Art is such a powerful tool for transforming a space, injecting life and personality into a home. When it comes to curating an interior scheme, the relationship between art and design can’t be overlooked. It plays a crucial role in establishing the overall vibe and atmosphere of your home.
More than any other decision you will make while designing your living space, selecting art is not just a choice; it is a creative exercise and opportunity for you to express your individuality. Therefore, take your time with this process and choose pieces that resonate with you and that you truly love.
Whether it be antique fine art, paintings on canvas, vintage posters, a photo wall, modern prints, wall sculptures, or even a mural, there are six practical considerations to keep in mind before you select the perfect pieces for your collection.
1. DETERMINE WHAT STYLE OF ART YOU LOVE
There are countless options available in the world of art, so it’s important to do some research to narrow down your preferences. Utilise platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, where you can follow accounts of galleries and artists whose work resonates with your personal taste.
Visiting art fairs, design markets and student exhibitions can also be beneficial, as these venues often feature up-and-coming artists who are eager to showcase their talent and creativity. This exposure can help you discover unique pieces that you might not encounter in traditional galleries.
2. CONSIDER YOUR INTERIOR DESIGN STYLE
A great starting point when choosing art is to consider the interior style of your home, as art can beautifully complement your existing decor. For example, if you’re drawn to mid-century modern aesthetics, you could seek out abstract art featuring bold colours and geometric shapes that align with that style.
On the other hand, if your taste is more minimalist, you might opt for artworks in muted tones that enhance your space's colour palette. Simple sketches or illustrations in neutral tones would also be an excellent choice. Always keep in mind the rest of the furniture and artwork in your home to ensure that the colours and tones don’t clash.
3. MEASURE UP
Before making any purchases, decide where you want to hang the artwork and take precise measurements of the wall space available. Once you’ve done that, lay out your pieces on the floor to visualize what arrangement you’d like to create. This hands-on approach can give you a clearer idea of how the pieces will interact with each other.
You can also trace the frames onto paper or measure each piece and use masking tape to outline the dimensions directly on the wall, helping you to see how the art will look in the space before making any commitments.
4. CONSIDER THE FRAME
The choice of frame is another important aspect to think about. Will you opt for black, white, oak, or walnut timber? Do you want all your frames to match in style? Consider the thickness of the frames and whether you prefer a border or no border at all. These are essential questions to contemplate before you purchase any frames. Sometimes, it’s best to leave this task to the professionals; the value of a good framer cannot be overstated. Experienced framers can offer expert advice on what will look best with your selected artwork.
5. SET A REALISTIC BUDGET
When it comes to original art, it generally costs more than prints, so it’s crucial to establish what your budget is beforehand. Sometimes, it is wiser to wait until you can afford the piece you genuinely love rather than settling for something that doesn’t resonate with you on a deeper level.
Artists and galleries often have limited edition prints of their works available, which can be a lovely addition to your interior scheme, especially if you have them professionally framed. This approach can be a relatively affordable way to build your art collection over time.
6. COMMISSION FOR A PERSONAL RESULT
If you find yourself unable to locate a piece that perfectly aligns with your vision, consider reaching out to a gallery or artist to inquire about commissioning a custom piece made to your specifications. Some artists may also be willing to create prints of their existing work for you.
Don’t hesitate to contact artists directly to ask about this possibility, especially if they have a piece that you absolutely adore but that has already been sold. Often, artists are open to creating a print version just for you, allowing you to have a cherished piece in your collection.
READY TO INVEST IN ART YOU'LL LOVE?
If you’re ready to choose the perfect piece, you can explore my curated collection of original artworks and wall sculptures here.
For those looking for more guidance on scale, placement or building a cohesive art direction for your home, I also offer personalised 1:1 styling and design consultations, available virtually (via Zoom) or in person (Sydney only).
FAQ: HOW TO CHOOSE ART FOR YOUR HOME
How do I know what art is right for my home?
The right artwork feels emotionally engaging while complementing your interior’s scale and palette. If you repeatedly return to a piece, it is often the right one.
How much should I spend when buying art?
There is no universal rule. Establish a budget that feels comfortable and prioritise quality over quantity. Consider art an investment in both your home and your daily experience.
Is it better to buy original art or prints?
Original artwork offers exclusivity and long-term collectability. Prints provide accessibility and are an excellent way to begin building a collection. Both can be valuable when thoughtfully chosen.
Where is the best place to buy art?
You can buy art through reputable galleries, directly from artists, at art fairs or through trusted online platforms. When buying art online, ensure the seller provides detailed imagery, clear return policies and transparent information about edition numbers or provenance.
If you are seeking curated, collectible pieces selected with interior application in mind, browsing a carefully edited art collection can simplify the process significantly.
Is buying art online safe?
Yes, provided you purchase through established platforms or recognised galleries. Research the artist, review policies and ensure authenticity documentation is available where relevant.
