Art Blog #161: How To Pick Art For Your Home With Confidence

I still remember the first time I made a choice that felt entirely my own. I was seven years old, standing in the cramped aisles of a neighborhood store. My parents had given me a few dollars to spend. The options seemed endless. But my eyes landed on a small, brightly colored sketchbook. It wasn’t the flashiest item, and it certainly wasn’t the most popular choice among my peers, but it called to me. Something about the promise of filling those blank pages with my own creations felt deeply personal, like a tiny declaration of who I was and who I wanted to be.

Looking back, that moment taught me something essential about making choices that feel meaningful. It wasn’t about impressing anyone else or making the “right” choice by someone else’s standards. It was about trusting my instincts and honoring what resonated with me. And while we may no longer be seven years old in a toy store, the process of choosing something—especially something as deeply personal as art—can feel just as overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to.

Whether you’re buying your first art print, a sculpture, or an original piece, the decision is ultimately about you. Here’s how to approach it with confidence and joy.

1. Define the Purpose

Before anything else, consider the role the artwork will play in your life. Is it for a specific space in your home? Do you want it to inspire you daily or provide a sense of calmness? Are you hoping to start a collection that reflects your personality or interests or is it a gift to your well known friend? Knowing your “why” can help narrow your choices and give your decision clarity. Btw. Buying something like this is kind of a timely and budgetary shortcut for a last minute gift to someone you know really well. It is simply easy to find something relatable. That goes even for yourself!

For example, when I was furnishing my first apartment, I wanted my living space to feel inviting and reflect who I was. I chose a large print of a forest scene because nature had always been my escape. Every time I looked at it, I felt grounded. The purpose was clear: I wanted something that felt like home. I still have that print hanging in our master bedroom. That deep forest green simply feels both comforting and majestic.

When choosing art for your home, remember that the purpose matters. It could be as simple as adding affordable art prints online to a blank wall or as intentional as buying art to create a serene environment in your living room. And remember, buying a canvas art print, even framed in a floating frame doesn´t cost more than a regular Saturday Mall Shopping. It´s not a deadly serious decision. I always thought that when I was younger ha-ha.

2. Connect with the Emotional Content

Art speaks to us in unique ways, often stirring emotions that are hard to put into words. When browsing for art, ask yourself: How does this piece make me feel? Does it spark joy, nostalgia, curiosity, or calm? It´s simpler than you think.

You don’t need to be an art expert to recognize when a piece resonates with you. Sometimes, it’s about the colors that remind you of a childhood memory or a subject that relates or aligns with your dreams. Having that one dream stuck in your mind? Search for art that reminds you of it. One friend of mine, for instance, bought an abstract painting because the chaotic swirls reminded her of the beautiful messiness of motherhood. For her, it wasn’t about whether the piece would win any awards; it was about what it meant to her. And you don´t have to tell everyone what it really is to you ;)

Emotional reasons to buy art often outweigh logical ones. When you find something that resonates with your personality, it’s a reflection of who you are and what you value. Forget the attitude of the snoby layer of art knowledge you are supposed to graduate in just to make a decision that´s up to your taste.

3. Consider Aesthetic Criteria

Let’s talk about style. While art is deeply personal, it also needs to work within your space. Think about:

• Colors: Does the piece complement or contrast with the room?

• Size: Will it dominate the space or fit harmoniously?

• Style: Do you prefer realism, abstract, minimalism, or something else entirely?

When you chose a sculpture for your office or corporate room, just think about what drives you; also think about how it would interact with the space. Run some scenarios of how it might feel once having that curiosity provoking artobject in the room. Not to mention the conversations it may spark. It´s gift when the business talk freezes!

If you’re wondering how to choose artwork that complements your decor, start by analyzing your home’s aesthetic. Whether you’re selecting art for a living room or a home office, balancing colors and sizes is key.

4. Balance Price with Value

Art doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. For many buyers, price is a significant factor. And that’s okay! Start by setting a budget you’re comfortable with. Remember, you don’t have to purchase a museum-worthy masterpiece. Prints, smaller works, and pieces by emerging artists are excellent options that often come at more accessible price points.

When I bought my first original artwork, it costed me less than a fancy dinner out, but to me, it was priceless. Supporting someone’s creative journey while bringing something unique into my home felt like a win-win.

If affordability is a concern, look for affordable art prints online. Their advantage is they ussualy come in any size and you can choose the framing. Supporting emerging artists can also be an excellent way to bring meaningful pieces into your home without overspending. Most artists sell their art as prints as well and our gallery is not an exception. Have a look in our Gallery section.

"Let me overthink this"

It’s easy to overthink a decision, especially when it comes to something as subjective as art. Don´t get trapped in "Let me overthink this". You might wonder if you’re making a “smart” choice or worry about what others will think. But remember, this isn’t an exam. It’s about finding something that speaks to you and brings you joy.

A close friend of mine recently agonized over whether to buy a whimsical painting of a cat wearing a space helmet. She loved it but worried it was too quirky for her otherwise elegant home. In the end, she trusted her instincts and bought it. Now, it’s her favorite piece, and every guest who visits comments on how delightful it is.

Choosing art that resonates with you is deeply personal. When in doubt, go with what makes you happy. You don’t need to prove anything to anyone. And let´s be honest, at rates some of the canvas art prints are selling for it is like buying a pack of wine that didn´t suit your taste not a annual budgetary default situation. Just give it a try! Most wall art decor online shops even provide a money back guarantee.

Conclusion: It’s Your Choice—Own It

Buying art isn’t about proving yourself to anyone. It’s not a test of your taste or sophistication or education. It’s about finding something that makes you feel something relatable, something special, that enhances your space. Don´t restrain from emotional resons to buy art that makes you feel right. You owe it to yourself to make your own decision. Whether it’s an art print, hillariously funny art tee, small sculpture, or an original painting from an emerging artist, the choice is yours to make. It is all more affordable than you think.

So, the next time you’re standing in front of a piece of art, ask yourself: Does this bring me joy? Does it reflect something meaningful to me? If the answer is yes, then congratulations—you’ve found your art.

Just like that little girl in the toy store with her sketchbook, you’re making a choice that’s deeply personal and entirely your own. And that’s something to feel confident about.

-Peter Von Hauerland