I posted this picture on Instagram yesterday and had several people ask me about the large abstract “art”.
It’s not exactly a masterpiece. I found it at a yard sale a couple of years ago for a whopping $10, as a not-so-pretty sailing scene, complete with a light, peachy frame. But, it was huge. So, I figured out a way to get it in the back of my van.
It’s not the first time I’ve bought art more for scale than for actual subject matter. My number one tip for buying something for your walls is to go bigger than you think. We’ve all seen—and possibly hung—art that gets lost on the wall.
This one was an easy fix. I took a can of flat white spray paint and covered the whole thing. (You’re not going for perfect coverage here, by the way. And, the “interesting” texture worked to my advantage, giving it a cloud-like effect. ) When it dried, I taped it off and sprayed the frame gold. I may eventually try my hand at painting something else on it. But, for now, I kind of like the soft white abstract feel against the black wall.
So, when I’m buying art that looks like it would be the centerpiece of a 1980s beach condo, what I’m really thinking about is scale and actually envisioning something more like this:
source unknown
See more art that inspires me here.
You are an evil genius. I love it, especially with the dark wall, white chair and graphic pillow. So good.
Ha! :)
I’ve been looking for a huge canvas for quite a while. I have the perfect spot for it, now to just find it! Love the photo with your sweet girl!
I love big art and am glad you’re posting about it-there’s just so much still on blogs about gallery walls, which are fine, but Big Art has the ability to give such presence to a space, as proved by your pictures.
I had to comment because the title of this post alone is awesome. But yes, great tips and always fun to have a big statement piece!
This is perfect! You are right about scale – I find myself wanting bigger so much more often than smaller. Love that you spraypainted this!
So cool!! Love that you got it for $10 and the scale is perfect
What do you do when there is a light switch (put there by an unknowing electrician) in the middle of a huge blank wall? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Ugh, why do they do those things?! I think a gallery wall is probably the only option. ??
How creative!!! And frugal. Nice job.
Go big or go home!!
How cool Looks just like this pix from joss and main:
https://www.jossandmain.com/Choosing-Art-for-Any-Wall-Abstract-Grey-I-Canvas-Print~QTM6572~E25857.html
Somebody up there called you evil…..I totally agree. Oh yeah….the genius part also.
Probably not the first time I’ve been called evil, but definitely the first time I’ve been called genius :)
you are very inspiring, I just bought an abstract painting and put it above the fireplace. My wife said to me: you are a genius :) haha
Thanks emily
I love the scale and colors of the “art” but what would really make it fantastic is if it were actually art. I think you should try painting something b/c to me it looks kinda like what it is – a painting that has a bunch of spray paint over it :( Sorry, but hopefully you appreciate the honesty? I really do love the idea of it, and think an actual piece of art would make this space really great! Good luck with the kitchen!!!