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by Cora L. Diekman
The Teenie Harris Archive
Charles “Teenie” Harris captured life in Pittsburgh through a series of raw and intensely personal photographs from c. 1945 to c. 1975. His compilation of nearly 80,000 images of Pittsburgh during this time is unparalleled. This archive, presented by the Carnegie Museum of Art, currently contains 987 of those images (with plans to add more), and gives viewers a fascinating glimpse into a critical period of time from Teenie’s point of view. Many photographs also include short stories explaining their significance, as they were often linked to front page news stories of the day. Images, like this one, are available for purchase through the archive — and even if black and white photography isn’t on your want list, this site is STILL worth a visit.
order prints
DailyPainters.com
This site features art by both new and established artists, and adds new paintings every day (hence the name). The selection is massive and the styles are varied, including everything from still life to abstract. This modern watercolor by Kevin Inman (based in San Diego) is one in a collection of pieces that are light, airy, and California-cool.
Debbie Carlos
This website features the photography of Debbie Carlos, available for purchase as posters and heavyweight photo prints. The images are simple, and yet personal, like this Malibu Print. As Debbie says on her site, “Good, beautiful things should be available to everyone.” And we definitely agree.
Schoolhouse Electric
You already know Schoolhouse Electric for its collection of industrial-modern lighting and hardware, but did you know they also offer art? Their selection is somewhat small but every piece is a winner, in a style that is handsomely understated — true to their brand. Shop framed prints, photography, and wall banners. Some pieces, like this Cascadia Campground Print, are exclusive to Schoolhouse Electric, so consider SE if you’re seeking a unique piece not found on other larger sites.
Student Artists via UGallery
UGallery features art by students and partner programs, like the Citywide Arts Program at Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco. This self portrait was drawn in charcoal by artist Glory Rubio at BGCSF, and is only one of many pieces available by emerging artists through UGallery. All pieces are original and one of a kind. And if that’s not reason enough, sales of art affiliated with BGCSF support the Citywide Arts Program.
Self Portrait III (Glory) by Glory Rubio
Society6
This site is just plain fun. Featuring art by independent and emerging artists, they’ve made it seriously easy for practically anyone with original art to sell their work online. Society6 offers photography and graphic art, with a HUGE variety of designs to peruse. And once you fall in love with a design, you can have it printed on practically anything, from canvas to t-shirts to duvet covers. So fun!
Glory // Story by Miranda Lorikeet
National Geographic Art Store
Is any photography more iconic than that of National Geographic? With an astoundingly diverse archive of images to view, many are now available for sale as prints through their Art Store (powered by CafePress). You can literally spend hours clicking through beautiful photographs of exotic animals, national parks, dramatic weather events, far away people and cultures, famous buildings, interesting foods…the list goes on and on. There is sure to be a photo to suit any design in your home, from those full of movement and color, to this monochromatic image of a modest window shot in Dominica.
Dominica Island, West Indies Michael Melford
The New York Times Library
If you don’t know, the New York Times also offers an archive of images available for sale as prints. With iconic photographs dating back to 1862, this collection is a must for both history lovers, and those who just appreciate great photography. Since the collection dates back so many years, there is an impressive selection of black and white images to chose from, and plenty in color, too. Sort images by era, people, sports, or images of New York City only.
Berenice Abbott Harlem Street, Lenox Avenue, Manhattan – 1938
Stock Image Websites
So, stock images (especially photographs) have a reputation for being, well, cheesy. And in some cases, we couldn’t agree more. But if you’ve never taken a look, you might be surprised to find out that these sites, such as istockphoto, are also full of amazing photographers and graphic artists who offer beautiful work for sale. The selection is overwhelmingly large, so set aside a little time for browsing, BUT that also means there’s nothing you can’t find. Art purchased through stock image sites are downloaded digitally, and must then be printed by you through a third party. Yes, this is a bit of an inconvenience, but it’s the trade off for shopping such a diverse selection of art.
istockphoto by monique28
domino
Yes! You can also find great art on domino, including prints exclusive to the site, like this shot of Georgia O’Keeffe’s home in Abiquiu, New Mexico. Order as an unframed giclee print, in a black or white frame, or printed on canvas. With lots to chose from including photographs and graphic art, there is sure to be something for every #sodomino space in your home.
Browse domino’s Art Prints: Here