Words as art. You can do better : Annie Elliott Design

Happy New Year, Gentle Readers! I hope you had a wonderful, restorative holiday season.

I don’t want to start the new year on a negative note, but the recent proliferation of “word art” demands an intervention.

Word art - "The best memories are made gathered around the table" — Wouldn’t a painting of flowers be so much better?

I am sorry to say that I am not a fan.

I believe that the art in your house should be visually interesting. Whether it’s abstract or figurative, colorful or black and white, printed or created by hand, art is ART. Not signage, not belief statements, and definitely not commands.

Wall art sign that says Relax and Unwind — A double command!

By “word art,” You know what I’m talking about.

Word art that says "grateful for small things, big things, and everything in between" — I don’t disagree with the sentiment, just the fact that it’s posing as art

Wall art sign saying "our kitchen is for dancing" — Ours is for making Rye Presbyterians, but luckily, I do not need a sign to remind me

Huge wall art that says family — It’s just so…large

And of course:

(How hilarious is this one, though?)

Wall art that says Live, Laugh, Love, Don't be a dickhead — Heh heh

Look. If you’d like to hang a piece of word art for fun, inspiration, or mindfulness (preferably in a powder room, kitchen, or kid’s bedroom) please go right ahead. Of course! It’s your house! Do whatever you like!

But as a trained professional, I advise against more than one.

Word art, like mirrors, is a bit of a copout. It indicates an unwillingness — or an inability — to commit to art. Maybe you don’t know what kind of art you like, but you know the walls need something…and the You Are Here sign was right there when you were ordering your holiday cards!

Wall art that says You are here — From Minted

There are exceptions, of course.

I’ve always thought that “eat” signs were kind of cute. Especially if they’re huge.

Metal sign saying eat — This is custom-made, custom-painted metal. I think it comes even bigger!

I also like super colorful typography posters in the right context.

Poster that says, When in doubt dance it out — Bonus points for the ’70s vibe

Pillows aren’t art, they’re accessories, but when else can say that I find words on pillows charming and amusing? Especially in needlepoint.

Needlepoint pillow with saying — What IS this “Furbish” site?!? Love it!!!

Finally, it goes without saying that art with words in it is more than fine ;)

Barbara Kruger, Your Body Is A Battleground — Barbara Kruger

I love words. I love typography. I’m obsessed with graphic design. But I don’t love words on walls as a substitute for art. You deserve better.

Annie Elliott Design is based in Washington, DC, but we travel for fun projects. Thank you for your patience, Gentle Readers, as I took most of December as a blog break! Happy New Year.