Over the years I’ve had more than a few clients who think that original art is unatainable. They picture big galleries with big price tags, and promptly decide to forget about it. They live with either blank walls, or with wall fillers like the print they found at Target that they thought was pretty enough for the time being. The time being, of course, quickly turned into years. Some of them have been living for ten years (or more) with art that they kinda like. Kinda.

Does this sound like you? Have you been living with empty walls? Or living with walls filled with art that you feel lukewarm about because you’re afraid you can’t afford real art? If so, this post is for you, my friend.

It is indeed possible to find gorgeous, unique, pieces of art at prices you can actually afford. Where exactly can you find affordable original art? Keep reading to uncover my best sources.

Etsy

Lord knows I’ve got a deep love for Etsy. It’s hands down one of my favorite places on the internet. If you’re looking for original art, Etsy’s a gold mine. You can score a beautiful little landscape for less than $20. The good news is, they’ve finally added art filters, which will really help to cut down your search results. Just beware, you’ll get prints in your search that are advertised as originals. You’ll know right away if it’s a print though, because you'll have the capability to select a size.

There’s lots of hidden gems on Etsy just waiting to be discovered. Here’s a few to give you a head start…

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Saatchi Art

Saatchi is a tried and true site that features artists from all around the world. There’s tons of originals to choose from and even some prints available as well. The great thing about art sites like Saatchi is that you can use their filters to dramatically narrow down your search. Prices range from just over $100 to over $100,000. Choose Saatchi (over Etsy) when you want to ensure that the pieces you’re scrolling through are originals. This will save you tons of time.

Artfinder

Artfinder is an amazing source for original art. In fact, I might go out on a limb and say it’s my favorite. It’s super easy to narrow your search on Artfinder. You can filter for size, style, orientation, and price range. Besides being a huge time saver, Artfinder gets bonus points for selling art that fits almost every budget. You can get a piece of original art starting at $25 bucks!

I just purchased three super affordable pieces from an artist in France, and I cannot wait for them to arrive. Cue the giddy squeal.

Chairish

Chairish is another incredible source for original art. Chairish, (like Etsy), sells all the things: lighting, furniture, china, etc., so there’s lots to sort through. Don’t let that deter you though. It has some helpful search filters (size, orientation, price) that will narrow down your choices considerably. They’ve got gorgeous new pieces as well as collectible vintage pieces.

Artist Collectives

Artist Collectives is a group of online art galleries that feature local artists from their respective cities. I happen to be partial to the Atlanta site, since one of my favorite artists sells there. What’s great about these sites is that they’re limited to a select number of artists, which saves loads of time that would otherwise be spent on excessive scrolling. I also love that they include prices. Honestly, there’s nothing worse than the dreaded “inquire for price.” No, I don’t want to inquire. I want you to tell me! Anyway, there’s tons of incredible paintings available at the Collectives at pretty affordable prices, all things considered.

Don’t forget to also check out local art festivals, galleries, and small businesses.

Allow Me

Feeling too overwhelmed with all the choices? I totally get it. But don’t let that stop you from finally taking your home to the next level. Instead, let me do it for you.

I’ll do all the leg work and find the perfect piece for your space. It will fit your wall, your taste, and your budget.

Original art will change the way your home feels, and it will change the way you feel in your home. All for the better. Promise.

Just send me an, S.O.S. please rescue me from my sad empty walls, email at: sara@sarasmithinteriors.com. I’ll make it super easy for you, and deliver some gorgeous affordable art on a *silver platter. Done and done.

*silver platter not included.

That’s all for this week, my friend. I’ll be back next week with more tips and tricks that will get you one step closer to a home you love.

Wishing you a beautiful week ahead.

-Sara