Fall Home Refresh, LFQ Style! 🖼️

Accessible original art, rug shopping Rx, get this curling iron, and more

Hello friends! 
After the blur of August travels and back-to-school, we are both in nesting mode and yearning for time to dream up a few mood-boosting tweaks to our homes as we prepare to settle in for sweater weather and beyond. 

We knew just who to call. Our dear friend Hayley Stoen is an art historian and owner of The Atelier Collection. She specializes in demystifying the process of collecting art by making it accessible, personal and just plain fun. She’d be the first to tell you that a small piece of art is the easiest way to add a little “pop” to your space when you’re craving change. Through countless texts and conversations with Hayley over the years, we know there’s a lot we don’t know about buying art, so we asked her to break it all down for you and for us.

Happy collecting,
Kate & Elizabeth

What’s one thing you wish more people understood about original art or fine art? Is all fine art original?
Hayley: Fine art is purely an expression and creation of the artist. Its value is intrinsic and is ultimately in the eye of the beholder. Fine art is special because its primary purpose is in its aesthetic value. Which is really quite profound if you think about it, something created solely for the purpose of being beautiful and expressive. Originality is determined by whether or not it is one-of-a-kind, and the only one in existence. In a world of fakes, copies, and mass-productions, there is something really satisfying and fun knowing that you own something entirely unique! When it comes to collecting fine art, the number one thing is that YOU love it and appreciate it. Which makes me think of how people often suggest of an abstract painting—“that looks like something my 3-year-old could do.” But to someone who values the composition, the color palette, the texture, the layered details, the connection to modern artists of the midcentury, that very painting can bring great joy and depth to a space.

How much does one’s personal style matter when you’re selecting pieces? Is it more about what you like, or more about what you think the space needs?
Personal style is very important, because ultimately a painting is residing in your home. Some collectors of mine like bright, bold, saturated colors. Others prefer a more muted, soft, vintage palette. Subject also matters. Some people are attracted to boats and seascapes, while others are drawn to classic landscapes, still lives, and garden scenes. Collectors often move from one genre to another as their collection evolves, and that is wonderful too. The main thing is that you love the painting, it speaks to you, and reflects where you are in the moment.

Pieces curated by Hayley in Kate’s living room

Are there common trends that you see in people’s homes that you, respectfully, wish we’d all retire? 
Farmhouse signage is not my favorite. Like having a giant sign in the kitchen that says “kitchen” or that sort of thing. To me, it just looks like space filler, and is too obvious. I would rather have a bare wall than mere clutter. On the other hand, if it’s an antique wood sign from a French flea market that you sourced on a trip to Paris, now that’s something entirely different. I tend to be drawn to things with meaning and a story—if it’s a framed print from Target or the like, it probably doesn’t mean much and will ultimately end up at Goodwill.

Do you have a point of view on shopping at art fairs? They seem ripe for spontaneous and potentially regrettable purchases.
I love art fairs! I’ve met some incredibly talented artists in this type of venue. The art fair is important to their business, and it feels good to meet the maker and support an artist. I would suggest being aware of exactly what you’re buying. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most artists will love the inquiries and are proud to discuss their work and process. Is this a limited edition print or original sketch? Is this a giclée print of a painting or the actual original painting? What was your source of inspiration for this piece? Was this created in a studio or outdoors en plein air? Also, pieces from art fairs are often not framed and ready to hang, so people tend to bring them home, put them in the closet, and forget about them. The cost of framing of a painting/drawing should be considered when making the purchase so that the artwork can be displayed and preserved properly.

Any other affordable original art resources or sources of inspiration or you love?
My gallery was started on the premise that original art can be affordable and approachable. My pieces typically range from $250-$750, so while certainly an investment, it is a purchase that you can feel good about and one that will hold its value as the art is enjoyed daily, over many years! I have always acquired art at antique stores, flea markets, auctions, and estate sales. While I have more varied resources now as my gallery has grown, I still go back to these sources for art buying. While it can be hit or miss, there’s nothing like the feeling of finding a real treasure. I often tell people to be sure to look at the back of the painting to determine age, see if it’s signed (front or back), and consider whether you can live with its condition. Sometimes these pieces are a bit tattered and need to be cleaned or restored, or perhaps need a new frame. Or maybe it will be perfect as is! These excursions are a “treasure hunt,” but you can definitely find great deals sourcing art this way.

Can you share your thoughts on creating the perfect “layered” look in one’s home? How do we add depth and interest without creating chaos?
I love a layered and collected look in a home. It feels warm and interesting and is an authentic reflection of who lives there. I suggest starting with one room, or even one wall. Have a focal point, and create a vignette with a mirror, an oil painting, and a charcoal sketch. Perhaps a vintage framed map added to the mix, or an old etching. Lay things out on a table or rug before hanging. Different artistic styles (impressionist, realist, modern/abstract), subjects (still life, portrait, landscape), pieces new and old, of varying mediums—mixing and matching until it feels “right.” Create a common thread to avoid a cacophony. The combination of art should be complementary in some capacity. It’s sort of like mixing prints and textiles, or even how you put an outfit together. Each item is unique but when they all come together there’s balance and harmony.

Just say yes to art in the kitchen

You’ve taught us that original art doesn’t need to be large (thank you!). What are some unexpected small spaces that are a way in for readers to start collecting?
Absolutely, if you have a large wall the artwork doesn’t need to fill it entirely. Many people are surprised that the scale of a piece does not need to be massive to feel appropriately sized. I actually specialize in small to medium-sized paintings and I love seeing the way they pop up into my clients’ interiors. Smaller pieces of artwork are beautifully displayed on bookshelves, atop easels on an entry table, or arranged as part of a gallery wall.

And finally, kid art: does it have a place beyond the refrigerator?
Definitely! Especially in more intimate spaces, like an office or bedroom. And when framed well (Hang It in Northeast Minneapolis is my go-to framer), these works of art by a child’s hand are priceless.

Quick Q: 
Where you find your rugs and what material do you recommend for a high-traffic area? The options are so overwhelming! –Kelly W.

Elizabeth: You’ve come to the right place. I have a real thing for rugs. Or maybe it’s more of a problem: I once spent months trying to find the perfect 2x3 for a powder room—and we still use it a decade later. Wool is my pick for many rooms because it’s super durable, naturally repels liquids and resists stains, and looks even better with age. I just replaced our entryway and kitchen rugs and was blown away by the retailers who have upped their game. You no longer have to rely on big boxes like Pottery Barn, or hunt and peck on Etsy for vintage. Revival Rugs has an impeccably curated collection of new, one-of-a-kinds, and even washable wool rugs if you’re dealing with kids/dogs (how handsome is this one?). What I appreciate most right now is sites who have introduced technology to view any rug in your room by uploading a photo. Revival offers it, as does Rugs Direct where I’m not sure I would’ve taken the leap on such a bold checkered pattern—let alone in brown!—if I hadn’t been able to preview it first.

P.S.

Mille making fall extremely palatable (palettable?). Hot pick from Elizabeth’s hair stylist. Elin Hilderbrand on the big screen is Netflix-and-chill perfection. More literary goals. It’s never too soon to get your end-of-life together. Do drink this wine. Don’t skip this show. It’s a goddam gem. Be ready when the luck happens on 10/1! You know why today’s already a good day? Because Antelope carpet is a thing, that’s why. Giddyup.

Got a pressing question or confounding topic you’d like us to tackle? We’re all ears at lesfemmesq@gmail.com.