Stillness Among the Leaves by Lorraine Field shown in a calm living room interior, original figurative oil painting designed to bring stillness and reflection to the home

How our homes tell the story of what we value...

When January lands, it always feels like a reset, doesn’t it?
 
 
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That feeling of 'taking stock' is something I notice a lot in the messages you've been sending me. Many of you are re-imagining your homes at this time of year (and this stage of life!) Choosing pieces more considerately now. Taking your time, wanting things to feel right rather than rushed.
 
And I want you to know: that this way of choosing is completely welcome here.
 
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Over the past few weeks I’ve helped a handful of people visualise how a painting might live on their walls. Imagining it with their light, their furniture.
 
One lady said seeing a mock-up helped her finally trust her instincts. Another realised her space could take something bigger and bolder than she’d first thought.
 
Which leads me to something I’d genuinely love your thoughts on…I’m considering using an app called 'Artplacer', which allows an uploaded photo of your room and see an artwork virtually on your wall before you buy. 
 
I’ve already been doing this manually when I can, but an app could make the whole process easier and more accurate, especially for those of you who like to really ponder a decision. That said, it is a paid service (for me), so before I commit, I wanted to ask:
 
  • Would this be helpful for you?
  • Would seeing artwork in your own space make choosing feel easier, calmer, more confident? 
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I’m also continuing to add more print options to my website, including framed canvas versions of prints alongside the already listed glazed (acrylic glazing) paper prints, because everyone’s home (and taste) is different. 

Choice matters.

I may need to make some difficult decisions soon. Quality canvasses and frames are expensive and for now my storage space is limited.

I’m considering carefully whether to paint over some pieces, or perhaps remove canvases from stretchers and roll them safely instead. It feels like a shame, but it’s all part of navigating a sustainable creative life.

One thing I’ve noticed — and I say this gently — is that some people feel originals are “out of reach”, so they don’t even consider them. 

 
If you ever feel drawn to a piece but you're unsure how to approach it, please know you can always ask, talk it through, or take your time. There’s no pressure here — only conversation.

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This year feels a little different for me. I turn 60 in January! 🎈

And yes…I’m hoping to do some rather cool things...

Of course, cool things need paying for, so I’m continuing with my blog this year to bring more people into my little art world. I’ll also be sharing links to the materials I genuinely use and love, partly to help fellow artists, and partly to support the business in a way that feels honest and aligned.

 

Which leads me to something I’d really love to know…

 

Are you an artist yourself?


Do you paint, draw, dabble…or have a quiet longing to have a go?
Or are you here purely for the way art makes you feel — the calm, the nostalgia, the sense of connection?

I love that this community holds space for all of it.

 

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And finally, a small thank you moment to share with you:

I posted a reel a few days ago about going to an art shop to buy a canvas. The assistant told me the one I'd chosen was an expensive canvas, and then asked "Is that what you want?" Her question lead me to think, of course I want to paint on quality canvas, I wonder if my buyers realise this..?
 
I'm selling oil paintings with (very) expensive oil paints so I don't want the canvas to warp. This reel has reached over 4,700 views - more than I've ever had! It reminded me how much people value seeing things clearly and honestly before they decide — which circles us right back to that Artplacer question.
 
 
As always, I’d love to hear from you.  However you’re here, I’m really glad you are.

Handwritten 'warmest wishes' message with a signature on a white background

P.S. My first painting this year is a commissioned piece of Winston Churchill in a particular restricted palette. This has lead to inspiring a collection named 'Heroes'. I'd love to know who your hero is. (My daughter said I'm hers....awwww!)  I'll post updates a.s.a.p.
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