Functional Artwork (Kind Of)
If you hate framing art as much as I do, this one is for you.
On my humble gallery wall, I only have two pieces I’ve actually framed myself, neither of which sit on the wall because I’m too ashamed of the framing job I’ve done. As I write this, I’m trying to figure out what to do with a painting from Sharece Studios that’s sitting on my dining table. I usually use Framebridge, but I…
Can’t justify that $$$ right now!
Wish they had a wider selection of funky frames :(
I know I can get a fun, unique frame off Etsy or find one IRL at a place like Mother of Junk or Remix Market, but the reality is I hate framing stuff on my own.
So today I’m talking about functional artwork (in the absolutely loosest terms) because I don’t feel like framing stuff! If you’d rather drink from your artwork, throw a plant into it, sit on it, or use it to tell time, this newsletter goes out to you.
Aleric Ribbed Glass Carafe and Cup - $30
I recently mentioned to a friend that I have a bedside carafe and she scoffed at the idea. I can understand why this might seem like a useless luxury, but as someone that loves to guzzle a bucket of water immediately upon waking up, my carafe made that ritual all the more pleasant. My first carafe was from IKEA, but I shattered it soon after that conversation. Now, I’m looking for a new one and I’m eyeing this carafe from CB2 (or maybe this even cheaper one from H&M). The Maison Balzac J’ai Soif carafe and tumbler are really what inspired my love of carafes, but I can’t justify the $89 purchase. If you’re willing to splurge even more (think: this absolutely gorgeous Vintage Carlo Moretti carafe) there are a number of *chef’s kiss* carafes out there, all different shapes, sizes, and colors. I consider all of them art. Get drinking!
Lola Mayeras' BIGLOOP CUP - $30
Sets can be important, but when it comes to kitchenware I’m a sucker for individual items. I don’t like matching plate sets–almost everything I eat off of is stolen from my mom’s kitchen and most dishes don’t match. When it comes to mugs, I have exactly zero sets. Having a cabinet full of statement cups makes me very happy and Lola Mayeras' BIGLOOP CUP is the most beautiful example of that. If you suffer from a lack of cabinet space, this is the best piece of drinkware artwork that you can display in a place you may not normally find a cup.
Vintage IKEA Lykta Lamp - $49.73
Two years ago I ordered one of these bad boys off a very small Instagram store in Denmark and it came in ~600 pieces (it broke). As a consolation, they shipped me the vintage IKEA cloud lamp I really wanted. The Lykta lamp still has my heart, though. I think it’s a bit more timeless than the former, and a beautiful alternative to the classic Murano mushroom lamp. Let there be light!
Hand Painted Skateboard Decks via Lazy Sunday - $95
Ok, this skateboard isn’t functional, but in theory it is! I’m a fan of the “Lazy Sundays” edition in particular. Lazy Sundays, who doesn’t love them? And who doesn’t love this brand? I haven’t purchased one of these yet, but I’ll put it on my Christmas list.
Pretty Shitty Cakes Cake - Price depends!
Although you can’t actually eat this cake, it’s realistic enough to fool guests. In my book, that makes it functional. I own a custom Pretty Shitty Cakes cake and am absolutely obsessed with it. I have it hanging above my dining table because of course. You can customize your own or buy a pre-made one. I think there will be candles soon too?? 10/10.
Worldwide Aura Woven Blanket from BFGF - $200
In addition to their normal throw, BFGF also sells their throws as framed tapestries because they are that good. I’ve got a mini in my apartment and I make sure to keep it in a place I can admire it 24/7.