Art as an asset

Having been raised in North Central Florida since I was four years old, I don’t think that I will ever leave but my heart belongs to the ocean. Throughout my youth we would often take day trips to Ormond or Beverly Beach, which cultivated a love for the ocean and all things coastal. Though I don’t live by the water, I crave the sights, the sounds, and the scents of the ocean. Some are of the opinion that you should have art that only reflects your geological location, but I disagree. I can walk outside and see nature and it is lovely, but I cannot walk out my front door and see the ocean. My art is the ocean and things that evoke the memory of the beautiful Florida coastline. For you, your art should be whatever stirs you, evokes a memory, or makes you feel whole. For this reason, art is one of your most precious assets. Art is an asset of the mind, its value is to the owner alone and you should fill your home with art that makes you smile. Let’s explore a few homes to see how art finishes a space and brings joy every day to its owners somewhere in the heart of The Villages.

  •  Bridgeport Dining Room
These homeowners have traveled extensively, collecting a unique piece of art from every destination. Among their treasures are intricate woven silk tapestries, created with fine silk thread over months of detailed work. These images are so vibrant and textured, they resemble oil paintings in richness and depth. Their collection also includes watercolors and oils, each chosen not only for beauty but for the story it tells. The walls of their home have become a gallery of memories, where every piece reflects the artists they met, the places they explored, and the moments they cherish. Each piece of art is more than decoration; it’s a chapter in the tale of a life well lived.

  •  Art collection
The second home, a Newport Courtyard Model, belongs to art collectors whose collection continues to evolve. Wanting a flexible way to showcase their pieces without the constant task of rehanging, they envisioned a design solution that would bring ease and elegance to the display. To achieve this, board and batten detailing was added to the entire TV focal wall, the largest wall in the space. A woodworker crafted horizontal floating shelves that align with the battens. The result is a clean, seamless look where the shelves appear to hover effortlessly. Artworks can be leaned casually against the wall, allowing the display to shift and grow without tools or fuss. It’s a simple yet thoughtful system that celebrates both creativity and change.

  •  Art that brings two worlds together
The third home is a St. Charles model, owned by Colorado transplants who set out to blend the rugged warmth of stone and fire with the relaxed spirit of Florida. Art became a key element in bringing these styles together. At the center of the design is a striking photographic piece printed on an aluminum canvas. The image captures an egret in full mating plumage set against a deep black backdrop. The metallic surface gives the photograph a subtle dimensionality that almost lifts it from the wall. The grayscale palette creates a dramatic yet understated effect, complementing the natural textures and warmth throughout the space. Together, the setting and the artwork form a balanced reflection of both places, Colorado’s grounding elements and Florida’s quiet elegance.

  •  How do we choose art?
Choosing art for a space begins with a simple yet essential question: what do you enjoy seeing every day? Since this artwork will become part of your environment, it should genuinely bring you joy or spark reflection. I often ask clients about their preferences, do they gravitate toward landscapes, coastal scenes, nature-inspired pieces, or perhaps abstract compositions, classical works, or cultural iconography? Most homeowners already own artwork that holds sentimental value. In these cases, we build around those pieces, supplementing them with selections that complement both the existing collection and the space itself. Sometimes, clients feel disconnected from the art they’ve brought from previous homes but aren’t ready to part with it. In those situations, we often relocate those pieces to secondary spaces like bedrooms or hallways, allowing us to introduce something new and refreshing to the main living areas. For some, choosing art isn’t instinctive, it’s prompted by practicality rather than passion. A common starting point is the blank wall that simply needs something. When that’s the case, we guide the process by considering not only personal taste but also how the artwork relates to the colors and mood of the room. Ultimately, the goal is a collection that feels intentional, personal, and enjoyable to live with every day.

  •  Prints are fabulous
Prints of fine art can be a fantastic addition to a space, especially with today’s print technology, which produces incredibly rich and detailed reproductions. When beautifully framed and layered with quality matting, a print can rival the presence of an original piece. While framing is often the most significant cost, it’s an investment that transforms the print into a polished statement. For classic works, like Audubon prints, a great way to give them a modern edge is by printing them on canvas. Without the need for matting, the image can be larger and more impactful. In these cases, framing is still key. A floating frame is ideal, as it surrounds the canvas without covering the edges, giving the artwork a clean, contemporary finish. For canvas prints without any frame, visiting a frame shop and having them mounted in a floating frame is a simple way to ensure the piece looks complete and thoughtfully presented.
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