NEW YORK, NY.- There is no question that furniture and art have a unique relationship. From sleek lines to atypical shapes, art has always been an integral part of great furniture design.

Arts and Crafts Movement
Gustav Stickley is one of the most famous craftsmen of the Arts and Crafts Movement. He combined solid hardwood construction with beautiful metal inlays, carvings, and more. Many inlays were inspired by the artwork of the art nouveau period. Other artists such as Ernest Gimson of the Cotswolds Arts and Crafts Movement used the architectural lines of cathedrals and manors to make his arched accent dining tables.

Modern art meets function
Many artists are transforming the furniture we use every day into a unique social statement and artistic impression. Argentinian-born artist Pablo Reinoso takes the typical wooden park bench and makes the planks look like a grapevine.

Renewing antiques and vintage items
Sometimes there is a real jewel hidden under the dust and wear of age. An older table may need nothing more than a light sanding and a finish applied to bring it back to splendor. Even a good cleaning can sometimes do wonders. There are also finish restorers that can improve the appearance of an older wooden item with no sanding. Floto and Warner use gold-colored necklaces from Goodwill stores to create fantastic chandeliers that have a vintage feel of the golden age of ballrooms and soirées. Antique chairs can be reupholstered with an artistic fabric. How about a Victorian chair reupholstered in leopard print or with fabric that has the print of a famous painting?

Wall art and inspired furniture
If you have a piece of wall art that you adore, why not use it for inspiration when choosing your next furniture. Look for similar lines or patterns in the furniture. Even the right color of furniture can be chosen based on the wall art. Making sure patterns and colors complement one another can make a room look more put together with designer style.

Graphics and shapes
Vintage graphics such as comic strips, adverts, etc., find a new purpose when painted on furniture or when screen printed on upholstery. Chairs and couches may have extra legs or obscure shapes and lines to add distinction and charm to otherwise traditional and classic designs. The sky is really the limit when it comes to what can be done. The art-inspired upholstery alone accounts for a myriad of unique designs that can come from the inspiration of art, not just function. Off the wall shapes, such as hand shaped chairs, are increasing in popularity. This type of furniture art can add a lot of style to even the plainest space.

Artistic style that speaks loud and clear
You only need a few unique pieces of furniture to significantly enhance the artistic appeal of a given space. Don't be afraid to explore the art that inspires you and use it for the inspiration to make your living space or business on the cutting edge of artistic style and class.