Wall Art That Works
Wall art comes in so many different styles, textures and colours, even different genres. Some may be nostalgic or sentimental and evokes memories. Whatever it is, I think it is really important to have a variety of items on your walls – you don’t want your home to look like a museum, and of course, as is my mantra, it has to be special to the people who live in your home. And this doesn’t have to be expensive.
Paintings
Of course, the most common type of wall art is paintings. Although common, these are great because they can complement both a colourful or neutral room design. These come in so many different styles including oil paintings, acrylic paintings, watercolours, and I have even seen some beautiful mixed media pieces which layer fabrics and paper on top of a design to give it texture.
Also, in the case of a colourful painting, the colours can be drawn out to match other decor items in the room.
Paintings don’t have to be expensive either. There are many beautiful items on the Facebook Marketplace that people are selling that are in great condition, and they have maybe just tired of them or are doing a new room design.
Photography
There are many professional photographers that sell beautiful photos, and they are a great medium to add variety to a room. Black and white varieties can also be purchased which can add a special design to a room, especially if grouped together.
Photos of family are a nice option as well, and a gallery of family photos on a wall can be very impactful.
Textiles
I love adding fabrics and macrame pieces to my wall art. They are versatile and beautiful, and they also add texture to the overall room design. They also add a Boho aesthetic which can be really fun.
Tapestries are beautiful as well, and are often cultural in design which can add another element to work around, or for a stunning statement piece. Tapestries can also be framed for a more formal look. This is true for quilts as well that can be used for wall art as well to soften a room and add a different element.
Wood & Natural Materials
Wood pieces are really versatile, and they add an organic look that is unique and warm.
Wood wall art comes in all sizes and designs including carvings that can be intricate and beautiful, and which makes them great for a statement piece. They are also great to add some texture and uniqueness to a room that may need something “different”.
Wood pieces can also be used in their original state for a rustic look. And, as a natural addition, pressed flowers, moss, driftwood or branches pressed in a frame is a nice natural look.
Metal Art
Metal can add either an artistic or industrial look to a room. It was a huge part of mid-century modern art in the 1950s and 1960s. We don’t always think of metal art, because it is often hard-edged or otherwise lacks softness and cosiness, but it is a welcome addition to add uniqueness and texture to a room.
Industrial styling often includes artwork that is crafted from metal, and can be used as a single element in a room, or in a room that is specifically styled in an industrial design.
A branch of metal wall art is wire art which is very fun and trendy.
Various
Mirrors – trendy in the 1970s and 1980s, but still have a place if the design works; there are beautiful antique options, as well as oddly shaped but modern designs
Clocks – lots of variety here – of course most of us have a clock on our phone, but a nice wall piece can add something to a room
Neon – very funky and fun!
Word Art – a growing trend in wall art (and other art for that matter) is word art with a favourite saying or quote
Geometric Art – another mid-century-modern piece, but can be trendy and add colour to match existing colours in a room
Prints of Favourite Artists – a great way to display a love for famous paintings
Posters – an integral necessity of the 1970s, posters come in so many designs whether it be movie favourites, favourite bands, favourite quotes, animals, the list goes on
Galleries – great for family pics or other related photos or artwork – adds a great geometric dynamic to a wall or room
Children’s Artwork – great for the young artist in the family to build self-esteem and show love; purchase cheap frames (or not cheap if that is your budget), and put your children’s artwork in them to be hung on the wall – this is always a hit!
And, of course, any other pieces that bring you true joy. These are only some of the options.
