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If you want to include art, whether painting or sculpture, in your home to complete your design vision, the key is discovering what emotions you want to evoke.
See what speaks to you through books, art fairs, art galleries, museums or your-such-good-taste friend. Don’t make artwork for your home an afterthought.
What you choose can do so much from inspiring motivation to opening up a small room or cozying up a big room. Viewing it can give one a dopamine boost, increase blood flow to the brain and alleviate stress and depression.
As you do your homework to discover what appeals to you, you might want to stay away from anything that confuses, shocks or makes you feel uncomfortable. This is a home after all and you and yours will be viewing what art you’ve chosen for a long time.
Know this about the art in your home, it:
- Instills a fresh vibe
- Lets you express yourself
- Evokes powerful emotions
- Encourages conservation
- Encourages productivity
- Creates focal points in a room
- Becomes a perfect souvenir
- Can be an investment
Art makes any room livelier, tells a story about you, helps people to reflect, gets them talking, ignites their thinking and can add value to a home depending on the artist, current demand and technique used.
Here are some practical tips on starting an art collection:
- Set a budget. Browsing will get you started, but if you are looking for more than a few decorating pieces and want to start an art collection, figure out what you want to spend. Start small and increase the amount as your confidence and understanding of art grows. A $1,000 or less a month is a good place to start, and think quality over quantity as your income can change.
- Define your goals. What’s your motivation for buying art? Keep in mind that it’s probably best to buy what can bring you joy every day. Consider such logistics as space, installation, insurance, storage and conservation. If return on your investment is driving you to collect, you’ll need to look at mid-career or established artists, which means more expensive works.
- Do your homework. Here’s where browsing goes into hyperdrive. Learn about types of artwork mediums and styles; research artists; keep looking, looking, looking. This way you are training your eye to identify the types of art you favor.
- Think photography and limited edition prints. These can be a good starting point.
- Consider three-dimensional art. Small sculptures and design objects such as a bowl, vase or intricate basket are usually priced to sell.
- Certificate of authenticity. Make sure your painting or art object has one; helps with insurance and future valuation.
- Short on time or self-confidence? Hire an art consultant.
