Art is one of the easiest ways to bring personality and create a mood or feeling within your space, but it can be difficult to incorporate art in ways that feel natural or seamless. Although art is entirely subjective, and you should hang the artwork you love, regardless of whether it’s “in” or not, there are a few things I recommend avoiding, and some I suggest doing to make your artwork become a feature in your home, not just a useful way to break up wall space.

1. Limit mass-produced pieces

I’ll be the first to admit that TJMaxx and Marshalls often have some decent artwork, but those pieces are mass-produced and sold to thousands of people. I believe art is about personal expression, and much of that personality is lost when everyone has the same pieces. That being said, you can definitely use mass-produced artwork, just consider putting your personal touch on it. I recommend switching it to a unique frame, changing a white photo matte out for a colorful one, or even painting or drawing on it yourself to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art. 

2. Upcycle Old Art

Thrift stores and vintage shops are brimming with old prints and paintings that are donated because they were dated or downright ugly. I love using Pinterest to get ideas on upcycling dated art prints. Whether it’s painting over the old piece, switching a cool print to a nicer frame, or creating collage art from multiple pieces, a little creativity can go a long way in creating something that feels unique to you.

If you’re not feeling crafty or particularly artistic, you can also look for things not originally intended to be art, but that can be really cool framed as art. Old record covers, sketches or prints found in vintage books, interesting magazine covers, old posters, etc. can all become art with a little creativity and a nice frame. 

German Artist André Schulze (see an example of his artwork below) revitalizes old artworks by painting whimsical, interesting and often surrealist, scenes over top, creating new pieces within the constraints of the original artwork.

3. Feature a mixture of styles and mediums

We all gravitate to specific styles or mediums of art, but adding a variety of pieces brings depth to your style. You can have the most beautiful collection of watercolors, but if all your art is watercolor, the individual interest of each piece may get lost. Create an environment where each piece can be appreciated. Consider switching out frames; try an ornamental frame on a modern piece of art, use color and shape to create visual interest, and don’t be afraid to experiment by pairing different styles together. 

Examples from Claudia Gould’s West Vilage Apartment (below left) and writer Gillie Houston’s home (below right) are great examples of using a mixture of art style on one small wall space.

4. Hang it unexpectedly 

Don’t be afraid of adding art in interesting places. Try mixing small framed artwork or photos in with books in your bookcase, hang something above your doorway, in a stairwell, on your bathroom walls, or anywhere else that may feel boring or need a pop of visual interest. I hung a small print and a painting from a friend on the side of my bookcase, which adds visual interest to what’s otherwise just a boring shelf. 

5. Use your photos

As a photographer, I have thousands of photos sitting on a hard drive in my desk drawer, collecting metaphorical dust. I have printed a few for my walls, but am planning to get more done because I love using my photos as art. Not only are they entirely unique pieces, but they also remind me of trips I’ve taken, places I love, and memories with friends and family. It just brings a personal touch and is a relatively inexpensive way to bring warmth and life to your home (Leave a comment if you want me to go in-depth on how and where I get my photos printed, or if you have a particular print shop you love!). 

6. Good Framing is Key

Think of your frames as the outfit of your art. It’s important to have the correct type of frame for the piece you’re showcasing. Now, the “right” frame is just as subjective to the piece as it is to the viewer, but simple frames bring a sleeker, modern feel while more ornate frames give maximalist and sometimes ostentatious feelings. Don’t be afraid to experiment, if you’re on the fence about a piece of art, try swapping the frame and see how that feels. Additionally, consider getting things professionally framed. It can be expensive, but a well-framed piece stands out. 

Artist Amanda Carol often uses ornate frames for her abstract artworks (below, left), and the textured frame on this art from Britany Smith Studios (below right), adds a layer of visual interest to an otherwise simple painting.

Some Pointers for Buying Art

No matter your budget, you can find great, unique, art for your home. Most of us don’t have thousands of dollars to drop on an original painting, but many artists offer prints of their work at more affordable prices. Try searching for artists on social media, or check out the artists local to your area, and you’ll be surprised how many there are who have amazing work and affordable prints. 

Don’t underestimate second-hand art. I’ve found almost all of my favorite pieces at estate sales, thrift stores, or yard sales. You do have to be committed to the hunt though. Don’t get discouraged if you have trouble finding pieces you like right away, curating your special collection takes time and lots of patience.

Additionally, through the National Gallery of Art’s Open Access Policy, there are over 50,000 famous artworks available for free digital download. You can download high-resolution images from thousands of world renowned artists, and use them however you wish. Get some downloads printed, and hang some of the world’s finest art in your home.