Art: In the Eye of the Beholder
After the Noise… Comes Reflection
The holidays have a way of filling everything.
Our schedules. Our homes. Our senses.
Between the gifts, the gatherings, the meals, and the celebrations, it can feel like a lot. And maybe that’s part of the joy. As Mae West once said, “Too much of a good thing can be wonderful.”
But eventually, we all reach the same point:
We’re ready for a little quiet.
That’s where art comes in.
At Out of the Box, we see art as more than decoration—it’s a way to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with your space (and yourself) .
Why Art Matters in a Home
Art doesn’t have to match your sofa.
It doesn’t have to follow rules.
It just has to speak to you.
Because art:
- Creates emotion in a space
- Adds depth and personality
- Changes depending on how (and when) you view it
- Makes your home feel truly one-of-a-kind
It’s one of the few design elements that evolves with you.
Original Art Makes the Difference
There’s something different about original work.
You feel it.
A brushstroke. A texture. A choice the artist made that can’t be replicated.
This week, we’re featuring a collection of original pieces—many from Nebraska artists—each offering a completely unique perspective.
Pieces That Invite You to Look Closer
A large-scale mixed media work by Dan Boylan captures the human form in abstract—bold, expressive, and impossible to ignore.
A smaller oil painting like “Corner of the Past” by Debra Joy Groesser brings quiet nostalgia and intimacy.
And a striking acrylic piece like “Hopi Maidens” by Kira Fercho introduces movement, color, and cultural storytelling.
Each one creates a different kind of conversation.
Art That Bridges Local & Global
Art connects us—to place, to history, to perspective.
A limited edition print by John Theil, accented with 22-karat gold, reflects both craftsmanship and recognition within the Nebraska art community.
A large abstract canvas by Bruce Wyman offers scale and energy—perfect for anchoring a room.
And framed works by Tim Monday bring structure and detail that balance bolder pieces.
It’s not about choosing one style—it’s about choosing what resonates.
Sculpture: Dimension & Presence
Not all art hangs on a wall.
A ceramic totem sculpture by Joe Woodford adds height, color, and form—turning art into a physical presence within your space.
These pieces:
- Draw the eye
- Create movement
- Add another layer beyond flat surfaces
And they often become the focal point without trying.
Art That Feels Personal
An oil painting like “Old Pine Sunken Gardens” by Elma Ells Dreesen offers something softer—familiar, calming, and rooted in place.
These are the pieces you live with.
The ones you notice differently over time.
Gotta Go: Lighting with Style (and Value)
This week’s markdowns focus on lighting—perfect for pairing with your art.
Highlights include:
- A forged iron and mica glass ceiling fixture
- A faux wood and hide wall sconce for rustic spaces
- A sleek industrial desk lamp with brass and pewter detail
- A nickel chandelier with crystal accents
- A Visual Comfort wall sconce with sculptural bird detail
- A contemporary glass and metal pendant
Great lighting doesn’t just illuminate—it enhances everything around it.
Just In: New Layers for Your Space
New arrivals continue to bring variety and inspiration:
- A contemporary wood bed frame with clean lines
- A dramatic quartz crystal chandelier with organic form
- A rustic wood desk with Asian influence
- A lantern-style pendant with brass candle lights
- A vintage Italian desk with inlay detail
- Copper wall lighting with warm tones
- A natural jute area rug for grounding the space
Each piece offers another way to build around the art you love.
How to Choose Art (Without Overthinking It)
If you’re unsure where to start:
Choose what you’re drawn to first
Don’t worry about matching
Think about where you’ll see it daily
Let it evolve with your space
That’s it.
Why Art Always Works
Because it’s personal.
It reflects:
- Your taste
- Your mood
- Your experiences
And no two people see it the same way.
Visit Out of the Box
With a full second floor dedicated to art—and new pieces arriving regularly—there’s always something new to discover.
Open Tuesday – Sunday
New arrivals weekly
Stop in, take your time, and find the piece that speaks to you.
FAQs: Decorating with Art
Do I need original art?
No—but it adds uniqueness and depth you can’t replicate.
How do I choose the right piece?
Start with what you’re naturally drawn to.
Does art need to match my room?
Not at all—contrast often works better.
Where should I place art?
Anywhere you’ll see and enjoy it daily.
How often should I change art?
You don’t have to—but rotating pieces can refresh a space.
