When it comes to decorating, this has to be one of the biggest challenges especially if it is the prominent wall in the
room. This wall can set the tone for the space and should
reflect the style of the owner.
We enlisted the help of CM In The City founders, Cathi Marcoly and Mary Alice Slattery, to help us navigate the world
of art in our homes and offices. Cathi and Mary Alice are
aware that not everyone is interested in being a serious art
collector. Some people simply want to fill their empty walls.
For those with neither the time, budget, or the inclination to
start a collection, we still recommend buying something original, which isn’t as difficult to find or as cost-prohibitive as you
might think.
Student work will be the least expensive: Check with local
universities to see if they have open studio days. Or, watch
for art festivals that feature student art such as the Venice
Beach Biennale International Art Exhibition which features art
from the students of Cal Arts. There, you can find something
original, and at the same time you’re supporting a young artist, which is a nice thing.
Cathi and Mary Alice recently spoke to us from one of their
favorite places for art inspiration, The Getty Museum, about
collecting, hanging and framing art, and where to find it in the
first place. Their suggestions follow in the next segment.
“What advice would you offer someone looking for art for his
or her home?”
In response, they told us that they encourage people to take
their time. If that means allowing time to budget and save their
money to put towards a piece, then do it. We also suggest
resisting the purchase of several smaller, lower-cost pieces. It
is better to wait till you can afford it and purchase one larger
piece that really speaks to you rather than buying a smaller,
less expensive piece that doesn’t. Exercise patience: The
wall can stay empty for a bit. Typically, you want to go with
the big pieces that really stand out. It’s hard to resist buying,
but while you continue to look, you’re learning about yourself
and learning about what you like.
Speaking of learning about what you like, we asked Cathi and
Mary Alice, “How do you figure out what your own personal
taste in art is?”
Their response provided a lot of helpful information. They said
it’s important to spend time looking at a lot of art. Go to museums like The Getty, walk through galleries, attend Art Walks
like the one hosted monthly in Downtown Los Angeles. Pay
attention to what you don’t like and why. It’s all about finding artwork that challenges you, moves you or reflects your
sensibilities. Ask yourself: What are the visual things around
you that appeal to you? What moves you? Do you have favorite books, magazines or objects? While you take your time
looking for that perfect piece of art, consider putting together
a temporary exhibit in your home. Keeping stuff you are attracted to and enjoy having display in your home will also help
you find your art style. To do this, pick a predominant wall in