7 Tips for Choosing Artwork

7 Art can be the most compelling feature in a room.

Art can be the most compelling feature in a room.

It can be the starting point for the décor, the focal point or the accent. Furniture can be short lived compared to art which is usually kept for many years and is often inherited by future generations, especially portrait art, favorite landscapes or pieces by well known artists.

I was lucky enough to be in London when some of the late David Bowie's art collection was being auctioned at Sotheby's. His collection was absolutely fabulous and extremely eclectic. Bowie was known for buying art from emerging artists, from all genres. There was amazing furniture, abstracts, portraits, sculptures and art in all mediums.

Many beautiful interiors, especially when professionally decorated, start with a piece of original art, and the colour scheme and furnishings are built around it.

Most of us, however, are purchasing artwork for a space already decorated. Decide if you’re wanting to create a focal point for your room, or an accent.

Many people will buy art to suit their space because of the colour.

Remember though, it’s easy to change the wall colour, cushions and throws, and bringing out ‘tucked away’ accessories to tie the colours together will bring focus to the beautiful piece you’ve just purchased. Art can be a sizeable investment and one you may want to have around forever, so changing the surroundings slightly can bring you the pleasure of that creation, time and time again.

With the current decor climate, mixing colours and patterns is pretty hip and, yes, it does take a little courage, but the effect can be stunning. I often choose a colour from a painting, and use that shade in the room's accessories creating cohesiveness and harmony.

Here are my 7 tips for choosing art:

•Buy artwork that you love.

Art should ‘speak’ to you in some way. Sculptures, wall-hangings, unique pottery and quirky rugs are also great contenders.

•Be expressive with your choices.

Let visitors to your home see your personality through your art. You may have a neutral decor but you can be eclectic and ‘out there’ when it comes to art for your walls.

•Choose the right size.

Do you ever see a piece you love and then crumble at the prospect of it not fitting? Note your wall dimensions and pop a note in your phone or notebook. Take a snap of where you want to install artworks along with any furniture, so it helps you envisage the space. I display my artwork on my website in varying locations to give buyers an idea of how it might fit into a space.

•Colour?

Many people think that art has to ‘match’. No it doesn’t. You can always change a wall colour to make a loved piece of art, work. I bring in cushions or accessories to create harmony with the art on my walls. Very often they’re treasures that just need relocating to be perfect. Today we are seeing furnishings and clothing that combine wild colours and patterns, so don’t be scared of colour. It’s a brilliant way to add vitality.

•Prepare to move fast.

Has your heart has done a back-flip at the sight of that stunning artwork you’ve spied? Don’t dally too long or you may regret it. The most recent piece I purchased from an artist whose work I admired, was a still life which reminded me instantly of a treasured holiday in Italy several years ago. I knew I had to have it before anyone else snapped it up!  

•Get to know the artist.

If you’ve spotted a piece of art you like, check out the artist’s bio or follow them on social media to get to know them and see what other works they offer. It’s fun to have an insight into how the artists mind works as it all builds a story around the art you've chosen to live in your home. They may take commissions which could be a perfect option so you get a work that is unique for you and your home.

•Frame-Hang-Light!

So that wonderful piece of art has arrived! Finally.

Consider carefully how it should be framed (if required). Art on paper will most likely need framing under glass and smaller pieces can look like Goliath when popped in to a frame with a wide mat. Canvas paintings can be hung directly or framed. I add hangers onto mine so they’re ready to hang the minute they’re unwrapped. Floating frames -aka Tray frames - are a less expensive way of framing and finishing a piece, allowing the artwork to take center stage. 

When hanging the standard rule is that the center of the artwork should be at eye level. This can be a contentious issue if you have tall and not-so-tall members of the household, so a general guideline of 1.52m or 60" from the floor. If you have a long sofa in a large room you can hang it a little lower without it looking strange. Interior decorators tend to be quite particular about what art should be hung where, but I think if you go with your instincts and shake things up a bit your home will look comfortable and like you, not a complete stranger.

Learn to balance artwork with the surroundings by looking in home decor magazines or scroll the internet for ideas. Small pieces on their own on a huge wall will look lost. Mass small to medium pieces on a large wall or choose one large statement piece and you've got a winner. Don't always think small.

Lighting is super important, as dull or insufficient light will make any artwork lose impact. You won't want to hang original art where it will receive a lot of direct sunshine as it can yellow the surface. Strategic and great lighting will make it pop and add fabulous mood to your room.

TIPS:

If you buy art on archival paper please don’t use the matboards that come with an inexpensive store bought frame. It is usually cheap and will mildew or deteriorate and can destroy the artwork. There are many online shops for matboards and inexpensive frames, if you don’t have a local framer.

Where to hang your new purchase? Make a paper template of the artwork and Blu tac it on the wall to get your sizing and position correct before hammering.

A stunning piece of art that you’ve invited into your home, can be the perfect way to start a new day, contemplate life or relax at the end of a busy week.

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