Now we all know the power of great art in gallery settings – but do you know how to choose art for your home? Abstract or figurative? Large or small? Traditional landscapes or modern portraiture? The choices are endless.
When buying art for your home, it should express your own character and tastes. Think of it as an exercise in personal curation – unique to you and the home you want to create. One of the best things about an art collection is that it’s an investment you can move with. It can adapt and grow with you and your space over time.
So if you’re searching for that perfect artwork for your home, look no further. We’ve put together our top tips for selecting artwork you love, that enriches your life and interiors.
Feeling ready? Let’s get started…
Style over Substance
Now, this may seem counterintuitive, but it’s a key lesson when selecting artwork for your home. One of the first things to consider is the interior style you have (or are working towards).For instance, do you favour a muted colour palette with natural fabrics and earthy tones? In this scenario – a bright, graphic print (no matter how much you love the individual piece) might jar.
On the other hand, if you love urban industrial finishes with plenty of metals and exposed brick, would a bucolic landscape with a traditional gilt frame seem just a bit out of place?
There is such a thing as complementary contrasts, but you know your interiors best. So make sure the style of artwork you’re purchasing doesn’t fight too much with your overall scheme.
Be Original
This doesn’t mean going for the most unusual or wackiest artwork you can find, but really valuing true originality.Whilst it may be tempting to buy mass-produced posters and prints – ask yourself whether they will add real value to your home. Put simply, there is no feeling like being the sole owner of a unique artwork or limited edition print that you love.
As well as the fact that an artist devoted hours, days and weeks to the piece, it will be something unique to you and your home.
With this in mind, our Art Consultants can advise you and help you make the best decisions for your collection. Our team will provide invaluable, expert advice, we even offer services such as home visits, consultations and even commissions.
How to Choose Colours for Your Art
In addition to the overall style of a piece, consider the tones present in an artwork.There’s nothing to say that an artwork’s colour palette must exactly match your home décor – you could contrast, accent or redefine the hues found in your surroundings.
If you’re unsure on colouring, visit the Artmarket Gallery and take a look at the variety of tones and combinations of colours available and find which appeal to you. Choosing artwork to enhance your home is all about what you like. So trust your instincts and go for it!
It’s also important to see your favourite art in situ, seeing art in your home adds a whole new dimension to the piece than when it’s displayed in the gallery. At the Artmarket Gallery we offer a Virtual Viewing service whereby you can request a video of the artwork you love and also as our team to superimpose the artwork onto your wall at home.
This service will help you get a true feel of the artwork you are interested in. To request your own Virtual Viewing, browse the Artmarket Gallery website, find the “Virtual Viewing” button next to your favourite piece(s) and fill in the short contact form and our Art Consultants will be in touch!
Size Matters – What Size Art Best Fits Your Wall?
Choosing appropriate artwork to suit your space is vital. A tiny photograph will look lost on a vast empty wall, whilst a massive canvas might overpower a small space.So how can you get it just right?
For anyone investing in original artwork – you’ll want it to be a focal point in itself. This doesn’t mean filling walls completely though! A good rule of thumb is that a “statement” piece should cover roughly two-thirds of a wall.
If this seems too much, consider multiple smaller artworks in a “salon-style” gallery presentation as a great way of adding interest to your interiors.
If you’re choosing a single artwork to go above a large piece of furniture however (such as a fireplace or bed) – do make sure the artwork is roughly in proportion.
Suit your space – Connect Artwork to Your Environment
Don’t forget the relationship between an artwork and your individual rooms.For instance, the living room is a great place to showcase feature pieces. As the location for entertaining guests and relaxing with family, make sure the artwork reflects this.
Conversely, if you’re searching for an artwork for the bedroom, you can afford to go more intimate – perhaps a piece that has personal significance to you or your partner. Abstract pieces with soothing tones are particularly good for evoking a relaxed atmosphere.
Think about what you use each room for, and go for artwork that matches this purpose. Home office? Select for something motivating and inspiring! Smaller, brighter pieces are great for kitchens and bathrooms, where humidity can sometimes be an issue.
Choose Artwork You Love
If there’s one piece of advice that’s most important when selecting art for your home – then it’s this! Always, and we mean always, go for artwork you love.It may seem obvious, but if you’re buying artwork to enhance your interiors, make sure it’s a piece you’ll enjoy living with.
Purchase art with your heart and go with pieces that give a positive feeling. This doesn’t just mean “pretty” pictures though. It could be a sense of calmness, curiosity or evoking a particular memory. Whatever it is, you’ll know your own reasons and why the piece is perfect for you.
With all these considerations in mind, you’ll be able to choose artwork to enhance your home with confidence. From style to sizing and colour to true originality – there’s plenty to consider. Whatever artwork you choose, just make sure it’s one you love.
At the Art Market Gallery we are specialists in matching people with artwork. Our friendly, expert team would be delighted to provide advice and help you make the right choice. So if you’re adding to your collection, whether for investment or personal pleasure – get in touch to find out how we can assist you.