Why "Cheaper Is Better" Is Actually Keeping You From the Home You Really Want
You walk into your living room and feel... nothing. It looks fine. It's on-trend. But it doesn't feel like you.
You want your home to feel right. Thoughtful. Beautiful. Personal. A place you're proud to walk into and excited to share with others.
But decorating can feel overwhelming—especially when you see easy, fairly inexpensive solutions everywhere. There are trending designs in every big box store and all over social media. So it's tempting to grab whatever looks "good enough" and call it a day.
After all, isn't art kind of... a luxury?
Here's the Truth Nobody's Telling You
Buying original art isn't just for museums or millionaires. And it's not an indulgent splurge you'll regret later. In fact, it can be one of the most fulfilling and lasting investments you make for your home—and yourself.
The idea that "cheaper is better" isn't just misleading—it's actually keeping you from creating the home you truly want.
Let's talk through how this myth is perpetuated, what it's costing you emotionally and creatively, and what becomes possible when you start choosing art that really means something to you.
Why It's So Easy to Believe This Myth
Our current world makes it incredibly easy to believe that original art is too expensive, too risky, or too "extra."
The Fast Decor Trap
Just walk into any home goods store and you'll be overwhelmed by the endless options meant to "decorate" your space. Trends change faster than we can process them. Social media feeds us constant streams of seasonal "refreshes," encouraging a cycle of quick, disposable design choices.
Fast home decor—just like fast fashion—makes it seem normal (even smart) to keep switching things up.
The Accessibility Illusion
Meanwhile, mass-produced prints are affordable, accessible, and come with zero commitment. Because many people view artists as hobbyists rather than professionals, it's easy to overlook the real value behind an original piece or a high-quality fine art print.
You're Not to Blame
If you've been sticking to chain-store decor... it's not your fault. You're thoughtful. You're smart. You've just been handed a story that benefits big companies—not you or your home.
How This Myth Is Actually Holding You Back
Here's what's happening behind the scenes when you treat art like a disposable trend:
• Your space ends up looking generic—even if it's "on trend"
• You miss the chance to reflect your personality through your decor
• You lose out on pieces that could grow with you and become part of your story
• You skip opportunities to connect with real artists and support meaningful work
• You're decorating, but not connecting—spending money without building a home that feels deeply yours
When you choose mass-produced decor over original art, you're not just missing out on beauty. You're missing out on meaning.
What's Actually True (And Why It Changes Everything)
Original art may seem like a splurge at first glance, but it delivers far more than temporary aesthetic pleasure. Here's what's really happening:
• Mass-Produced Decor Isn't Built to Last—In Any Way
Big-box art is designed for volume, not meaning. It's often made overseas in low-wage factories, providing minimal benefit to the artist (if the artist is even credited at all). Most of the profit goes to corporations.
Because it's made to appeal to the masses, it rarely feels personal or unique in your space.
• Original Art Is an Investment That Pays You Back
When you buy directly from an artist, you support a real person—not just their business, but their creativity, livelihood, and community. That money stays local. It supports innovation, risk-taking, and cultural diversity.
Even more, the piece you bring into your home comes with a story. A connection. A memory. It becomes a part of your life, not just your wall.
• You Deserve to Be Surrounded by Meaning
Art isn't just a pretty object. It's a daily reminder of who you are, what you love, what moves you. When chosen intentionally, it becomes a source of pride, reflection, and joy for years to come.
Imagine walking into a room and feeling seen. Inspired. Anchored. That's what original art offers.
The Hidden Cost of Mass-Produced Art
Here's what most people don't realize about that "affordable" big-box art:
For Artists:
- Artists licensing to large retailers might receive a flat fee or tiny royalties
- The bulk of profits go to the company, not the creator
- Most licensing deals don't provide enough income for artists to make a living
For Communities:
- Money flows away from local economies into corporate headquarters
- Local galleries and artist-supporting businesses struggle to compete
- Cultural vibrancy in communities decreases
For You:
- Mass-produced pieces flood the market with identical "art"
- No personal connection or story behind your purchase
- Designed for instant appeal and rapid turnover—not lasting satisfaction
When you buy original art directly from an artist, you change this entire equation.
What You Can Do Differently Starting Today
Now that you know the truth, here's how to shift toward a more meaningful approach:
Start Small and Smart
- You don't need a huge budget to begin collecting original art
- Try a smaller original piece or a high-quality fine art print
- Many artists offer options at price points similar to big-box stores
Shop Intentionally
- Look locally and online: Check out local galleries, art fairs, or shop directly from artists' websites
- Buy what you love: Choose pieces that speak to you, that make you pause
- Get curious: Reach out to the artist—ask about their process and story
Build Relationships, Not Just Collections
When you connect with the artist behind the work, you add depth and joy to every piece you bring home.
"But Isn't Original Art Too Expensive?"
This is a fair question, and I get it. Yes, some original art carries a higher price tag than mass-produced alternatives. But let's look at what you're really investing in:
✓ A one-of-a-kind piece that won't go out of style
✓ Support for a real person and their creative livelihood
✓ A story and connection that grows more meaningful over time
✓ Quality that lasts—no donation bin next season
✓ Emotional dividends every time you walk by it
Plus, there are accessible options. Many artists offer smaller originals or fine art prints at various price points. You can start building a meaningful collection without breaking your budget.
I'm not saying you can never shop at Home Depot again. But buying one or two pieces directly from an artist has a much bigger economic impact than any art purchase from a larger store. It's about balance—supporting real people while being realistic with your budget.
What Becomes Possible When You Choose Differently
When you shift toward original art, everything changes:
• Your home becomes a reflection of who you really are—not what's trending
• You gain lasting satisfaction instead of the need for constant updates
• You become part of supporting independent artists and creative communities
• Your space fills with stories that grow more meaningful over time
• You experience the pride that comes from owning something truly unique
You're not just decorating. You're building a home that reflects your heart, your story, and your values.
Your Next Step: Ready to Add Real Meaning to Your Space?
The myth that original art is too luxurious or risky has kept you from building the inspiring, personal home you deserve. But now you know the truth:
- Real art, made by real people, adds lasting value to your space and your life
- Starting your collection doesn't have to be overwhelming—you can begin small
- You deserve a space that feels personal, joyful, and authentically you
And art can help you get there.
Start Your Journey With Original Art Today
I'd be honored to be your first step into collecting meaningful artwork. My collection of expressive acrylic paintings and fine art prints is created with passion, skill, and the hope that each piece finds a home where it will be truly appreciated.
👉 [Browse my available work] and support a living, working artist who would be thrilled to have their work become part of your story.
Let's create a space that reflects your heart, your story, and your style—beautifully and meaningfully.
Because you deserve a home that feels like you.
