There’s an art to choosing the perfect pieces for your ever after.
Yearning to make your house a home? There’s an artwork for that. A coveted creation sets the vibe from the first step, shows off your style and adds interest to your interiors.
But a blank canvas doesn’t have to be intimidating. We asked Greenhouse Interiors artist Morgan Jamieson for advice on locking in an investment you’ll love for years to come.
From staying true to your personal style to buying with the heart, she shares her tips for making a lasting – and stylish – splash at home.
Exude your essence
To last the distance, artwork should be an extension of your personal style. Gather cues on what defines you by looking for common design threads inside your wardrobe and around your home.
“Note which colours you are drawn to and which fabrics and textures you like in your home styling,” Morgan says. “Is your clothing bold and full of pattern or neutral with beautiful muted hues?”
Size it up
Measuring your area before you buy ensures a good fit for your future investment. Artwork that is too big or too small on a wall will lose impact. A large piece in a narrow hallway, for example, won’t be able to be admired because there’s not enough room to step back and take it all in.
Morgan suggests mapping your chosen space first. “Using masking tape, tape up the size of the piece you think will suit your wall,” she says. “Stand back and have a good look. Your eyes will tell you if it’s the right size once you can actually see it on the wall.”
Meet the maker
Get to know the story behind the artwork by going straight to the source. Read up on your artist, check out their website and follow them on Instagram to see if their creative process resonates. If time allows, arrange an appointment and drop by their studio. Visiting an artist gives you a glimpse into the purpose and context of the piece.
“You’ll get a good feel for their style and hopefully the special chance to make a connection with both the maker and their creation,” Morgan says.
Surrender control
Considering commissioning an original artwork? Best to hand over creative control. Trusting your chosen artist’s vision will mean a better outcome for both of you.
“While it’s important to give some guidelines around colours you like – or don’t like – it’s best not to get in the way of their creative process,” she says. “Instead, step back and let the artist come up with a piece that’s made just for you.”
Honour your budget
Once you’ve set your budget, be up front about it from the beginning.
“Original artworks are not cheap because they take the artist a huge amount of time,” Morgan says. “If you’re searching for something more affordable, ask if they offer their works as edition prints on paper.”
These small print runs of the original are signed, numbered and can be snapped up at a lower price point.
Follow your intuition
A good first impression is often a promising indication you’re going to love the piece forever. And choosing art from a heart level allows you additional freedom of expression.
“It’s so important to follow your instincts with art,” Morgan says. “Art is personal and we’re all drawn to certain colours and styles.
“Resist purchasing pieces based on trend. You’ll only end up wanting to change it up again when the fashion passes.”