Would you believe that this little blog is turning 10 this year? I will admit that some years have been more prolific than others, nevertheless here we are! Over the years I have received a lot of collaboration offers, offers of free product in exchange for a blog review. Most of these offers I have politely turned down because the product didn't fit within the realm of my blog topic scope. As much as I might have liked to snag those new sunglasses, this isn't a fashion blog and the freebie isn't worth compromise in my opinion.
Several weeks ago I had an email from Photowall asking if I was interested in reviewing one of their products. After a quick glance at their website, I responded with an emphatic, "Yes, Please!" At first I was obsessed with their amazing wall murals, but after assessing every wall in our home, I decided that an oversized art canvas for our office/studio would be a more practical choice. Plus, as a girl who likes to change her mind and move decor around the house periodically, commiting to a full on mural was not something I was quite ready for.
What I love about Photowall's canvases is that you not only have hundreds of artworks to choose from on their website, but you also have the option of uploading your own art file! What's even better is that you're not restricted to a set of specific canvas sizes. They actually build the frame and print the canvas upon receiving your order. I was really keen on getting a statement art piece for this wall, so I measured the space and ordered the largest size canvas that seemed appropriate in proportion to the room.
The most challenging part of this whole process was deciding on the actual artwork I wanted. I literally spent hours scrolling through options. Time and again I came back to this lovely lady. I hesitantly showed her to my husband, prepared for a solid, "no." To my surprise and delight he didn't seem to mind her and agreed that she seemed quite suited to the space. Happy dance!
Naturally as this lady was soon to be a rather prominent feature in our home, I needed to do a bit of research. The artist is Joaquin Sorolla y Bastida (1888-1962) and the title is "Portrait of Raquel Meller." Turns out Raquel was a famous Spanish singer and actress in the 1920's and 30's. I think she's pretty fabulous with her floppy hat and pursed lips!
My Photowall order arrived in 2 days! From Sweden to Washington in just 2 days! The packaging was extremely professional, clean and efficient. Of course there was some assembly required for a canvas this large traveling overseas. And I will admit that I was a bit nervous about making a mistake and ruining the beautiful new product I had just been gifted. Thankfully I discovered a really helpful instructional video on the Photowall website that walked me through the process, which turned out to be very easy.
Slightly off-topic, but in case you're curious about the dresser siting directly below Raquel, it's one of my favorite Annie Sloan Chalk Paint® makeover project from several years ago. You can see the before photo and read more about paint finish here, if you are so inclined. I got a lot of flack for painting an Eastlake dresser, but you know what? I don't regret it. Seven years later, I still love it and it's a true testament to the longevity of a paint finish created with Annie Sloan's products.
If you're in the market for a statement art piece for your home, or you're one of those brave people I admire who wouldn't think twice about slapping a big, bold art mural on your wall, I encourage you to head over to www.Photowall.com and take a peek!
Use code onegirlinpink25 in your shopping cart for 25% off any product on the Photowall website! Offer expires August 16th, 2020
Thank you for your visit!
Much Love,
Amanda
