Selecting Art: Hints
for How to Choose
Buy what you like . . . what you really, really like! And
you’ll enjoy your selections more with each passing year. Color
selection is easy if you relax and listen to the palette “in
your head.” It’s the same palette that was at work when you
selected your room decor.
If you are on a budget, it is better to buy one sizeable
quality item than to purchase a bunch of smaller and cheaper
ones.
First, select art for the areas that are the most noticeably
bare. Remember that art work is portable. Unlike paneling and
wallpaper, you can take it with you when you move.
And speaking of art being portable, rarely should art be
hung with anything other than standard picture hooks. And
rarely is it necessary to nail into a stud. With standard
picture hooks hung into drywall, for example, art work can be
easily moved and old nail holes patched in a jiffy.
Framing should be chosen to match and enhance the individual
work of art. Then if you move or redecorate, your art will
continue to work well for you — even if in a different
room.
Hang your artwork low over furniture items. Work out
groupings on your floor before transferring arrangements to the
wall. Opt for a graceful, warm and harmonious look. (Hanging at
“eye level” is a rule for museums - not homes.)*
Make certain that you use two picture hanging hooks for each
item. This stabilizes your art and keeps the item level.
*For tips on hanging artwork in groupings, see my Making
Arrangements article.
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