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Using Art in Kid Friendly Spaces in Your Home

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The idea of using real art to decorate a children’s room or nursery is very appealing to me.  But to be honest, I do not know where to start, and am a bit intimated by the idea of purchasing art.

  So, I asked Dede Peters at DDP Gallery in Fayetteville for some hints.  Here’s what she said: 

If you type in the search “art for children’s room”, you realize that you have indeed entered a niche retail market. The great thing about picking art for the room is that it doesn’t have to match the couch (in fact, it doesn’t have to match anything)!  Here are a few thoughts:

• Sustainability. Not just the “green” kind, but will it hold interest? Think about choosing art to last a lifetime or to pass down to future generations. (Remember to properly care for the piece – keep out of direct sunlight, frame archivally, etc.)

• Originality. Here’s a chance to teach and learn. Teach your children the importance of being an individual through your selection of an original piece of art. Learn about your child’s imagination by asking him or her how they experience the art. Keep asking. As they mature, the piece may take on a different meaning.

• Resourcefulness. Buying local would be terrific - there are several galleries and recurring art events in Northwest Arkansas. Don’t be afraid to ask gallery folks to see their stock. Seek out artists. Ask around for recommendations. And of course there is the Internet….

While in DDP Gallery, I saw several pieces that are afordable and would work well in children’s spaces.  For example, this piece by Sarah Nunn (botanist, artist and local mom to Charlie and Pete) is 16″x12″ and priced at $70, would be a great addition to a little boy’s nursery.

By the way, I purchased a felt bag made by Sarah Nunn for a friend who is a new mom.  I think it will make a great alternate diaper bag and eventually a fun overnight bag for her daughter.

As your child grows, you may want to go towards a more funky feel.  What about this stencil painting on pine wood?  The collection includes many different images at $40 each.  I think a grouping of several of these would be great for a playroom wall or above a child’s bed.

I am considering purchasing a few of these for my nieces for Christmas. I think they would make great gifts that could be displayed as easily in a first apartment or dorm room. How great would it be to have my nieces remember years from now that their Aunt T started a mini art collection for them? I would be the coolest aunt ever!

Or, you may want to add a little bit of humor to the space.  Ever heard of ugly dolls?  This is a similar concept by local artist Nicole Sharp.

These, and works by other artists are on display at DDP Gallery through January 19th, 2008. 

Address:  DDP Gallery, 7 East Mountain Street in Fayetteville (just off the east side of the Fayetteville Square); Hours:  Wed.-Fri. 12-7pm, Sat. 10am-5pm.; Phone:  479.442.0001; Web:  http://www.ddpgallery.com/

Baby’s First Art Gallery

Kid friendly may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of an art gallery.  However, Dede Peters, the owner of DDP Gallery in Fayetteville assures me that her gallery is family friendly (and I believe her!). 

So, when you are up on the Fayetteville Square, stop by and expose your kids to high caliber contemporary art.  While you are there, be sure your kids say “hi” to DDP’s art dog, Heidi. 

DDP Gallery Hours and location.

Local Artists: a Budget Friendly Way to Start an Art Collection

Filling the blank walls in your home can be difficult, not to mention a budget drainer.  There are only so many pictures of your family members to hang on the wall, and art (unless it is created by your kids) can be expensive.  One way to start an art collection without taking out a loan is by focusing on local artists.  Art Amiss is a Fayetteville based artists collective showcasing the work of emerging Arkansas artists.  You can browse hundreds of art pieces on Art Amiss’ website and contact the artists about purchases.  Who knows, maybe you will find the next Picasso!

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