A designer friend once told me that no room is complete until you add a touch of whimsy, and there is no faster way to accomplish a whimsical presence than to add “surrealist antiques” to your home.
While they are definitely not for everyone, we are seeing a steady growth of interest in surreal antiquity. From furniture and art to sculptures and ceramics, the dream-like effect of these weird and wonderful pieces stimulate creativity and stretch the imagination in a way that few genres of decorating can.
Feeling the need to “kick it up a notch” with your decorating? Surrealism, whether by the room or by the piece, might be the way to go! Here are examples to help you get started.
Furniture — Two of the most highly recognized furniture pieces you will find are the hooved footstools and “hand” chairs (inspired by the work of Pedro Friedeberg c 1965). Chairs with odd shapes and twisted legs are popular, as are those with animal skin fabrics
Glass top tables supported by outstretched arms and tables accented with uniquely placed mirrors are popular. The Salvador Dali influenced gold leaf and bronze tables supported by legs that look like the legs of a bird, are among current top sellers.
Art — The word “art” can be intimidating. Visions of huge price tags and a limited knowledge of the art world keep many people at bay. If you are a novice, my advice to you is simple. Buy what you like! If it fits your decor, suits your taste and brings you joy . . . then it is a wise purchase!
Dream-like prints from Salvador Dali, Rene Magritte, Joan Miro and Leon Kelly are available at local art shops or, for the budget conconscience, you will find an abundance of stretched canvas works online at www.ebay.com and www.temu.com,
Also watch for mixed media pieces using unconventional combinations of materials.
Lighting — Just as with art and furniture we see the influence of the great Salvador Dali reflected in lighting fixtures and lamps. Gold tone lamps with outstretched arms for support, lightbulbs containing tiny works of art and huge abstract chandeliers are available.
Want the look, but struggling to stay within your budget? Amazon has a large collection of plug-in pendant lights that will give you the look and, at only $49.99, they won’t hurt your wallet!
However, if you are willing to spend a few dollars there is a wonderful source for surreal and fantasy furnishing online called 1st Bids. I can’t really afford their offerings, but they are sure fun to browse through! Until next time . . . Linda
Linda Kennett is a retired professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and the liquidation of estates.
