How to Choose Art for Your Space

 

Choosing the right art for your home is an exciting and personal process. The art you choose not only reflects your taste but also enhances the atmosphere of your space. Whether you're looking to create a cozy, welcoming vibe or a bold, statement-making impact, the right piece of art can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore how to select art for different areas of your home, considering factors like size, colour, and theme.

1. Start with Your Space: Size Matters

Before diving into styles and colours, consider the physical dimensions of the space where you’ll be hanging the art. The size of the artwork should be proportional to the wall space available.

• Large Spaces: For large, open walls, consider oversized pieces or a gallery wall with multiple smaller artworks. Large artwork can serve as a focal point in a room, drawing attention and setting the tone for the entire space.
• Small Spaces: In smaller rooms or on narrow walls, opt for medium to small-sized pieces. 

A good rule of thumb is that the artwork should take up around two-thirds of the wall space above a piece of furniture.

Colour plays a crucial role in how a piece of art affects a room. It can either complement the existing palette or introduce a new pop of colour to create contrast.

• Complementary Colours: If you want your art to blend seamlessly with the room, choose colours that complement your existing decor. For example, if your room is decorated in neutral tones, artwork with soft, muted colours will maintain a harmonious feel.
• Contrasting Colours: For a more dynamic look, choose artwork with colours that contrast with the room's palette. A vibrant, colourful piece can energise a space with neutral walls, while a darker piece can add depth to a lighter room.

Consider the emotional impact of colours as well. Warm colours like reds, oranges, and yellows can create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, while cool colours like blues and greens promote calm and relaxation.

3. Consider the Theme or Style of the Room

Your home's overall style and the theme of each room should guide your art choices. Art can either reinforce the existing style or introduce a new element that adds interest and diversity.

• Modern and Minimalist: For modern, minimalist spaces, opt for abstract art or pieces with clean lines and simple colour schemes. Black and white photography or bold, geometric prints can complement a sleek, contemporary look.
• Traditional or Classic: In more traditional or classic settings, consider landscapes, portraits, or still-life paintings. Art with ornate frames or classic subject matter can enhance the elegance of the space.
• Eclectic or Bohemian: If your style is eclectic or bohemian, don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles, colours, and frames. A diverse collection of art can create a layered, rich atmosphere full of personality.

4. Think About the Room’s Function

The function of a room often dictates the type of art that will feel most appropriate.

• Living Room: As a central gathering place, the living room is perfect for showcasing large, impactful pieces. Choose art that reflects the mood you want to create—whether it's a relaxing retreat, a lively entertaining space, or a sophisticated setting.
• Bedroom: In the bedroom, opt for calming, serene pieces that promote relaxation. Soft colours, tranquil landscapes, or abstract pieces with gentle curves can contribute to a restful environment.
• Kitchen: The kitchen is a great place for fun, vibrant art that adds warmth and personality. Consider food-themed art, cheerful prints, or small, playful pieces that make you smile.
• Home Office: In a home office, choose art that inspires and motivates. Bold, energising colours and abstract pieces can stimulate creativity, while landscapes or photography can provide a sense of calm and focus.

5. Personal Connection: Choose What You Love

While size, colour, and theme are important considerations, the most crucial factor is choosing art that you love. Your art should resonate with you, reflecting your personal tastes, experiences, and interests.

• Emotional Impact: Select pieces that evoke emotions or memories. Whether it’s a painting that reminds you of a favourite place or an abstract piece that makes you feel energised, the emotional connection you have with your art will make it even more special.
• Wildlife Themed Art: At Angela Croft Art, we specialise in hand-drawn, limited edition artwork that captures the unique spirit of all wildlife. Our pieces not only add character to your space but also celebrate the bond we share with wildlife.

6. Experiment with Placement

Once you’ve chosen your artwork, don’t be afraid to experiment with placement. Sometimes, a piece might surprise you in a spot you hadn’t originally considered.

• Eye Level: A common rule is to hang artwork at eye level, typically around 57-60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece. However, if you’re hanging art above furniture, leave 8-12 inches of space between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the frame.
• Groupings and Layouts: If you’re creating a gallery wall or grouping multiple pieces, lay them out on the floor first to find the best arrangement. Consider the balance between sizes, colours, and subject matter.

Conclusion

Choosing art for your home is a deeply personal and rewarding process. By considering factors like size, colour, theme, and the function of each room, you can select pieces that not only enhance your space but also reflect your unique style and personality. Remember, the best art is the one that speaks to you—so trust your instincts and enjoy the journey of curating your home’s art collection.

If you're looking for unique, limited edition art that adds character and warmth to your space, explore our latest collections at Angela Croft Art. Whether it’s a statement piece for your living room or a playful addition to your kitchen, our hand-drawn artworks are designed to bring joy and inspiration into your home.