How to buy art prints

 

Creating a Meaningful Collection That Speaks to Your Soul

Transforming your house into a home often comes down to the personal touches, and nothing speaks to your unique personality quite like the art you choose to display. But with a vast world of prints available, how do you choose pieces that resonate with you and create a cohesive look? This guide will walk you through the process of buying art prints, focusing on quality, personal meaning, and creating a stunning gallery wall that reflects your individual style.

1. The Allure of Giclee: Opting for Premium Quality

Before you even begin browsing for art, it's important to understand the difference quality makes. When it comes to prints, not all are created equal. For a truly exceptional piece that will stand the test of time, consider giclee prints.

• What is Giclee? As we learned in a previous post, "giclee" (pronounced zhee-clay) refers to a high-quality printing process that utilizes archival pigment inks and fine art paper or canvas. This method produces prints with exceptional color accuracy, detail, and longevity, rivaling the original artwork.
• Why Choose Giclee? Giclee prints are an investment in quality. They resist fading, ensuring your chosen art remains vibrant for generations. The superior detail and color reproduction capture the nuances of the original piece, allowing you to appreciate the artist's work in its full glory.

2. Finding Meaning in Your Art: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Choosing art is a deeply personal experience. It's about finding pieces that speak to your soul, evoke emotions, and reflect your unique perspective. Here's how to find art that truly resonates with you:

• Explore Different Eras: Are you drawn to the elegance of Art Deco, the whimsy of Victorian illustrations, or the bold lines of mid-century modern? Exploring different vintage eras can help you discover an aesthetic that aligns with your taste.
• Consider Places that Hold Special Meaning: Do you have a favorite city, a cherished travel destination, or a nostalgic connection to a particular landscape? Art depicting these places can bring back fond memories and add a personal touch to your decor.
• The Power of Color: Colors have a profound impact on our mood and emotions. What colors make you feel happy, calm, or energized? Choose prints with a color palette that complements your existing decor and creates the desired atmosphere in your space.
• Explore Art Genres: From botanical prints to abstract art, landscapes to portraits, the world of art genres is vast and varied. Explore different styles to discover what resonates with you. Don't be afraid to mix and match genres that you love!
• Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, the most important factor is how the art makes you feel. Do you find yourself drawn to a particular piece? Does it spark joy, curiosity, or a sense of peace? Trust your gut feeling – it's often the best guide.

3. Curating Your Collection: Building a Gallery Wall

Once you've found prints that you love, it's time to bring them together in a visually appealing way. Creating a gallery wall is a fantastic way to showcase your collection and transform a blank wall into a captivating focal point.

• Plan Your Layout: Before you start hammering nails, lay your prints out on the floor to experiment with different arrangements. Consider the size and orientation of each piece, as well as the overall balance and flow of the composition.
• Mix and Match Frames: Don't be afraid to use a variety of frame styles and colors. This can add visual interest and create a more eclectic look. However, ensure there's a unifying element, such as a similar color palette or material, to maintain a sense of cohesion.
• Consider the Rule of Odds: Grouping items in odd numbers (3, 5, 7, etc.) often creates a more visually appealing arrangement than even numbers.
• Start with a Focal Point: Choose a larger or more prominent print to anchor your gallery wall and build the rest of the arrangement around it.
• Use a Level and Measuring Tape: Ensure your prints are hung straight and evenly spaced. This will give your gallery wall a polished and professional look.
• Don't Overcrowd: Leave some breathing room between the prints to avoid a cluttered look.

Conclusion: Art That Tells Your Story

Buying art prints is an exciting journey of self-discovery. By choosing giclee prints for their superior quality, focusing on pieces that hold personal meaning, and thoughtfully curating your collection, you can create a home that is not only beautiful but also a true reflection of who you are. So, embrace the process, trust your instincts, and let your walls tell your unique story.