
• Define your spaces. What experience do you want to emulate? Ex: relax, entertain, dine, etc. Communicate this to the artist/ dealer.
• .Cut paper to size of your canvas options, (adjust size if adding a frame) tack to the area on the wall and interchange to get a feel for the size.
• Consider what else is in the room.Ie: are there fancy fixtures, mouldings, patterned rugs, ornate furniture.The more competition for our attention and senses, art experience is less restful or engaging.
•   If it’s available in your community invite the gallery dealer/ artist to view your space and offer suggestions.

 ~ With more paintings leaving the studio these days, I have been re-arranging art and implementing my own nesting. Among changes is an unfolding look to a large northern painting. It’s really risky, sanding down a large painting and beginning anew.

Like some changes, it can be well worth it with dramatic results.

Note: My Auntie Beth was a full participant in the idea of nesting. After harvest she retreated from her amazing garden to bake bread and can in her homey kitchen amid busy family farm life. Auntie made the best rice pudding ever, and understood the need to purge the old, and begin anew. Long ago, instead of storing my apartments contents, I sold everything before traveling. She said “Great idea! Everyone needs to unburden sometimes and have a clean slate.”