How to choose art for your home

Art should draw in the essential colour scheme of the room, but not slavishly. Art enhances the existing colours of the home and potentially introduces new and unexpected colours.

Recently I hung a Brendan Mogg oils on canvas in a family/meals open plan area which my client selected for its warm reds, soft rich pinks and coffee colours which worked beautifully with her lounge, throw rugs and cushions. However it introduced a little blue and some strong citrus greens and yellows which immediately linked the faded Autumnal tones of the Wisteria wine that trailed across the courtyard pergola. The result was spectacular, both in blurring the line between the inside and outside of the home and in creating a beautiful space for the family to share a meal.

The current trend seems to be towards large canvases, rather than smaller pieces. I would encourage clients who prefer smaller pieces to invest in a series of three artworks, hung horizontally, or four, six or even eight in two rows. Keeping the outside edge in a rectangle or square shape brings symmetry. Mixing up acrylic on linen canvases, such as Meredith Gaston's Anonymous Posh series with framed watercolours, such as her Wishing Tree with Brendan Mogg's oils bring life, interest and colour to a room. Above all potential investment value, art should be selected for the joy it brings to the owner.

Ann Lyndon
Interior Decorator
Where your heart is…
0414 465 421
wyhi@consultant.com