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If you are planning to have a wall decorating project soon, then you are probably thinking of what to display on the walls. If you are planning to hang eye-catching photos, you sure have to choose between canvas and posters. Before choosing what to use, know the difference between canvas prints and poster prints. Read on and let us take a closer look at the difference and similarities between them.

What are posters?

The display of posters is one of the most affordable ways to spruce up your walls. The designs of the posters are usually replicas of art printed on paper. Posters come in various sizes and the biggest can be a banner. In addition to these, the paper can be glossy or matte and both can give a big impact on the entire room. 

How about canvas prints?

Canvas prints are not paintings. Contrary to what many people think. These are images that are printed on canvas fabric and hung on walls. The surface texture may be similar to paintings and they offer the same acrylic vibe. Depending on your preference, the canvas can be in polyester, linen, cotton, jute, or hemp. Once the image is printed, they are stretched on wooden frames and stapled at the back. Canvas prints have higher quality images and carry every detail of the original photo. 

What are the differences between canvas and poster prints?

Let us start with the origin. Both poster and canvas prints are products of lithography, however, posters are closely associated with the initiation of chromolithography. Next are the materials used in both types of prints. This was mentioned above in which posters are printed on paper and quite delicate as compared to canvas prints. Canvas prints are sturdy, durable, and resilient. In terms of their prices, canvas prints are more costly than posters, since you are using fabrics of different kinds. 

Which is better?

Of course, both canvas and poster prints have their respective pros and cons. Canvas printing companies will surely promote their products and tell you that theirs are better than the others. Posters on the other hand can help create compelling walls that are worth flaunting on social media. In artdesign there is a wide range of designs available that can transform your walls. From black and white prints to personalized posters, there are trendy designs that will complete your wall decorating project. 

Whatever your decorating style, we have the inspiration that can add personality to your walls. There are endless possibilities when decorating your walls. With a few trendy and stylish wall decorations, you can make a house feel and look more like home. In artdesign, we have solutions that will complete your room decorating project. Read on to learn some ideas on how to fill up an empty wall.

Captivating wall gallery

It can be challenging when looking for posters or prints that will fill a blank wall. Instead of adding two large pieces, create a wall gallery. In creating one, you need to make sure that the pieces have something in common. Examples are wooden frames, neutral tones, black and white, or vibrant prints. This idea can help avoid mismatched and cluttered wall appearance. 

The rule of threes

In interior design, this rule suggests that groups of threes or any odd numbers are more appealing than even numbers. This rule can be applied in the living room by adding three pieces of bundled framed posters. 

Hanging shelves are trendy

There are many reasons why hanging shelves are preferred over traditional cabinetry. These shelves are sleek and can save up space that you can use for other things. The shelves can be used to display your favorite collections, posters, toys, books, and other decorative items. 

Add light with mirrors

With the display of multiple mirrors, you can create an effect that is not given by other decorative items. Mirrors can give an illusion of having a larger room and can reflect natural light inside the room. When placed across from a window, you will be able to increase the amount of light in the room making it look and feel more beautiful. 

Install stylish wallpaper

Wallpapers are not only used to cover the imperfection of the walls. These days, this wall covering can add style and personality just like any wall decor. The peel-and-stick application is perfect since the wallpaper can be removed without damaging the paint and the wall itself. 

Bring nature in

One of the simplest yet with a big impact is by bringing nature into your room. There is a wide range of decors to add, such as driftwood, dried branches, and the like. You can also add ornamental plants indoors as these will not only add beauty. Indoor plants can also help purify the air and minimize indoor air pollutants. A vertical garden is also a great way to give your home a touch of the outdoors. The natural color of the plants can also help keep the mind calm and relax the body. Nature-themed framed posters also give the aesthetics that you need. Add a few pieces to the wall of your bedroom or the living room and the effects are simply impressive. 

World map poster

If you are still undecided about what print to add, then for a map. Large-sized world maps can make great wall art. This poster design is timeless and comes in different varieties, In monochrome, the world map can give a rustic, classic, or minimalist vibe to your room. 

Textured Paint Accent Wall

Colored accent walls were a trend in the past. It is still in these days but with some improvements. Textured paint makes it look more contemporary and this can be done with the use of a sponge to add dimension. You may also use your brush which is dipped in two complementing colors. 

Walls need not only be functional. They also have to look appealing as it reflects who and what you are. Think of them as mirrors that reflect you and these can boost your mood and health at times. The bedroom walls are the ones that look after you while you are sleeping. These are also the spots where you can display your life. As such, it is ideal to customize the walls with decors such as personalized prints. Here are some creative ideas that you can use to make the bedroom walls look amazing.

Personalize it with a wall gallery

If you love art then choose to display different prints on the walls of your bedroom. You can check various references for inspiration or check out artdesign for some trendy art that will level up your wall design. Depending on the size of the bedroom, you can arrange the posters or prints in such a way that they will not overwhelm the bedroom design style. If you prefer, you can display a large piece of art that can function also as the focal point of the room. 

Customize the walls with wood

Wood is not only for furniture pieces or flooring. It can also be used to cover the walls for a relaxing vibe. If you choose wood in soft tones and match it with textiles or accessories then you can instantly give the room a comfortable feel. Dark tones, on the other hand, can give a rustic appeal that you will love. 

Use concrete for an industrial design style

Another wall covering that you will love is concrete. This may not be commonly used in many homes, but it will give an industrial appeal that makes any room look modern. Concrete may also have lots of potentials and you can add decors that can make the interior look elegant and sophisticated. The gray tone of the material can easily be matched with colorful posters or those in pastel colors. Personalized posters can easily add style and personality to the bedroom.

Add greenery to customize the bedroom

If you love plants then personalize the bedroom walls with a vertical garden. Plants can bring freshness to the room and this is something not to miss. The natural colors can likewise give a refreshing feel to rejuvenate you after a stressful day. Another option to add green to the room is with the display of botanical prints. 

Hanging shelves to display your collections

Hanging shelves are a wonderful addition to your walls. These materials can save some space and allow you to display some of your favorite items. Customized posters can also be displayed with the use of these shelves. Personalized posters in the Philippines are easy to order and you can have them framed to complete their beauty. 

Add mirrors to make the room look bigger

This is the magic of adding mirrors to the bedroom walls. They are not only functional but can also add life to any plain-looking wall. Mirrors look best with frames, especially with the material that matches the other decors of the room, such as wood or metal. Mirrors can also make the bedroom look visually larger and allow natural light in without any difficulty. 

Choosing the right frame for your photo or art is one of the ways to create a captivating wall decor. Selecting is the easy part, but choosing from a wide range of options is probably the most difficult part. A frame can change the feeling of the art, or sometimes may distract the viewers. The right frame can add cohesion to the entire artwork, set boundaries, and highlight the art. The reality is that there are many commercially available frames. However, not all of them feel right. This is one of the main reasons why personalized frames make everything perfect. Here are some reasons why choosing customized frames is the right thing to do. 

Personalized frames can be simple

The customized poster is supposed to be the highlight and not the frame. Choosing a simple frame can easily help you and other viewers to focus on the art. A decorated frame can be a distraction and ruin your moment. With a simple frame, you can easily appreciate the art or photo. Pick from the variety of frame styles and in many instances, you will see frames that are made from wood or metal. Consider adding a mat and choose the right cover for an awesome poster. 

Add meaning with personalized frames

If you are choosing personalized frames to be part of your trendy posters, then it is a stress-free gift option. Choose photos of shared experiences with the recipient. Probably some special events where both of you had a memorable time, childhood photos, or even your favorite pets. Here’s another idea. Consider giving multiple frames as gifts to help them create a fantastic wall gallery. 

Work on an allotted budget

With the readily available frames out there, some may be quite expensive and may not work with your budget. No need to worry as you will always have the flexibility when it comes to budgeting. The choice greatly depends on you. Customizing frames can give you an amazing item without breaking the bank. As such, you can choose the materials, design, colors, and others. 

Talk about being timeless

Frames can last for years. Framed personalized prints are a great gift option as these not only create memories. These will also reflect the personality of the recipient of your present. Whatever it may be, personalized frames and posters will bring joy to your loved ones. 

Perfect for any occasion

Birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and others. There are practically many occasions and events to celebrate in a year. We’re sure that there are times that you are running out of ideas when it comes to choosing the right gift. Time may also be a problem since many of us have many things to do and going to malls may be difficult. Personalized framed posters are highly recommended as these solve all of your dilemmas. In artdesign, personalized framed posters can be ordered online and delivered right to your doorstep. You can easily choose the design that you want for the art as well as the frame to complete your gift. 

The use of eclectic design is one of the fun and easy ways to decorate your home. This design style gives you the freedom and flexibility of making any home look appealing and interesting. This is your chance to experiment with things and see which decorative items suit your needs. An eclectic design style is also recommended to have a home that is lively and vibrant. 

What is an Eclectic Design

Think of the Eclectic design style as a grocery basket filled with various items that you need for your home or space. There is no uniformity as this design style gives you the freedom and flexibility in decorating your home. The basic principle is that you can choose items from various sources regardless of their origin and history.

The eclectic design style originated during the 19th century. Its objective is to move away from the scope and rules of traditional design and architecture. It aims toward self-realization, freedom of expression, and creativity with the use of different items. You only need to create a room that is cozy and comfortable. 

The good thing about this design style is that you can practically use any item to transform your home. Examples are furniture pieces, souvenir items, gifts given to you, posters, photos, and others. There is no strict rule when it comes to adding valuable items. You only need to unleash your imagination and creativity in designing your space. 

What are the features of the style?

Achieving an eclectic design style is not that difficult. There are many ways to be successful with your project. The addition of furniture pieces is one of the first things that must be settled. The pieces must blend with each other and they should be functional, attractive, and comfortable. Any style can be added regardless of their style. 

The use of textiles also sets the mood of your home, especially the plain ones. As the design style emphasizes simplicity, plain textiles will help in achieving it. Moreover, different decorative items may be used as they represent different periods. It is also smart to use light-colored walls and furniture pieces to make the interior look warm and cozy.  

Achieve the style in easy ways

The eclectic design style is about combining different styles until you achieve the appearance that satisfies you. Add two to three styles and see if they suit your taste. For example, combining traditional and classical styles will give you an interior that is unique and appealing. In addition to these, the use of different decorative items made out of wood, glass, metal, fabric, or plastic also gives a wonderfully eclectic style. 

Paint the walls with light colors or natural colors to have an attractive background. This is also true with furniture pieces and decorative items. The furniture pieces, decorative items, fabric, and colors should blend well with each other, thus creating a balance in your home. Your eclectic design style is achieved with the combination of different design styles.

You loved the song. You also adored his life and works. As a post-impressionist painter, he has contributed a lot to art. But did you know that there were aspects in his life that were unknown to most of us? Vincent Van Gogh was born in Groot-Zundert, Netherlands, and is considered to be one of the most famous painters of all time. He is a legend in fact but during his lifetime, he considered himself a failure. 

Van Gogh almost never became an artist

Being an artist was not part of the plan of Van Gogh. Originally, he wanted to be a pastor and worked as a preacher in Belgium. Unfortunately, he was relieved from his work. Only then that he pursued his passion for painting. Unlike other artists, he started at a relatively late age of 27 without any formal training. 

Van Gogh’s inspirations

Talking about influences and inspirations, Van Gogh had several of them. For example, the Dutch genre painting and the realist paintings of Millet and his contemporaries have affected the form and style of Van Gogh’s works. More importantly, he was inspired by the Japanese woodblock prints of Hiroshige, Kesai Eisen, and others. 

Artwork every 36 hours

Vincent Van Gogh started working as an artist at the age of 27 and created artworks for 10 years. Impressively, he was able to accomplish over 900 paintings, drawings, and sketches. If you are going to do the math, then Van Gogh was able to complete new artworks every 36 hours!

He loved making letters

As much as Vincent Van Gogh loved creating artworks, he was also known for writing letters and postcards. In many instances, the letters and postcards include the first sketches of his works. 

Close acquaintances

Vincent Van Gogh also had close ties with other artists such as Paul Gaugin and Emile Bernard. The three planned to establish an artists’ community in the south of France where they can live and paint together. 

Cost-cutting

Van Gogh did not have enough money during those times and is unable to pay for models. As such, he decided to paint himself instead. Moreover, to save money on buying canvases, Van Gogh painted over his artworks and recycled old canvases. Who knows, there might be more masterpieces hidden among his paintings. 

Failures and successes

We have heard the song of Don Mclean about the artists. The song’s opening line was about The Starry Night painting. Although many enthusiasts love the painting, Van Gogh himself considered it a failure. Rumors have it that the artist was only able to sell one painting in his lifetime. If he is alive today, Van Gogh will definitely be amazed at how his artworks are well-loved and that they are considered to be valuable. 

The missing ear

Did you know that Van Gogh is missing an ear? The truth is, the artist cut off his ear in 1888. Though the real reason was unknown, many believe that he did this after a furious argument with Paul Gaugin at the Yellow House in Arles. 

Suicide

Known to many, Vincent Van Gogh suffered from mental illness for several years. In 1889, he was admitted to the Saint Paul de Mausole psychiatric hospital in Saint Remy. It was there that he created some of his masterpieces, including the infamous The Starry Night. After leaving the hospital, Van Gogh moved closer to his brother, Theo in Auvers. His condition deteriorated and shot himself in the chest on July 29, 1890. He died two days later. 

Chinese lanterns have been in existence since ancient times. They were used to provide light and in religious practices. Nowadays, Chinese lanterns are used for decoration and as modern forms of celebration and worship. They are likewise symbols of national pride in China and are commonly seen in homes and public areas. Traditionally, the lanterns are seen in the color red and adorned with gold or red tassels. Do not be surprised as well if you see them in various shapes.

A brief history of Chinese lanterns

The earliest recorded Chinese lanterns were during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220). Lanterns were used as lamps or covers during that period. The lanterns were used in several religious practices like Buddha worship. Buddhism was known to spread in China due to the efforts of the Eastern Han emperor. The emperor ordered that lanterns be lit every 15th day of the first lunar month to worship Buddha. Eventually, this celebration became the famous Lantern Festival. 

During the Tang dynasty in 618-907, paper lanterns were displayed to celebrate the peaceful life and power of China. This led to the popularity of lanterns throughout the country. 

The appearance of Chinese lanterns

During ancient times in China, making lanterns was a collection of crafts including painting and paper-cutting. There are various materials used in making lanterns, and the most commonly used were bamboo, wood, wheat, straw, paper, and silk. Illustrations were also seen in traditional lanterns and these show some of the beautiful landscapes of China, portraits of key personalities, mythical creatures like dragons and phoenixes, birds, and fish. 

The colors of lanterns and their meanings

Colors say a lot about the culture and tradition of China. They have different meanings and are used on various occasions. Red lanterns represent wealth, fame, and prosperity. These lanterns are usually used at weddings, family reunions, and several festivals to show joy and harmony.

During imperial times, yellow lanterns were displayed in palaces as the color represents the emperors of ancient China. As such, it was forbidden to use yellow lanterns by the public. These days, yellow lanterns are displayed to bring good luck to students. 

White lanterns, on the other hand, are used in any event that has something to do with death. Therefore it is common to display or see white lanterns during funerals. While green lanterns symbolize health, prosperity, and harmony. These are likewise seen during temple fairs or the infamous Lantern Festival. 

The Lantern Festival

These are the days to feast your eyes on colorful and beautiful Chinese lanterns. The tradition of viewing lantern displays can be traced back to the Han Dynasty around 2000 years ago. One of the favorite activities during the Lantern Festival is guessing lantern riddles. People gather around the displayed lanterns and guess the answers to the riddles. It is a form of competition wherein the person who answered the most number of riddles win.

The Rialto Bridge is one of the oldest bridges spanning the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. It connects the districts of San Marco and San Polo and has been rebuilt several times. It has been erected in 1173 as a pontoon bridge and is currently a popular tourist attraction in the city. The bridge is also known as Ponte di Rialto and Shylock’s bridge in the poem of Robert Browning, A Toccata of Galuppi’s. 

The history of the bridge

Rialto Bridge is a stone arch bridge located over the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. It is known as one of the 4 oldest bridges in Venice and is still in use up to these days. The first bridge to be built was the Ponte Della Moneta and the name was based on the mint that grew on one of the entrances. This bridge was designed by Nicolo Barattieri and was erected in 1181 as a pontoon bridge on ships. 

Due to the development of the Rialto market, there was increased traffic on the floating bridge. Thus, this was replaced in 1255 by a wooden bridge. Its connection with the Rialto market changed the name of the bridge. 

The concept of rebuilding the bridge in stone was proposed in 1503 with several proposals over the decades. Plans were presented by famous architects, like Jacopo Sansovino, Palladio, and Vignola, as well as Michelangelo. The present stone bridge was designed by Antonio da Ponte and the construction began in 1588 and was completed in 1591. 

Rialto Bridge in Art

The Rialto Bridge is one of the favorite subjects of many artists. There are several artworks that used the bridge. Examples of paintings are the Miracle of the Cross at the Ponte di Rialto (1496), and the Grand Canal With Rialto Bridge (1740). In addition to these paintings, the bridge is also the setting in the “Merchant of Venice” by Shakespeare. William Shakespeare used the bridge as a meeting place and to catch up on local news. The bridge is also used by many people with the same functions today. 

You may have read about a charcuterie board or have seen them on menus. Have you tried them? Charcuterie is a fancy word used to refer to cured meat. The word is of French origin and can be traced back to the 15th century. It was during these times that the people consumed every last bit of a meal and left nothing to waste. 

This is served as an appetizer and served on a wooden board or a slab of stone. On the board is a selection of preserved foods, particularly cured meats or pates. The board also includes cheeses, crackers, or bread. 

A brief history in Europe

As mentioned above, charcuterie is cured meat and is derived from two French words: chair, which means flesh, and cuit, cooked and was used during 15th century France. Shop owners who specialize in charcuterie became popular as they have shown the detailed preparation of meats. The arrangement of the boards has made charcuterie boards part of the French culinary culture.

Studies on European history also have revealed that the charcuterie board also has roots in the simple meals that were eaten by the people of the working class around Europe during the medieval times. The board is usually composed of meats, cheeses, bread, local produce, wine, or beer. The meal eventually evolved and found its way to the higher classes of society along with the cheese course meal. These are commonly seen in formal dinners during the 18th and 19th centuries in France, Great Britain, and colonial America. The cheeses were then replaced by desserts in the 19th century. 

The development in the United States

During the 19th and 20th centuries in the United States, hosting informal dinners are greatly increasing. Formal dinners were replaced by cocktail parties and finger foods were served and more preferred over the course meals. During World War II, American soldiers were introduced to various charcuteries and cheeses in France, Italy, Germany, and Greece. This exposure to European dishes was brought home to the U.S. and charcuterie boards became popular in the 90s and have been sold in American grocery stores. The dish also became popular in specialty food stores with diversified contents. 

Charcuterie boards are usually served as appetizers in many restaurants. They still are served in private gatherings and dinner parties since they are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by many. 

What’s on the board

The boards used are usually made of wood or stone to keep the food cool. Diners will also see other equipment such as cheese knives, spoons, and ramekins. 

In addition to meats, cheeses, and bread, the board also includes flavors and textures that would complement the main components. Examples are fruits, olives, olive oil, nuts, vinegar, pickled or fresh vegetables, herbs, edible flowers, mustards, and honey. In many instances, charcuterie boards are served with wines of any variety. 

Japanese pagodas are architectural structures that had cultural and religious significance. These are not only seen in Japan, but also other Asian countries, like China, India, Korea, and Vietnam. Most pagodas were built to have a religious function, mostly Buddhism and Taoism. Pagodas are tiered structures with roof systems of 5 levels. Each level represents a different element of the world as listed in the Buddhist religion. The meaning of “pagoda” refers to multi-tiered Japanese structures that are a prominent secondary feature of Japanese temples and gardens.

A brief history of pagodas

Pagodas originated in Japan and are based on stupas, which are ancient Indian buildings. Stupas are ancient Indian structures with a similar purpose as the pagodas. Stupas were designed to contain relics that are associated with religious and historical individuals. Pagodas, on the other hand, house religious talismans and other sacred items. The creation of pagodas was recorded as early as 2nd-century C.E. shortly after Buddhism was introduced in China. As the religion spread to different parts of Asia so are the changes in the appearances of pagodas. In Japan, Buddhism has greatly influenced its culture and religion. As such, pagodas have become identified with the Japanese even though their origin was in China.

The Japanese pagoda

Japanese pagodas do not look like each other. There are different forms and each form has a cultural significance. Japanese pagodas are mostly created with wood, have larger roof overhangs, and are often seen as secondary structures rather than primary ones. They have different levels and each roof size diminishes until the last roof. As mentioned above, Japanese pagodas house Buddhist artwork, statues, and other objects with religious significance. 

The architecture

Japanese pagodas may have similarities with other pagodas in Asia. However, its uniqueness is due to several attributes, each with its significance. It is mainly made of wood, stones, and bricks. The other characteristics are the central pillar, the Sorin, which is the spire at the highest roof of the structure. The Sorin is designed to remind the viewers to look at the cosmos beyond space. There are also the beams that are counterbalanced by columns, and the pagoda roof. The roof has 5 levels and each represents earth, water, fire, wind, and space. 

Symbolism

Japanese pagodas not only represent harmony with nature but the resilience of the Japanese spirit. In the past, pagodas have faced many disasters, either natural or man-made. It was rebuilt every time they were destroyed or damaged. These symbolize the people of Japan as they have survived and recovered from all the natural calamities that they experience. Japanese pagodas have been preserved for centuries through hard work, humility, and respect for the natural cycle of life.