Tips on choosing artwork for your home

Choosing the right artwork for your home is one of the most indecisive tasks there is when it comes to decorating or renovating. Depending on the level of personalisation, the artwork chosen will likely be a romantic combination of personal tastes and the overall aesthetic of the space.

Being that it’s the time of year when many of us are thinking of preparing our homes for Christmas guests and perhaps you out and about in shops, galleries and markets more than usual, it is a great time of year to consider some tips on choosing that perfect piece of artwork.

Measure Up
The first thing that needs to be done is measuring the space – and storing the measurements on a mobile or device likely to be handy. That way, they can be easily referred too should that potential ‘perfect piece’ be spotted.  If a space is being completely redecorated, it’s good practice to choose the artwork last. That way the homeowner won’t end up being pigeonholed when choosing wall and furniture colours.

Its never predictable when a piece will speak to someone or captivate them – so they must always allow for some open-minded discovery. Art is often a very individualised experience, so even if the buyer lacks confidence, they’ll likely know the right piece when they see it. If they buy a piece of art they love – it will never be a wasted purchase.

Try to buy original if possible
An original will only gain in value and there’s also the added satisfaction of knowing that it is totally unique. There are a number of great online resources to help source amazing artworks, but visiting local galleries, markets and exhibitions may allow a buyer to actually purchase work directly from an artist, adding another dimension to the piece – and making for a great conversation starter with guests.

Mounting your chosen piece
Once the piece has been chosen, and it’s ready to hang, it’s good practice to settle on a consistent height, especially if there is more than once piece – this includes family photos. Most galleries hang their art at average eye level, about 58 inches high. The centre of the artwork, not the top of the piece, should be at that height.

The best advice to a buyer of art for their home or office is to trust their instincts, and enjoy the process.

Expert advice supplied by contemporary artist Inga Irvine of 55 North, Falmouth.