Selecting the right artwork for your home can be a challenging task, but it's worth the effort. Artwork adds character, energy and personality to your living space or office. It's a unique opportunity to showcase your natural taste and style. Here are some tips on how to select the right artwork for your home:

First, determine the best size and budget.

You must then consider the overall style and color highlights of the room it's going into. The artwork you choose may complement the overall style of your decor. For example, if your home has a modern, minimalist design, you may want to choose a more abstract or contemporary piece with lines and shapes that echo the existing interior design. If your home has a more traditional approach, you may want to select artwork with more classic themes, such as landscapes or still life. Either way, this is your unique way of creating the energy you will enjoy most.

Second, think about the colors in your home. Do you have a color scheme, or is it more eclectic? Artwork should either enhance and pull out the color scheme of your home, or naturally create a splashy centerpiece. However, you won't want it to clash with things around it.

Choose artwork with colors that complement or contrast with the colors in your room. For example, if your room has neutral tones, you may want to choose artwork with bold, vibrant colors to add visual interest.

Third, consider the scale of your space. The size of your artwork should be proportional to the size of your room. Large artwork can create a dramatic focal point in a room, while smaller pieces can be grouped together to create a gallery wall effect.

Finally, choose artwork that speaks to you. Ideally the artwork you surround yourself with should be a reflection of your personality and taste. When selecting artwork, choose pieces that you love and that have meaning to you or evoke an uplifting emotional response. Don't be afraid to take risks and try something new, but ultimately, choose artwork that you will enjoy looking at every day.

In conclusion, selecting the right artwork for your home requires careful consideration of style, color, scale, and personal preference. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and cohesive display that enhances your home decor and reflects your individual style. I always encourage both seasoned and brand new art buyers not to be afraid to change out, move around, and rotate artwork every 6 months or so to keep things fresh and have fresh energy flowing in your environment!

FRAMING:

If your artwork isn't already framed, it is an important step to consider. Depending on what the artwork is created on will determine your framing options. Here are the 2 most common.

Paper or other non-ridged surface.

These types of artwork will generally require a traditional style and frame to display. You will have the choice of various glass from the standard cheap, to expensive museum quality glass with the maximum uv protection and glare resistance.

Stretched Canvas or wood panels

This is the most common surface for oil and acrylic paintings. If the piece is on stretched canvas or uses a cradled wood panel giving it some depth, my favorite treatment is to use a simple float frame to complement and add a sleek finishing touch to the art.

A good frame can enhance the artwork and protect it from damage. Here are some best practices for framing artwork:

First, choose a frame that complements the artwork. The frame should not overpower the artwork but should enhance its colors and style. Choose a frame that is similar in style to your home decor and consider the color and texture of the frame as well. As I mentioned I typically use a simple black frame for my work to let the art speak for itself.

Second, try to use archival materials where the artwork meets. Archival materials, such as acid-free mat board and UV-protective glass, will help protect the artwork from damage over time. This is especially important if the artwork is valuable or sentimental.

Third, ensure the artwork is properly mounted in the frame. Use acid-free materials to mount the artwork and make sure it is centered and straight in the frame. If the artwork is a photograph, consider using archival photo corners to avoid any damage to the original.

HANGING YOUR ART:

Once you have selected the right piece and the wall that will be its home, you are only half way there! Next step is to properly Hang the work.

Hanging artwork can be a daunting task for many people. Not only do you have to worry about the right height and placement, but you also need to ensure that your artwork is securely attached to the wall. Here are some best practices for hanging artwork to help you create a beautiful and safe display in your home.

Determine the ideal height

The ideal height for hanging artwork is typically eye level, which is about 57 inches from the floor. However, this can vary depending on the height of the ceiling and the size of the artwork. For larger pieces, you may need to hang them slightly higher to ensure they don't overpower the room.

Use the right tools

When hanging artwork, it's important to use the right tools to ensure that your artwork is securely attached to the wall. You'll need a hammer, nails or screws, a level, a measuring tape, and a pencil. You may also want to use picture hangers or adhesive strips to make the process easier.

Consider the weight of the artwork

Before you hang your artwork, you'll need to consider its weight. Heavier pieces will require stronger nails or screws and may need additional support, such as anchors or wall brackets. If you're not sure what type of hardware to use, consult with a professional or the staff at your local hardware store.

Group artwork together

If you have multiple pieces of artwork that you want to display, consider grouping them together to create a cohesive display. You can group them by theme, color, or size to create a visually appealing arrangement. Just be sure to measure and plan your layout before you start hanging your artwork.

Use a level

Using a level is essential for ensuring that your artwork is straight and level. Place the level on top of your artwork or use a laser level to create a straight line. This will help you avoid crooked or lopsided artwork, which can be distracting and unattractive. You can use museum wax or tack to be sure it does not move around after leveling.

Choose the right lighting

The right lighting can make all the difference when it comes to displaying artwork. Consider using spotlights or track lighting to highlight your artwork and create a dramatic effect. You can also use natural light to illuminate your artwork by hanging it near a window.

Mix it up

Don't be afraid to mix up your artwork and experiment with different styles and mediums. You can mix photographs, paintings, and sculptures to create a dynamic and interesting display. Just be sure to group them together in a way that makes sense visually.

In conclusion, hanging artwork can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your artwork is safely and securely attached to the wall and create a beautiful display that enhances your home decor.

If you have questions or need help selecting the perfect piece for your home, please don't hesitate to reach out to me here!