To experience the full enjoyment of what the right piece can bring to your space, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting art … First, get to know what you like! Spend a little time researching. You may already know that you really like abstract art or that you prefer a more traditional style, like figurative sketches. Find your favourites and if a piece inspires you, it’s a sign to buy it! Hang art on the walls that demand the most attention – where you and your guests will benefit the most from this eye candy! Use this wall as an indicator of what size painting or picture will fit the space best. If the wall is tall and narrow, choose something that is similar in shape. If you’re placing a piece above a long sofa, choose something wide that doesn’t get lost in the competition or focus. In other words, fill your wall as much as you can! An arrangement of several smaller pieces on a wall can also work to give that “wow” impact your space deserves. You can play on the textures and styles or even the positioning and heights. Keep in mind that not every piece needs to have the same frame or even be framed at all! Care about the colours! Cool and muted tones are serene while bold colours demand more attention. So ask yourself… what tone would you like to achieve? Do you want your piece(s) to be the room’s focal point or rather it contribute more calmly to an overall ambience? Lighting is also critical. You want to be able to see the art in its entirety and get the full experience with ease. Here are a few recommendations:

• Watch out for glare on glass. It’s distracting and you may lose the whole effect of the piece!
• Know that the colour of the lighting will affect the colour of your art. Options are available from warm white light to cool white light. Halogen bulbs are the most popular choice.
• Position your lighting in relation to the piece of artwork. To reduce glare, place the light at a 30-degree angle from the piece (for a larger frame, add 5 degrees to that angle to avoid casting a shadow). If you want to accent the texture in your art, place the light at a 25-degree angle.
• If you want to spotlight your art, use a secondary light source that is three times the brightness of the room’s ambient lighting.

Always remember to buy what you love! If you feel strongly about a piece, you will find the right place where you enjoy it most! Art can bring much happiness to you and your guests for years to come, so don’t be afraid to express yourself; and listen to your heart and soul! Article Written By: Victoria Manning Design Consultant at Decorium