The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Kristine Hansen did an article last week titled Embracinmg Quality Qver Quantity. In the article, she referenced the slow design movement started by architect John Brown (www.theslowhome.com).  The movement works toward improving the quality of how you live while reducing your impact on the environment.   Kristine points out one simple way to support this philosophy:  shop locally from area artists and craftspeople.

Redecorating a home is a huge project.  Once the homeowner chooses paint and furniture, they are faced with  the big challenge of selecting artwork and accessories.  This should be the fun part of the redecorating project since this is where your personality can really shine, but it’s daunting to most people.

Following the tenets of slow design, I encourage you to shop at art galleries and art shows.  What you choose to hang on your living room wall should be unique and original.  Cookie-cutter posters are OK in a kid’s room, but not over the sofa!

When you are at the final stages of your redecorating, check out the next Art Crawl.  You will do your part in saving the environment, support your neighborhood artist,  while enjoying a glass of wine.  How can decorating get more fun than that?