Any of the following sound familiar? You see (OK, covet) some artwork on a gallery wall somewhere (most likely on Instagram) and wonder why it works so well in the space, where they found this seemingly unique piece and how you can emulate it – and all without spending a fortune? Turns out, it's actually much more doable than you might have thought – you just need to know where to start. So if your idea of an easy update is nabbing some wall art, you've come to the right place.
Before you buy, plan…
First things first, it's all about prep. So narrow down what you’re looking for – identify what pieces you’re drawn to, whether it’s artsy abstracts, minimalistic line drawings or bold typographic prints. You don't need us to tell you that art is about personal taste and instinct, but once you've acknowledged what you want, there’s the scope to completely set the tone of a room.
Pairs of botanical drawings sit prettily above bedside tables with soothing symmetry, while large, vibrant singular prints in a room instantly draws your eye. If you’re considering building a gallery wall, choose one work to act as a focal point and get creative from there.
When you shop, experiment…
Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box when you’re hunting for pieces for your wall. Textiles can be an inexpensive choice; printed silk handkerchiefs are chic mounted in a simple glass frame, while a large wall hanging looks simple yet striking when hung solo on a blank expanse of wall. Just be sure to measure your space and read the dimensions of any piece you're considering before buying. Masking tape will be invaluable for mocking up the size of a print and assessing whether it's the right fit for your space.
Once you've purchased, hang (artfully)…
OK, so you're the proud owner of something beautiful, but just how do you display it to its best? The universal view is that pieces should be hung at eye level – this is the way art galleries and museums display their wares – but it’s your home and there are no hard and fast rules and when it comes to creating a gallery wall. The best way to plan a gallery wall is to clear a space on your floor to play around with the layout of your chosen pieces until you settle on the one that feels just right. If you struggle to commit to a layout, a picture ledge is a good option for display, allowing you to swap your pieces on show in an instant without the hassle of hanging. See! It's easy when you know how.
Here are some of our favourite art-on-a-budget stockists
Narchie
Love up-and-coming artists? Support them via this app. They stock charming pieces like this by Chilean artist Carla LLanos.
Tate Gallery Shop
Prints of all the classics are available at the Tate Shop by the likes of Matisse, Picasso and Hockney. Plus, they have an excellent range of new and vintage exhibition posters.
Partnership Editions
Partnership Editions aim to make great art accessible to all, collaborating with exciting emerging artists to curate prints and originals from a starting price of around £60, like this striking abstract piece by Laurie Maun.
Domenica Marland
Benefit from the excellent eye of Domenica Marland, a young online art dealer whose considered collection takes the hassle out of finding something unique and affordable. This ode to cocktail hour by Tatiana Alida would be our choice.
Print Sisters
Run by two siblings, Print Sisters print reworked and revived designs, inspired by archived and vintage textiles and artworks. Each print is limited to 500 editions, so you know you're investing in something unique. They also sell some originals, but these are a little less budget-friendly.
Wondering People
Wondering People is a thoughtful art collective that sources original works including paintings, drawings and photography. While prices vary, there are some affordable options available, such as striking black and white photographic prints by Thom Corbishley.
PSTR Studio
Based in the Netherlands but operating worldwide, PSTR Studio works with exceptional artists all over the world to create unique high-quality prints on fine art paper, like this digital print by Maria Murphy. Prices begin at £40.
Oliver Bonas
Hit the high street for bright, colourful framed pieces, easily for under £100. This reprint of a colour chart is sure to make a statement.
Poster Store
Digital prints galore here, ranging from typography to photography. Shop here.
