ACCENTS

Picture this: go big and bold with art

Incorporating large pieces of wall art into an overall home design can seem intimidating at first, but with the right attitude, it can make any space in your home the main attraction.

Think of an art gallery concept, where dozens of pieces have their own space on walls and columns. Although there are plenty of artwork to look at, each one seemingly has a gravitational pull because of their style, texture and personality.

“It’s all about what speaks to you and your personal taste. It’s a bold opportunity to express yourself,” said Alan Torrado, event coordinator and design consultant. And as long as the wall art is a reflection of yourself, there really is no wrong or right choice, he added.

But as one considers large wall art in design, it is a good practice to think about how the piece accentuates the functionality of that room. A living room, for example, is the space where friends, family, and guests will most likely congregate and converse. To compliment this, artwork that is lively, vibrant and atmospheric will encourage a dynamic environment. Alternatively, artwork with deep and dark tones and subtle patterns can add a layer of serenity to a room.

Taking up a whole wall with a single piece of art is a bold statement, Torrado said, but there are several creative ways to make it seem less blocky or overwhelming.

“There are some local artists that can paint large canvasses to fit the space. You can also opt for a triptych, which is a set of three artwork pieces that make an overall image,” he said. “I’ve seen local photography work of beautiful Guam sunsets that would make a perfect triptych.”

Guam has plenty of photographers who are willing to sell their prints of beautiful scenery, such as waterfalls, beaches, and aerial views of the land. You can also shoot the photos yourself, as smartphone technology has upgraded its camera quality to take crisp shots. A trip to the printers and some lamination or framing can turn an iPhone photo into a living room centerpiece.

Playing with dimensions can also make the artwork feel more involved in a room. Instead of twodimensional prints and canvases, one can also frame fabrics and elements of nature to serve as a display piece. It can be a beautifully detailed quilt that an ancestor made or a historic dress that has visible elements of the past, Torrado said.

What’s great about wall art is that can be changed out easily — a clear edge over painting an accent wall or adding patterned decals.

“Like an art gallery, you can always change the look as often as you please,” Torrado said. p

This aged piece of 18th- and 19th century plants serves as the main artwork of a kitchen.