The Power of Scale: How to Choose Art that Fits Your Space
When it comes to transforming your living spaces with fine art, one essential aspect often overlooked is scale. The size of the artwork you choose can significantly impact the visual dynamics of a room and how it harmonizes with your interior design.
As both an artist and an interior designer, I understand the importance of art scale, and in this article, we'll explore the power of scale in selecting art that perfectly fits your space.
The Influence of Art Scale
Art scale refers to the size of an artwork relative to its surroundings. Whether you're filling a vast expanse of a wall or looking to add a small, exquisite piece to a cozy nook, getting the scale right can make all the difference.
Finding the right piece of art for a space is a little like the story of Golidlocks and the three bears. A piece can be too big, too small or just right. All three of these vignettes include the same art print in different sizes. The one on the left is too large and heavy for the wall and bench, the one on the right is too small and feels dwarfed by the wall and bench while the one in the middle has a good sense of scale resulting in balanced visual weight.
Here's how you can harness the power of scale to create the desired impact:
Filling Vast Spaces:
Large, expansive walls or high ceilings can leave a room feeling empty or unbalanced. Oversized artwork can be an excellent solution in such cases. A substantial piece can command attention and add drama to the room. A great place for oversized pieces is over a headboard or sofa where a large piece of art is needed to remain in the balance with the size of the furniture.
Cozy Corners:
In contrast, smaller spaces can benefit from art that is appropriately scaled to their dimensions. Art that is too large may overwhelm the room, making it feel cramped.
Another thing to keep in mind with scale is the orientation of the piece of art. Some spaces look better with vertical, rather than horizontal pieces.
“Equuleus (the Little Horse)” by Bek Harris.
Creating Focal Points:
Large art can serve as a striking focal point, drawing the eye and setting the tone for the entire space. Smaller pieces can add accents and interest to specific areas.
Balance and Harmony:
Achieving a balance between your furniture and art scale is essential. For example, a massive sectional sofa can work harmoniously with a large statement artwork, while a petite chair may be complemented by a smaller piece.
Choosing Art that Scales Perfectly
Now that you understand the influence of art scale, it's time to choose artwork that complements your space:
Consider the Room:
Think about the room's size, ceiling height, and the overall layout when selecting art. A spacious living room might benefit from a grand painting, while a hallway or a reading corner could showcase smaller, intimate pieces.
Focus on the Wall:
Pay attention to the available wall space. Art should be proportionate to the wall it hangs on. Oversized art on a small wall can be overpowering, while a tiny piece on a vast wall can get lost.
Color and Style
Ensure that the artwork's color and style align with your interior design. A well-chosen piece should complement your decor and enhance the room's ambiance.
Grouping Art
Don't be afraid to mix and match different-sized pieces to create a captivating gallery wall. The key is to maintain a sense of balance and cohesion within the arrangement.
We’ll discuss ways to create gallery walls in future articles.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Space with Perfectly Scaled Art
Art scale is a vital element in interior design that can elevate your living spaces to new heights. The right-sized art creates harmony, balance, and a sense of unity within your rooms. By choosing artwork that fits your space, you not only enhance your decor but also create a unique atmosphere that resonates with your personal style.
Explore the power of art scale, and consider the possibilities that custom art commissions can bring to your home. Your perfect piece, perfectly scaled, awaits!
If you're struggling to find the perfect piece, consider commissioning a custom artwork. As an artist, I offer the opportunity to work with you in creating a piece that is tailored to your space, ensuring the ideal scale and style.
