The Art of Choosing Art: How to Find Pieces That Truly Belong in Your Home

Selecting the right artwork for your home can be an overwhelming experience. With so many styles, colors, and options available, it’s easy to feel lost in the process. Should you go with something that matches your decor, or should you invest in a piece that holds deeper meaning? Do you choose mass-produced prints or opt for something unique? More importantly, how do you know when a piece is truly right for you?

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to pick the perfect artwork, this guide will help simplify the process. Whether you're looking for something that blends seamlessly into your space or a piece that inspires and uplifts you every day, this article will walk you through the key factors to consider when making your choice.

What Factors Should You Consider?

Selecting artwork for your home is an exciting yet often overwhelming process. There are several factors to consider when making this decision, including personal style, space, and most importantly—budget. If budget is a primary concern, you may find yourself debating whether to invest in a unique, original piece or opt for mass-produced prints from big-box stores.

Are You Choosing Art to Match Your Decor?

One of the key questions to ask yourself is: Will you be purchasing art to match your current decor, only to replace it when you update your furniture? If so, mass-produced art or prints of artwork you like might be the best option, as they are more cost-effective when frequently swapping out decor. However, if you’re looking for something beyond mere decoration, something that holds personal meaning or inspiration, then investing in unique artwork might be the way to go.

What Role Does Art Play in Your Daily Life?

When decorating, consider this important question: On difficult days or when seeking inspiration, do you look at your couch and carpet, or do you find yourself drawn to the artwork in front of you? While furniture and decor contribute to the ambiance of a space, art has the potential to inspire, uplift, and emotionally connect with you in ways that mass-produced decor often cannot.

How Do You Know When Art Speaks to You?

When browsing through a gallery or an online store, some pieces will naturally stand out more than others. Ask yourself why. Does the flower in the painting remind you of the ones your mother used to place on the dining table? Does a seascape evoke memories of a childhood vacation that never left your heart? Does the abstract piece before you stir a certain emotion? Does the mandala make your heart rate come down and makes you feel at peace?

What Kind of Art Connects with You?

Some pieces may bring back fond memories, resembling moments or objects that are dear to you. Others might be thought-provoking, challenging you to see the world from a different perspective. Some artworks might even make you uncomfortable—perhaps reminding you of a time in your life you would rather not revisit. And then there is art that is simply inspirational, filling you with motivation every time you look at it. Personally, I pour all my positivity into my art. While I may not be the most optimistic person, my work is always bright and happy because I want to surround myself with uplifting energy. That’s what helps me stay inspired. But maybe you are someone who prefers thought-provoking pieces, or even darker artwork that serves as a reminder of a place you never want to go back to. This is why it’s important to answer a very pertinent question: What are you looking for in the art that surrounds you? For me, the answer is positivity and inspiration. What is yours?

Have You Considered Commissioning Artwork?

Another great way to surround yourself with exactly what you want, instead of searching for it, is to commission artwork. This allows you to choose exactly what you want to see every day and turn it into the perfect piece that hangs on your wall. Naturally, this might be a more expensive approach, but if you carefully research the artist who will create your work, you will have a treasure in your home that you will never want to part with. It will join you on your journey and perhaps even continue with the generations after you.

Consider The Scale Of Your Space
When choosing art, size matters just as much as style. A piece that’s too small can feel lost on a large, expansive wall, while an oversized artwork in a tight space can overwhelm the room. As a general rule, artwork should take up about two-thirds to three-fourths of the wall space above furniture like a sofa or a bed. For gallery walls, balance comes from a mix of sizes arranged thoughtfully. If you're decorating a narrow wall or hallway, vertical pieces work best, while wide horizontal spaces call for panoramic or larger statement pieces. Always step back and visualize how the artwork fills the space—it should feel intentional and harmonious, not like an afterthought.

Final Thoughts

Choosing art is a deeply personal journey. Surrounding yourself with meaningful, inspiring artwork can positively influence your environment and your mindset. Take your time, trust your instincts, and invest in pieces that speak to your soul.