Art For Art’s Sake

One of the last things I’m often asked to advise on when working with a client, is their art. Not so much which type of are, but rather which part of the wall should the piece be placed. It’s usually the last thing that goes up and marks those freshly painted or renovated walls so I understand the trepidation felt.

The most important aspect of hanging art is to make sure the centre of the artwork is at eye level. This is so the average person can peer straight into the painting. Those of us that are vertically challenged need to take this into consideration and take it up a few centimetres. However as we all know, rules were meant to be broken.

Artworks from Floor To Ceiling

Another great tip for hanging art is to hang a large piece off centre and group two or more smaller pieces to one side, rather than on either side.

Arrange clusters of separately framed photos, rather than multiple photos in one frame.

As they say, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and this should be kept in mind when you are buying art for your own home. What appeals to you will not necessarily appeal to everyone, but if you are living with your piece then it must have some meaning to you. It should evoke a memory such as something you have purchased on a holiday, or it should tell a story like a historical piece or it should get you thinking.

Shell Money from Solomon Islands

These were my daughter's baby shoes. Too cute for hand me downs.

I don’t think a house looks lived in until there are pieces on the wall. It doesn’t have to be expensive artworks (although my artist Mother would say this is a good option). Think outside the frame and consider other options for decorating the walls.

Plate wall by Lisa Congdon

Hall of Mirrors

Framed

If you were styling your home for sale, then that’s the time to purchase or rent artwork that sits well with the decor. The subject matter at this time should be fairly neutral too. It’s amazing that some people just can’t see past what’s in front of them and an “out there” artwork may detract from the reason these people are in your home in the first place.

So this weekend, have a look at what’s hanging on your walls and maybe change things around or put up new items. Whatever you do, enjoy your weekend.