Artwork can be one of the hardest things to select because everyone has different things they want from their artwork. Some people just want their artwork to match and flow with the rest of the space--they want something that looks pretty. Others want a focal point or wow factor piece. While there are some that don't like art unless it speaks to them. It's all very subjective and, as a designer, it can be a sticking point.

Once you've moved past selecting the actual piece, there is another step to consider, how to display it. There are a number of different approaches you can take to this to make sure your artwork is seen and worth all of the headache you had selecting it!

We love over sized artwork but it needs a special place in a room. Over-sized artwork can't be crammed inbetween other large items like pieces of furniture, it needs to be the center of attention. The best way to display an over-sized piece of art is on a wall all by itself. Not only will it make the artwork pop but it will instantly elevate the room and make everything look much more expensive! Always a plus! Just be sure the piece is on a wall in a room with enough space to stand back and admire the entire piece, otherwise, the effort is wasted.

A huge part of making a design come together is having a common thread that runs through the space. This gives a feeling of cohesiveness. The thread can be a color or style but it doesn't have to be super obvious, it should really just create the feeling that makes the space flow. This is relevant when displaying artwork as well. Pick pieces for a grouping that have a common thread--whether they have the same color running throughout or are both geometric. Even the amount of white space that each has can be a common factor or maybe it's something as simple as using all of the same frames. Gallery wall especially can be major impact walls so you don't want them to feel disjointed. Make it look like a well-coordinate family picture--each piece is unique but the whole of it's parts go together.

Finally, consider the background color that your art is going on. We love the clean look of great art on a white wall but the truth is, dark colors actually make artwork stand out even more. We know that a lot of people are afraid of dark walls and we are definitely anti accent walls, but the truth is, one little black accent wall with a piece of art on it makes the whole wall look like art. So think about that when you've got a little wall that you're thinking of decorating. Those niche walls in the family room or in the bedroom vestibule are always a great place to start!

Art is important and we know it! It can be impactful in many different ways and for many different reasons so even if you're not a big art collector, don't ignore it. Even inexspensive art, when displayed properly, can contribute to great looking room!

Artwork | Selection & Styling