Tips for Choosing Artwork
by Sierra Bailey
When it comes to selecting the perfect piece of artwork for that blank spot on your wall, there are numerous factors to consider: size, space, style, framing, and budget. It can get overwhelming when trying to find the perfect piece that you love, especially with all of those things to consider. So if you find yourself stumped on how to choose a piece, here are a few things to keep in mind to help you decide while also staying true to your personal taste.
The first question to ask yourself is… Do you like the piece? This will always be the foundation. At the end of the day, art isn’t about impressing anyone. It’s about creating a space that reflects who you are and how you want to feel. If it doesn’t spark anything in you, it won’t last in your space. When you’re emotionally drawn to a piece, you’ll never regret bringing it into your home. But from there, it’s important to consider how that art will fit into the larger story your space is telling.
When you’re drawn to a piece, start thinking about how it will fit with your existing decor. Keep in mind the color, style, and mood of the items you already own. Art that echoes your room’s color palette can feel calming and cohesive; art that contrasts can create an exciting focal point. Ask yourself questions to decide what you want to achieve with the piece. Do you want it to be a pop of color, or do you want it to blend smoothly? If you’re unsure, pull a few dominant or secondary colors from the room and see if they show up in the artwork, even in subtle ways. And don’t forget about texture! Even if you’re not touching it, artwork always has some sort of texture. This matters especially when you’re using multiple pieces for the same space. Too many pieces with the same texture can fall flat, while a perfect mix adds richness without being chaotic.
It’s also important to keep the scale and placement in mind when choosing a piece. Too small, and the piece can look lost. Too large, and it can feel overwhelming or cramped. Make sure that the piece you choose fits within the space, and that it’s visually pleasing to the eye, using a variety of shapes and sizes to keep things interesting. If you’re selecting multiple artworks for a space, this becomes even more important. Don’t be afraid to combine styles, but keep some thread or theme running through them, whether that be color, tone, vibe, etc.) Overall, you want to be able to give each piece the visual weight it deserves without letting it be overpowered.
Everyone’s home has a design, whether it’s planned or accidental. Don’t be afraid to mix styles and try new combinations, but do it with intention. Make sure that everything flows smoothly to keep the energy moving through every room.
So the next time you’re art shopping, ask yourself three questions:
Do I love this?
Does it fit my space?
Can I make it work with what I already have?
If it checks all three boxes, you’ve found a keeper! Don’t stress over rules. If you like how a piece looks in your home, buy it. The best art decisions come from a place of personal connection first, and thoughtful curation second. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts. As long as you love it, that’s all that matters.