Newly Acquired: Original Michelle Armas Painting

I will spend money on original art. To me, it's worth saving for and splurging on. If you've read this blog for more than five minutes, you know I am a huge fan of Michelle Armas. Ever since I first discovered her work about a year ago, I've been harboring a desperate desire to own an original. Hands down, she is one of my favorite artists. She usually paints large canvases that sell for over $1,000. Worth it? Yes. In my current price range? Sadly, no.

But low and behold, Michelle recently began selling smaller paintings (12x12 and 18x18 canvases) in her shop for just $100 and $200. I missed out on the first batch by seconds (they all sold quickly) but promised myself I would try and acquire something in the next shop update.

The worldly powers work in divine ways, because I probably would have missed out again, had it been a typical Monday. As luck would have it, Michelle sent out her shop update email on President's day, and since I was home, I hopped over to my computer, surveyed the merchandise (all amazing) and bought myself an original painting.

Here she is in all her glorious, colorful splendor. Her name is "Kelley:"

I felt my heart beating absurdly fast as I waited for the payment to clear. When I received the receipt, I stood up and did a pseudo-tap dance (I was barefoot). No lie. I was that excited.

And so begins my official collection of original paintings. I plan to add to it over the months and years in order to fill my home with as much creative beauty as I am able. I made it a resolution back in January and am thrilled I maintained this promise to myself.

I partially wrote this post to convey the accessibility of art collecting. I realize that $100 isn't exactly chump change. For some, that's a lot of money to spend on one thing (myself included). But, I do believe that when planned for and managed properly--especially for something you love--you can make it work. I am also a major proponent of scouring for original pieces at flea markets and supporting local & independent artists and designers. That's why I love Etsy so much.

Be sure to check out Michelle's shop to browse original paintings, prints, and commissioned work, and visit her inspiring blog for a daily dose of awesome. (All paintings featured in this post are $100 canvases).