Black Bazaar: Post 3: The Art of Adding Art

Art is defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary as “something that is created with imagination and skill and that is beautiful or that expresses important ideas or feelings”. Art is so much more than the commonly perceived canvas; is encompasses statement crystal formations, displayed collections and gallery walls to murals, textiles and everything in between.

Create scenery in a windowless room

Introducing art into your own home does not need to be an exercise in exorbitant expense, or traditional ideals. The classic wall-mounted canvas is a classic for a reason, however there are myriad other ways to inject some artistic flair into your surroundings.

Explore unique framing options

As designer Lauren Liess noted in Country Living magazine, a collection of vintage oil paintings creates “makeshift scenery” in a windowless kitchen, unexpected objects with texture add “organic style to a space”, whilst unmounted canvasses or posters tacked to the wall create a “casual, come-as-you-are vibe” (Liess, 2015, Country Living). The presentation of the artwork is as important as the artwork itself.

Consider sculpture

Use art to inject colour and drama

When looking to introduce artwork, look for bare walls or gaps in your room that require adornment. Does the space need a large scale piece for maximum impact? Is there room for a detailed gallery wall? Or are you only requiring a small addition for a hit of texture?

Be creative - art doesn't need to be a painting

Or, alternatively, approach the introduction of art in reverse. Do you have a stunning collection of antique Mexican tin crosses that deserve to be a showpiece? A prized woven tapestry from Zimbabwe you can’t bear to keep hidden in a cupboard? Select their position in the home and re-work the room around them, creating a powerful focal point.

There are no rules! Be bold, be brave!