Wall hangings often become the focal point of any room. Frequently, the colors that appear within a painting, print, poster, tapestry, etc., become the palette for your decor. Also, the subject matter, within a piece, can form the theme of your room’s design. So, is it any wonder why the decision of what to hang, becomes so important?
The elements of design come into play when choosing a piece. For example, a large, weighted oil painting, hung over a small delicate table would smother that item. As well as, a small, delicate wall hanging, placed on a large wall, over an overstuffed sofa, would practically disappear. So, when choosing what to hang, remember to consider size, form, and scale.
Line is another element to contemplate. If all the architectural components, in your room, have a vertical feel and you want to enhance this, than you should select a piece that has the same high reaching, vertical lines. The orientation of that piece, including its frame, should be vertical, too. However, if your room incorporates horizontal lines, you might want to keep with a work that expresses those same soothing, horizontal lines. Often, within a work of Art, there will be a repetition of line. For example, one might see the use of the symbol “x” throughout a piece. Using this one design aspect, you can re-erect it in other pieces. You might find it in a pillow’s interlace, the weave of a basket, or the texture of an area rug. Look for these small details and recreate them in your room. This will keep your space cohesive.
Motif should also be considered. For instance, if you are creating a space with an Asian feel, you probably wouldn’t want to introduce a painting of a bull fighter. In turn, if you’re creating a mountain lodge, you wouldn’t want to hang a picture of a tropical setting. Common sense comes into play here.
Of course, we can never rule out the impact of color. Color creates the mood and forms the palette. Often the entire design’s color scheme is determined by one particular work of Art. There are extensive studies on “the psychology of color” and we couldn’t begin to cover it here. But, a simple rule: warm hues (reds, oranges, yellows) make one want to get up and move. And cool hues (blues, greens, purples) promote tranquility and rest. That’s why you often see warm hues used in restaurants; the restaurateur wants a quick turn over in customers. And, the use of cool tones in hospitals; the staff wants the patient to remain calm. So, understand what type of atmosphere you’re hoping to produce and use color to help create it. Visit: for great ideas and a virtual palette building experience.
The choice of Art is such a personal one. And there are those Art aficionados who will insist that you never choose your Art to match your decor. However, if you look as your space as a complete work of Art, and the wall hangings as just one defining element, then you can select pieces knowing that they will only add to the whole. Ultimately, the choice is yours. Let your Art reflect you and surround yourself with pieces that make you feel comfortable – – Art that will welcome you home!