Create Your Own Artwork (By Kevin Finke and Rob Stalder)

What you choose to put on the walls of your home makes every bit as much a statement as what you select to wear on your body. Just like a classic suit, artwork can be and is an extension of who you are, what you believe in, what you think of yourself and how you view the world. Further, we have a strong belief that everyone should own at least one piece of original art; whether sculpture, photography, multi-media or a painting, original art fills your space with an inexplicable energy that can have a profound effect on your life.

But let’s face it, not all of us have the coin to drop on an oil painting by a local artist, much less an original Lichtenstein. So what to do? Create your own artwork by having canvases printed of your favorite photography–family, friends or landscapes. By comparison, it’s inexpensive, but speaks to your life and what’s important to you; and can bring a look to your home that’s personal, inspiring and the envy of your guests. Photos can be printed on canvas in any number of sizes and, even with the most basic Adobe Photoshop skills, manipulated into an unlimited array of colors, crops and styles. Print one large canvas or multiple smaller ones that you use to create a statement on your wall.

You can find a multitude of companies in your city or online who print on canvas, but our favorite is www.canvaslove.com. The company is located in Los Angeles, has super reasonable pricing, does quality printing and assembly and employs a very friendly staff (if you work with them via phone, ask for Mirae!). When printing, we would recommend choosing “Museum Gallery Wrap,” which is a frame with a 1.5″ depth. The finished piece has much more presence on your wall.

So summon your inner Ansel Adams, look through your existing photography or shoot new and print away!

In our own home, we created a statement with nine individual canvases of our family and pets.  It allows us to see those we love everyday while at the same time forms a look that enhances our décor.

Kevin Finke and Rob Stalder are the owners of Gatherings, an earth-conscious lifestyle and event planning company.