Few things make a space come together like art. Whether it’s ornaments, paintings or bold sculptures, they can provide the focal point of the room or an accent to existing elements. Each and every piece has a story to tell, and often that story says something about the person who’s chosen it.
Art is deeply personal, so while it’s a great way to show off who you are, it can also be tricky to know where to start if you are not sure what you like yet. I’ve rounded up some of the key styles of the moment from the contemporary art world, without any of the usual jargon. Browse below to be inspired.
Embrace All Things Abstract
Art by Tomo Campbell
From impressionism to cubism, abstract art covers a broad range, but it’s characterised by shape, colour and movement in pieces that distance themselves from realistic representations to convey everything from moods or motions.
From impressionism to cubism, abstract art covers a broad range, but it’s characterised by shape, colour and movement in pieces that distance themselves from realistic representations to convey everything from moods or motions.
Art by Peter Seal
A bedroom is the ideal space for abstract pieces, as they can offer colour and tone that enhances a space without making it feel defined by classic object-based works. The art of Peter Seal and Tomo Campbell are a great place to start exploring atmospheric artwork.
Bring the outside in
Art by Wolfgang Tillmans
Art by Alice Wilson
Artists have been using the great outdoors to excite the sense since time immemorial, and it’s a theme that spans styles. From abstract prints in rich greens and browns to photography that captures the local landscape, there’s work to suit every nature lover’s space. As a bonus, scientific research has proven that nature offers tons of health benefits and has been proven to lift our mood.
Complement bustling kitchens with dramatic works like Wolfgang Tillmans’ photography and Alice Wilson’s painted reclaimed wood. Or enhance a calm and tranquil space with portrayals of nature studies as in Jonathan Delafield Cook’s photorealistic charcoals.
Art by Delafield Cook
Pop with Prints & Colour
Art by Van Ray
Pop art took off with the likes of Roy Litchenstein and Andy Warhol in the ‘50s and it’s a style that has endured for good reason, it shouts confidence from the rooftops whilst remaining understated and playful. Bold colours mix with stencil images and slogans that bring grown-up cool to the humble motivational quote.
Living rooms are the hub of the home and are the perfect spot to showcase your style to guests and family members alike, artists like William Kingett offer a satisfying pop of colour to elevate the mood. Or for a bigger statement, why not incorporate something like Van Ray’s quirky imagery into a bathroom.
Art by William Kingett
Keep the City Close
Art by Jean-Pierre Attal
Art by Olivia Kemp
Whether you’re paying homage to the local area, your favourite city, or unknown architecture, cityscapes are big news for art. They are the gifts that keep on giving, usually offering detail in abundance and create a distinctly urban statement when compared with nature filled scenes.
Staircases couple best with the geometric forms found in artwork from Jean-Pierre Attal and the detailed drawings of Olivia Kemp bring life to usually ignored corners. Cityscapes suit city-slick spaces, but can create a striking contrast by adding a touch of the metropolitan in a rural location.
Feeling inspired? Find out about more taste making trends by heading to your local art fair or gallery. I recently reviewed the London Art Fair 2019, which is a great place to start your journey into the world of art.
Already know your Klimt from your Kandinsky? Get in touch to tell me about the art treasures in your home and see how my services can make them shine.
