Shop savvy for artisan treasures

August 5, 2022

Alternative ways to shop for unique quality

ART AND DESIGN FAIRS

Curated artists and designers

With hundreds of fairs across the UK each year (and worldwide), they offer a wide range of choice and professional quality. The exhibitors are selected and pay a fee to take part, to maintain quality and choice. Do your research before attending to make sure it’s a worth while trip.

SHOP BY LOCATION

Understanding what a location has to offer goes a long way. Glasgow, for example has oodles of Victorian decor in salvage yards. Do your research on a location's culture and find a unique bargain. I love shopping on holiday as it always has something unique to offer.

ARTIST OPEN STUDIOS

A fascinating way to shop, and find local artists in your area. On selected days/weeks artists open their working studio doors to welcome in visitors, where you can meet and talk to the artist or crafter.

COMMISSION AN ARTIST

You can hire an artist to commission artwork, or create a mural or one off piece. This is less expensive than you might think and has a huge impact on your home that’s truly unique. Look for an artist that suits your style and a specialist in the type of art or craft you’re looking for.

I offer commissions here: https://ruthegon.com

CHARITY SHOPS

Often over looked, you can uncover some real gems whilst giving back to charity and giving something a second life. A top tip is to find an affluent area to find quality second hand, for example Stockbridge near Edinburgh has designer outfits for a fraction of their original price.

ART GALLERY GIFT SHOPS

Well curated home goods, prints and books are easy to find in art gallery shops. They tend to stock a wider range of creative books and gifts.

UPCYCLE

Hire an artist-maker to give a new lease of life to old items. I recommend finding an expert to create something really special for you. Pinterest and Instagram are good sources of creative independent businesses that upcycle furniture and other items.

One commission slot left for August 2022!

I am currently open for commission requests, with one slot available to start in August. I only take on 1 painting or project per month to put effort and attention into creating a beautiful bespoke piece of work.

Pricing (oil painting on canvas):

12 inch x 16 inch - £270

16 inch x 20 inch - £450

20 inch x 20 inch - £560

18 inch x 24 inch - £600

20 inch x 30 inch - £840

30 inch x 30 inch - £1,250

Other sizes available, the above is to give you a guideline on pricing.

If you have a different project in mind for Ruth, she is open to requests. Previously she has designed tattoos, book covers and other projects.

Ruth's commission portfolio:

'Summer Breeze' 2022, oil on canvas, 80cm x 60cm

Brief: poppies, summer and maroon.

'Dance like no one is watching' 2022, oil on canvas, 20 x 30 inch

Brief: For Zoe, who works in NHS, sunflowers, partying, she loves to dance.

'Battle of Bannockburn' 2020, oil painting / book cover

Brief: Battle of Bannockburn in a contemporary style

See more: https://ruthegon.com/pages/commission

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