The living room is the heart of your home, a space where you relax, entertain guests, and showcase your personal style. Selecting suitable artwork for your living room can add a touch of elegance, maintain harmony, brighten up your space, create a wow factor, and reflect your unique taste. This article will explore various aspects to consider when choosing art for your living room. From size and style to colour scheme and personal preferences, these guidelines will help you curate a captivating collection that enhances the overall aesthetic of your living space. Size and Placement The size and placement of artwork in your living room are crucial considerations. The goal is to find pieces that create a visual impact without overpowering the space. Consider the following factors: Focal Point: Choose one or two more significant artworks to serve as the room's focal point. The artwork could be a striking painting, a statement sculpture, or an oversized photograph. Place them on a prominent wall where they can grab attention and set the tone for the entire space. Proportions: Consider the scale of your living room furniture and the dimensions of the walls. Ensure that the artwork is proportionate to the room's wall space and other elements. For example, a large sectional sofa may require a substantial piece of art to balance the visual weight. Groupings and Gallery Walls: Consider creating a gallery wall or arranging multiple artworks in a group. This approach can add visual interest and create a dynamic display. Mix different sizes and styles, and experiment with layouts before finalizing the arrangement. Eye-Level Placement: Hang artwork at eye level for optimal viewing. The centre of the painting should be approximately 57-60 inches from the floor. Adjustments may be needed based on the average height of your household. Style and Theme The style and theme of your living room play a significant role in determining the type of artwork that will best complement the space. Consider the following: Existing Décor: Evaluate the overall style of your living room, whether it's modern, traditional, minimalist, or eclectic. Look for artworks that harmonize with the existing décor elements, such as furniture, flooring, and architectural details. For example, a contemporary living room may benefit from abstract or geometric artworks. At the same time, a traditional space may call for classical paintings or landscapes. Matching minimalism of the house, infusing abstract art - Abstract no. 4622 black and white minimalism Personal Preference: Your living room reflects your taste and personality. Choose artworks that resonate with your personality, whether from a particular artist, a specific art movement, or a style that you find visually appealing. Select pieces that genuinely speak to you. Room Function: Consider how you use your living room. If it's primarily a space for relaxation and quiet contemplation, choose artworks that create a serene atmosphere, such as soothing landscapes or abstract pieces. If it's a place for social gatherings and lively conversations, opt for bold, vibrant artworks that energize the space. Artistic Variety: Mix different styles and mediums to add depth and visual interest. Experiment with a combination of paintings, prints, photographs, sculptures, or even mixed-media artworks. The variety will enhance the room's richness and showcase your eclectic taste. Colour Scheme The colour scheme of your living room and the artwork you choose should harmonize to create a cohesive and visually pleasing space. Consider the following tips: Complement or Contrast: Choose artworks that either complement or provide a striking contrast to the room's colour palette. Chosing artworks with complementary colours, create a harmonious look to the space. For example, consider artworks with cool blue or green accents if your living room features warm earthy tones. Alternatively, contrasting colours, such as bold reds against neutral tones, can create a vibrant and attention-grabbing effect. Artwork for Trending beige wall - Golden Haze Balance and Harmony: Consider the overall balance of colours in your living room. If the space is rich in colour, opt for artwork with a more muted or monochromatic palette to avoid overwhelming the room. Conversely, bold and colourful paintings can become captivating focal points if your living room is primarily neutral. Highlight Accent Colors: If your living room features specific accent colours, incorporate artwork highlighting those hues. By selecting an artwork in such a way, you can create a cohesive and intentional design. For example, if you have to throw pillows or rugs with yellow pops, consider artworks featuring the same or complementary shades to tie the room together. Personal Touch The artwork in your living room should reflect your personal preferences and experiences. Here are a few suggestions to add a personal touch: Emotional Connection: Choose artworks that evoke emotions or memories. It could be a painting that reminds you of a particular place or a photograph that captures a special moment. Your connection with the artwork will make it more meaningful and enhance your enjoyment of the space. Tidal Melodies by Vicky Yeow Hobbies and Interests: Incorporate artworks that align with your hobbies or interests. If you're passionate about music, consider art pieces inspired by musical instruments or musicians. Landscapes or botanical prints could be a great fit if you love nature. Let your passions shine through the art you choose. La femme au chapeau by Souhayl A Custom Artworks: Commissioning custom artwork gives you a unique and personalized piece for your living room. Collaborate with local artists or artisans to create something tailor-made for your space. This way, you can have a one-of-a-kind artwork that perfectly complements your living room's style and reflects your individuality. Conclusion Selecting artwork for your living room is an opportunity to infuse your personality into your home's central gathering space. By considering factors such as size, placement, style, colour scheme, and personal preferences, you can curate a collection of art that enhances the ambience, serves as a focal point, and sparks conversations. Let your living room art reflect your unique taste and create a space like yours. Enjoy the process of selecting artworks that speak to you, and watch as they transform your living room into a beautiful and visually appealing haven. At RtistiQ we offer a wide variety of selection of works to elevate your living room. Be it large sized paintings, sculptures or photograph we are here to support you in selecting the right artwork that defines your personally. Discover works from our curated collections by our curatorial team. If you would like to get an exclusive session with our curators to support your art selection, click the link CONTACT AN ART ADVISOR and provide us with any specific details you can give us.

RTISTIQ TEAM

05 Jul 2023

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When it comes to designing your living space, art plays a crucial role in adding character, ambience, and personal touch to each room. Selecting suitable artwork for different parts of your home can transform a mere living space into a captivating haven. Whether you're aiming for a cosy living room, a serene bedroom, or a vibrant kitchen, this article will guide you through the process of choosing artwork that harmonizes with each room's unique style and purpose. By considering factors such as room function, colour scheme, and personal preferences, you can curate a collection that truly reflects your individuality and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home. Living Room Art The living room is often the centrepiece of a home, where family and guests gather. Therefore, selecting artwork for this space should create a focal point and set the tone for the entire room. Consider these tips when choosing art for your living room: Size and Placement: Opt for larger pieces or a gallery wall to make a statement. Place the art at eye level to ensure it captures attention without overwhelming the space. Style and Theme: Consider the existing decor and architectural elements. Whether your living room has a modern, eclectic, or traditional style, choose artworks that complement and enhance the overall aesthetic. Colour Palette: Take into account the colour scheme of your living room. Artworks that incorporate colours in your furnishings or accent pieces can tie the room together beautifully. Personal Taste: Select art that resonates with you on a personal level. Whether it's a favourite artist, a specific style, or a piece that holds sentimental value, your living room art should reflect your personality. For a more in-depth view with regards to collecting art for the Living Room, check this article "Choosing Art for Your Living Room: Elevate Your Space with Captivating Artworks" Bathroom Art Though often overlooked, the bathroom is an intimate space where you can infuse art to create a serene and relaxing ambience. Consider these suggestions when choosing art for your bathroom: Moisture-Resistant Materials: Bathrooms are prone to humidity and moisture, so choose artworks made from materials that can withstand these conditions. Sealed canvases, framed prints, or art decals are great options. Calming Imagery: Select art that promotes a soothing atmosphere. Opt for nature-inspired pieces, such as seascapes, botanical prints, or abstracts with soft tones, to create a tranquil environment. Scale and Placement: Bathrooms often have limited wall space, so choose smaller art pieces that fit the available area. Consider placing art above the bathtub, near the vanity, or on empty walls for a touch of elegance. Framing and Glass: To protect the artwork from moisture damage, use high-quality frames with protective glass or opt for frameless painting like acrylic prints. Kitchen Art The kitchen is a lively space where culinary creativity thrives. Choosing art for this area can inject personality and visual interest into the heart of your home. Consider the following factors when selecting art for your kitchen: Style and Theme: Decide on the overall tone of your kitchen, whether it's modern, rustic, or eclectic. Choose art that complements the decor, such as food-themed pieces or bold graphic prints. Colour and Contrast: Use art to add pops of colour and contrast to your kitchen. Consider the colour of your cabinetry and walls when selecting artwork, aiming for pieces that harmonize or create a striking juxtaposition. Practicality: Kitchens are high-traffic areas with a propensity for splatters and stains. Opt for artworks that are easy to clean, such as framed prints or canvas pieces that can be wiped down. Placement Options: Explore various placement options beyond traditional wall hangings. Utilize open shelves to display small sculptures, or consider magnetic frames on the refrigerator for a unique touch. Bedroom Art The bedroom is a private sanctuary for relaxation and personal expression. Choosing art for your bedroom involves creating a calming atmosphere that reflects your taste and promotes restfulness. Consider the following tips when selecting art for your bedroom: Mood and Emotion: Choose art that evokes emotions or memories you find soothing or inspiring. Consider soft landscapes, abstracts, or gentle figurative pieces that create a tranquil environment. Colour Palette: Opt for artwork with a colour scheme that promotes relaxation. Soft hues and pastels can enhance the peaceful ambience of the space, while muted or monochromatic pieces offer a more serene aesthetic. Scale and Placement: Determine the appropriate scale of artwork based on the size of your bedroom. Oversized pieces can be a focal point, while more miniature paintings can create a gallery-like display. Personal Connection: Select art that holds personal significance or reflects your interests and passions. Whether it's a cherished photograph, a favourite artist, or a piece that complements your overall bedroom theme, the art should resonate with you deeper. Hallways and Entryways Hallways and entryways serve as transitional spaces, connecting different parts of your home. Utilizing art in these areas can make a striking first impression and add visual interest. Consider the following tips when selecting art for your hallways and entryways: Gallery Wall: Create a dynamic display by arranging a collection of more miniature artworks or photographs along the hallway or entryway. Mix different sizes and styles for an eclectic look. Mirrors and Reflections: Incorporate mirrors or mirrored art to add depth and make the space appear larger. They can also reflect light, brightening up narrower hallways. Colour and Contrast: Use art to introduce colour and contrast to otherwise plain hallways. Consider bold and vibrant pieces that add energy or muted artworks for a calming effect. Lighting Considerations: Ensure the chosen artworks are adequately lit to maximize their visual impact. Utilize wall sconces or accent lighting to highlight specific pieces along the hallway or entryway. Conclusion Selecting artwork for different rooms in your home is a personal and exciting process. By considering the room's function, style, colour palette, and personal taste, you can curate a collection of art that elevates the ambience of each space. Whether you aim for a vibrant kitchen, a serene bedroom, or a charming living room, the right choice of art can create a cohesive and visually appealing atmosphere throughout your home. Remember to select pieces that resonate with you, evoke emotions, and reflect your individuality, as art is a reflection of your journey and a means to express your unique sense of style. With a thoughtful selection of art, you can transform your living space into a harmonious sanctuary that feels like home.

RTISTIQ TEAM

05 Jul 2023

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One cannot remain oblivious to the current buzz around NFTs. Almost all niches are talking about it, but the entertainment industry, including gaming, the visual arts, sports, and music, have benefited the most. If you're interested in investing in NFTs but aren't sure what they are but want a high-level overview, this blog is an excellent place to start. What is an NFT? NFT (Non-fungible token) describes a token that is both unique and unreplicable since it is composed of discrete parts that no one cannot use interchangeably. It means there is only one NFT in circulation, in contrast to the millions of units in circulation for cryptocurrencies. As they can be copied or traded for another, they can be bought and sold like any other piece of art. Since blockchain technology is utilized to verify the authenticity of NFTs, it will quickly expose any forgeries. For example, you can copy or take a photo of “Mona Lisa” art, but it doesn't mean you have the original art in your possession. To put it simply, NFT is effective in the same way. To clarify the operation of NFTs, let's assume we have access to a single image we can mint in the blockchain as NFT, and then we can sell it on the NFT marketplace. What is the meaning of a fungible token? Start by looking at this type of token for simplicity's sake. Tokens that are "fungible" can be traded for other tokens of the same type. Here's an example: a friend borrowed an old $10 bill. After a while, this friend can return a brand new $10 note, which will still be worth the same as the old one. However, NFTs cannot be exchanged for another asset, such as you cannot exchange Mona Lisa art just by copying it. What benefits investors will get from NFTs? As a cryptocurrency-like digital representation of rare items, NFTs have provided a new revenue stream for collectors and artists. In their digital form, fewer expenditures associated with upkeep and more asset protection are two other benefits of NFTs. In addition, it opens the door for traders and collectors to transact NFTs with reduced transaction costs, which could eventually transform how we gather rare collections. Some specific advantages of NFT are as follows. 1. Investors get ownership authenticity. Blockchain technology ensures the integrity of NFTs by linking the asset to a single record of ownership. NFTs can only ever have one owner, as their indivisibility makes it impossible to divide them among other people. 2. Verifiable originality of items. Furthermore, blockchain stores additional metadata about the integrity of NFTs, such as who owns them. This is why NFTs cannot be copied, replicated, or substituted for another. 3. Easily transferable. For example, the gaming business is where the benefits of NFTs become most apparent. We used to be able to leave in-game purchases in the game if we chose to stop playing permanently, but now we can take them with us. In addition, NFTs let players acquire virtual objects within a game and hold onto them indefinitely, whether using them in-game or putting them away in a digital wallet when they're done. Conclusion NFTs are a promising asset class for the knowledgeable investor, notwithstanding their relative novelty. They are indestructible and immune to environmental and mechanical factors. As a result, you could use them to make millions. If you would like to know then please do write to artworks@rtistiq.com or drop us a message by visiting our Contact Us page.

RtistiQ

30 Jun 2022

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About Colonial Style Colonial style is an interior design style often associated with the hot climate. Having a controversial history, it emerged during the Age of Discovery (15th and 16th centuries) and reached its highest refinement during the British Empire’s heyday, just before WWI. At its peak, a colonial-style house would have been a happy marriage between the best of both East and West. Unique furniture to cater to the British taste was made out of locally sourced wood and decorated exquisitely by master artisans from Africa, India, Asia, and the Caribbean. Today, colonial style defines a timeless aesthetic of natural materials on a plain background, spiced up by curated items. A style that embraces the hot and humid climate and its lavish nature. Natural materials and rich textures Given the tropical climate, the furniture was traditionally made from locally sourced wood such as teak or natural grasses, rattan, bamboo, cane, or wicker to allow it to expand and contract depending on the humidity levels. These materials are rich in texture and can add an extra layer of comfort but remain very practical. Banana leaf is woven light fittings, or ceiling fans add an exciting contrast against traditional darker furniture and keep you cool by ensuring better airflow. For indoor-outdoor living, low-maintenance jute rugs and lots of baskets for storage are essential. NATHAN PADDISON, HoleEarDaze Exotic prints Another important element of the colonial interior design style is the prints. Palm trees, tropical flora, fauna, or chinoiseries prints are often featured in this type of interior. Introduce prints subtly by adding soft furnishings, a few cushions on a plain couch, or the upholstery of a chair, or go all out with an entire wall or even a room covered in a statement jungle mural or a botanical-themed wallpaper. For someone far away from the tropics, looking to recreate the look, it might evoke feelings of exciting times of adventure and discovery. Still, for those lucky enough to call the tropics their home, it’s a constant reminder of the surrounding natural beauty. Eclectic collections Traced back to colonial times, this design style was defined by displaying eclectic artifacts collected during long explorative travels. Nowadays, it is less a Cabinet of Curiosities and more of beautifully curated vignettes of objects acquired during family holidays. Fine China and antique silver can be sat on shelves along with artisan objects, family photos, and hand-made candles – always channel your inner Wes Andersen when it comes to grouping objects. ANANTA MANDAL BanarasGhat II Beautiful art The eclecticism of the style can be successfully paired with contemporary art. Many contemporary artists are depicting nature-related subjects if you wish to highlight this in a more nature-oriented manner. If you prefer to create a more tranquil space, you can choose an atmospheric painting that works perfectly as a binder between the rest of the elements, through color pallet or even subject. Author: Floarea Baenziger Design credits: Vintage British Colonial Style Bamboo and Rattan Lowboy Dresser Modern Ceiling Lamp in the style of Chinese Lanterns. Vintage chair upholstered in a chinoiserie pattern called Chinese Garden A beautiful and inspiring book, Singapore Colonial Style: Interiors of Black & White Houses

RtistiQ

16 Aug 2021

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Choosing great art for your home can be one of the most fulfilling ventures. Nevertheless, the process of choosing art can be intimidating. Why? Because they don’t know how to choose the right artwork for their home or office. Luckily, we have a few questions to help you find out what artwork to buy. We’ll break it down into areas of the house to make it even easier to follow along. How to Choose Artwork for Your Office Buying wall art for the office can be tough, especially if you have business partners or clients visit. Do you work in a creative field?If so, consider abstract art with lots of unexpected color and shapes, something that keeps you thinking in new ways. This will keep you on your toes and show off your lively free thinking. Do you work in an engineering field or with statistics? Maybe go with clean abstract expressionism, like Mark Rothko or Barnett Newman. Thoseserene blocks of color will give off sophistication while appearing serious minded. Do you work in travel or serve a global clientele? Consider travel photography art prints. These will give your office that sense of adventure and world-wide reach that your work should inspire. Do you work in traditional fields that require high trust, like insurance or real estate? If you work in these sectors, go for representational paintings. A classic approach will establish you as reliable and rooted in a long legacy. As you can see, there is a kind of painting for almost every form of work. When you use artwork to align your office with your values, you’re already one step ahead of the competition. How to Choose Artwork for Your Kitchen The kitchen is the heart of the home. Why shouldn’t it have a lot of beautiful artwork? Do you cook a lot of a certain cuisine? If so, consider buying artwork from the same cultural background as the food you love to cook. This can be especially fun, as many of us use our cooking to connect to our cultural roots, even if we’ve moved to a different part of the world. If you go this route, make sure to support the artists from the culture. Do you like keeping a clean kitchen? If that sounds like you, you probably have a lot of white tile and/or stainless steel. Maybe you have marble countertops. These will give you colors and shapes to guide you in buying art. READ: Tips on How to Buy Art Online Are you the next Julia Child? If you like to experiment and push yourself to cook masterpieces, maybe you would like to fill the kitchen with still life paintings of food. There are plenty of fine art masterpieces that lovingly portray food, and these can be found in beautiful fine art prints. Is your kitchen a mess of unopened mail and used mainly to reheat leftovers? Yeah, we feel you. Maybe pick a strong theme and run with it. Find a subject matter you like (maybe paintings of nature or whatever fits you) and stick with it. This will give it a warm, at-home quality. No matter how you run your kitchen, there is a form of artwork to get you the right painting. How to Choose Artwork for Your Living Room Ah, the living room. The place where families come together. Why not give them something to look at? ● Do you do a lot of entertaining? Maybe go for big pop art pieces, something that really makes a statement. This can give the space a lot of energy and get people talking. ● Do you like to keep it cozy? Nostalgic painting of days gone by can help set the mood. Look for paintings that remind you of childhood, or those sweet moments by the fire. ● Is your living room toy central? If playtime is the main attraction, it might be good to pick something the kidswill love. Large animals are great, like giraffes and elephants and bears. ● Do you do more reading than TV watching? Express that side with prints of neoclassical paintings with historic scenes. Art is the perfect way to make a gathering space beautiful. Buying That Perfect Work of Art These questions should help you get on the right track and find the artwork you’ve been waiting for. No matter the space, you can find the painting for you. It might take a little time, but if you know what you want, you’ll get there. Good luck! If you are ready to explore artworks for your home & office, RtistiQ is the place to be. Our art platform makes the experience of buying art for your home enjoyable. From abstract art to nature collections, our online art gallery brings a wide range of artworks in multiple styles that fit your mood/taste. Explore our artworks today!

RtistiQ

13 Aug 2021

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What is Postmodernism? Like most of the movements in art and architecture, the Postmodern movement, sometimes called PoMo, developed as a reaction against Modern architecture and design. Unlike Mid-century modern architecture guided by simplicity and functionality, Postmodern design embraces unconventional ideas with an emphasis on playful, artsy, and extravagant style. The Postmodernists were not theoreticians, they enjoyed experimenting with vivid colors, theatrical shapes, exaggerated forms and mostly they enjoyed breaking the rules of architecture and design. The “Birth” of Postmodernism It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact starting point of Postmodernism, but most of the schoolers agree that a possible “birth” could be traced back to Ettore Sottsass’s Totem, an industrial ceramic work created for the exhibition "Menhir, Ziggurat, Stupas, Hydrants & Gas Pumps" in Milan in 1967, now part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art design collection. Another arguable origin for postmodernism is the book Learning from Las Vegas (1972) by the American duo Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown. In this book, the pair argues that the multiplicity of architectural styles that is so typical for Las Vegas hotels and casinos is a subversion of modernist notions of “taste”, particularly in the form of neon signage. Tacony Palmyra Bridge, SUE GRAF Punk is in the House Postmodernism emerged in times of rapid social change and challenging economic circumstances. This was a time when the anti-establishment subculture, the punk music and the deconstructed fashion of Vivian Westwood, emerged. Almost at the same time, at the end of the 70s, architect Frank Gehry was taking apart his Santa Monica home and reconstructed it in a radical manner much ahead of its time. The interior walls were removed to expose structural elements, plywood was added to the exterior, and corrugated metal panels, more common of barn roofs than of suburban homes, were used to decorate the outer walls. The statement of the 1980s In the 1980s everything became a style statement. Cutting-edge graphics in art, magazines and music videos energized a new, post-punk subculture. Postmodern characteristics of vivid colors, theatrical shapes and exaggerated forms became the dominant look in fashion, furniture and accessories. The MEMPHIS Group The Memphis Group was a radical design group that emerged in 1981 in Milan, Italy. The group was founded by the designer and architect Ettore Sottsass and his fellow Italian creatives with the aim to create a new design collective. They took their name from a Bob Dylan song titled Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again. Only six years later the members of this loose group of like-minded designers suddenly disbanded. Memphis was a reaction against the status quo. If the Bauhaus and the modernist designers made austere furniture with chrome and leather or expensive wood, Memphis designers had an affection for affordable materials such as plastic. The group’s concept was centered around “radical, funny, and outrageous”. Their aesthetic was a mix of geometric shapes, zany patterns and loud colors. Essentially, disregarding what was considered “good taste”, the Memphis group combined the geometric figures typical of the Art Deco movement from the 20s with the color palette of the Pop Art movement from the 60s with a touch of 50s kitsch. A Unique Style Controversy aside, the Memphis group was ground-breaking. Their use of clashing colors, haphazard arrangements was previously unseen. The laminate and terrazzo materials, which were usually used as flooring surfaces, were now incorporated into tables and lamps. It was a radical departure from the concept of objects designed to be functional, not decorative. Memphis changed all this with a more creative and humorous approach to design. Les chiens roses, DOMINIQUE ALBERTELLI From Subculture to Mainstream Among the early few supporters was the fashion designer of the Chanel House, Karl Lagerfeld. He was so impressed by Sottsass’s design that he bought his entire first collection. When David Bowie’s estate auctioned his art collection in 2016, it was revealed that he had collected more than 400 pieces of Memphis items since the '80s. Whit such influencing followers, the period Memphis items reached the cult status being highly sort after by design collectors and being exhibited in major art & design museums. V&A London has dedicated a major retrospective in 2011-2012 Postmodernism: Style and Subversion 1970 - 1990. Vitra Museum, in Germany, has currently on display Memphis: 40 Years of Kitsch and Elegance (06.02.2021 – 23.01.2022). Today the postmodernism is no longer a radical movement or a subcultural but it has become mainstream. The Revival of Postmodernism Once laugh at as the epitome of bad taste, the Memphis aesthetic is back in style, maybe once again as a reaction against the modernist-influenced interior design that has dominated the past decade from the Haussmannian apartments in Paris to Manhattan studios. Strange times are asking for bizarre furniture. If you feel brave enough to bring a touch of 80s in your home, the original Memphis pieces are still in production or have been re-edited and available for purchase through Memphis Milano. Additionally, the preloved furniture market is spoiled for choices with period items to dazzle your mood. Countless furniture and accessories young designers are reinterpreting this style by giving it a fresh look. Ruang Abu-abu, DIDUNG PUTRA Bold Art for Bold Design When it comes to choosing the art, there is no reason to be shy, follow the true Memphis spirit, and go for statement pieces, and vivid colors. Don’t forget that there is no middle way for this design style, more is more. References: Celia White, From Neon to New Order Paul Atkinson, Postmodernism: Style and Subversion, 1970-1990 Sarah Barnes, How the Memphis Movement Went Against “Good Taste” to Inspire Designers Today Design references: Playful Cocktail pendant light designed by Hanna Anonen Coffee table part of Kelly Behun's capsule collection and pop-up shop for Barney's New York Known as La Mamma, Big Mama, or Donna, the iconic Up red chair and footstool were created by Gatano Pescce in 1968 for B&B Italia. The ceramic turquoise black and white bowl designed by Ettore Sottsass in the 1960s for Bitossi Italia. Shogun table lamp was designed in 1985 by the Swiss architect Mario Botta for Artemide. Malachite large plate. Coffee table book The Impossible Collection of Design. Bishop ceramic occasional table or stool (pink and green) by the French interior designer India Mahdavi. 1972 Ekstrem chair designed by Terje Ekstrom. Sam Son chair designed by Konstantin Grcic for Magis Tahini lamp, 1981 a design icon by Ettore Sottsass.

RtistiQ

09 Aug 2021

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We usually think about buying art for our homes as a form of decor. And yes, that is an important role that art serves for us. But bringing art home has so many important benefits that are worth considering. These certainly include the look and feel of your rooms, but they also can improve our mood and creativity. Works of art for the home allow us to bring our internal values and tastes onto our walls. These amazing reasons to share your home with art make it so surprising that many people don’t have much art up on their walls at all. That’s something we’d like to change. So let’s dive into some of the core reasons we need art for our homes. On the journey, we should get a deeper appreciation for these pieces that we share our lives with. "la part du silence" 01, CHRISTIAN DE CALVAIRAC Art and Home Design Let’s start with the most obvious: art can emphasize and transform our home design. There is nothing like art to sharpen the look of our homes. When we want to bring out certain features, like the color of the wood panelling or the abundance of natural light in the morning, nothing works better than paintings, sculptures, and wall hangings. For instance: when we buy art for a minimalist home, we can bring in new details and motifs to liven up the look, or we can mirror the simple lines and stark colors to enhance the effect. Art pieces for home decor are great ways to use our own creativity in collaboration with the artist. We get to combine multiple elements to bring our home into alignment with ourselves. It’s worth mentioning that art is also one ofthe only ways that renters can take control of their interior design. While homeowners have some ability to make structural changes, many renters aren’t even allowed to paint their walls. Art can be the perfect solution for renters. It allows them to radically transform their living space without losing their deposit! Light, Tran Tuan Art for Mood If we go a little deeper, we can also use art to improve our mood. When we purchase art to make us happy or calm or energized, we can supercharge the rooms in our house with these effects. Let’s say you want to buy art for your home office. You can choose calming colors to keep you on an even keel (like greens and blues). Or, if you need that extra jolt of energy, you can try paintings with reds and yellows. We can follow this principle throughout our house. And we can go beyond color to focus on subject matter. Maybe you have beautiful memories from your childhood trips to the beach. Oceanscapes can fill your bedroom, allowing you to recharge and reconnect. Art is an incredible way to boost and change your mood. There’s really nothing like it. And what’s even better is that you can move art around. You don’t need to commit forever. As your tastes and needs change, so can the art in your house. The Marriage Proposal, PIERRE SOUFFLET Art to Express Yourself Your living space deserves to be your sanctuary, a place where you feel accepted and safe. It should make you feel, well, at home. Art expresses so much, the entire realm of human experience can be found in it. And when we purchase art, we begin to make a statement about ourselves. What are our values? Our beliefs? What do we find beautiful? By putting art up in our homes, we can let the core of who we are shine. This connects us back to who we are, and it can also reveal things that we didn’t even know about ourselves. Serenity, FEROZ KHAN Buying Art for the Home All of the above reasons make it clear that no home is complete without art and art prints on the walls! And yet, so many people allow their walls to stand bare. It doesn’t have to be this way. The truth is, there is always room for art in the budget. It’s such an essential part of our lives, and a home without anything on the walls isn’t much of a home at all. Sure, it can be intimidating to begin buying wall art. But if we remind ourselves of why we need art in our homes, that can help guide us to buy the right kind of work. Here are 5 tips on how to buy art online. If you are thinking about where to buy art for your home, RtistiQ is the place to be. Our platform makes the experience of buying art for yourhome enjoyable. From abstract art to nature collections, our online art gallery offers a wide selection of work in many different styles that fit your home. Explore our artworks today! Cover Image: Vibration of Nature, by AFSHANA SHARMEEN

RtistiQ

06 Aug 2021

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Wabi-sabi is a Japanese esthetic concept based on the principle of embracing imperfections. Having the same position in the Japanese pantheon of aesthetic values as the Greek ideals of beauty and perfection do in the Western culture, wabi-sabi is a concept derived from the Buddhist assertion of the first noble truth: Dukkha, or in Japanese mujyou (impermanence). Wabi reflects the idea of living with humility and simplicity while being at one with nature, while Sabi accepts and embraces flaws rather than seeking out perfection. The master of wabi-sabi style: Axel Vervoordt One of the hottest trends of 2021, wabi-sabi has been largely embraced by designers and trendsetters, reflecting perhaps our need to break away from the consumerist society and focus on the essence of life. One of the most celebrated personalities in interior design, the Belgian interior designer-cum-collector-cum-art dealer-cum-curator, Axel Vervoordt, is the main promoter of the wabi-sabi philosophy applied to interior decorating. Besides his hub, a 17th-century castle, part residence, part art, and design gallery, Vervoordt has curated numerous exhibitions at Palazzo Fortuny in Venice. He is a darling of the most renowned art and antique fairs. Vervoordt, whose clients include Robert De Niro, Kanye West, Bill Gates, and Sting, among others, has perfected the ability to create environments that look refined by the passing of time rather than created overnight. His idea of a perfectly curated space is a balanced blend of antiques, contemporary art, natural materials, and stucco walls – like a canvas. Big Batch , by MATTHEW DIBBLE Wabi-sabi applied to interior design Abstract concepts like wabi-sabi aren’t always easy to translate into an interior. We made a list of the basic principles you should follow when redecorating your home, including tips and tricks that you can use to give your home the cozy, good-vibe feeling that we all crave. Embrace the imperfections Remember that your home is not a showroom, so it shouldn’t feel like one. You don’t have to obsess over an asymmetrical living room filled with brand-new furniture and matching soft-furnishings. In the true wabi-sabi spirit, show appreciation for the natural process of aging. Copper acquires a beautiful green patina, the leather shows off creases that tell a story like and wood becomes glossy and changes the color, greased by the many tender touches over the years. Mix & match Be conscious when it comes to your big purchases and acquire a piece of furniture that comes with its history and that you can enjoy for a longer time. An antique dresser or a vintage coffee table will do the trick. You can look for inspiration in the mid-century furniture designed by the French architect Charlotte Perriand. Add to the mix Traccia table in patinated gold by the Swiss surrealist artist Merret Oppenheim. Do not fear mixing objects from different eras, don’t forget that every object was once contemporary. Revival , JULEE LATIMER Keep the colors toned down Choose a linen-covered sofa in an earthy color palette that can age gracefully. Go for stone-washed linen window dressing to allow indoors as much natural light as possible. Soft lighting is crucial for the tranquil atmosphere. Celebrate the artisans Accessorize the room with those hand-made baskets found on your last trip in Asia or with some studio pottery. No matter if they are asymmetrical, cracked, or uneven, they are raw and beautiful. Learn to appreciate imperfections and embrace authenticity. A lived-in look is much more reassuring and brings a sense of comfort than a sterile look. Don’t forget that your house is your sanctuary, and you should have around those objects that are “sparking joy”. Sparks Fly, LYNNE GODINA ORME Choose art that blends in When it comes to choosing your art - the deeper the mystery, the better! Choose artworks with heavy brush strokes in muted colors. In the wabi-sabi spirit, an abstract expressionist work of art could be considered unfinished by the viewer while still having a sense of balance. The master himself, Vervoordt, is fascinated and finds his inspiration in the postwar Japanese Gutai (1950s) abstract movement. According to Jiro Yoshihara (Gutai), an art movement that was highly appreciative of “art and architecture of the past that have changed their appearance due to the damage of time or destruction from disasters in the course of centuries.” Don’t transform your house into a museum but bring as much art, antiques, and collectibles into your life as you feel comfortable with. Invest in a piece of contemporary art that emulates an infinite journey, always captivating when looked at. Discover more contemporary art that matches the wabi-sabi style in our latest curated collection Art & Design. Sources: Patrick Kinonth, Inside the Extraordinary World of Interior Designer Axel Vervoordt, vogue.com Richard Martin, Wabi-Sabi, pepperdine.edu All Art Has Been Contemporary: AXEL VERVOORDT, 032c.com Design Icon Axel Vervoordt, The Aficionados Design credits: Belgian linen slope arm sofa Antique Tibetan rug with tiger motive The 9602 floor lamp made of wicker willow and brass, also known as “Chinese Hat”, was designed by Paavo Tynell in 1935 for Hotel Aulanko. Charlotte Perriand 1950’ coffee table made of pine. 17th-century Huanghuali yoke back armchair Traccia occasional table designed in 1939 by the Swiss surrealist artist Merret Oppenheim Atollo table lamp was designed by the Italian designer Vico Magistretti in 1979. 18th-century French mirror Lily shaped Ystad Metall candlestick holders designed by Alenius Björk Vintage water pot Blanc de chine censer, Qing dynasty, Kangxi (1662-1722) Modern blanc de chine double gourd vase Author: Floarea Baenziger

RtistiQ

02 Aug 2021

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Image Credit: Installation view of RIFTS: Thai contemporary artistic practices in transition, the 1980s – 2000s at BACC Bangkok Source: Timeout Magazine https://www.timeout.com/bangkok/art/rifts In 2013, when Art Basel opened the doors of its first edition in Asia, the New York Times reported: “…this year, Hong Kong, once derided as a cultural desert, nabbed a prize coveted by cities across the region—serving as Art Basel’s only Asian outpost. The inaugural Art Basel Hong Kong, which opens to the public today, has drawn planeloads of collectors and gallery bigwigs from the West, lured here in part by the growing, glittery market”. The fact that the world’s most prestigious art fair had settled in Hong Kong was interpreted as a milestone in Asia’s art market race to success. ART Basel Hong Kong, Source: Mousse Magazine In the past decades, in addition to the western interest in Asian art, a young generation of Asian collectors have begun turning their attention to the regional art scene, with the intent of creating a new model of collecting. A full annual calendar of biennials, shows, and art fairs has increased the region’s international visibility and it boosted the self-confidence of buyers from countries other than China, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore to adventure into collecting Asian art. Nevertheless, two decades is a very short time span for establishing a culture of collecting, therefore, much more art remains to be discovered and enjoyed, making the Asian Art Market one of the most exciting and promising art markets in the world. Here are some reasons why you should start collecting Asian art right now: THE CULTURAL COMPLEXITY AND DIVERSITY A critical question that has preoccupied the scholars is ‘What is contemporary Asian art?’ Contemporary art from Asia is now seen in major international exhibitions around the world, but is there such a thing as contemporary Asian Art when Asia is inhabited by hundreds of ethnicities speaking thousands of languages and dialects and practicing all major religions of the world? Art has been dramatically transformed by the late twentieth-century process of globalization. An extensive exchange between Europe and America on one side and Asia on the other side has led to the uniformity of the art practices across the globe - on the surface. Beneath the surface, contemporary Asian art cannot be removed from the context of tremendous political and economic changes in the region and from its history and cultural heritage, which is making it unique and adding layers of complexity. PHILIPPINES After the independence of the Philippines (1946) the quest for cultural identity began. In the decades that followed, Filipino art has seen fast changes that revived the interest in indigenous and non-Hispanic culture and the break from the colonial past. After an intense modernist period (Jose Joya) dominated by abstract American aesthetics, avant-garde experiments followed (David Cortez Medalla) only to pave the way for conceptual art (Ray Albano and Roberto Chabet). When the social realist-dominated era under the regime of Ferdinand Marcos finally came to an end, artists started to look elsewhere for inspiration reviving an earlier interest in the indigenous communities (Imelda Cajipe Endaya). Currently, many contemporary artists are exploring topics such as mass migration and the socio-political situation. Paytas 2013, Oscar Villamiel, Source: Artsy Oscar Villamiel’s work highlights elements of poverty, consumerism, and religion in his country. During the 2013 Singapore Biennale, he exhibited a large-scale installation Payatas that featured thousands of salvaged doll heads and other items gathered for two-and-a-half years to remember the victims of a tragedy that took place in the Payatas, Quezon City, where a number of unaccounted scavengers died under the collapse of the land. Ronald Ventura is another prominent contemporary Filipino artist known for his unique style and dynamic scenes combining realism, cartoons, and graffiti. Ventura's references range from science fiction, Western history, Asian mythology, Catholicism and popular comic book characters. INDONESIA AND THAILAND Super Jumbo, 2011, Heri Dono, Source: The New York Times As the first Indonesian artist to break into the global art scene during the early 1990s, Heri Dono's work is highly appreciated for his use of traditional art forms such as Hindi literature, Wayang puppetry, Javanese metaphysics, recycling techniques and a wicked sense of humor. These creative practices express Dono’s commitment to social justice and his interest in revitalizing arts that are deeply rooted in Indonesian traditions. Thai artist Piyarat Piyapongwiwat uses her art as a platform to give a voice to marginalized groups and to highlight the difficulties faced by artists in a military-run country like Thailand. The many other examples of the very complex art practice specific to contemporary Asian artists should determine any person with an interest in art to start a personal voyage of discovery and to build connections with the art produced in the region. ECONOMIC REASONS There has always been a direct relationship between the wealth of society and the art market since art collecting is the privilege of individuals having disposable income. According to the World Wealth Report report, HNWI population in the Asia-Pacific region in 2020 was 6.9 million with a cumulated wealth of US$24 trillion, ranking second after North America, a year-on-year increase of 5.8% and 8.4%, respectively. Source: https://worldwealthreport.com/reports/population/north-america/ Furthermore, according to The World Economic Forum, in 2020, an estimated 2 billion Asians were members of the middle class and that number is set to increase to 3.5 billion by 2030. In comparison, middle-class membership in the Americas is expected to hit 689 million in 2030, currently counting 647 million in 2020. Source: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/07/the-rise-of-the-asian-middle-class Asia is looking great in statistics, a strong reason for optimistic predictions for the art market in the near future. A growing middle class is a sign of economic health and it is expected to translate into increasing demand for art and further market appreciation for contemporary Asian artists, as can already be observed in the secondary art market. Major auction houses (Christie’s, Sotheby’s and Phillips) are hosting Contemporary Asian Art sales with great success. GROWING POTENTIAL Considering the affordability of the Asian art market, when compared to the established western nations, now is the ideal time to start collecting or expanding your collection of Asian contemporary art. Asian artists have been steadily making waves, and history, amid decades of growth. But despite seeing a positive trend, there are still many under-evaluated artists with an incontestable historical value. For example, Kazuo Shiraga’s paintings are sold for millions at auction, in comparison with other pioneer members of the Gutai movement being sold in the lower hundreds; the same could be said about the post-war generation of conceptual Filipino artists or the Indonesian and Thai contemporary artists. 10,000 Paintings I Must Paint Before I Die, 2009, Roberto Chabet, Source: Asia Art Archive Having said this, there are many contemporary artists whose markets remain primary. The number of artists that had no exposure to the auction system makes up a substantial part of Asia’s emerging contemporary art landscape. Many Asian artists are successful in their country through their studios, local galleries, or cultural institutions, but haven’t yet had the opportunity to establish themselves on the international scene. Closing this gap is possible by enabling technology to connect artists and collectors. This comes as a big responsibility for art platforms and art marketplaces such as RtistiQ. A FUNCTIONAL ART ECOSYSTEM A growing Asian network of art institutions, art events, art academics and professionals is crucial in the effort of the self-determination of contemporary Asian art. To quote the director of one of the most ground-breaking art spaces, Para Site Hong Kong, Cosmin Costinas: “There are great efforts currently done to decolonize the world of art, from what is being said and by whom they are being said, to how we understand institutions and funding and the power structures that lie behind them.” Growing an art infrastructure focused on Asian art is crucial for the art market to reach its potential. These institutions are playing a key role in researching, documenting, and recording artists, art movements, their interconnections, together with the socio-political and economical context from which they have emerged, ultimately validating artists independently from the Western art recognition system. In the past decades, many blue-chip dealers (Pace Gallery, Gagosian, White Cube, and David Zwirner) have been setting up outposts in Asia, especially in Hong Kong but most importantly, many homegrown galleries have become internationally successful and are able to foster the careers of Asian artists. The institutional scene has also come a long way with the opening of many private and public museums and art institutions: Hong Kong Museum of Art, Singapore Art Museum, MACAN Jakarta, Mori Art Museum Tokyo, soon to be open M+ Museum Hong Kong, Asia Art Archive Hong Kong, BACC Bangkok, MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum in Chiang Mai. In normal times, a full art calendar of major art events is keeping the art enthusiasts busy for the entire year: Biennale: Gwangju Biennale (South Korea) Busan Biennale (South Korea) Bangkok Art Biennale Thailand Shanghai Biennale China Taipei Biennial Taiwan Kochi-Muziris Biennale, India Guangzhou Triennial, China Art Fairs: Art Basel Hong Kong Shanghai Contemporary Art Fair India Art Fair Tokyo International Art Fair Art Fair Philippines Art Jakarta, Indonesia Discover emerging Asian artists on RtistiQ and start collecting their art available in our latest curated collection ASIAN ART TO COLLECT. https://art.rtistiq.com/en/collections/asian-artists-to-collect- Author: Floarea Baenziger

RtistiQ

10 Jul 2021

5 min to read

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Art collectors are buying more work online than ever before. Obviously, a major factor over the last year has been the pandemic. The push for contactless purchasing drove online art buys through the roof, but that is an extreme spike that matches a growing trend. So while the pandemic kicked things into high gear, the market was already trending towards more online art purchases year after year. We now live in an art market dominated by online sales. While things open up, this will likely drop a bit, but there is no question that going forward, online art buying is a major factor. So you might be wondering, then, why do art collectors buy online? Especially in non-pandemic conditions? Well, it turns out there are a lot of really good reasons people buy art online. We’ll examine the most important below. Availability Availability is, more than any other factor, the most important reason that art collectors are going online to look for their next purchase. Think about it: if you want to buy art in person, it needs to be available within traveling distance. If not, you might need to hire an art advisor or art dealer to find and procure the work for you. If you don’t have the money to hire a specialist to find and buy art for you, then you might have to actually travel yourself to find what’s available. But if you don’t have the resources to buy art through an advisor or dealer, what are the chances you can go jet setting around to different art markets looking for your next favorite painting? Of course, it can be incredibly fulfilling to find art by going to local art fairs and galleries. But the reality is that no matter how great of an art market you live in — whether it's New York City, Los Angeles, London, or anywhere else — there is more work available online than in your area. To make matters even more compelling for online art sales, many emerging artists are only available online. And as technology like NFTs push more artwork into the purely digital realm, further increasing the availability gap between online and offline. Convenience Something that many online platforms have leveraged to disrupt their given industry is ease of use. In the art market, it’s no different. The fact is, you can scroll through hundreds and even thousands of artworks in an afternoon from the comfort of your home. Once you find exactly what you are looking for, you can then put in your payment information and delivery instructions (for most of us, that’s already preloaded in our browser) and then be done with the transaction. That process is so simple and direct compared to many forms of art buying. Like every other sector of the economy, online sellers have found convenience to be their silver bullet. And that silver bullet is especially effective in an often confusing and sometimes hard to navigate market like art. Things Can Be Clearer Speaking of the confusion in the art market, another major benefit of buying online is the clarity of terms. When working with art dealers and art advisors, prices are not always fixed. Buying art isn’t like buying furniture or clothes. Terms can sometimes be in flux. If there are multiple interested buyers, you might find yourself in an impromptu blind auction. But when work is posted for sale online, everything is usually laid out crystal clear. This allows the buyer to know exactly what to expect and just how much it will really cost. That clarity can be very attractive to art collectors, especially when they do not have an enormous amount of time and money to devote to buying. Price Despite our desire to patronize local businesses, we all have to admit that we buy many things online on price alone. Art works the same way. The fact is, art is often less expensive online. Even when buying from an online gallery with retail markup, the lack of overhead often means lower prices than as offered at physical Art Galleries or Art Fairs. Online Galleries and Marketplaces offer a much more lower markup for their services, which makes more of the artworks affordable to your price point. With better prices, clear terms, greater convenience, and unbeatable availability — online art buying is becoming a favorite option among many art collectors. While the online space will never fully replace the joy of visiting a gallery or local art fair, it will continue to grow as a part of the art market. Why wait? Shop online today on www.rtistiq.com. Enjoy 7 Day Delivery & 14 Day Return policy for all users.

RtistiQ

06 Jun 2021

5 min to read

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