We’re entering the home stretch of the One Room Challenge and truth be told, this past week wasn’t my most productive. In fairness, I was vacationing on the Cape so I’m going to cut myself a little slack and work extra hard these last two weeks to finish strong. If you’re new to this series, start at Week One to get caught up to speed.
THE PROJECT
As I mentioned last week, my goal was to expand my art collection. I have a gallery wall planned for the space and 13ft walls to fill!
The one thing I did accomplish is commissioning a quote from a calligrapher that I intend to frame. My inspiration came from one of my design idols, Anna Spiro. Check out her framed Virginia Woolf quote on the beautiful tablescape below.
There have been a few pieces that have caught my eye but I haven’t pulled the trigger quite yet. This Lulu DK print (did you catch my Style Snapshot interview with her last week?) from yesterday’s One King’s Lane sale has been nagging at me. Should I cave and snap it up?
And this abstract by Tracey Kafka reminds me of a Rothko so of course I’m in love.
That’s all I’ve got this week, the promise of a beautifully written quote and some pieces that have me reaching for my wallet. I have to admit I’m getting a bit nervous as we get closer to the reveal. Art is so personal. We love the quirky pieces we’ve collected, but I hope you will too! Fingers crossed…
THE GOALS
-Paint, paint, paint!
-Update light fixture
-Invest in artwork
-Create a gallery wall
NEXT STEP
Get busy hanging all my artwork. Check back next Wednesday to see my progress!
P.S Be sure to check out the other participants below!









Obsessed with that abstract painting – great find!!! I haven’t had a chance to comment, but I’m loving this challenge. It’s such a fun idea! Can’t wait to see the gallery wall : ) xx
I love that Tracey Kafka abstract so much! I would pull the trigger on that.
Have you ever been to the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria? You should check that out. There are TONS of artists’ studio spaces, representing an enormous range of styles, and much of the artwork is reasonably priced.
Obviously there are lots of cool pieces online, but I always hesitate on those because they’re usually prints that anyone can buy. As you said, artwork is so personal. I don’t love the idea seeing “my” piece in other people’s spaces–or worse, seeing it turn into a trend. (That’s probably kind of bratty of me.) Buying something from a local gallery (whether or not it’s the TF) gives you the satisfaction of shopping local, the chance to meet the artist and a more unique piece–all good things.
The Torpedo Factory is always there, full of art, but the Art League (located within the TF) is having a special fundraiser sale tomorrow through Saturday, featuring three artists, with pieces starting at $30. I’m definitely going to check it out. http://www.theartleague.org/content/legacy_sale
(Obnoxiously long comment–sorry! I’m not affiliated with the Torpedo Factory or the Art League, by the way–just a big fan.)
Thank you so much for the Torpedo Factory tip! I’ve been to Alexandria a million times and can’t believe I’ve never checked it out. I completely with you on finding unique pieces and supporting local artists. This might be my Saturday activity! xx
I can’t believe I just walked past the torpedo factory twice on Sunday and didn’t go in. My mom suggested and I said no. Now I”m kicking myself!
Think of it as saving something great for your next visit.
Love the quote idea, and the artwork. I would buy it! Hope you had a great time in the Cape, and got a break from this extra yucky weather.
Many thanks for including my painting on your blog! Getting traffic from this post in my etsy shop!!!
You are so welcome!
I kick myself for not going to the Torpedo factory while I lived in NoVa! I missed so much and miss it so much….good luck with the art hunt. Maybe paint your own too?
Grab the Lulu DK print! I saw that on OKL yesterday, too! It would look great with your style! Love following your progress in the ORC. I’m your newest follower!
Thanks so much for following along!
This is such a fun feature! I’m really enjoying it and seeing the progress! xoxo C
That Tracey Kafka abstract is just GORGEOUS. You must get it!!
Can’t wait to see the art wall. I love the choices so far and quotes…love them!
Happy Shopping! I love the art choices…I guess I like quirky too
Looking forward to seeing what you decide at the end
I am working on collecting art for a gallery wall also. Love that abstract piece & I am a big fan of Rothko too. Can’t wait to see what you come up with! xoxo
I love the art pieces you’ve got your eye on. They are gorgeous. The calligraphy piece is so pretty too. Cant wait to see everything hung together!
Thanks for the abstract link…I love.
And…I am with you….but next week I will have to pull something out f my ass. Might have to make it the 12 week challenge cause I am no where near done with my project.
Snap that baby up girlfriend! Do it. I also kind of adore that pink and orange abstract.
Love the Tracey Kafka .. buy it … NOW!! Love that you were just at the Cape. I am just outside of Boston and feel like I should have had you over for a glass of wine … let’s plan it the next time!!
Oh I can’t WAIT to see all of your art hung! I’m a Tracy Kafka fan, too!
I am loving those prints! Great choices!
That abstract painting is out of control- I love the colors in it!
Thanks! My mom actually bought it for me for my birthday. It’s now mine yayy!