Alicia and I hit up Eastern Market today, looking for…well, whatever. Looking for Interesting Things. Looking for craftsmanship. Looking for a good reason to get out of the house and enjoy a cloud-free day without humidity.

Ladies and gents, I hit the jackpot. There was an artist who offered — OFFERED — to sell me an original work for more than 50% off. Maybe he hates the colors, maybe his cat walked on it while it was still wet…whatever. I was already half in love with the painting and the deal was too good to resist. It’s acrylic on canvas in the chunky style I love — the kind of painting that feels like a relief map. It’s also representative of my life, in a way, and I love how the vibrant colors make it match every room except my bedroom.

It also looks a little like DC’s on fire, which, come on, is a little provocative.

It doesn’t need framing — I picked up some mounting hardware this afternoon and will hang it on The Big Empty Brown Wall in my living room. It’s a bit small for that spot, but I’m okay with that.

And because one good turn deserves another, I picked up a smaller print from the same artist. I think this one belongs in the dining room, above the wine rack. I’m a little dazzled by the colors.

On our way out, we paused at a photographer’s booth and I picked up something for my office. I saw it in a white matte and was able to resist, but then we found it in orange and I was sunk. But it’s sort of perfect for my career and lifestyle and decor. If you can’t see the caption, it reads “What the internet really looks like.”

Like I said. Perfect.

Hooray for art! Especially original art I love for a price I can afford. Can’t wait for Art on the Avenue next month…