"5"^^ . "1"^^ . "0"^^ . . "2012-12-24T00:00:00"^^ . "0"^^ . "Art As Inspriation\n\nJust imagine if one of your favorite artists--Picasso, for example--was a close friend, and you could turn to him for color advice any time you wanted. Well, actually, you can. Here's how.\n\nStart by asking: What kind of feeling do I want to create?\n\nFor example, you might decide you want to use vibrant colors to spice up a dull space, or pastels to create a livable, relaxing atmosphere, or neutrals to create a look of quiet, restrained elegance.\n\nYou can search the web for images--try sites of well-known museums to start with. Look for colors or color combinations you like, and think might work in your space. \n\nVisit museums and galleries in person as well, but bear in mind that you'll want to leave with a postcard, a reproduction, or a photograph of your selections as a reminder of the exact shades and hues that most appealed to you.\n\nYou can usually see in the artwork itself how well each of the different colors work together.\n\nIf you own a piece of art you know you want to use in the room--a painting, a print, a poster, or some pottery, for example--just build your color scheme straight from colors in the art, using the suggestions below. \n\nUse a photo or a printout of your original art piece. Photos are easier to transport, and involve less risk of damaging the work.\n\nAt many of the Dunn-Edwards stores they employ experts in choosing colors and this service is free, just walk in and see the gal sitting at the desk."^^ . . .