Cheapo Art with Classified Info

Cheapo Art with Classified Info

Back in the olden days, when I graduated high school, it was expected of us, me and Triathlon Girl, that we would go to college. I was clueless as to what I wanted to do for a job, but college made you a more well-rounded unemployed wanderer.

I’ve told you about my college experience here. Being the astute thinker I am, I thought, “It can’t be wrong, it’s my interpretation. I’ll major in art.”

What this sagacious postulation did was create someone who enjoyed original art, appreciated creative art, wanted fine art, but . . .  couldn’t afford any real art. When you’re in my home, you’ll see some things I’ve painted or drawn, prints I bought along the way, but nothing that would cause anyone to part with serious money. I’ve come to realize, unless there’s more money than I need (which would be fabulous) in my petty cash account, I’ll buy those things I can afford that bring me pleasure.

When I was in New Orleans and shopping at the French Market,

I came across Billie Harris, an artist selling his pen and ink drawings of the New Orleans area. He had various sizes of original works and prints each signed and framed. Along with a small bin of these same scenes in unsigned prints. The cheapest was about $25, while the framed originals were several hundred dollars. All were fairly priced, but more than I wanted to pay to remember my little day trip.

On a small stand, he had a display of 5 x 7 note cards. What caught my eye was the color. While everything else was on white paper stock, these note cards were on ecru colored stock—which I preferred.

And for $5—which I preferred.

I asked, “Would you sign this, too?”

“Don’t tell anyone.”

I brought home my little 5 x 7 note card and framed it.

It now hangs in the guest room, just as you walk in the door.

I bought the frame at Home South, a small store nearby that’s a cross between Home Goods and Tuesday Morning, for $17. I have $22 total in my little piece of framed art.

Did he sign it? I promised not to tell. That’s classified.

Until next time. Be sweet.