Accessorise with art

Art is definitely in the eye of the beholder, which ultimately boils down to the fact that if you like it - why not? If you are looking for art to display on your walls, it should be pieces that you personally enjoy and not for the benefit of others. Unless, of course, you invest in art.

 

ABOVE: A black-and-white colour palette is echoed in an arresting mounted photo of galloping zebras.

Even if you cannot afford to splurge on expensive artwork by renown artists, the pieces that you select for your home should be mounted and displayed in such a way that they look like an investment, rather than something you bought at the side of the road.

The key to displaying art is buying what you love and surround yourself with it. It doesn't have to be expensive or valuable to provide you with great pleasure on a daily basis.

ABOVE: This painting adds a welcome splash of colour to an otherwise monochromatic sitting area.

Art in any form is a wonderful way to add colour to a monochromatic or neutral room.

BELOW: A collection of modern pop art spices up a sparse sitting area. Individually mounted prints allow you to build up a collection as and when you can afford to.

 

Copy this look:

Use a smooth board such as 6mm SupaWood as the backing for mounting fabric or wrapping paper. Sand and paint the edges of the board before attaching the medium to the board with Alcolin spray adhesive. Use picture hooks or wire to mount onto the wall.

ABOVE: Metallic butterflies and fabric-covered rectangles prove that fabulous art is more than paintings.

 

 

Copy this look:

Have some pieces of BisonBord or plywood cut to the sizes you require. Drill a 3mm hole through the centre back of the panel. Cover with a piece of 30mm thick foam cut to the same size. Stretch the fabric over the foam and attach it to the back of the board with a staple gun. Use an upholstery needle, thread and a shanked button to 'tuft' the panel.

ABOVE: Don't be afraid to express yourself. Tired household objects get a new lease on life when used as art, as can be seen with this collection of multi-coloured folding chairs.

ABOVE: An unexpected piece of modern art punches up an otherwise uninspiring sitting area.

Remember that lighting is important for your mounted artwork. Even the most stylish space isn't truly complete without the right lighting. Design by Lin Lee.

ABOVE: Lots of colour, pattern and texture mixed together maximize the drama of this loft space. Adding a few living things to the environment is not only feng shui, but helps clean the air with fresh oxygen. Design by Lori Dennis.

ABOVE: A large dining room table calls for an oversized piece of art nearby.

ABOVE: Two large pieces of custom artwork add a wow factor to this space by Shelly Riehl David.

If you're buying artwork as investment, especially if it is custom to the space, and you enjoy a particular artist, consider investing in more than one piece. You might get a discount, and your room design is sure to get a big boost.

images: bentley publishing - Scripps interactive - taylor king