New Year's Resolution: Make 2026 the Year You Embrace More Art (Here's How)

Let's be honest, most New Year's resolutions are about giving something up. No more junk food, less screen time, fewer late nights. But what if this year, you focused on adding something beautiful and nourishing to your life instead?

My resolution for 2025 was to draw every day and it has been an incredibly rewarding endeavour. If I can help bring that same satisfaction and joy to you by helping you with an art based 2026 resolution, I'd be thrilled. 

Art doesn't have to be intimidating or expensive. It doesn't require years of training or a fancy studio. In 2026, embracing more art can be as simple as a daily sketch exercise, hanging a meaningful print in your hallway or commissioning a portrait of your dog. The key is...just start. Like Nike: just do it. Don't wait to feel ready.

Here's how to make art a genuine part of your life this year, no art degree required.

Start With What You Already Love

You know you like lilies or pencil sketches or pet portraits. That's perfect. Start with that.

The beauty of starting with pet art, in particular, is that it's personal and meaningful from day one. You don't need to "understand" anything lofty. You just need to love your pet, and that emotional connection is what makes art powerful.

Why not start a pinterest board of pieces that inspire you? Or get up a little earlier and sketch something each morning?

Support Real Artists (It's Easier Than You Think)

One of the best ways to embrace more art is to support the humans creating it. When you buy directly from artists, you're not just getting a piece for your wall, you're helping someone pursue their passion and keep handmade creativity alive.

It's really easy to get started. There are so many talented artists sharing their work on instagram and tiktok. Many artists offer affordable prints (or postcards or even stickers) of their work, making original art accessible without the commitment of a full commission. You can rotate pieces seasonally, try different styles, and gradually discover what speaks to you. Some artists even have monthly print clubs, where they send you a new piece every month. How fun is that?!

When you're ready for something more personal, you could always consider commissioning a piece. Yes, it costs more than mass-produced wall art, but you're investing in something completely unique. Plus, working with an artist on a custom piece: whether it's a portrait of your dog or a landscape from your favorite vacation: creates a connection to the artwork that you'll never get from buying something off a shelf.

Explore Different Art Forms

Art isn't just paintings and sculptures. In 2026, embrace the full spectrum of creative expression.

• Digital art is having a major moment, and for good reason. Digital artists can capture incredible detail and experiment with styles that would be impossible with traditional media. Don't dismiss it as "not real art": the skill, creativity, and time investment are just as valuable as any traditional piece.

• Photography is another accessible entry point. Start paying attention to the photographers whose work you admire on social media. Support them by purchasing prints or commissioning family photos that go beyond the standard posed shots. Attend photography exhibitions in your local town. There's so much to see!

• Handmade crafts from local artisans are so important too. That ceramic bowl from the farmers market or the hand-knitted scarf from Etsy: these are all amazing ways to surround yourself with one of a kind, meaningful art pieces.

Make Small Creative Habits

You don't have to become an artist to embrace more art in your life, but honestly - creating is like nothing else for me when it comes to de-stressing. Getting into that 'flow state' completely takes me out of whatever I'm worrying about. It's such a peaceful and nourishing thing; you have to try it!

Set aside some time to try a  youtube life drawing session. Download a drawing app and experiment with digital art during your commute. Try watercolor pencils: they're forgiving and don't require a lot of setup.

The goal isn't to become the next Picasso. Far from it. It's about letting go of perfectionism and making. Enjoy the process.

Visit Galleries and Art Spaces

Make a resolution to visit one new art space per month. This doesn't mean expensive museum admissions: seek out local galleries, art fairs, coffee shops that showcase local artists, and pop-up exhibitions.

Most cities have free gallery nights or art walks where multiple venues stay open late and often serve snacks and drinks. These events are perfect for casual art exploration without the pressure of a formal museum visit.

Enjoy the way someone uses light or colour in their work. Think about why someone has added something to a piece. Pay attention to what draws you in. Do you gravitate toward bold, colorful pieces or subtle, minimalist work? Are you drawn to realistic representations or abstract concepts? There's no right answer: just start noticing your preferences.

Transform Your Home Into a Gallery

Your walls are blank canvases waiting for personality. Instead of buying whatever matches your couch, choose pieces that make you smile every time you see them.

Create a gallery wall with a mix of art styles, sizes, and price points. Combine a commissioned pet portrait with a vintage print, a photograph from a local artist, and maybe something you created yourself. The eclectic mix tells the story of your artistic journey.

Don't forget about unconventional spaces: bathrooms, hallways, and even closets can showcase smaller pieces. Art doesn't have to live only in your living room.

Consider the lighting too. Good lighting can make a $30 print look like a museum piece.

Invest in Custom Commissions

If you've never commissioned a piece of art, 2026 is the year to try it. Start with something meaningful: a portrait of your dog, your home, or a special place. I commissioned a portrait from my wedding day for mother's day once and a watercolour of our home for my partner.

The commission process is part of the art experience. Working with an artist to bring your vision to life creates a connection to the finished piece that you can't get any other way. You'll understand the choices that went into every element, from the color palette to the composition.

Don't assume commissions are only for the wealthy. Many artists offer different price points and payment plans. A simple digital portrait might cost less than a nice dinner out, while a detailed piece might be a special occasion investment. The delight when you first see your commissioned piece is indescribable! 

Connect Art to Your Daily Life

It is so easy to make art appreciation part of your routine. Follow artists on social media whose work you enjoy. Find youtube creators who explain art history is short segments. Read artists' processes, their inspiration, their struggles . Understanding the story behind artwork makes it more meaningful.

Follow podcasts that introduce you to new artists and movements. Set up Google alerts for art events in your area. The more art becomes part of your daily information diet, the more naturally you'll seek it out in person.

Consider taking a class: not to become an artist, but to understand the medium better. A pottery class, a watercolor workshop, or even an art history course can deepen your appreciation for the skill and thought that goes into creative work.

Start Small, Think Big

The best part about making art your 2026 resolution is that every small step counts. Buying one print supports an artist. Spending an afternoon at a gallery expands your perspective. Commissioning a portrait of your dog brings daily joy to your home.

You don't need to overhaul your entire life or spend thousands of dollars. You just need to start paying attention to the art already around you and make intentional choices to bring more of it into your world.

By the end of 2026, you might find that your home feels more personal, your daily routine includes creative moments, and you've developed relationships with local artists whose work you genuinely love. That's a resolution worth keeping.

Art isn't a luxury; it's a way of seeing the world with more appreciation, wonder, and connection. This year, give yourself permission to embrace that perspective. Your walls, your dog, and your daily life will be better for it.