How to Choose the Best New Zealand Art for Your Home
A house is not a home without art on the walls. Art brings life to a room, creates inspiration and stirs emotions. Art can provide a focal point for a room and bring feelings of relaxation after a long day. Knowing how to select appropriate artworks for a room is important. You’ll need to consider size, style, shape, colour palette, and budget. With this in mind and the vast amount of art and artists to choose from, where do you start? We take a look at these questions to make the process of selecting art for your home a little easier.
Art can set the scene for creative interior design in your home
A piece of art is a great way to set the scene for the interior design of any room. Colours don’t necessarily need to match and they can be a great way to anchor the colour palette of a room. Keep the wall colours subtle. Let them reference the tone of the art without matching exactly. Colours can be used to contrast or redefine the tones surrounding the work. Lines, geometric shapes and texture in the artwork can lead to inspiration for room fittings and fixtures. Starting with a piece of artwork can give rise to creative interior spaces.
Create mood in a room with the perfect piece of art
Vibrant, bold, peaceful or calm, the tone of the artwork can set the mood of a room. Give consideration to what the room is usually used for. A landscape or seascape lends itself to a kitchen. A deep and thought provoking work may suit the contemplative nature of a living room. Don’t forget the bathroom- a perfect space for smaller, relaxing art. Consider mixing different sized works in a room and be sure to incorporate a range of mediums. Choose oils, watercolours, acrylic and photography, and mix and match different types of frames.
Selecting the Right Size
Deciding whether you want the artwork as a subtle enhancement to a room or as the main focal point is important. A small piece of art can get lost on the wall in a busy room. Instead, a large well placed work serves as an effective focal point. One piece of art on a wall is an effective way of making a statement, or you may choose some complimentary sized works for a single wall. Orientation is another important consideration. A long piece of artwork in landscape format would be ideal for a wide wall. A narrow wall is perfect for a tall portrait work.
Attend Art Events and exhibitions
A great way to select art is to attend art events and exhibitions. You’ll be exposed to a wide variety of artists, styles, mediums and subjects. It’s a brilliant way to get to know the local art scene. Buying art from a local artist can bring meaning and depth to the artwork hanging in your home. Buying local art is a wonderful way to support living artists and the local community. It serves as a good way to start your art collection.
Buy art when you travel
Buying art as you travel is a wonderful way to fill your home with memories. You’ll get the chance to see the art in person and sometimes even meet the artist. Check out the local art galleries and markets, speak with gallery owners, learn the story behind the artwork and artist.
Commission a Piece of Art
Commissioning a piece of art is a great way to get exactly what you like and support a living artist. You might have a general idea of what you’d like and are happy to let the artist create, or you might have a theme in mind. Popular themes include favourite locations, portraits, a retirement piece, or a wedding piece. The options are endless. Commissioning art is a fantastic way to become part of the creative process. You bring something new into existence, capturing a treasured place or moment in time while supporting local artists.
Pick art that You Like
The right piece of art is inspirational. It makes you feel at home and provides a sense of calmness and familiarity. You need to choose art that you like, that gives you a sense of enjoyment. The right piece of art will resonate and inspire you. Researching online is a good way to find ideas for potential artwork. You might want to create a list of artwork or artists that inspire you. Once you’ve got a general idea of art that might suit your home you can begin to finalize your list. Next, you’ll want to get to the galleries, markets and make contact with sellers of art that inspires you.
Choosing the right piece of art for your home is a fantastic journey. You’ll view amazing pieces of artwork by many inspirational, creative people. Take our art buying tips into account, compile your list and enjoy the process. Ultimately you’ll want to choose the artwork that appeals to you, that engages you and brings meaning. Understand the rules of buying art, but be ready to break them.