Living with art: Tips and tricks

Art has the remarkable ability to transform a house into a home. It’s more than just decoration: It’s an expression of personality, a reflection of our interests, and a source of inspiration. Whether it’s a vibrant painting, a delicate sculpture, or a striking photograph, art adds depth and character to our living spaces, creating aesthetically pleasing and emotionally resonant environments.
However, the idea of collecting art can sometimes feel intimidating. Where do you even begin? How do you find affordable pieces? And how do you display them effectively? This blog post is your guide to navigating the exciting world of living with art. We’ll explore various topics, from discovering emerging artists to creating stunning gallery walls on a budget. We believe art should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, and we’re here to help you unlock the transformative power of art in your home.
So, whether you’re a seasoned art collector or just starting your journey, join us as we delve into the world of living with art. We’ll share practical tips, inspiring ideas, and valuable insights to help you create a home that reflects your unique style and enriches your life.
1/ Finding affordable art:
Incorporating art into your home doesn’t have to break the bank. There are many ways to build a beautiful and meaningful art collection without emptying your savings.

Embrace emerging artists!
Many talented artists emerging artists are still relatively unknown, making their work more accessible price-wise. Exploring galleries that display emerging talent or attending local fairs can be a rewarding experience. You’ll often discover unique and captivating pieces at a fraction of the price of established artists.
Consider prints and editions:
High-quality prints of renowned artworks or limited edition prints by contemporary artists offer a more affordable entry point into the art market. Prints can capture the essence of the original artwork while providing a more budget-friendly option.
Explore photography:
Fine art photography can be a stunning and relatively affordable way to add visual interest to your walls. From breathtaking landscapes to captivating portraits, photography offers various styles and subjects to suit any taste.
Don’t overlook local artists!
Supporting your community by seeking artwork from local artists is a wonderful way to enrich your home and contribute to the local art scene. Many local artists offer unique and affordable pieces, often with a strong connection to your region.
Check out online marketplaces:
Online platforms like Etsy and eBay connect you with a diverse range of artists and offer a wide variety of price points. You can browse through thousands of artworks from around the world, filter by style, budget, and medium, and even connect directly with the artists themselves.
2/ Displaying art with style:
Once you’ve acquired your art pieces, the next step is to display them effectively. The way you highlight your artwork can greatly influence its visual effect and the overall aesthetic of your space.
Create a focal point:
Position a striking or substantial piece above a sofa, fireplace, or dining table to capture attention and spark conversation. This not only creates a focal point but also brings a sense of balance and cohesion to the room’s design.
Grouping for impact:
Curating a gallery wall by grouping smaller pieces can add a dynamic and visually appealing touch to your space. Experiment with different arrangements, sizes, and frames to create a unique and personalized display.
Consider the scale:
Ensure the size of the artwork is proportionate to the wall space and surrounding furniture. An oversized piece can overwhelm a small room, while a tiny piece can get lost on a large wall. Consider the scale of the artwork with the furniture and architecture of the room.
Play with placement:
Don’t be afraid to think creatively. Display art on shelves, leaning against walls, or even on easels. This can add an unexpected artistic touch to your décor.
Lighting is key:
Proper lighting can dramatically enhance the impact of your artwork. Use track lighting, spotlights, or strategically placed table lamps to highlight key pieces. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colours over time.
3/ Living with art: Beyond the walls:
While hanging art on walls is a classic approach, the beauty of art extends far beyond this.
Incorporate art into everyday objects:
Consider decorative bowls, sculptures, and unique vases as artistic accents for your coffee table, shelves, or dining table. These functional pieces can add a touch of artistry to your everyday life.
Embrace textiles:
Add artistic flair to your home with patterned rugs, vibrant throws, and unique tapestries. These textiles not only add colour and texture but also highlight artistic designs functionally and invitingly.
Don’t forget the outdoors:
If you have outdoor living spaces, consider adding sculptures, hanging wall art, or displaying potted plants creatively. These touches can transform your patio, balcony, or garden into an outdoor oasis.
4/ Building your art collection:
Building an art collection is a personal and rewarding journey. It’s about discovering pieces that connect with you and gradually curating a collection that reflects your tastes and interests.
Start small:
Begin with a few pieces that you love and gradually expand your collection over time. This allows you to develop your aesthetic and build a cohesive collection that you cherish.
Trust your instincts:
Ultimately, the best art is the art that you love. Don’t be afraid to follow your intuition and collect pieces that speak to you on a personal level.
Learn and grow:
Attend gallery talks, read art books, and visit museums to deepen your understanding and appreciation of art. This will broaden your horizons and help you discover new artists and styles that you may not have encountered otherwise.

Conclusion:
Living with art is a personal and rewarding journey. By exploring affordable options, displaying your pieces with style, and curating a collection that reflects your personality, you can transform your home into a beautiful and inspiring place to live. Remember to have fun with it, experiment, and enjoy the process.
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