Design: Design Intervention

CHOOSE PIECES YOU ENJOY

There are simply no rules to govern which art piece would speak to you – its appeal boils down to emotional connection. Think of artworks as permanent friends that will live in your home – therefore, they have to positively resonate with you and your lifestyle.

START YOUR COLLECTION

The purchase of one piece of art that brings you joy will likely lead to you acquiring more pieces that draw your attention. Art fairs, galleries, markets, antique shops and open studios are all ideal starting points, especially if they feature emerging artists. If possible, get to know the artists who interest you. This will provide a better understanding of their design and artistic voice, and possibly explain how and why their works resonate with you. If this proves daunting or time-consuming, art consultancies can be a great alternative – their services range from sales to professional design consultation and white-glove delivery and installation. Scad Art Sales, a full-service art consultancy with more than 45,000 artists design and curatorial services.

(How many pieces is too many for a space? Find out.)

Design: The Scientist

ENSURE VARIETY

Do not be afraid to put up a combination of artworks photography, prints, sculptures, shadow boxes, simple drawings – it is after all for your home, your space. The place you and those around you call home should reflect your artistic voice, even though you might think you do not have one. Trust me, you do.

(Best parts of the home to display your art pieces.)

THINK OF PLACEMENT

There are various ways to approach the arrangement of art. Think of it as storytelling. Whether the placement is linear and regulated or sporadic and organic, the arrangement reflects the journey in which you want guests (and yourself, of course) to discover them. You can go with a theme, whether it is subject matter, by artist or colour. However, this is not compulsory and randomness is also welcome – there is no right or wrong when it comes to style.

Also, consider that pieces do not always have to hang on a wall. Leaning them against a wall, or letting them sit on a table surface, will give an edge to the art placement.

CHOOSE APPROPRIATE FRAMING

Often if pieces are radically different, the only commonality between them might be through the framing. I often choose frames in white, black or neutral, in different sizes that will complement the piece, never compete with it. Ask yourself if you want the frame to be bold, or subtle; again, do not feel overwhelmed. It is just a choice that any professional framer or art consultation service, perhaps even the artist, can help with.

The expert:

Bernardo Coronado-Guerra is the executive director for design and operations of Scad (Hong Kong). Scad guides customers through every creative juncture of the art world, from selection to delivery and installation.  

More information on Scad Art Sales at www.scadartsales.com.