As an artist, I am lucky to receive new commission requests for house portraits every week. However, I also choose my own subjects. Sometimes I make my choices based on a series I’m creating about a specific architectural style (ie. Tudor Homes or Victorians) or an individual city or town (ie. San Francisco, CA or Clayton, MO).
The owners of these selected homes often ask how I came to choose their house. I thought about what inspires me to select an architectural subject for one of my paintings. I’ve come up with twelve “art inspiring” traits depicted in many of my favorite portraits.
How many art inspiring traits does your home have?
- The home is obviously loved. It’s well maintained and often has unique and intriguing features attached to the house or displayed in the garden that reflect the personality of it’s owner.
- The architectural style of the home is interesting and the house, porch, outdoor décor and garden compliment this theme, whether it’s Modern, Ranch-style, Craftsman, Tudor, Victorian, Eclectic etc.
- The house, in all its glory, can be clearly viewed. For instance, it is not hidden by trees, hedges, tall fences, gates, brick walls and other obstacles for an artist.
- The landscaping, including trees and bushes, is attractive and helps create the overall atmosphere and vibrancy of the home.
- The home emanates an inviting and welcoming aura, making me want to walk right up the path, knock on the door, or relax on the porch.
- The home’s historic nature — and the story behind it — are intriguing. I appreciate homeowners’ attention to detail in keeping their homes as close to the original as possible.
- The garden is bright and colorful with blooming flora and dazzling flowers.
- The home has a magical seasonal quality that beautifully portrays either winter, spring, summer or fall.
- The home blends in with its surrounding natural elements such as mountains, forest, lake, or beach.
- The home has architectural characteristics which clearly portray its geographical roots and the classic style of that region.
- The home radiates a special quality that makes it stand out from the crowd. Sometimes the message is that it’s a “family home” or it’s the home of an artist, an architect or designer.
- The colors of the house are well-selected and integrate nicely with its architectural style, location, and the neighborhood it is part of.
How many of these art-inspiring traits does your home have? I’d love to hear from you!
Cheers,
Leisa
