7 Tips for Purchasing Art
I often hear people say they don’t buy art because they “have no eye for it” or they don’t know how to pick out what will look good in their space. I believe a space is never truly complete without original artwork. It is the only thing that can make that space uniquely yours. Anyone can fill their home with furnishings from the latest Pottery Barn catalog. I have nothing against Pottery Barn, but there is nothing quite like a piece of original artwork to bring the room to life. Here are a few tips on selecting art for your space.
1) Don’t overthink it.
You don’t need a degree in art history to appreciate art. Sometimes there is no hidden meaning behind a piece- it just is. Buy what you love and what speaks to YOU. The first and foremost question should be “Do you love it?”
“Painting, like music, has nothing to do with the reproduction of nature, nor interpretation of intellectual meanings. Whoever is able to feel the beauty of colors and forms has understood non-objective painting.” – Hilla Reba
2) Find your focal point.
Find the most visible or blank wall in your home or office and make that your focal point. While I love to fill bookshelves and other nooks with sprinkles of small artwork, locating a focal point is a great place to start with a statement piece.
3) Evaluate your style and do your research.
Look at art (Pinterest and Instagram are great places to start) and get an idea of what you’re drawn to. Pay attention to what you like specifically. A certain color combo? More abstract vs realistic style? Bright colors or more muted ones? Do you like softer, more understated pieces or bolder, messier styles? Doing research on the style and size will also help give you an idea of price ranges you can expect to pay.
4) For Heaven’s Sake avoid matchy-matchy!
Your art does not have to match every other piece of décor in your home. Do you LOVE that piece? Or does it just match the drapes? Artwork is your chance to add interest and contrast to the rest of your space. Don’t be afraid to mix styles- modern pieces in with traditional décor etc.
5) How do you want to feel?
Art can completely change the look and feel of a room. Choose art that conveys feelings you would like to infuse into your space. If you want to feel calm, buy a calming piece, if you want to feel happy, buy a piece that makes you feel happy.
6) Keep scale in mind.
Measure your space and leave room for a frame if you intend on framing the piece. Pair multiple paintings together or paintings with prints and photographs to cover a large area on a budget.
7) Go BIG.
Art inspires the soul and brings personality to your home, it reflects you to the people who visit. Don’t be afraid to make a statement.