From time to time, Artful Home artist Christine Brennan and her husband, furniture-maker Jim McCarthy, open up their art-filled home and studio for tours. This month, Christine opens their home up to us and tells us more about their artful lives.
A built-in wall niche next to the fireplace makes a lovely spot for a teapot in artist Christine Brennan’s home. One of her paintings hangs above the mantel.
What was the first piece of artwork you owned?
The first piece of artwork I ever purchased (other than trading work in art school) was a painting by the Pacific Northwest artist Jay Steensma.
Christine’s collection of tin toy telephones creates quite a conversation piece on her dining room wall.
Why did you choose the specific pieces you did for your home?
Jim and I have to both agree on things that go into the house. In some ways it can be tricky, but on the whole we agree, and I love that we are both excited by creating a welcoming environment. Often we may be out in the world and find something we both love. We may not know where it will end up, but part of the fun is getting home and deciding where it may best fit.
Jim built niches into these closet doors for Christine to showcase favorite objects.
What advice would you offer for new collectors? Follow your heart. Although the value of fine art always goes up, I would say your main motivation should be how much you appreciate an object or painting. Don’t be guided by what you think its investment value will be in the future.
How did you first become interested in art?
Art was always one of my favorite classes in school. As a teenager, I had an art teacher who really mentored me. It gave me a great sense of self-esteem to have an adult praise my work and cheer me on.
Is all the artwork in your home your own? If not, where do you find your artwork?
My husband makes almost all the furniture in the house. Some of the pieces we have collaborated on by incorporating my paintings. We also have quite a collection of fine art objects and some antiques.
Christine and her husband collaborated on several pieces for their home, including this TV cabinet, which was built by Jim and incorporates Christine’s paintings.
How does artwork contribute to your home?
Since my husband makes a living making fine furniture, we think of the house as a sort of showroom for his work. Since living here, we have made many gradual home improvements. We think of the house as an artistic collaboration we’re continually working on.
Christine’s paintings decorate the tiles on their kitchen’s backsplash.
If you had to describe your decorating style in one word, what would it be?
Eclectic.
Do you have any tips for incorporating art into a home?
Look for things you really love and connect with, and then play with how things work in your home environment. My husband and I have a lot of fun rearranging things from time to time. Moving things around also serves to keep things new and interesting.
Jim created the music stand (center) as a birthday gift for Christine. The sliding door, dictionary stand, and corner cabinet are Jim’s creations as well.
Do you know someone who’s leading an artful life?
We’d love to hear about them! Please send your ideas, stories, and photos to newsletter@artfulhome.com.
