How to Choose the Right Art
Expert Tips for Finding Artwork That Matches Your Style and Space
When it comes to purchasing art, the first question many people ask me is, "How do I find art that I like?" The process of discovering art that resonates with you should be fun and personal. Whether you’re looking to add a statement piece to your living room or find something small and subtle for your bedroom, the key is to explore art in a way that sparks your interest visually. Here’s a simple guide to help you start this exciting journey!
First - Explore Different Art Styles
Art can be divided into many styles, and each one offers a unique visual experience. Take time to explore various styles to see what grabs your attention. Here are a few popular ones to consider:
Abstract: Art that focuses on shapes, colors, and forms rather than realistic depictions. It’s expressive and often evokes strong emotions.
Realism: Lifelike depictions of people, places, or objects. Realist art often captures intricate details.
Impressionism: Known for capturing light and moments, this style uses visible brushstrokes and often gives a sense of movement.
Pop Art: Bold, vibrant, and often based on popular culture, this style is playful and full of energy.
Minimalism: Art that focuses on simplicity, with clean lines and a limited color palette.
Tip: Spend time browsing galleries, websites, and social media and take note to which styles consistently catch your eye.
Pay Attention to Colors
The colors in art play a big role in the mood and atmosphere of a piece. Think about the colors that draw you in. Do you like bright, bold colors, or do you prefer more muted, neutral tones? Consider how certain colors make you feel:
Reds-Oranges-Yellows: Energetic, passionate, and inviting.
Blues-Greens-Purples: Calm, soothing, and peaceful.
Black and white: Classic and timeless, often with a dramatic or minimalist feel.
Warm Vs. Cool Colors
(top: cool colors, middle: warm colors, bottom: black and white)
When choosing artwork for your home, understanding warm and cool colors can help you create the right atmosphere in each room. Warm colors—like reds, oranges, and yellows—can make a space feel cozy, energetic, and inviting, making them great for living rooms, dining areas, or anywhere you want to encourage connection and warmth. Cool colors—like blues, greens, and soft purples—create a more calming and restful vibe, which is ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, or quiet corners.
But it doesn’t stop there—color temperature isn’t just about the base color. Even a color like blue can feel warm or cool depending on its undertone. A blue with a hint of purple might feel more vibrant and richer, while a blue with green or gray undertones can feel soft and serene. So, when you’re picking artwork, think about how the colors in the piece make you feel—and how that feeling matches the energy you want in the room.
Whether you’re curating a bold gallery wall or selecting one statement piece, paying attention to color temperature helps your art feel intentional and connected to the space. It’s one of those subtle details that makes a home feel thoughtfully styled.
Tip: Look at various pieces and notice the color palettes and the temperature that make you feel drawn to them. These can guide your future choices.
Color Tip for the Home:
Mixing warm and cool colors in your space can be a bit tricky—but not impossible. As a general rule, sticking to one temperature (warm tones like reds and golds, or cool tones like blues and greens) helps keep a space feeling harmonious and intentional. That said, when done well, a thoughtful mix of warm and cool hues can actually bring a room to life with contrast and depth.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—you’re not alone. A professional interior designer or art consultant can help you strike the right balance. They’ll guide you in selecting artwork that either complements your existing color palette or becomes a statement piece that ties the space together beautifully.
Example of Cool and Warm colors within one painting.
“Fallen” by Daniel Marsula
Find Inspiration in Your Surroundings
Think about your environment and what naturally appeals to you in your daily life. Do you love the vibrant colors of nature? Are you drawn to geometric patterns and clean lines in architecture? Consider how your surroundings influence your preferences:
Nature lovers: You might be drawn to landscapes, botanical prints, or natural textures.
“Bird Watcher” by Mark Brewer (I had to throw in a little humor—thanks, Mark!)
Modern spaces: Minimalist or abstract pieces might appeal to you.
“Colors of Dusk“ by Margot Dermody
Classic interiors: Traditional or realistic art, like portraits or still life’s, could suit your taste.
“Post Prandial“ by Patrick Lee
Tip: Take photos of objects, scenes, or places that inspire you. Look for patterns in what attracts your eye—this can be a clue to the type of art you may like.
Explore Art Online and in Person
The more art you expose yourself to, the easier it will be to figure out what speaks to you. There are many places to find art, both online and in physical locations. Here are some options:
Online platforms: Websites like Pinterest, Instagram, and art marketplaces offer endless images of art to explore. Use search filters to narrow down to specific styles, colors, or themes.
Gallery visits: If you have access to galleries, take time to visit them. Seeing art in person offers a different experience than viewing it online.
Museums and exhibitions: These spaces allow you to explore a wide range of works and discover new styles.
Tip: Don’t rush the process. Look at lots of different pieces and pay attention to your reactions. Which pieces do you naturally gravitate toward?
Trust Your Instincts
When you find an artwork that captures your attention, take a moment to reflect. Why does it appeal to you? Is it the colors, the shapes, the subject, or the overall feeling it gives you? Trust your instincts and personal preferences—art is deeply personal, and there’s no right or wrong answer.
Tip: Don’t worry about whether a piece is "good" or "expensive" enough. If it feels right to you, that’s all that matters.
Make a List of What You Like
As you explore more art, start jotting down or saving images of pieces that you find visually appealing. This list will help you refine your tastes and narrow down what you truly enjoy. You’ll start noticing patterns in what you like, which will guide your art-buying journey.
Tip: Keep a simple folder or Pinterest board with images of art you like. Over time, you’ll begin to see trends in your preferences.
Conclusion:
Finding art that you love is all about exploration and trusting your own visual preferences. Start by exploring different styles, paying attention to colors, and noticing what you’re drawn to in your surroundings. Over time, you’ll develop a clearer sense of your unique taste. Once you know what excites you visually, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect piece for your home.
Pro Tip: If you're patient with the process, you're more likely to invest in original artwork that lasts a lifetime. You'll make more thoughtful decisions, save money by avoiding impulse buys, and save time in the long run by choosing pieces you truly love the first time around.
Enjoyed this article?
If you'd like to see more tips on choosing the right art for your home—or have specific questions you'd like us to cover—let me know! We’re always happy to share insights and help you feel confident curating your space.
Artwork By:
Erin Kaya, Daniel Marsula, Patrick Lee, Mark Brewer, Melody Lockerman, Lisa Marie Jakab, Richard Snodgrass, Margot Dermody, Kristen Divers
(somewhat in order of appearance)