No print or poster can rival the power of an original painting, chosen by you, for where you live There’s no doubt that buying prints and posters is fun (and affordable) — but there’s a lot to be said for saving up for a piece of one-of-a-kind art. If you’ve been sticking with framed prints, let these 8 reasons tempt you into your neighbourhood gallery to peruse the paintings instead. 1. Buying a painting supports the artist directly. 2. Paintings are tactile. A print’s surface can never match the luscious textural variations of a painting. 3. Paintings are perfect for renters. If you rent, it can be difficult to personalize your space when you’re not allowed to paint the walls or make certain other changes. But hang a painting or two, and space instantly feels more you. 4. Paintings are one of a kind. There’s something satisfying about having a piece of unique artwork in your home. 5. Paintings are handmade. Like handmade knits, hand-thrown pottery and handcrafted furniture, paintings show the hand of their maker. This quality brings richness and personality to the home — factory-made furniture and slickly printed posters simply cannot compete. 6. A painting can make the room. A painting begs to be the focal point of a room. Whether your artistic taste runs to the bold and graphics or to vintage landscapes, the painting you choose is bound to have a big impact on your space — I can’t think of another thing that has such an ability to bring that wow factor to a room. 7. Paintings make a house feel like home. Paintings you’ve owned for a while become like old friends. Simply pulling out your paintings and putting them up can make any space, no matter where you are, feel like home — even more so if you happen to have paintings handed down to you from your parents or grandparents. 8. Paintings inspire. Looking at a painting you love refreshes your spirit. Why not give yourself the gift of daily inspiration by saving up for a small painting you adore?