Since we spend more than one-third of our lives at home, we might consider replacing this question with: do we really need art in our lives?

To which most people would say… duh!

And yet, while many of us recognize the value of art in our lives, it can be difficult to justify buying it for our homes. Even for large-scale design projects, the budget for art is often relatively small, or an afterthought. This is frustrating given the potential art has to transform a space.

Douglas Edwards PaintingPainting by Douglas Edwards 

Art is often the last addition to a room rather than the centrepiece a room is built around. I have been guilty of taking years to finalize a room with the right artwork. During this process, we might be tempted to settle for a piece NOT because it resonates with us or our space, but because it is on sale, or ‘safe’.

I sympathize.

Art is expensive, hard to get right, and not nearly as straightforward a purchase as that coffee machine with 10,000 5-star reviews delivered to your door.

Espresso Machine

Can a work of art really bring my life as much joy as this beauty? We say yes.

On the other hand, great decisions rarely come easy, and we love art for exactly that challenge. Art exists outside of the practical world. It requires us to pause, consider it deeply, interact with it. To purchase art is a leap of faith – a long-term investment based on a connection often illogical and difficult to describe.

We want to support you along this important journey!

Art adds personal character to your home in a way a coffee machine never could.

Each piece of art in your space is, in some sense, a portrait of you. The art is an extension of your taste, interests, and values. It communicates who you are, how you feel or once felt, and what you believe in.

Indian Saris PaintingOne of many pieces in my home portraying my Indian heritage and upbringing. Painting by Vandy Midha, ArtMatch founder

Art reminds us to FEEL

Art can support us through hard times, help us remember, or inspire us to do more in life.

It can provide comfort that we are not the only ones feeling a certain way.

With the rush of day-to-day life, it can be easy to go on autopilot and suppress our feelings; the art in our life keeps them in the forefront.

Patricia Neden Client Install ShotPainting by Patricia Neden– Client Installation

Art takes us out of our comfort zone

An accomplished work of art in your home is a constant reminder to the possibilities of human achievement. Artists often make enormous sacrifices, exposing themselves to discomfort, risk, and failure, to create something which satisfies their vision.

“I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing that I wanted to do.” Georgia O’Keefe

Selecting art also opens us up to criticism. We are putting our feelings and tastes on display. This might inspire your guests to share impressions they otherwise wouldn’t have, or spark a conversation that is challenging, enlightening, and memorable.

As anyone who has ever displayed their own works of art knows — putting yourself out there is scary. Having a work of art in your home encourages you and your guests to embrace vulnerability. The result is often something beautiful.

Frances Vettergreen Painting InstallationPainting by Francis Vettergreen

Art creates a focal point and breathes life into a room

The focal point is a fundamental element in interior design. Put simply, it’s the star of the room. It’s the first thing viewer’s eyes land on when they enter the room, and it’s the emphasis around which the rest of the design is formed. A statement piece can match the accents, finishes, and decor of a room, or it might stand out completely — there are no hard rules! When done correctly, it elevates a room enormously.

Holly Burghardt Client Install ShotHow about THESE as a focal point? Painting by Holly Burghardt – Client Installation

I am not trying to coerce you to spend all of your budget on art. I am asking you to consider that maybe your house is a bit too useful. Setting aside a bit more budget and attention for the beautiful – whatever that means to you – could make all the difference in your home.

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