Everyone has experienced that frustrating moment with a fabulous new piece of wall art. The frustration of trying to find the perfect spot, and feeling as if no matter where you place it, it just doesn’t feel quite right.
There are few things as irritating as having a favorite new painting, sculpture, or wall hanging, but not having anywhere it fits. If you’re currently experiencing this frustration, or fear facing it again in the future, here are some tips and ideas to help you maximize the aesthetics of your new wall art.
Try using existing art
Sometimes odd combinations work. There’s been countless times where I’ve been convinced that two pieces would look simply hideous together. And often I’m right. But there are those golden moments where for whatever reason; two pieces of art inexplicably complement one another. There’s no good reason for it, but suddenly they both seem just a little…better.
These are actually the arrangements I get the most comments on, and the most satisfaction from. Nothing kills that sense of frustration like the glorious moment of inspiration and discovery. Especially when it seems the most unlikely.
Consider matching together different types of art as well. Sometimes a sculpture near a similar painting really helps make both more striking. Maybe the lines match up, or the colors combine beautifully, or they share a similar theme. Either way, this can be a really effective measure to help your art aesthetics.
Double check the lighting
Bad lighting can often be the culprit for poor art aesthetics. This can be from a variety of factors, including but not limited to harsh lighting, poorly coloration, badly angled or situated, or just a simple lack of light.
The rule of thumb here is experiment. Depending upon the particular piece of art, there is a variety of options. Everyone has preferences when it comes to how their art is lit, and it truly comes down to personal preference.
Although there are professional opinions concerning lighting, they often disagree with one another and can cause more confusion than help. So, go out, grab a couple different types of light/bulbs, and see which looks best on your newly acquired art. Try different angles, types, and placements, and work from there. In the end it is amazing how much difference proper lighting can make.
Be Aware of Spacing
Art spacing is another colossal consideration when finding placement for recently acquired art. Again this is an extremely nuanced matter, and there’s a plethora of advice and rules concerning spacing. But, rather than regurgitate general rules, I’d again recommend experimentation. Be aware that it makes a difference, and then try different combinations to see what you like best.
Here are some spacing combinations and placements you might try while attempting to find the best aesthetics for your art:
Collage
Collages of wall art, especially personal photos, are greatly popular and trending currently. There are a multitude of different examples online, and the only limit here is your own imagination (and wall space).
Stand-alone
Stand-alone artwork, with beautiful feature lighting, can have a dramatic impact on a room. This will create a very eye catching, highlighting effect, so it is wise to use a very engaging and elegant piece of art; something that truly suits your personality, and speaks to your character. Because it will be a focal point of attention, and make a bold statement on not only the room but your tastes as well.
Unusual Placement
This is a great way to display stubborn artwork that won’t fit elsewhere. By putting it somewhere unusual, you make a statement beyond the actual artwork. Although sometimes hard to notice, when spotted these can have an engaging effect. Some places to consider are ceilings, floors, underneath and around furniture, etc.
Sight Lines
These need to be considered when placing art. Sight lines exist throughout the home, and are affected by things such as hallways, doors, furniture placement, etc. Wherever the eyes naturally rest while walking throughout the home is where a sightline terminates. So consider placement where the eyes naturally wander to greatly increase artwork visibility and focus.
In the end wall art aesthetics is often determined and guided by intuition and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to follow your instincts and bend or break rules. The whole point is to be creative and please one’s own aesthetics. Art is to be enjoyed and engaged, so don’t let frustration rob you of the joy of art.
About the author: Edward Stuart is an online publisher for the quality framed art expert framedart.com. He enjoys blogging about interior design, art, and home decor.
You’re right; there’s no limitations to creativity and the sky’s the limit when you put your mind to it and keep a sharp eye out for objects of art or simply an item that can be transformed into a decorative piece. The more open you keep your mind, the more you will realize how much beauty exists in unexpected places. So, the next time you look at an object and think, “that has no artistic value,” think again and look at it from different perspectives. Once you do that and start arranging things more artistically, you will have a light bulb moment and your rooms will come together visually. The place will become “music” to your heart, soul and mind.