6 Elements of Contemporary Art That Make It Great for Interior Design

Part of the reason contemporary art has experienced a boom worldwide is its adaptability, especially in interior design applications. When used purposefully, contemporary art’s vibrant colours can breathe new life into rooms, and its abstract forms can spark creativity in whoever sees it.

 

It’s also easy to incorporate a contemporary art aesthetic into your home or office design, for example with eye-catching contemporary art posters and graphic design posters from online art platform DROOL. You just need to know how the qualities of contemporary art can work in the favour of your own artistic vision for your space. 

 

Here are some of the elements that many contemporary art pieces possess, which makes them ideal for creative interior design: 

 

1) Versatility in Design

 

 

Contemporary art stands out for its versatility, and it is precisely this quality that makes it an invaluable addition to diverse interior design styles. Whether you favour the clean lines of modern aesthetics or the eclectic charm of a more Bohemian-inspired space, contemporary works like graphic design prints and abstract figures can seamlessly adapt to your preferred surroundings. 

 

Many aspiring designers start with framed artworks, but remember that you’re not limited to these alone. You can also look at sculptures or typography art if it suits your taste. The adaptability you’ll find within this genre of art will be particularly beneficial if you enjoy experimenting with different design themes over time.

 

But it's also crucial to consider the overarching theme of your space before you add in any new contemporary art pieces. In modern interiors, for example, it’s best to opt for pieces that boast bold geometric shapes and clean lines, as these can complement a room’s more minimalistic design elements. 

 

For a more eclectic environment, on the other hand, feel free to mix and match various styles. Doing so will help you achieve a visually engaging atmosphere—one that’s sure to turn heads and start interesting conversations. 

 

The key is to select pieces that resonate with your personal taste, all while harmonising with the overall design vision you have for your home or office. Remember what your vision is, and it will be easier to achieve both cohesion and elegance through your design scheme. 

 

2) Personal Expression

 

 

Another interesting quality that contemporary art often reflects very well is the personal expression or unique perspective of the artist. A curious decorator will be able to use this to their advantage and infuse their spaces with individuality and a sense of connection. That kind of environment will be able to tell a story that truly resonates with the occupants. 

 

It makes sense, then, to consider investing in contemporary art pieces created by local artists or those with a personal connection to your life. Find unique art prints from one of your favourite artists or an artwork that evokes a specific emotion in you. Such choices will add a layer of authenticity to your interior design, making it a true reflection of your tastes and experiences. 

 

Take it further by creating a curated gallery wall featuring personal favourites or family artwork. Mix different sizes and styles, but ensure there's a cohesive element—like an overarching motif, visual theme, or a shared colour palette. That will help you furnish a space that’s evocative of your personal touch and that successfully serves as a focal point to your office or home. 

 

3) Expressive Colours

 

 

Modern artists are not afraid to use expressive colours to bring out life and vibrancy in their work, and you shouldn’t hesitate to do the same in your interior spaces. The bold hues inherent in contemporary artworks will serve as powerful tools for setting a visual scene and infusing the space with energy. 

 

When working with the expressive colours iconic to contemporary art, keep the existing colour palette of your space in mind. Try harmonising the artwork's tones with the dominant colours in your room to create a purposeful look. Alternatively, opt for contrasting colours to make a bold visual statement in the space. Aim to attain balance, though, as too many bold colours can overwhelm the senses while too few might not achieve your desired impact. 

 

4) Adaptability to Trends

 

 

Being of the moment, contemporary art easily adapts to current design trends. This quality of the genre gives amateur designers who have such art the means to keep their interiors fresh and up-to-date. If it matters to you that your space remains on-trend without the need for major overhauls, furnish it with contemporary art pieces like graphic design posters or prints.

 

It’s a smart idea to invest in key contemporary art pieces that transcend short-lived trends, as these can provide a solid foundation for your interior design. Then, mix trendier elements with these more timeless “anchor” pieces to strike a balance between staying current and creating a look that will last. 

 

For example, if a particular colour or pattern is trending, incorporate it through smaller, more easily replaceable items like cushions or wall art. This way, you can update your space without a complete redesign if and when the current trends evolve.

 

5) Abstract Forms and Shapes

 

 

There’s no lack of contemporary art that plays with abstract forms and shapes, and these often inspire creativity and freedom. The beauty of abstract forms lies in their ability to evoke various interpretations and emotions, and some people enjoy this more than looking at the rather fixed depictions in classical or realist art. That means that you can use contemporary artwork to introduce a unique and thought-provoking component to your interior design. 

 

Good utilisation of abstract forms, however, requires a consideration of the scale of the artwork in relation to the room. Remember that larger pieces can command attention in spacious rooms and become a central point of interest. Smaller abstract pieces, on the other hand, are well-suited for more intimate settings or as complementary elements in a larger arrangement. 

 

6) Integration with Technology

 

 

The rise of digital art and new media highlights how contemporary art also seamlessly integrates with modern technology. It’s a quality that can be especially appealing in tech-savvy, modern interiors, and it can also add an interactive and dynamic dimension to the space. 

 

Instead of limiting yourself to static art pieces, why not use digital screens or put up interactive installations? For example, a digital art display can be integrated into a feature wall or showcased on a sleek, wall-mounted screen to make it feel like it’s always been a part of the room. Just remember that the design should come first, and the technology aspect shouldn’t overpower it. 

 

Used well, contemporary art can add depth, character, and personal flair to any home or office space. Its versatility allows for an array of styles to coexist, while its expressive colours and abstract forms can create focal points that transcend mere decoration. 

 

You’ll find that contemporary art is a great channel for your personal expression, if you know where to look. Shop for pieces that are a joy to decorate with here on DROOL!