The living room is often the focal point of our home. We want it to be universally inviting, yet still reflective of our personal tastes. Wall art is an easy way to add a touch of class and cohesion to the space, while also acting as a conversation starter. But choosing living room wall art is no easy task, especially with so many options available. We are here to help you with our handy guide to selecting the perfect living room wall art for any style and budget.
“Wall art” is a rather broad term. It can encompass a variety of pieces, from abstract sculpture to framed oil paintings. Even shelving units can count as wall art, so long as they are interesting to look at and create a unique focal point in the room. Some of the more common types of living room wall art include:
Canvas art prints: these include fine art and replicas of famous pieces on canvas stretched over a wooden frame.
Framed fine art prints: these are replicas of works by fine art masters printed on paper, rather than canvas, then mounted and framed.
Decals: decals are meant to be flush with the wall and are available in thousands of designs. Unlike wallpaper, decals are easily removable and do not usually take up an entire wall. They are popular in children’s rooms since they do not have the risk of falling from their mount and can be changed with maturing tastes.
Tapestries: tapestries are one of the world’s oldest forms of wall art. Historically, they were used as both an indication of wealth and an attractive way of insulating drafty homes and castles. They continue to convey a sense of opulence and old-world charm, thanks to their intricacy and the far-away scenes they often depict.
Wood accents: wooden wall art might include floating shelves, sculpture, or the ever-popular words of inspiration: “Live, Laugh, Love.” Depending on the style, wooden living room wall art can be well suited to a variety of aesthetics.
Fine Art Photography: photography wall art can exist in many iterations, from industrial-style metal prints to framed personal photos. Photography lends itself to all sorts of styles and is especially valuable as a conversation piece. After all, a gorgeous photo is provocative: it can take you back to a place you loved, or beg questions from guests about what is going on in the photo.
In order to narrow down the type of living room wall art you want, you’ll need to consider a few things:
How much space do you have/want to fill with wall art for your living room? Are you looking to cover multiple surfaces or focus your attention on one wall?
Gallery walls are a great way to draw attention to a larger space. The vibrant colors of this triptych of an Icelandic waterfall help to offset the otherwise drab gray of the space.
What does the wall you intend to decorate look like? Does it have obvious textures and character, such as exposed brick? Is it the same color as the rest of the living room walls, or does it have an accent hue? Ideally, your living room wall art will work with the existing personality of your space, neither competing with it nor being drowned by it.
This photograph of a bison in Yellowstone looks beautiful in both homes. However, we feel it is much better suited to the second living room: it is more easily distinguished against the white wall and matches the home’s Western aesthetic. The wooden frame looks cozy and earthy with its natural burl finish giving this room a rustic vibe while still looking clean.
What is the overall “look” you are going for with your living room? Does it already have a general vibe or style? When choosing your living room wall art, go with pieces that match an existing aesthetic. For example, if your goal is cottage core, ultra-modern wall art may not be the best choice.
Remember to involve any existing wall art in your choices. Each piece should have its moment but also work together to form a cohesive and impactful design.
Emotion is very important when considering art in general, including living room wall art. What do you want to feel when you enter the room? What do you hope guests will feel? The right wall art can transform a space both visually and psychologically.
If you wish to convey warmth, for example, choose pieces with colors that evoke heat and comfort (reds, oranges, yellows). If beauty and mystery are your goals, a canvas photograph of an incredible landscape or sleek wild animal might be good choices.
This image of a band of horses running wild in the South of France is fraught with emotion. The water splashing, the determined looks, and the wind blowing through the horses’ manes convey a sense of freedom and adventure. It is sure to be a talking piece as part of your living room wall art.
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then have we got a story to tell you. Thomas D. Mangelsen is an award-winning conservation photographer who has captured some of the most astonishing moments in wildlife history. If you are looking for truly unique and inspiring living room wall art, start wandering through our online gallery today. Photos are available in multiple sizes either framed, on canvas, or on metal to suit every style. We know you’ll find something you love.
