Whether it's DIY or from a store, learn how to style large abstract wall art for your modern space.
The average person will spend over six years of their life in their living room. That's a lot of time spent in one place, so it's important to make sure that space is inviting, comfortable, and reflects your personal style.
One way to add a touch of personality to your living room is with large abstract wall art. Whether you are looking to create a focal point or simply add some color and texture to your walls, modern abstract art can bring a unique and contemporary atmosphere to your space. In this article, we will explore the world of abstract art, its benefits, and how you can incorporate it into your living room decor.
Why You Will Love Large Abstract Wall Art
Abstract art adds so many benefits to your home. It is easy to see why there has been an increase in popularity of abstract art especially when it comes to interior design. This type of art can do so much more than add visual interest to your living room.
- Abstract art paintings can stimulate the creativity and imagination part of your brain.
- It also adds great texture and dimension to a space.
- Another great thing is that artwork can reflect your personality and style in your home.
- It can benefit your mood by using a bright and happy color scheme or a calm and relaxing palette to bring peace of mind.
- Extra large abstract art can be a conversation starter or add to an existing focal point.
I rounded up my favorite large wall art paintings and prints to help you find the perfect artwork for your home too.
How to Pick a Modern Abstract Painting
Large modern paintings can be hard to find in a design that fits your home and personality. I specifically wanted modern art to display in my keeping room. Take a look at this list of tips and tricks to help you add the perfect pieces to your home.
Measure Your Space to Determine the Size Needed
Measure your open wall space to determine how big your artwork should be. Although I would love to include a huge painting in every room, sometimes you have to settle for a smaller size. Center pictures in your space so that you leave an equal amount of wall space on either side of the artwork.
A great way to get a visual is to measure out the desired size and then use painter's tape to frame it out on your wall. This will help you to see where your art will go and if you can get away with extra large wall art.
Decide How Many Pieces of Art You Want
How much you display will ultimately come down to personal preference and your available space. I stacked two extra large abstract paintings as I have a big, elongated space to fill. It helps extend your eye all the way up the fireplace and draws attention to the height in the room.
Determine a Theme
Choose a theme that reflects your style preference or design influence for your room. Bright colors, muted, geometric - I wanted a muted color palette with neutrals so I didn't take away from the focus of the fireplace too much.
Pick a Style
Here is where the decision making can be tricky, but again, it will ultimately come down to personal taste. Consider these questions in your choice:
- Do you prefer framed work or a canvas look?
- Oversized canvas artwork or multiple smaller pieces?
- Abstract landscape painting or a figure?
- Simple modern art or complex?
- Acrylic abstract paintings or art prints?
- Original artwork or something DIY?
- Heavy texture canvas art or minimal?
Whatever you choose, make sure that it is something you love. I specifically picked canvas prints for this space because I like the matte finish.
How to Install Large Wall Art
After you have found the perfect piece for your home, the next step is hanging it on your wall.
When hanging one painting on a wall the center of the artwork should be at eye level. Two piece paintings on a wall can be more tricky to determine placement.
In the living room I have two pictures to hang. To determine the best place to position them on the wall, start by hanging the bottom piece of art a little lower than eye level. Then space the upper picture about 1 inch above the bottom piece of artwork and hang it there.
Both of these canvases are very light weight. Rather than putting holes in the wall, use command strips to hang them up, if possible. The nice thing about command strips is that it allows you to adjust the position if needed. Command strips won't put holes in the wall or strip off your wall finish if done correctly.
I ended up finding two sets of abstract art that I liked. I can easily swap them depending on which ones work better for my space and personal style. Both work in the space for different reasons!
A living room is a great place to display your abstract wall art because it's meant to be slightly more formal and artistic. Get your own inspiration from my living room decor here.
How to Make DIY Abstract Wall Art
Sometimes it is hard to find the perfect piece of abstract art to fit your space and style. One solution is to create your own original abstract painting. Now, this may not turn into the next Jackson Pollock, but it is so easy and inexpensive to make your own instead of having to buy paintings. Plus, this allows you to specifically customize your abstract acrylic paintings to your space.
Supplies Needed
- Canvas
- Squeegee
- Acrylic paint - in 5 different colors
Add Acrylic Paint to Canvas
For these modern acrylic paintings, start by adding a strip of acrylic paint in each color onto your canvas. Use different starting points for each paint color to create a more contemporary look of your abstract canvas art.
Spread Paint With Squeegee
Place your squeegee on the canvas and pull it down towards you. Make sure to pull the squeegee in one continuous motion all the way off the canvas.
Repeat Squeegee Process
Leave the excess paint on the squeegee and repeat at a different height and place. Continue placing your squeegee onto the canvas and pulling the paint down until you have the desired look. I love abstract painting because there is so much freedom in the process.
Hand Painted Artwork
This simple abstract painting is such an easy process and no two pieces turn out the same. This one was customized in neutral colors to use in my family room on our open shelving, but the same process can be used on extra large paintings for your walls too. Change up the colors to match your decor.
This simple abstract art makes the perfect backdrop for these vases. It would also be fun to make one and hang over the fireplace mantel. You can even let your kids get creative and make their own contemporary paintings for their bedroom artwork.
In today's digital age, we are constantly bombarded with technological information and visual stimulation. But amidst all that noise, it's important to remember the power of art to transform a space and create a sense of peace and inspiration. Large abstract wall art for the living room is not just a decorative element, but a statement piece that reflects the personality and style of the homeowner.
Throughout this article, we have explored the various benefits and considerations of incorporating large abstract wall art into your living room. From its ability to add depth and dimension to a space, to the importance of choosing the right size and color that complements your existing decor, this art form can truly elevate a room.
Happy Decorating!
Brooke
Cindy Robbins says
I love DIY projects. I also love to do pour painting s. Just a beginner.