Decorating with Shakespeare

As a scientist I have studied little of Shakespeare.  Then, in my genealogy search I found a connection.  No, he is not in my direct line.  However, one of my ancestors is mentioned in a genealogy book on Shakespeare, that being William Smith, who is reported to have been a godfather of the famous bard.  Now, I have a sudden interest in the famous bard.

Scenes from many famous Shakespearean plays are available.  In fact, if you have a favorite play it may be supported by as many prints as you wish to display. 

Whether it is for your home or for your office, colorful art of Shakespeare’s plays can add much to the décor.  And, it speaks volumes. 

At home the art tells others you have an interest in Shakespeare.  Why is this important?  Well, in the setting of a gathering, people often feel awkward, especially if they are unfamiliar with the person with whom they are speaking.  A universally accepted work of renown such as a play be Shakespeare is a good and safe conversation starter.  Once started, the conversation can morph into other topics, but the key is in getting it started with but a glance at the wall and a small comment.  Indeed, others may also begin their conversations in the same manner.  Soon, chatter will be everywhere, and your gathering will be proclaimed a success after the event comes to an end.

In an office it offers a subdued atmosphere that demands respect.  This could easily translate into a more polite and respectful working environment, which then leads to higher productivity.

Many famous sayings are attributed to William Shakespeare.  What is amazing is that many of these sayings, be they insulting or inspirational, have meaning today.  While the world has changed significantly since Shakespeare, generalized wordings retain an impact, and can still acquire attention when used.

Handbills announcing Shakespearean plays through the years often contained language, imagery, or even both.  They were intended to be the attention grabbing bills that announced a play.  Some of the more ornate bills might contain a scene showing the beauty of the scenery or of the costumes.  Indeed, there was a time when play bills were the main source of advertisement of a play, much like the posters at a theater in this age announce future films that will be shown.

The plays of William Shakespeare require elaborate scenery, and period costumes of over four hundred years back.  Gazes back immediately draw attention.  It is like looking at antiques.

The play bills of the past performances of the work of William Shakespeare are themselves works of art, and can be displayed as home or office décor.  They have the advantage of having the name of the play prominently displayed along with the artistic scenery or some well chosen words, so the unenlightened will know immediately from which play the bill originated.  Indeed, they can even jog the memory of one who is rather familiar with the work of the bard.  Play bills should not be relegated to be unworthy because they may have at one time had a commercial origin.  Today, such play bills are clearly an art form when associated with an origin that dates back over many years.

Wall art is but one way to decorate your home or office.  Another is something for your desk.  A mug can be used as a decoration, and at the same time either serve as a beverage container or hold pens and pencils.  Sayings work best on mugs, although images work reasonably well.

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