I have romantic notions of sitting for Vermeer (or rather, Colin Firth playing Vermeer) and having my essence captured in tormented brushstrokes. Course, who has the time/money to sit for days and commission an artist? Well, it seems I do! The artists at Storybrush will hand paint one-of-a-kind oil paintings (on stretch canvas) from your digital photographs. You use modern technology to save time and they use the traditional medium of paint to create unique and rich works of art that tell your story. Love that you can request departures from reality (i.e., different backgrounds, removal of exes etc). Beautiful gift for newlyweds, new baby, or new home.

With online gallery 20x200, any art lover can be an art collector. They introduce two new limited edition pieces online a week: one photo and one work on paper, and most images are available in three sizes. This one is entitled, "Where Is That Middle Way?" by Emily Noelle Lambert. The artist describes it: "It was early spring, the trees were just beginning to sprout leaves and skunk cabbages were poking their heads up from the wet ground. There were algae, pink and green, floating in the ponds; the reflection was groundless."

I am constantly amazed and inspired by all of the incredible artists selling their works on Etsy.com. You can find everything from digital illustrations, clay sculptures, and handblown glass to photography, screenprinted fabrics, and laser papercuts. I love that I never know what I'll find, but always know it'll be unique and affordable. There's something to suit every price range and taste. I just recently fell in love with this original oil and acrylic painting on pre-stretched canvas by New York artist, Micci Cohan. It's signed and dated on the back and ready to hang. So beautiful.