Blog Posts

Why is it called Knee Deep?

The name Knee Deep in Art carries special meaning for me, as it harkens back to a different chapter of my life. In the 1990s, I wrote a slice-of-life humor column called Knee Deep in Water Gardening for a magazine that has since folded. Back then, I was knee-deep in the literal sense, as an avid water gardener, and shared the joys and mishaps that came with it.

One reader, Debbie Kays, connected with me through an old listserv (the social media of its day). She loved the column and said it was the first thing she read when her Water Gardening subscription arrived. Over the years, we stayed in touch, first through email list discussion boards, and later via Facebook. After 20 years of friendship, we discovered a fun coincidence—Debbie’s son’s best friend was also my nephew’s best friend! Although we’ve never met in person, nearly 30 years later, we’ve remained friends, and recently, as she faces health challenges, I wanted to honor our connection. So, this blog—Knee Deep in Art—is named in Deb’s honor, carrying forward the spirit of humor, creativity, and friendship.

Discover Knee Deep insights here!

Welcome to the Knee Deep in Art Blog, where art collectors, enthusiasts, and curious minds can dive headfirst into the wonderful, occasionally chaotic world of art. Whether you’re trying to expand your collection, figuring out how to decorate without looking like an art museum exploded in your living room, or just want to learn how to care for your prized pieces, this blog has got you covered. And don’t worry, I’ll sprinkle in a few of my artistic misadventures to keep things interesting.

Curating a Personal Collection (Without Going Under)

Collecting art isn’t just about filling walls—it’s about finding pieces that speak to you, maybe even whisper a secret or two. In this blog, we’ll explore the joys (and occasional frustrations) of curating a collection. From stumbling across that just-right painting in a tiny gallery to discovering new artists who make your heart race, building a collection is a journey, and I’m here to help you navigate it.

Whether your taste leans toward contemporary pieces or you’re drawn to sculptures that make people tilt their heads in confusion, this blog will guide you through finding art that not only fits your style but makes your space feel uniquely yours. Because let’s face it—nobody wants a collection that just screams “I went to a home decor store.”

Decorating with Art (No, You Don’t Need to Be an Interior Designer)

So, you’ve got some art—now what? Decorating with art is an art in itself (pun absolutely intended). Through this blog, we’ll talk about how to bring it all together without making your living room look like it’s hosting an art auction.

You’ll learn how to mix textures, pair sculptures with paintings, and maybe even figure out what to do with that giant piece you fell in love with but have no idea where to hang. I’ll share tips on creating gallery walls, arranging pieces to complement your furniture, and turning your home into a space that looks effortlessly curated—even if it’s all a happy accident.

Caring for Your Art Collection (When Dusting Isn’t Enough)

Owning art is fun until you realize it comes with responsibilities. Don’t worry, we’re not getting too serious, but proper care is essential if you want your pieces to last (and let’s be honest, avoid an art disaster). In this blog, you’ll find all the advice you didn’t know you needed—from how to keep your sculptures dust-free without making it a full-time job, to choosing the right frame and lighting.

I’ll also throw in some tips on what NOT to do—like hanging that beautiful painting right where the sun blasts it every morning (I may or may not have learned that one the hard way). Whether you’re preparing to pass down your collection or just making sure it doesn’t fade into oblivion, we’ve got you covered.

The Joy of Experiencing Art (Also Known as Beaming at Your Wall and Smiling)

Beyond the technical stuff, art should be fun—like, really fun. Whether it’s the joy of discovering a new artist or the simple pleasure of staring at a favorite piece, this blog will remind you why you love art in the first place. I’ll also share some of my own studio stories—yes, even the ones where things didn’t go as planned.

Through these little insights, I hope to give you a glimpse into the creative process that happens behind the scenes, while also inspiring you to connect even more with your own collection.

Why Our Blog is a Must-Read for Art Collectors

For art collectors who want to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little inspired, this blog is the perfect place to hang out. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone who’s just getting started, each post offers something new, with a personal touch that makes collecting—and living with—art all the more enjoyable.