With the start of quite a few vastly different projects – a new build in Palo Alto, a Miami condo, a renovated Martha’s Vineyard escape, and more, we’ve been reflecting on our basic art collecting principles common to all these projects, which, when done, will look vastly different. Today, we’re sharing those principles, because why not? They can be helpful as you consider your own existing collection, the art you may purchase in the future, or how they can translate across other areas of design.
Principle #1: Collect Diverse Works
One issue we see with existing collections when we go into client homes is that all of the art feels very similar. In some cases, it’s all prints behind plexi or glass. In other cases, it’s all “light and flowy abstract”. Sometimes all the art is photography. Whatever the case, the sameness of what hangs on people’s walls makes each individual piece and vignette look relatively uninteresting. The solution? Mix up the media, subject matter, and scale for the art in your home. Additionally, consider the artists and their practices; incorporate work by artists representing diverse cultures, races, ages, and backgrounds. Following this principle makes for a dynamic collection that is more likely to interest you long term.
A variety of mediums play well together in this modern New Jersey Farmhouse.
Principle #2: Curate Cohesively
This principle is not mutually exclusive with principle #1 above; diverse works can be paired together in ways that feel confusing or in a way that feels cohesive. Here is an example of two notably different works that we curated together in a way that showcases each more than if they stood alone. The cohesion comes from balancing works’ commonalities and differences. Finding common ground between works - a form, a color, a process - and noting stylistic differences - hard edges vs. soft, saturated color vs. neutrals - can serve as a helpful guide.
Fiona Ackerman and Jenna Krypell
Principle #3: Embrace the Unexpected
One lovely client of ours shared with us years ago that her goal for working together was to make her home feel like hers and only hers. I loved that. Every person is unique and the best art collections reflect that uniqueness. Think outside the box when considering the art you want to live with (Sculpture? Paintings? Textile works?) and the way it is installed (Solo on one wall? With others as a collection? On a pedestal or leaning on a shelf?). Those unexpected moments can spark so much joy.
A Jessica Sanders sculpture made of beeswax adds personality to a living room rich in patter.
Finally, some clients have recently asked what NOT to do. While I have a long list of pet peeves that I literally keep in my “notes” app, here are a few that I, personally, do not embrace:
Juju hats, rounded baskets, and dishes hanging together on a wall. These are often branded as “wall-hacks” but I’d prefer a blank wall.
Rugs on a wall. This is not necessarily cheaper than art and looks confusing.
Walls painted in white with not-so-subtle yellow undertones.
Ikea picture frames. Cheap frames make art look cheaper. Investing in decent to great quality frames makes affordable pieces look their best.
