Selecting the perfect piece of art for your space

Exhibition season is in full flow and one of the things that I like to discuss with visitors when I exhibit is how to select the perfect piece of art for their space.  I always encourage people to dare to feel and choose what resonates with them.

Trust me, as an artist I have a LOT of experience in this! To hang a really good exhibition is a skill. But as you know, I am not one for perfection. Perfectly imperfect is my cup of tea and that is what I love when it comes to displaying my art and what I try to inspire my collectors to go for as well.

Unless you are an interior designer trying to appeal to a wider audience, I would encourage you to let your heart lead the way! Don’t pick artwork just to fill a space, choose pieces that resonate with you on a personal level, ones that make your soul sing! Your home is a reflection of your personality, and artwork is an extension of that so go ahead and embrace the quirky, the vibrant, or the serene – whatever matches your uniqueness!

This often means that my advice is to pick the art that you feel something for and then find the space for it. But I do appreciate that this may not be a practical or even a possible way to do it so therefore I would like to give you some tips that can help you on the way…

Picking art that suits your space

First really focus on the energy of the room and the feeling that you want to create. It is amazing how much a piece of art can impact the ambience of a room so select pieces that enhance this. The physical aspects of your space might limit what and where you can hang some art. Consider the size, and layout. Where is it light or dark? Do you need to add some more light depending on where you want to hang your art? How does light affect your room or corners of your room? Is there risk for a lot of UV-light? There might be a risk of the art becoming sun bleached. These are all very practical things to consider but they have an impact on displaying your chosen pieces.

Statement piece artwork - Size Matters (well a little bit)

Typically, an exhibition will have lots of space where artists are able to display HUGEEEEEE statement piece artwork. But, when you go to a gallery you will notice that not every empty wall is filled with one giant piece. As artists we look creating statement and energy that suits that space and that the artwork complements each other. We may choose to display 2 or 3 long narrow pieces to fill that space or even a grid of smaller pieces. 

Don’t get too stressed about “filling the space”. Big, bold art can make a statement, it can become an amazing accent wall or almost a wall mural that draws the attention when you enter the room,  while a cluster of small pieces can create a charming gallery wall. Let your space guide you on the ideal size, and don't forget that sometimes, less is more. A single eye-catching piece can be just as powerful as a gallery wall.

Embrace diversity with your artwork

One of the things I love about exhibiting is being able to display my artwork alongside other artists who work with a variety of mediums. Having an exhibition that covers mixed media, pottery, fine art, photography and sculpture adds interest and keeps your senses alive and singing. I love to exhibit my art in an environment that is more like the place it will hang when it is sold. Not many collectors have 8 full walls with only my art (although that would be quite an honor and very exciting :-), but my art together with a mix of personal and other artists pieces gives an amazing energy. Sometimes there might be a bit of friction between pieces and sometimes two pieces really enhance each other. I like both of these situations. Don't be afraid to mix and match different art styles, mediums and colors. Nothing is wrong. As long as the art brings positive energy to you. It is perfect!

Creating ambience with artwork

Art has a unique way of evoking emotions and setting the mood. Are you looking to infuse your space with serenity and calmness? Opt for soothing palettes and single subjects such as a landscape, a simple flower or a peaceful face. If you want to add some energy and vibrancy, go for bold abstracts, vibrant contrasts or some energetic eyes. Pick some pieces and build your collection through connection – pay attention to your own feelings and emotions and you can’t go wrong.

Purchasing original art pieces

There is a lot of mass-produced art available, it is often reasonably priced, can work with your color scheme and is a great way to fill space on a budget. But I would encourage you to support original artists. A piece of original artwork will add a personal touch to your space and will spark interest far more than a replicated showroom. Check out local galleries, art fairs, online auctions or search for specific artists that work in the medium that inspires you, you may just discover some hidden gems!

Get creative with displaying art

Remember, your space is a canvas in itself, and you have the creative license to create the perfect gallery for you that sparks joy each time you walk through the room. Don’t limit yourself when it comes to placement. Rotate pieces, swap frames, or try new arrangements – the possibilities are endless! Do not get caught up thinking there are specific rules or any good or bad way to decorate your home. Be brave and create a space that you love spending your time in and don’t decorate your home to impress anyone else.

Embrace change and let your space evolve with your artistic journey.

I hope that you have found this useful and are inspired by the images included in this blog. You can take a look at some of my available pieces here.