Interior Design

with Gill Greenwell

At home with art

Now that we can do all those things we couldn’t do in lockdown, I have been re-visiting my favourite art galleries in London with a young friend studying art history. I was reminded of how inspiring and energised art makes you feel. Whether it’s an image of a favourite painting, a reminder of a special holiday or a piece you love, art brings individuality to your home.

The real thing

Most of us haven’t got an old master hidden away in the attic, and you don’t have to be a connoisseur to find original works that won’t break the bank. Social media provides direct access to emerging artists and affordable art fairs are great for browsing. Check out freshartfair.net for your nearest venue. My artist friends often exhibit at local open studio events –fun to go to and good to directly support a local artist.

Pick up a print

If you love a particular painting, buy a print from the gallery and frame it yourself. IKEA has a wide choice of inexpensive frames. Limited edition prints are another way to access affordable art. There are lots of websites specialising in these at reasonable prices –I subscribe to Rise Art who provide useful advice on how to hang and curate your art. Interior brands also produce art for the home –Made.com have a good range of well-priced wall art.

Perfect posters

Posters are not just for teenage bedrooms. When I visited the Tate Gallery, I was particularly taken with their collection of exhibition and vintage posters – a great way to brighten up a hall or kitchen. Most gallery websites have a collection of posters you can buy from as little as £20; the Royal Academy collection is well worth a look. Alternatively, why not search out vintage film or travel posters to add dash and colour to your décor?

Frame it

Image: Folksy

difference. Match your frame to the piece of art and not to your décor. Simple is always best –black and white frames look chic and contemporary, natural wood is warm and welcoming. A collection of black and white photographs in plain black frames really creates an impact. A contemporary piece can look brilliant in an ornate vintage frame. Charity shops are my go-to for interesting old frames, as you can often pick up a bargain.

Find the right place

You can hang a piece of art virtually anywhere; I’ve just put up a picture next to my cooker. There are just a few tips worth noting. My pet hate is pictures hung too high – use your eye level as a rule of thumb. Group smaller pictures together, as they can look lost and lonely on a large expanse of wall. Mix and match –small pictures look good propped up on a bookcase, or create your own gallery wall. Now your home will reflect your taste and your unique personality. Page 