Whether it’s a small original, a limited edition print, or a massive canvas, art that speaks to you creates a layered and interesting home that will stand out in the sea of AirBnB listings. We are sharing our five favourites places to source artwork that benefits the maker – no big box solutions here!

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1. ART GALLERIES

Become a regular visitor – either online or in person – at your local, or not so local, art galleries. Typically a gallery will have a broad range of style and price point, and feature emerging artists as well as established artists.

I follow a number of galleries across the country, and make a point of stopping in at galleries when visiting new towns and cities. This is a great way to establish which artists you are drawn to, the style/s you like and gain an understanding of how much original art costs.

I love a good collaboration. Consider connecting with local artists and explore displaying their artwork in your guest accommodation for purchase. The artist receives exposure, you receive amazing, original art to style your AirBnB for free, and your guests have the opportunity to buy a beautiful keepsake reminding them of their stay. That’s a win-win-win!

Tip: A great way to discover new artists is to follow hashtags within Instagram, such as #abstractart, #contemporaryart or #canadianartists.

2. ONLINE EXHIBITIONS

Increasingly online exhibitions are gaining in popularity, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Two of my favourite shows are the Square Foot Show by @squarefootshow and The Festival of Smalls by @artinteriors. Both shows feature a range of artists, styles and mediums so there is something for every type of property and the price point is affordable. All the artwork is original so you can be assured you have something unique for your guests to enjoy.

3. ONLINE SELLERS

There are a number of online vendors who sell limited edition prints and canvases from independent artists. This is the perfect solution to support an artist while having access to affordable art. My three favourite vendors in this category are Minted, Juniper Print Shop and Society 6.

These vendors offer several size options, so you can go for one large impactful piece, several smaller ones or create your own eclectic gallery wall. I particularly love to source large artwork through these vendors when I need that ‘wow’ moment for a wall, while not breaking the budget. Bear in mind that framing will be an additional cost.

4. PRE-LOVED ARTWORK

Heading to your favourite vintage or thrift store? Be sure to look at the art!

You can find some real gems in these stores, but you may need to use your imagination. Sometimes an ugly frame can detract from a beautiful piece, so be open to re-matting and framing to completely change how a piece looks.

Tip: Don’t have the budget for custom framing? Buy a frame from a big box store and have your local framer maker you a custom mat. Voila!

5. UNUSUAL ITEMS

Often the best things to hang on the wall aren’t traditional artworks. Think about items that speak to the style, location or unique character that makes your AirBnB so special. Framed fishing lures would be perfect in a lakeside retreat, stunning vintage hats and fascinators on the wall of a classy apartment in a city’s fashion district, copper jelly moulds on the wall of a country cottage…get creative!

Rummage through those memory boxes, dig through second hand stores – find unique items that are budget friendly and add some design punch to your short term rental!

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