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2 Play photographer. Grab a digital camera. If you don't already have one, it's one of the best investments you can make. The next time you have a spare hour or two, head out with your camera and play photographer. If you're the sort of person who needs some structure to get started with a project, come up with some category of thing you'll photograph before you set out. It can be blue things or red things, flowers or buildings, street signs or shoes, clouds or hands -- don't think too hard about whether your subject is dumb or brilliant. Just choose something and go with it, then snap as many pictures as you can fit on your memory card. The more photos you take, the more likely you are to end up with at least a couple of shots that make you smile. Choose your favorites, have them printed up as big as you can afford, then mat, frame and hang.

3 Mooch away. Absolutely convinced of your utter lack of artistic talent? Ask your creative friends or family if they have any extra artwork stashed away they'd be willing to part with. Most artistically-minded folks that I know have way more artwork piled up in storage than they could ever in a million years fit on their own walls; if you like the kind of work they do, let them know how much you admire their talent, and mention that you're looking for artwork for your own digs. Art is such a personal thing that I'm always reluctant to give anyone my stuff until I know for certain that they actually like my style; if your artsy friends are anything like me, they'll be flattered by the compliments and absolutely thrilled to share their artwork once it's clear that the interest is there. (Of course, should your friend actually be attempting to make a living off said artwork, it's nice to offer to buy the work off of them. They may well refuse, but art's not an easy career, you know, and if they do take you up on the offer for payment you'll at least have the satisfaction of knowing that your money's going to someone you know and love.)

4 Not just for the fridge… kiddie art! Ask your favorite young'un to paint you something. Back in elementary school, my little brother made this snail painting that my parents proudly framed and hung up in their hallway, the way parents are wont to do. Not long after, my cousin was over for a visit and complimented my parents on the work, asking them where they'd bought it. Seriously, kids can produce some cool art, so the next time you're babysitting your sister's or brother's or best friend's kids, suggest a spontaneous art session. Alternatively, the next time you're visiting back home, ask your mom whether she's still hanging on to any of your old school drawings.

mosey along this-a-way!

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