If you ask someone, “what is art?” they will usually refer to a painting or a photograph. In reality, art comes in many forms – performance art like dance, music and song, nature, poetry and architecture. Now, just for a moment, imagine a world without any art. Our world would be a very dim and boring place, devoid of imagination. Without art, the banality of reality would be intolerable. To paraphrase Nietzsche, “We have art in order not to parish from the truth.”
Why Art? While it feels like a simple question, with an even simpler answer, the truth is that it goes way beyond bringing a little color into a living room. (1)
- Art breathes life into a space.
- It allows us to express ourselves, encouraging dialogue and welcoming emotion.
- It reminds us of what is possible—all to help turn an ordinary house into a home.
- Art connects us to the past and future.
- It feeds our curiosity and inspires our imagination.
I love this quote from fellow-designer, Tara Bernard, “For me, art is like punctuation to a sentence; it is that all-important ingredient and without it, a space lacks the layers and attitude that a significant piece can bring.” (2)
How Does Art Play With Our Emotions? Evolution has hardwired an emotional association as a response to stimuli. This has helped humans recognize danger, food, and potential mates since the beginning of time. We take visual cues while looking at art the same way that we take visual cues to infer emotion.
In fact, with the use of an MRI machine, studies have shown that the region of the brain that experiences emotions is activated when viewing a pleasing piece of art. (3)
Even in abstract works, color and symbolism can create an emotional connection. Cool blues and greys can create a mellow mood while bright greens and yellows can energize or excite the viewer. Abstract paintings, with the use of colors, symbolism and brush strokes are distinguishable enough to make us feel something. Squiggly frantic lines can represent feelings of uneasiness; the color red can indicate an overwhelming sense of anger; or black can symbolize death and mystery. (3)
What is the Philosophy Behind Incorporating Art? No matter how gorgeous the furnishings, a room with bare walls often feels incomplete. Therefore, art, wall coverings and installations are essential to a space. But art is so subjective that it’s difficult to incorporate just the right piece.
Despite different designer approaches, artwork should not be a last-minute accessory. Instead, art should be emersed into designs early on. Artwork should be an integral part of the overall vision.
It’s important to look for pieces that will resonate and have meaning. The art should be a reflection of the loves, passions and interests of the people living in the home; there should be a connection that helps tell the story of the family. (1)
When our clients can meet the artist and commission their own pieces, it’s way more personal than simply matching the art to the window treatments. Clients can learn the story behind the piece or even be a part of the story. Because clients will be looking at these pieces for years to come, the artwork should celebrate who they are. (1)
Consider these philosophies (2):
- Trust your gut. A home should represent its owner, so you shouldn’t be too driven by trends. Something that he/she is truly attracted to is something that will ultimately stand the test of time.
- Mix and match. Art doesn’t have to match the room; the space can be eclectic. Traditional rooms can take modern art, and modern rooms can take older-style paintings. Often it is better to mix it up.
- Go slow. Gallery walls are a great way of working with artwork of different sizes, colors, and styles. Plan it in advance, taking as much time as you need. In order to hang a gallery wall correctly, you must lay it out. It is a considered strategy that must always be carefully thought through.
- Delve deeper. Fallen in love with a piece? Do your research on its history—the process may lead to more works that suit your style. Once you are attracted to a picture, find out a little more about the artist, values, and background, and learn.
How Do I Select the Perfect Piece(s)? Styling your home with unique wall decor is often easier said than done. Before you get started, there are a lot of things to consider when selecting what colors make sense and what art mediums/styles you’re attracted to. Questions you might also ask include (4):
- What is the design style?
- What walls should feature artwork?
- How large should the artwork be?
- What is the color scheme?
- What medium am I looking for?
- What subject matter do I prefer?
- How many pieces of artwork should be hung on this wall?
- And the list goes on!
The needs of different rooms and spaces can direct your choice of art too. For living rooms, consider a gallery wall or large prints; draw inspiration from window views or furniture colors; look for art that will start a conversation.
In bedrooms, consider personal photo arrangements. The bedroom should be relaxing. So, how about a statement piece above the bed?
Bathrooms need artwork too. Sit and stare at a meaningful piece of artwork while you’re taking care of business. Consider a plexiglass-covered framed print instead of canvas to better handle moisture; arrange art opposite of mirrors so they can be appreciated in the reflection.
Many people forget about placing artwork in kitchens. Space is usually more limited here so consider resting frames on a countertop or art shelf. Be quirky. Use fun colors and imagery.
What’s the Relationship Between Designers and Artists? Artists and interior designers partner to combine their skills and creative talents to create an overall experience.
At Talie Jane Interiors, we welcome the opportunity to have close relationships with local, talented artists and regularly source their work for our clients.
The talent in and around the Lake Tahoe and Reno is exceptional. Whether it’s the stunning metal work and sculptures of Kelly Smith Cassidy, the breath-taking fine art photography of Randall Hazeltine or Abe Blair or the memorizing mixed media abstracts of Scott Forrest, we do our best to support local artists, providing a plethora of artistic works for our clients.
For assistance selecting the perfect statement art pieces for your home, contact Talie Jane Interiors at 855-TALIE JANE (855-825-4352).
Talie Jane, Owner and Principal Designer of Talie Jane Interiors, will be speaking about the relationship between art and design at the upcoming Reno Tahoe International Art Show – Saturday, September 10th at 11:30 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center.
Article by the Talie Jane Interiors team.
Sourcing
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.