Introduction

Artistic home decoration goes beyond merely filling walls with beautiful images. It is an expression of identity, a way to narrate our story, and to create an ambiance that reflects our personality and style. In addition to aesthetics, there are vital and psychological reasons that support the significance of decorating our homes with art. In this article, we will explore these reasons and how art can enrich our lives. We will also analyze the category of "Decorative" art and its differences with the category of "Investment" art.

I. Art as Personal and Emotional Expression

Artistic home decoration provides us with the opportunity to express who we are and how we perceive the world. Each art selection reflects our tastes, values, and life experiences. By choosing artworks that emotionally move us, we create a space that makes us feel good and connects us with meaningful aspects of our lives.

The renowned contemporary painter, James McNeill Whistler, highlighted the importance of art as an extension of oneself. His works, such as "Nocturne in Black and Gold: The Falling Rocket" and "Portrait of the Artist's Mother," are clear examples of how art can capture and communicate profound emotions.

II. Art and Psychological Well-being

Numerous studies support the notion that art has a positive impact on our mental health and emotional well-being. The presence of art in the home can reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. Artworks that evoke natural landscapes, serene scenes, or soft colors have an especially beneficial effect on our minds.

Psychologist and art expert, Dr. Ellen Winner, has researched the effects of art on mental health and found that constant exposure to artworks at home improves mood and life satisfaction.

III. Artistic Decoration as a Conversation with the Past and the Future

In addition to being an expression of ourselves, art in our homes allows us to connect with history and culture, as well as the future. Some people choose artworks that belong to a specific era or artistic movement, enriching their environment with historical significance and cultural context. On the other hand, some prefer to incorporate contemporary art that challenges norms and prompts reflections on the future.

An example of this is contemporary art collector Charles Saatchi, who has adorned his home with works by the renowned British artist, Tracey Emin, known for her emotional installations and sculptures. In interviews, Saatchi has mentioned that art in his home is a way to engage in a dialogue with the past and to stay connected with the evolution of art over the years. Additionally, he has also collected works by young emerging artists that represent visions of the future and innovation in the art world.

IV. Art as a Focal Point and a Conversation Starter

Art can become a focal point in our spaces, attracting the attention of visitors and sparking meaningful conversations. When we have interesting and unique artworks in our home, we offer our guests the opportunity to learn more about us through our artistic choices.

Renowned interior designer Kelly Wearstler has been recognized for her ability to integrate impressive artworks into her interior designs. By decorating the homes of celebrities like Cameron Diaz and Gwen Stefani, Wearstler has demonstrated how art can enrich a space and initiate significant conversations.

V. "Decorative" Art vs. "Investment" Art Over Time

It is essential to differentiate between art chosen for home decoration and art acquired for investment purposes over time. Decorative art is primarily selected for its aesthetic appeal and its ability to complement our living space, without necessarily considering its future monetary value. On the other hand, investment art is chosen with the aim of gaining financial returns in the future, often by seeking artists with established track records and potential for growth in the art market.

An example of decorative art would be the acquisition of a landscape painting that reminds us of a special place we visited or a sculpture that complements the aesthetics of our home. These artworks hold sentimental and emotional value for us, regardless of their value in the art market.

In contrast, investment art involves seeking out artists who have demonstrated sustained success in auctions, exhibitions, and sales, with the expectation that the acquired work's value will increase over time. An example of investment art would be purchasing a painting by an emerging artist who has been recognized by critics and art experts, with expectations of their artwork appreciating in value as their career progresses.

Conclusion

Artistic home decoration goes beyond beautifying our walls; it is a means of expressing ourselves, enhancing our emotional well-being, connecting with the past, and sparking meaningful conversations with others. Art in our homes has a powerful impact on our daily lives and provides an emotional connection to our environment. By choosing artworks that genuinely move and inspire us, we transform our homes into authentic and meaningful spaces that reflect our unique identities. Moreover, it is crucial to differentiate between decorative art and investment art, as each serves distinct purposes in our lives and our relationship with the art world over time. By decorating our homes with artworks that resonate with us, we create timeless spaces that connect us with the infinite world of art.

Ruiz&Polo,

Barcelona, August 2023.