Wall Art and Colour Psychology

Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of wall art and colour psychology. As an abstract artist, I’ve spent years exploring how colours and shapes can transform a space and I’m excited to share some insights with you.

Before we jump in, I want to mention that the information in this blog can apply to almost any type of wall art.

Whether you’re into landscapes, seascapes or portraits, the principles of colour psychology and art placement we’ll discuss can be incredibly useful.

However, since abstract art is my passion and area of expertise, I’ll be using it as the primary example throughout this blog.

Abstract art, with its focus on colours, shapes and emotions rather than realistic depictions, provides an excellent canvas for exploring the interplay between art and psychology in our living spaces.

I hope you’ll find valuable insights here that you can apply to your own space, regardless of your preferred art style.

Let’s get started.

Understanding Colour Psychology in Art

Let’s start with the basics.

Wall art and colour psychology go hand in hand, shaping the mood and feel of our living spaces. Now, I’m no scientist, but I’ve seen firsthand how different colours can affect our emotions and even our energy levels.

Think about it – have you ever walked into a room and instantly felt calm or energised?

That’s colour psychology at work! When it comes to wall art and colour psychology, it’s all about finding that perfect balance that makes you feel good in your own space.

But let’s dive a bit deeper into how different colours can influence our perceptions and emotions:

1. Red: This vibrant colour is often associated with passion, energy and excitement. It can stimulate appetite (which is why it’s used in many restaurants) and increase heart rate. In art, red can create a focal point or add warmth to a space.
2. Blue: Often seen as calming and serene, blue can lower blood pressure and heart rate. It’s associated with trust and stability. Light blues can make a room feel more spacious, while darker blues can add depth and sophistication.
3. Yellow: The colour of sunshine, yellow is linked to happiness and optimism. It can stimulate mental activity and generate muscle energy. In art, yellow can brighten a space and create a cheerful atmosphere.
4. Green: Associated with nature, green is often perceived as balanced and harmonious. It can promote feelings of rest and security. In wall art, green can bring a sense of the outdoors inside.
5. Purple: Historically linked to royalty and luxury, purple can add a sense of mystery or spirituality to a space. It’s often associated with creativity and imagination.
6. Orange: A blend of red and yellow, orange is energetic and warm. It can promote socialization and stimulate appetite. In art, it can add a lively, vibrant touch to any room.
7. White: Often used to create a sense of space and cleanliness, white can make a room feel larger and brighter. In abstract art, white space can be just as important as coloured areas, providing balance and allowing the eye to rest.
8. Black: While it can be seen as sombre or sophisticated, black in art can create dramatic contrasts and add depth to a piece. It can make other colours appear more vibrant when used strategically.

Remember, these are general associations and personal experiences or cultural backgrounds can influence how we perceive colours. That’s why it’s so important to choose wall art that resonates with you personally.

In abstract art, these colour effects can be even more pronounced because the artwork isn’t tied to representing real-world objects. The colours and their interactions can speak directly to our emotions and subconscious minds.

When you’re selecting wall art and considering colour psychology, think about the mood you want to create in your space.

Do you want a calming bedroom retreat? An energising home office? A welcoming living room? The colours in your chosen artwork can play a big role in achieving these goals.

If you want to dive deeper into this topic, check out my blog post on “Exploring the Power of Colour in Abstract Art”. It’s a great resource to understand how different colours can influence our perceptions and emotions in even more detail.

The Unique Impact of Abstract Art

Now, let’s talk about my favourite subject – abstract art.

Abstract paintings aren’t just pretty pictures; they’re powerful statements that can completely transform a room. Unlike traditional art, abstract pieces don’t try to represent reality. Instead, they use colours, shapes and textures to evoke emotions and create a mood.

I’ve had clients tell me how a single abstract piece changed the entire feel of their living room or office.

It’s not about matching your sofa or curtains – it’s about creating a connection between you and the art. That’s the real magic of abstract art in home environments.

For a more in-depth look at how abstract art differs from other styles, take a look at my post on “Exploring the Difference Between Modern, Abstract and Contemporary Art”.

Selecting Wall Art with Colour Psychology in Mind

So, how do you choose the right wall art for your space?

Well, it’s not just about picking your favourite colours. When it comes to wall art and colour psychology, you need to think about the atmosphere you want to create.

Here’s a tip: before you start shopping for art, ask yourself, “How do I want to feel in this room?” Energised? Relaxed? Inspired? Your answer will guide your choices.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.

What works for your best friend’s living room might not be right for yours. Trust your instincts and choose pieces that speak to you.

For more detailed guidance, check out my blog post “7 Tips to Successfully Choose Your Abstract Wall Art”. It’s packed with practical advice to help you make the best choice for your space.

Abstract Art: A Versatile Choice for Any Space

One of the things I love most about abstract art is how versatile it is. Whether you’re into bold, vibrant colours or soft, muted tones, there’s an abstract piece out there for you.

I once created a large, red and orange abstract painting for a client’s dining room. It added so much energy to the space. But in another project, I used soft blues and greens to create a calming atmosphere in a bedroom.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to wall art and colour psychology.

If you’re specifically looking to add some drama to your living room, you might find inspiration in my post about how to “Add Striking Black and White Abstract Art in Your Living Room”.

Beyond Colour: Other Elements of Abstract Art

Now, let’s get a bit technical (but not too much, I promise).

While colour is super important in abstract art, it’s not the only player in the game. Shapes, lines and composition all contribute to the overall impact of the piece.

For example, I often use curved lines to create a sense of flow and movement in my paintings. Sharp angles, on the other hand, can add drama and intensity. It’s all about finding the right balance to create the effect you want.

To understand more about how abstract art can influence your living space, take a look at my blog on “The Power of Abstract Art in Interior Design”.

Tips for Choosing and Placing Abstract Wall Art

Alright, let’s get practical. Here are some tips for choosing and placing abstract wall art in your home:

1. Consider the size of your wall. A tiny painting can get lost on a big wall, while a huge piece might overwhelm a small space.
2. Think about the colours in your room. Your art doesn’t have to match perfectly, but it should complement your existing colour scheme.
3. Don’t be afraid of white space. Sometimes, a single statement piece can have more impact than a cluttered gallery wall.

For more specific ideas about incorporating wall art in your living room, check out my post on “Living Room Wall Art (10 Easy Ideas)”.

In this particular blog, I experimented with many different ways of hanging some of my large and small abstract paintings. I used vertical and horizontal formats to illustrate various ways to display wall art.

What makes this guide unique is that I conducted all these experiments on one wall in our actual living room.

This approach gives a true representation of a standard living room wall, rather than relying on fancy mock-ups or staged photos.

I think it’s a great practical example which might help you when you decide where and how to display your wall art.

You’ll see real-life applications of different arrangements, sizes and orientations, all in a relatable, everyday setting. This hands-on approach can be incredibly useful when you’re trying to visualise how different pieces might work in your own space.

So, whether you’re dealing with a large statement piece or a collection of smaller works, this blog post can give you some tangible ideas to work with.

It’s one thing to read about art placement, but seeing it in action in a real living room can really help bring those concepts to life.

The Personal Connection: Finding Meaning in Abstract Art

Here’s something I always tell my clients: don’t worry about “understanding” abstract art. It’s not a puzzle to be solved. Instead, focus on how it makes you feel.

I love this quote by Claude Monet: “Everyone discusses my art and pretends to understand — as if it were necessary to understand — when it is simply necessary to love.”

That’s the beauty of abstract art – it means something different to everyone who sees it. So trust your instincts and choose pieces that resonate with you on a personal level.

For more insights on the deeper meaning of abstract art, you might enjoy my blog post “Abstract Art is More Than Decoration”.

Conclusion: Wall Art and Colour Psychology

At the end of the day, wall art and colour psychology are all about creating a space that feels right for you. Whether you’re drawn to bold, energetic pieces or calm, soothing ones, the most important thing is that your art makes you happy.

Remember: “Colours can be the first dominant feature in any painting – choose the colours that would make you feel comfortable. Bright colours are often perceived as happy and inviting, while pale colours can be calming and restful. Dark colours are generally oppressive in large doses but are exciting when used sparingly.”

So go ahead, explore the world of abstract art and don’t be afraid to experiment. Your perfect piece is out there waiting for you.

If you’re still unsure, you might find some inspiration in my post about the “Best Abstract Painting for a Living Room”.

What are your thoughts on wall art and colour psychology?

Do you have a favourite abstract piece in your home? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below.