Art and creativity bring joy to many of us—from painting and sculpting to drawing and decorating our homes and offices.
Choosing the right art for our specific space is no easy feat, however, as it involves cultivating an eye for aesthetics and knowing the right place to purchase beautiful art.
Owning artwork is a wonderful way to express yourself and your tastes. It’s an investment that can support the artistic community, too.
But buying and displaying art thoughtfully requires research and a basic set of guidelines to ensure that you’re making the right choices.
In this article, we’ll share 10 essential tips to help you buy and display art that fits your style, preserves the beauty of the artwork, and turns your space into an enviable showstopper.
Tip #1: Check the Quality of the Piece
Whether you’re buying a piece online or in a store, make sure to check the quality and condition of the art.
Inspect the art up close, and look at it from various angles.
If you’re buying a piece from a second-hand shop, check if you’re able to restore it using soap and water or paint.
Tip #2: Consider Color and Space
When it comes to picking art for your space, take into account the colors of your existing furniture and decor.
Also, think about how much space you have to hang up a piece or two of art.
Consider if your art will complement the home decor gifts you received from your family.
Tip #3: Get to Know Your Style
Be sure to reflect on the styles of art and décor you’re drawn to. That way, you can pick pieces that can fit into your current design style.
If you’re not sure about the type of style you want, check out local art galleries in San Diego or in your city. Seeing art can help you feel inspired.
Tip #4: Stay Within Your Budget
It’s important to determine a budget before you start shopping so you don’t overspend.
To keep costs low, you can buy prints and framed photographs rather than more expensive pieces such as oil paintings.
You should also shop around at thrift shops or pawn shops for cheap paintings.
Tip #5: Get Creative with the Display
Rather than just hanging the artwork on a wall, consider layering the pieces, propping the artwork against the wall, or experimenting with unique display ideas.
If you want to stick to a more straightforward decor style, hang your paintings at eye level (57 inches from the floor).
Tip #6: Play with Scale
Mix up the size and scale of your pieces, so the art can speak for itself.
Don’t be afraid to buy a large piece even if your room size is small. It can act as a mural or be the main focal point of the room.
Just to be safe, measure the area where you’ll hang the art to ensure you have space.
Tip #7: Hang with Care
You’ll need more than just an accurate measurement to hang artwork properly.
When hanging an art piece, you’ll have to think about the frame’s weight, whether you can nail holes in the wall, and whether you’ll damage the art. The right tools will make hanging art a breeze.
Tip #8: Mix It Up
Experiment with different mediums. Art isn’t just limited to paintings.
Try sculptures, pottery, or wall hangings for a more eclectic display.
If you add more than one medium to a display, you can give each piece more depth.
And if the pieces don’t work together, use them elsewhere.
Tip #9: Display Strategically
Think about the purpose of the room when you select the art for our space.
For example, pick calming and restful pieces to hang in the bedroom, and hang bold and vibrant pieces in the living room area.
Paintings with minimal lines work better in bathrooms and powder rooms.
Tip #10: Focus on the Details
Don’t forget to consider the small and intimate details of the piece, like the frame and matting.
These characteristics shouldn’t be an afterthought, as they can truly enhance the art.
The wrong frame can even clash with your room, so pay close attention to color and type of material.
FAQ
What are some common mistakes to avoid when buying art?
Avoiding common mistakes when purchasing art requires careful consideration of the artwork before making a purchase. Investing in popular art solely for financial gain is also discouraged. Familiarizing yourself with the sales terms and return policies can also save you from making a regrettable decision.
How do I properly display art in my home or office?
Displaying artwork properly involves creating a visually captivating centerpiece that draws the viewer’s attention. Experimenting with different lighting techniques and ensuring that the artwork is level is also key.
What are some ways to incorporate art into my office space?
Incorporating art into your office can be done in a myriad of ways. From placing sculptures on shelves to using them as backdrops for video calls, the possibilities are endless. Commissioning local artists for personalized pieces is also a great way to add a personal touch to your space.
How do I care for and maintain my artwork?
Maintaining your artwork requires caution and care. Exposure to direct sunlight and sources of moisture or heat should be avoided. Regular dusting with a soft cloth or brush is also recommended. When in doubt, seek advice from the artist or a professional art conservator to ensure proper care of your valuable artwork.
- 56shares
- Share on Facebook
- Share on Twitter
- Share
- Pin
