Wall art transforms empty walls into canvases that tell unique stories and set the tone for a space. Choosing the right wall art is more nuanced than just finding a pretty painting; it requires a thoughtful consideration of a multiplicity of factors to ensure a harmonious and visually appealing ambiance.
Here are some key aspects you should consider when you buy wall art for any space, whether it's a cosy living room, a vibrant office, or a serene bedroom:
Understand Your Space Before diving into selections, take a moment to understand the characteristics of your space. Consider the room's size, layout, colour scheme, and existing decor. Wall art should complement and enhance the overall aesthetic rather than clash with it.
Define the Intent Ask yourself why you’re putting up the artwork at all. What purpose will it serve? Is it intended to be a visual focal point, a conversation starter, or just add depth and texture to a wall by serving as a backdrop? Setting the intent will guide you in choosing the right size, style and placement for the artwork.
Make it Personal Wall art is a reflection of your personality and style. Modern, abstract, traditional, eclectic, or mixed media, are all options. First choose artwork that resonates with you. Next, consider the mood you want to convey. Then using these two aspects as guiding principles, go out and select a piece that brings them both together.
Choose a Colour Scheme The colour palette of your wall art should be in harmony with the existing colours in the room. Consider the dominant hues in your furniture, upholstery, and walls. Opt for artwork that complements or contrasts the furniture in a way that enhances the overarching colour scheme of the room.
Size Matters Scale and proportion are crucial when choosing wall art. A small piece might get lost on a large wall, while an oversized piece could overwhelm a smaller space. Aim for a balanced look that suits the dimensions of the wall and surrounding furniture.
Gallery Walls You could also make spaces like foyers, corridors, and family rooms more interesting by creating a gallery wall that showcases a collection of artwork. Experiment with diverse frames, sizes, and art styles while maintaining a cohesive theme or colour scheme to tie them all together. You can combine paintings, prints, photographs, and sculptures, and even experiment with various mediums to add depth and interest to the walls. Gallery walls are a super personalised and dynamic solution that could really elevate the ambiance of your room if done right.
Light It Well Pay attention to the lighting in the room as it can significantly impact the way wall art is perceived. Ensure that your art is well-lit to highlight its details and create maximum visual impact.
Adopt Trends With Caution Good art is more often than not also expensive. So while it's tempting to pick art depending on what is “trending”, we recommend choosing and investing in art that has a timeless appeal. Trends come and go, but art with enduring qualities will ensure that your space remains stylish for years to come.
On that note, here are some great and reliable websites from where you can source a variety of art:
Choosing wall art is an art form in itself, requiring a delicate balance of your spatial needs and personal preferences. Defining the purpose, and then carefully choosing a size/ scale, colour, and lighting, can help you transform your walls into captivating, but carefully curated canvases. Use walls to tell your story.
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Your tips on considering factors like color scheme, room style, and personal connection really resonate with me. It’s amazing how a well-chosen piece can transform a space and make it feel more personal and vibrant. I’m curious—when you’re selecting art for your own space, do you tend to gravitate more towards specific styles or artists? I find myself always drawn to abstract pieces, but I’m trying to branch out a bit. Also, I’d love to know if you have any tips on mixing different types of art within the same room. Balancing various styles without making a space feel chaotic is something I’m always striving for.