If you’re anything like me, then you’ve probably done some belt-tightening lately. The list of “extras” I’ve cut out in the past year is a long one indeed.
I do think, however, that there are some things that shouldn’t be cut out. Everyone has their own definition of “wants” and “needs”, as well as the sliding gray scale that exists between those two.
For me, art definitely weighs heavily on the “needs” side.
The reason is because both A and I are very creative. To us, art (defining art as anything creative: music, paintings, etc.) is what makes life so exciting and grand. Cutting our spending for art would, at least for us, cut out some of the world’s luminescence.
We also love supporting artists. Being an artist takes courage, and we try to help when we can.
Now, does this mean we drop a few Benjamens at the local art gallery? That we attend high-priced concerts every weekend?
No way. Even before our Big Savings Plan, we weren’t doing expensive stuff like that. We’ve definitely cut back on our creative-related purchasing. But, this is the area where we definitely allow more wiggle room. It’s just one of our priorities.
So, is it possible to get great art without spending a fortune?
I’m so happy to be able to say “YES” to that!
Let’s go art shopping…
Frugal Amazing Artist #1: Ten Dollar Drawings
Alicia's drawings from Ten Dollar Drawings
The first artist I want to highlight is Alicia over at Ten Dollar Drawings.
Alicia is amazing. She started Ten Dollar Drawings after her son was born so that she wouldn’t give up working on her art.
She’ll draw anything you want on a 5×7 brown paper lunch sack. And, it’s only $10.
As you can tell, Alicia is really talented. I’m definitely going to be placing an order with her soon!
She also does amazing drawings on wood plaques.
Need some unique art? Want to support a young artist who draws while her son is napping?
Head over to Ten Dollar Drawings to check out Alicia’s work!
Lovely Photograph by Blissful Images
Frugal Amazing Artist #2: Blissful Images
I love good photography. A good photograph is like opening a secret door, enabling you to see the world in a different way.
Blissful Images’ shop on Etsy.com is full of completely lovely photographs.
These photographs are whimsical. She’s taken photographs of dahlias, chocolate cupcakes, and old timey clocks.
And, every one of them is like stepping into a hazy dream.
The best news? These wonderful works of art are only $25 for an 8×10.
Amazing. Head over to Blissful Images’ Etsy shop to check them out!
Frugal Amazing Artist #3: littlebrownpen
One of Nicole's photographs
Ok, not only is Nicole an amazing photographer, she’s also got one of the most luscious blogs on the web (you can visit it here). Her blog is probably my favorite of all the blogs I read. Why?
Because she writes about simple things like coffee, salted caramels, and living in Paris. And, her blog is full of her amazing photographs. If you need a pick me up, then go over to littlebrownpen immediately. You won’t be sorry.
The good news for us is that Nicole has an Etsy shop where she sells her wonderful photographs. If you love Paris, you’re going to be very happy.
The cool thing about these photographs is that they’re only $5. Yep, you read that right! $5.
The thing is, you have to print them yourself. But, this saves you money because you can choose your own paper, and you don’t have to pay for shipping. So if you have a printer that will do photographs (or you know someone who does) you can save a bundle here.
You can also get the photographs printed at a place like Kinkos.
Swimmer, by eekdesigns
Frugal Amazing Artist #4: eekdesign
I’m continually stunned with how creative people are. Looking at art always renews my faith in humanity. I know that may sound cliche or dramatic, but it’s the truth.
I love the illustrations by eekdesigns on Etsy. Looking at them makes me feel quiet and happy.
Why?
Because they’re mysterious and lovely.
Eekdesigns sells their luscious 8.5×11 prints for only $18.
Head over to eekdesigns’ Etsy Shop to have a look! She’s got dozens of wonderful illustrations for sale.
Frugal Amazing Artist #5: Red Bubble
If you’d like to surf through a pool of incredibly talented artists, check out RedBubble.com.
Red Bubble is cool because there is a wide variety of styles and mediums. And most prints start at $18.
The Motherload of Great Artists
If you really want to get lost for a few hours looking at great art, then just browse through Etsy.com. My advice?
Freeze your credit card in a block of ice before you do. I can hardly go to that site without buying something.
In fact, this post has already cost me $28 to write.
So, be aware: there is some really wonderful stuff there. You might want to make a list of your favorites, and then, while your credit card de-thaws the next day, narrow down the list. It’s the only way to avoid going crazy and buying everything you see.
Last Word…
Supporting independent artists is an amazing feeling. Sure, you can go get prints at Target. But by purchasing a unique piece of art from a real person, you’re helping them live their life and feed their family. You also get something that’s completely unique for your home.
And as you can see, most of the work is as cheap, or cheaper, than the mass-produced stuff you can buy at Target. And, your purchasing dollars go a much longer way with these artists.
Art like this also makes a unique, inexpensive, personal gift.
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