Skip the Click, Find the Spark: Why Open Studios Ignite Your Home's Soul
Beyond the Mass-Produced: Why Original Art Makes Your Home a Haven
For the last few years, the focus of my open studio during the Bucks Art Weeks event has been art and interior design. Why? Because, for me, these two things are inseparable. A well-curated home that feels genuinely lived-in should be a haven. Sure, functionality is essential, but so are the finer aspects contributing to your well-being. This is where art comes in.
Art provides a powerful avenue for expressing your unique personality. It lets you stamp your individual mark on the walls, silently saying, "This is who I am." Decorating your home isn't just about aesthetics; it's a chance to showcase your unique aspirations and values.
Be Bold: Embrace Your Unique Voice
Let's be honest—sometimes, stepping into a house can be a little disheartening. Blank walls, faded prints, or worse—the same mass-produced poster hanging on countless other living rooms. While affordable art has its place, something inspiring is waiting for you just around the corner.
Photograph by George Groves
Hidden Gems: A World of Original Art
Imagine this: thousands of passionate artists and makers, likely living and working in your own town, are pouring their hearts and souls into beautiful, completely unique works. These aren't mass-produced items found in generic online stores. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind reflection of the artist's personality, desires, and dreams. Owning a piece like this adds depth and integrity to your home's narrative, making it truly exclusive.
Finding the Extraordinary: Beyond the Click
Yes, discovering these independent artists can require some effort. Although some are represented by charming independent galleries, they won't have their own flashy storefronts to tempt you in. They're also not lurking in the vast sea of generic products on big e-commerce websites.
The good news is that many of these incredible artists have beautiful, user-friendly websites showcasing their work. These dedicated individuals spend countless hours refining their craft, driven by a love for creation. They've trained, practised, and poured their passion into every piece. It's not just a product; it's a piece of their heart and soul. It's just a matter of knowing how to seek them out.
Open Studios: A Gateway to Artistic Connection
Here's where Open Studios events come in. This is your personal invitation to connect with these exceptional individuals, to step inside their creative spaces, and to understand the dedication behind their work. Ask questions! Learn about their process and the stories behind specific pieces.
This year, the Bucks Art Weeks website and brochure are bursting with talented artists opening their studios for two glorious weeks in June. Before you click and buy that mass-produced poster, take a moment, explore the open studio's catalogue, and embark on a journey of artistic discovery.
Photograph by George Groves
Think about the unique treasures you could find – pieces that will enhance your home's beauty and speak volumes about the care and attention you invest in creating a space that truly reflects you.
Would you like to peek at the original art in The Garage this Bucks Art Weeks?
Pop into my beautifully curated online shop, where you will be given a flavour of what to expect. Each item in my shop is lovingly photographed and depicted to show the colours and quality of the work to its best. Of course, there’s nothing quite like seeing something in person, so why not pop in for an unperson visit this June? All the details for visiting my open studio are on the Bucks Art Weeks website.
Journal Notes
Photographers images used in this journal entry are the work of George Groves.