How To Decorate with Art?
So, you've finally found awesome pieces of art, and now you need to figure out how to place it and coordinate it with your decor so it can create the maximum impact in your space.
You have a lot of options of your approach to decorating. And while a huge blank wall to display your new work is wonderful, it’s not a must. Let's chat about turning your space into a curated viewing experience.
A couple of practicalities to get out of the way
Your walls are probably painted, you probably have furniture and books and plants and lamps. Figuring out how all of this cohesively works with your new piece can seem daunting, but it tends to be more intuitive than you think. After all, it’s all your style, your energy, your personality.
You need to make sure there aren’t horribly clashing colors. You’d do well to make sure one component doesn’t drowns out the rest. But beyond that you have a lot of creative freedom.
If you are really worried about this, rest the art against the wall you’re thinking about and let it sit there for a week. Take your time finding the right place for it. View it at different times of day, doing different activities to make sure there aren’t any major issues with how you actually live in and move about your space.
Let Art Set the Vibe
Art isn't just for walls; it's a vibe creator. Start by letting the mood of your space guide your art choices.
It is completely normal and okay to rearrange in accordance with your new piece. You wanted to shift the space in the first place, so welcome the new energy of the art and let it be dominant. I’m not advocating for buying a new couch. But maybe move the couch to better appreciate the art. Or take away the throw that clashes with the paint. Let your room respond to the art, and be willing to shift around the new vibe.
Tip: Trust your instincts. If a piece resonates with you, it'll find its place naturally.
Mix and Match Like a Pro
Gone are the days of matchy-matchy. Embrace the art of mixing different styles, mediums, and sizes. A sleek modern piece can vibe surprisingly well with a vintage find. It's like creating a visual symphony where each piece plays its unique tune.
If you already have a bit of art, or framed family photos, don’t throw them out in favor of the new piece just yet. They might serve you. I often find really fascinating visual conversations take place when you pair unexpected things together. Again I recommend resting the art against the wall for a few days to observe before making any installation decisions.
Tip: Play around with placement. Sometimes, an unexpected arrangement can be pure magic.
Create a Gallery Wall That Tells Your Story
Gallery walls are like a curated journey through your life. Mix family photos, travel mementos, and, of course, your favorite artworks. It's your personal gallery, and there are no rules – just the story you want to tell.
Tip: Add in random vintage objects you have no use for to create a totally unique wall. For example, I hang a pair of rusted scissors next to an orangey-brown figure of a woman and love the effect.
Consider Scale and Proportion
Size matters. A tiny piece might get lost on a large wall, while an oversized piece can dominate a smaller space. Consider the scale and proportion of your room when choosing art to strike that perfect balance.
Tip: Use painter's tape to map out where a piece might go before committing to the nail. It's a game-changer.
Let Artwork Be the Focal Point
Choose a piece that steals the show – your focal point. It could be a bold painting, a unique sculpture, or even a vibrant tapestry. Let everything else in the room complement and revolve around your star piece.
Tip: Good lighting is key. It's like giving your art the spotlight it deserves.
Experiment with Unexpected Spaces
Who says art is limited to walls? Experiment with unexpected spaces like bookshelves, the sides of cabinets, windowsills. Art doesn't follow rules.
Rotate and Refresh
As a child, my mother would constantly completely redo our house. I loved it. Your taste evolves, and so should your art. Don't be afraid to rotate pieces or bring in new additions to keep things fresh. It's like giving your space a makeover without the heavy lifting.
Remaining questions? Send me an email!
Delia LaJeunesse offers an unpretentious approach to art collecting. I have designed services that deliberately go against the way art has historically been talked about and collected.
Art should expand your personal power. And believe it or not, a curated collection of art is so much more affordable than you’ve been led to believe. We are going to establish your vibe so that when you walk into your home you are completely in your element.