Big art

DESIGN RECIPES

By CATHY HOBBS

Tribune News Service (TNS) A rt helps infuse color and energy into a space while also serving to anchor a space. Big art can also make a bold statement. From graphic abstracts to black and white photographs, overscale artwork can add pizzazz, interest and color into nearly any space of the home.

Looking for big art ideas?

Here are some top design recipes tips.

Do

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Do select artwork either first for inspiration or last to tie a color scheme together.

■ ■ Do use overscale art to help anchor a space.

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Do look for artwork that can help tell a color story and or is cohesive with an existing design scheme.

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Do use black and white photography as an alternative to a painted canvas.

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Do hang art in a series when looking to fill larger walls.

Don’t

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Don’t choose pieces that are too small as they can be viewed as visual “clutter.”

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Don’t be afraid to mix and match. For example, gallery walls consisting of artwork of different sizes and shapes are very popular.

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Don’t worry about always having to frame artwork. Gallery wrapped artwork is a popular choice for oversized art.

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Don’t ignore the opportunity to frame textiles or fabric to incorporate texture.

■ ■ Don’t avoid mirrors.

Placing key pieces of art across from mirrors is a designer hack.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer with offices in New York City and The Hudson Valley. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.

Black and white photography serves as an alternative to traditional artwork.

Handout photos / TNS

Bedroom art helps to infuse color and interest.

Large graphic art provides a modern edge in this living room.

An oversized art piece serves as a compliment for an entry console.