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How to choose abstract art to liven up your home

Kelly Ann Jones

Abstract painting

Art can transform a house into a home by adding personality, sparking conversations, and infusing spaces with emotion. Beyond mere decoration, art can evoke feelings of joy, tranquility, or excitement, setting the tone for the entire atmosphere. Whether it’s a vibrant abstract piece that ignites creativity or a serene landscape that promotes relaxation, art has the power to enrich our daily lives.

Abstract art offers a unique and versatile approach to home décor. Its none-representational nature allows for a wide range of interpretations and emotional responses.


An abstract painting can become a focal point, drawing the eye and sparking curiosity. It can also serve as a subtle backdrop, adding a touch of sophistication and intrigue to any room. Choosing the right abstract painting can be a deeply personal journey, reflecting individual tastes.


This blog post will explore the fascinating world of abstract art and guide you through the process of selecting pieces that will not only enhance your home’s aesthetic but also enrich your everyday experience.


Abstract art, in its essence, moves away from the literal representation of objects in the real world. It explores the elements of art-colour, line, shape, texture, and form-to create compositions that evoke emotions, ideas, and visual experiences. These compositions can range from subtle and suggestive, like the soft washes of colour in a watercolour, to bold and dynamic, such as the vibrant geometric shapes in a cubist painting. Abstract art encourages viewers to engage with the artwork on a personal level, allowing for unique and subjective interpretations.


Abstract art can significantly enhance your home’s ambiance, but choosing the right pieces requires careful consideration.


1/ Understanding your space:

Before embarking on your abstract art journey, it’s crucial to carefully consider the specific space where your chosen piece will reside. This thoughtful assessment will ensure your artwork enhances the room’s existing character and contributes to a harmonious aesthetic.


Assess your existing décor:

Colour: Analyse the existing colour palette in the room, are you drawn to cool blues and greens, warm oranges and reds, or perhaps a more neutral palette? Consider whether you want the artwork to complement these colours or introduce a striking contrast.

Style: Evaluate the style of the room. Is it modern, minimalist, traditional, eclectic, or bohemian? Choosing an abstract piece that aligns with the existing style will create a cohesive and visually appealing look.

Mood: Consider the desired mood for the space. Do you want to create a sense of calm and relaxation, or a vibrant and stimulating atmosphere? The chosen artwork should contribute to the intended mood.


Consider the room’s function:

The function of the room will influence your art selection. For example, a vibrant and energetic piece might be ideal for a home office, while a more serene and calming painting would be better suited for a bedroom. Think about how you want to feel in the space and choose artwork accordingly.


Measure the available wall space:

Before you start looking for abstract art, get an idea of the amount of wall space you have available. This will help you determine the sizes of art you can buy. Oversized artwork can overwhelm a small space, while a tiny piece can get lost on a large wall.

By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that your chosen abstract not only enhances the visual appeal of your home but also contributes to a more enriching living experience.


2/ Exploring different styles of abstract art:

The world of abstract art is diverse, with a wide range of styles and techniques. Here are a few examples.


Geometric abstracts:

These works are characterized using geometric shapes such as squares, circles, triangles, and lines. Artists like Piet Mondrian and Josef Albers are renowned for their pioneering work in this style. Geometric abstracts can range from simple and minimalist to complex and intricate compositions

Lyrical abstracts:

Lyrical abstracts convey a sense of fluidity and movement. Artists like Helen Frankenthaler and Joan Mitchell are known for their expressive and gestural style, often using loose brushwork and flowing lines to create dynamic and evocative compositions. These works often evoke a sense of energy and motion.

Colour-field painting:

This style emphasizes the use of large areas of flat colour, often with subtle variations in hue and intensity. Artists like Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman are considered pioneers of colour-field painting. These works can have an emotional impact, creating a sense of immersion and contemplation.

Hard-edge painting:

Hard-edge painting, as the name suggests, features sharply defined edges and contracting colours. Artists like Josef Albers and Ellsworth kelly are known for their precise and meticulous work in this style. Hard-edge paintings can create a sense of order and structure, while also offering a striking visual impact.

Exploring these different styles of abstract art can help you identify your preferences and discover pieces that resonate with your aesthetic.


Abstract art painting mixed media


3/ Choosing the right colours and composition:

Once you’ve explored different styles of abstract art, it’s time to delve deeper into the specific elements.


Colour:

Colour plays an important role in the overall impact of an abstract painting. Consider the emotional associations of different colours. Cool colours like blue and green can evoke feelings of calm and tranquility, while warm colours like red and orange can create a sense of energy and excitement. Analyse how the colours interact with the composition. Do they complement each other, or do they create tension or harmony?

Composition:

The arrangement of elements within the artwork is important. Consider the placement of shapes, lines, and colours. Does the composition feel balanced, or is there an intentional sense of asymmetry? Look for pieces that create movement or draw the eye through the artwork.

Scale and proportion:

The size and scale of the artwork in relation to the wall space are important. An oversized piece can overwhelm a small room, while a tiny piece can get lost on a large wall. Consider the proportions of the artwork and how they relate to the surrounding architecture and furniture.

By carefully considering these factors-colour, composition, and scale-you can select abstract art that not only visually appeals but also creates a harmonious and enriching atmosphere within your home.


Abstract landscape painting


4/ Integrating abstract art into your home:

Now that you have selected your perfect abstract artwork, it’s time to find the ideal spot for it to shine.


Placement:

·       Focal point: Consider a large abstract piece as a focal point on a prominent wall. This could be above a fireplace, behind a sofa, or on a blank wall in a hallway.

·       Gallery wall: Create a dynamic gallery wall by combining several smaller paintings of varying sizes and styles. This can be a great way to add personality and visual interest to a living room or dining room.

·       Unexpected spaces: Don’t limit yourself to traditional wall placement. Consider placing smaller abstracts on shelves, leaning against furniture, or even displayed on easels.


Styling tips:

·       Keep it simple: When displaying abstract art, it’s often best to keep the surrounding décor minimal. Avoid overcrowding the space with too many accessories or furniture.

·       Consider lighting: Proper lighting can enhance the visual impact of your abstract art. Use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to highlight the colours and textures of the artwork.

·       Personalize: Don’t be afraid to experiment and personalize the display. Add plants, sculptures, or other decorative elements to create a unique and inviting atmosphere.

 

By following these tips, you can successfully incorporate abstract art into your home, creating a space that is both visually stunning and personally meaningful.

 

Conclusion:

 

Incorporating abstract art into your home is a rewarding endeavour. By understanding your space, exploring the diverse world of abstract styles, and carefully considering colour, composition, and placement, you can select pieces that not only enhance the aesthetics of your home but also enrich your daily life. Abstract art has the power to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and create a unique and personal atmosphere.

 

Be sure to check out my eBay art shop for collections of original abstract paintings by clicking the button below.



 

 

 

 

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