Art Scene India: Art in Interiors

Showing posts with label Art in Interiors. Show all posts

2 Jul 2018

Art in Decor: Art for Open Spaces

Art need not be limited to interiors of homes and can also be displayed in the garden or terrace

When we think of art for our homes, we tend to restrict ourselves to conventional art forms such as paintings for the interiors, and often neglect exterior walls, terraces and other open spaces. Canvas paintings may not be the best choice for areas that are exposed to weather conditions but there are several other options which can be explored for open spaces such as the terrace, garden and large balconies.

These areas are also used for socializing and interacting with guests, especially when the mercury rises and warmer temperatures make the outdoors more attractive and appropriate for entertaining. Instead of bare spaces devoid of art, artefacts or accessories a well decorated area makes it more intimate and pleasant.

Art in Decor: Art for Open Spaces, Art Scene India

From traditional folk and tribal art to contemporary sculptures and installations, there are multiple options which are suitable for open spaces. Over the years, art from recycled material has also grown in popularity as a display piece in the open air.

As these artworks will be exposed to different weather conditions and will have to withstand fluctuating temperatures and rain for a prolonged period, it is important to select them with care.

Sculpting Evolution by Kalyan S Rathore

Selection

When buying or commissioning artworks for open spaces one must consider the medium and the material which is used.
For instance, stone, fiberglass and metals which have been treated are more suitable for the outdoors.
Instead of buying multiple artworks, focus on one or two larger pieces that are likely to create a more striking impact.
It may also be a good idea to opt for customized art as an extension of the existing theme to create a cohesive effect.

Display

In open areas, art can be displayed on the wall, floor or ground and may also be suspended from a beam.
Murals can be painted directly on the walls or three dimensional artworks can be secured onto the wall.
Large sculptures are ideal for open areas and are extremely versatile when it comes to their display.
Installations, particularly multimedia and those involving light, water and sound can be especially stunning for large open spaces and form the perfect backdrop for a dramatic setting.

Open areas in homes are primarily informal spaces which may also be used for socializing and therefore it is essential to infuse a sense of fun and vibrancy through the choice of art. Vivid colours can make the place animated and cheerful. However, in rare instances when a formal décor theme is extended onto the open area, abstract and conceptual artworks are ideal for display.

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13 Oct 2017

Art in Interiors: Buying Art for the Festive Season

Fresh artworks can infuse a new life in your surroundings and add a creative flair to the décor

The festive season is a great time to renovate and redesign interiors and add finishing touches to the décor. A beautifully designed space is incomplete without good art. Paintings on the wall, sculptures and installations in open spaces, murals painted directly on wall surfaces, assemblages and tabletop sculptures among a host of other options offer multiple ways to individualize interiors and add that creative flair to the décor. The festive season is therefore a great time to buy art for display in your home and also as a gift for loved ones.

Buying Art for the Festive Season, Art in Interiors, Art Scene India, Image courtesy pixabay.com

When buying art, it is best to buy original art by well-known artists, which is not only a great investment but also adds class and personality to the décor. Buying fresh artworks can infuse a new life in your surroundings. Colours from the painting can be repeated or coordinated in the furnishings and even wall colours. And, one can actually decide on furniture, architectural details, for instance create wall niches to display art, flooring, drapes and other furnishing and accessories based on the art.

Also, art can be purchased as a basis for decorating interiors or selected according to the existing décor. For instance, when renovating, select an artwork which can provide a theme for the décor and can even help in choosing the décor style, for instance, ethnic, modern or eclectic, for that particular space or the entire home according to one’s preferences. Look for artworks which appeal to you and then evaluate the purchase based on the available space, wall surface, size and budget.

Commission an artist to do an artwork which is exactly to your specifications in terms of space, size, colours and subject. Discuss the concept and your requirements with the artist to chalk out a blueprint that matches perfectly. Paint an entire wall around a festive theme or paint a piece of furniture in multi coloured hues. It could be an abstract rendition or a work in pop art. There are immense possibilities when you work with an artist directly.

Folk art in vibrant hues is also a good option during the festive season; these are priced affordably and also explore traditional celebratory themes. Buy from galleries which promote folk art where you can purchase exclusive pieces, rather than mass produced images.

Display

To ensure the focus remains on the art piece, the space should be clutter free and the painting well lit. When putting up large paintings it is best to space them out. Save oversized paintings for large areas. Small paintings that reflect a theme or a colour scheme can be grouped on a wall; an odd number is visually more pleasing to the eye.

The wall surface and its size can also be used as a guide to select a set of paintings, for instance, paintings can be grouped vertically on a narrow strip of wall. In passages, more than one painting can be hung on the wall to create a visual diversion in a functional space that is unexciting by itself. Similarly, a set of small paintings in the kitchen is better than having a single large one.

Paintings are typically hung on walls, however, they can also be displayed on a floor easel, which is a great way to fill up spaces; it is especially useful when you don’t want to put nails in the wall. Smaller paintings can be displayed on tabletops with the help of small easels or can be rested against books.

Art can be accentuated with the help of ceiling-mounted spotlights or recessed lights as direct light can damage the paintings.

Published in Times of India, Bangalore
Images courtesy pixabay

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29 Nov 2016

Protect Your Home Interiors

Many of you are aware that I also write on art in interiors, decorating spaces, and discuss ideas on home décor. As part of this, I am always on the lookout for innovative products that are beautifully designed, can be utilized during the construction process or offer design and sustainable solutions to the consumer.

One of the issues that often comes up in every home is linked to water seepage and leakage, which can result in damp patches, mould spots and leaks in parts of our home. This can be an unfortunate situation due to inadequate waterproofing in buildings and houses. Waterproofing may sound like a mundane requirement or a chore that must be completed somehow. But, believe me it is a necessary step absolutely crucial during the stage of construction to ensure that your house remains waterproofed. Now when you are investing so much in constructing a house and doing up the interiors, apart from the financial commitment you are also investing time and effort in a home in which you and your loved ones will live for years. The last thing you want is a house that gets easily damaged due to leakage and seepage of water from the ceiling, walls or floor. It therefore makes sense to invest in a high quality waterproofing option right at the construction stage.

I often talk about how to buy and display art, how to build an art collection and tips on decorating with art and artefacts. Much of this is really interlinked with waterproofing as well. For instance, if any one of the surfaces that you have an artwork in contact with or in close proximity to is damp, it can be disastrous for your valuable art. And as you know, moisture and dampness can damage artworks irrevocably thereby affecting their investment and resale value.

Similarly, damp environs can be a huge issue for your interiors in general. Furniture, artefacts and accessories and more importantly the health of your family is also affected. Allergies and respiratory problems can multiply manifold in a damp environment, when mould can grow and spread diseases.

Waterproofing at the construction stage itself is the best way to deal with this problem. Ideally, waterproofing should be done when the building is under construction so that the foundation, ceiling, walls, floor, bathrooms and storage tanks are waterproofed appropriately. Also, while renovating remember to implement waterproofing. Again, if there is any seepage later on, waterproofing can still be done to fix the problem. Fortunately, it costs only a fraction of the total cost of the construction; therefore there is no excuse to not implement it.

It is important that you utilise the best quality waterproofing solutions offered by Dr. Fixit. Sub-standard products will not last for long and will cause more problems for you.

Protect Your Home Interiors, Pidilite Bloggers Meet at Acetech Bangalore, Dr Fixit Waterproofing Expert, Dr Fixit Mobile App, Art Scene India

You could also use the Dr. Fixit’s updated mobile application, a user friendly interface to find out what are the various options available to you, and in fact you can also get in touch with them on the contact details that are mentioned on the app itself.

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3 Oct 2016

Doll Festival: An Amalgamation of Art with Festive Traditions

Integrating art with festive traditions creates innovative and unique narratives, which also add a contemporary touch to traditional tableau, writes art consultant Nalini S Malaviya

Traditional rituals offer a great opportunity to reiterate customs and traditions, and help in bringing alive oral histories for the younger generation. The doll festival, Gombe Habba, which is held during Dussehra in Southern parts of India, involves displaying traditional and rare dolls, figurines, heirlooms, artefacts and toys on a tiered platform. The various arrangements in which the dolls are exhibited are unique to family customs but adopt creative modes of storytelling, while focusing on the décor as well. Traditional themes and mythological tales are popular motifs in building the tableau, but contemporary issues are also now becoming part of exhibits.

Doll festival, Karnataka, Image courtesy http://www.karnataka.com/festivals/dasara-doll-festival/

The doll festival with its rich plurality of artefacts is a wonderful example of the fine craft traditions in India, and many times involves sourcing dolls from across the length and breadth of the country – a practice which is valuable in giving a boost to indigenous crafts. The Gombe is a great way to build narratives around folk traditions and mythological characters and to revive traditional rituals and renew interest in age old crafts. Antique dolls, such as those that have been in families for generations add historicity and interest to the decorations. Therefore the Gombe can be an effective combination of art and craft, tradition and décor.

Some of the key elements involved in creating an outstanding display are creativity, the material such as dolls and toys in this case and the format of the exhibit. To form unusual and enchanting narratives and décor, art can be used to enhance the display and to add interest. For instance, contemporary art which is based on reinterpretation of Indian mythology and borrows from traditional motifs, or art which is adapted from folk and tribal arts can be used very effectively along with traditional dolls in the Gombe to create new and unusual vocabularies.

Similarly, contemporary statues and figurines that are based on traditional forms and motifs can be a great addition to the main exhibit. Two dimensional artwork in the form of canvas and silk paintings and tapestries can form the perfect backdrop to the exhibit and also be an integral element in the storytelling. Contemporary art which is based on religious iconography is also a value addition from a décor perspective and in creating inventive exhibits.

Doll Festival: An Amalgamation of Art with Festive Traditions, Image courtesy Times Property

The storytelling in the tableaus narrate vignettes from the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, however, modern themes around urban issues pertaining to gender, environment, and water and natural resources are also being depicted these days. In portraying modern ills and concerns, contemporary art can augment and emphasize the theme and convey the message effectively, while covering large expanses with artwork.

It is important to rekindle awareness about traditional rituals and by adopting innovative measures one can renew interest in their significance, create innovative décor trends and encourage a celebratory atmosphere.

Published in Times Property, Bangalore

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25 Mar 2016

Guide: The Fine Art of Buying

Art is a visual investment, and as a medium has the ability to alter the aesthetics of the environment

Buying your first work of art can be intimidating and perhaps, also perplexing. How does one decide which artist’s work to buy or where to buy it from? Similarly, there are questions related to style, genre, medium, size and of course, the price of the artwork. These can all add further to the confusion. So, here are a few tips to guide you towards selecting and buying an artwork.

Guide: The Fine Art of Buying, art buying tips, Art Scene India

Empower yourself

The first step is to visit a few art galleries to see the works that are displayed there, and consider what engages you - which works do you feel aesthetically, emotionally and intellectually drawn to? Notice your reaction to the works displayed and this will give you an indication of the kind of works that you relate to. Visualize these on your walls now and consider if you would like to look at them over and over again. Remember that art is a long term investment and that is very unlikely that you would purchase a new work of art for your living room every couple of months.

The next step is to look up online galleries and browse through images to learn more about various genres, styles and corresponding prices. Again, this will give you a sense of the kind of art which engages you, as well as direct you to artists whose works you like.

Make sure, you do this only after you have visited and viewed art galleries, since the physicality of viewing art is an important step in understanding its nuances, for instance the tactility of the medium, use of pigments and materials, textural quality and the dimensionality of the artwork are evident only when you stand before it. In fact, also visit artist studios and interact with artists whenever possible. This will facilitate an understanding of processes, and materials and media.

In parallel, read up on articles to know more about artists and current exhibitions. It will give you a sense of art trends, popular artists and will cultivate familiarity with the language used in describing art. This will also help you in understanding text accompanying art, which in turn offers insights into the work.

Set a budget

It is important to set aside a budget for art so that there is clarity on the amount that you are willing to invest in art. It would be advisable to begin with a small amount, perhaps in the Rs 20,000 - 50,000 range, which allows you to gain confidence in the initial period of learning. You could consider buying works by upcoming artists as these are likely to be in the affordable range. You could also purchase limited edition prints, drawings and watercolours, which are generally priced lower, in comparison to oils and acrylics.

Following these steps will ensure you learn about art and the art market, enabling you to make the right choices when it comes to buying for your home. Even if you are buying art at your interior decorator’s advice, take the time to be personally involved.

Art is a visual medium of expression, which can be used creatively to complement home interiors. It is a visual investment, and as a medium has the ability to alter the aesthetics of the environment completely and as you learn more about its finer aspects, you can incorporate both style and substance in your home interiors.

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2 Mar 2016

Art in Interiors: Sculpture as a Décor Element

A sculpture is a beautiful way to alter the dynamics of the space and add an interesting facet to it. The aesthetics (form, material and the concept) of the artwork, interplay of light, its interaction with the surroundings contribute in transforming the space. Being three dimensional, large sized sculptures require more space when displayed in homes - either inside living areas or outside in the open. As opposed to a painting, which is displayed on a wall, a sculpture is placed on a pedestal or directly on the floor and therefore requires special considerations in terms of space and visual impact.

"Of Sounds and Silences" by Raviram Ramakrishnan, Image courtesy Galerie de' arts, Sculpture in decor

Sculpture by Raviraam Ramakrishnan

A large sculpture placed in any space will interact with it in multiple ways, also because of its extra dimension, which allows it to be viewed from all sides. It would be advisable to place the sculpture in an area which is clear and clutter free, has high visibility and is relatively traffic free. The style and the material are important in deciding where to display the sculpture.

In a garden or terrace, a sculpture can be integrated into the landscaping to create a cohesive and enhanced impact. The important thing to consider when displaying a sculpture in the open is to ensure that it is made of a material which is weather resistant. For instance, stone such as marble or granite, fiberglass, terracotta, and metals which have been specially treated are ideal for the outdoors. When displaying in the outdoors, a sculpture could complement the exteriors better if it is directly placed on a surface - ground, parapet, ledge, etc. Alternately, a pedestal which is made of natural material will enhance harmony between the sculpture and the setting.

Life size statues are hugely popular as outdoor sculptures. Traditional forms of sculpture are ideal for displaying in the garden; for instance human, animal and mythological figures. Themes which are based on outdoor subjects are suitable – these could be folk, rural or contemporary. A traditional sculpture can be a reminder of stone and rock art from ancient monuments and heritage buildings and help recreate a sense of historicity.

Conceptual pieces in stainless steel or multimedia sculptures are ideal for the terrace or the centre of the garden, and can form interesting anchor points for conversation during garden parties and other gatherings.

It is also essential to consider both natural lighting and spotlights when exhibiting these artworks in open spaces. All artificial lighting must be strategically placed to bring out the features of the sculpture, yet avoid creating a harsh or glaring effect. The illumination should be appropriate to bring out details of carvings, relief work, planes, shadows and textures.

The writer is an art consultant

This article was published in The Times of India-The Address recently.

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7 Apr 2015

Art in Interiors: Art on Rugs and Tapestries

Historically, expensive textiles have been symbolic of wealth, status and power. Plush carpets and rugs have been used for many centuries as a sign of prosperity, and having one underfoot was considered a luxury which not many had. In paintings too, especially portraits it was common to see expensive rugs as an integral part of the setting. For instance, sixteenth century portraits of wealthy patrons often used carpets to indicate their sophisticated status and their standing in society.

Yellow Oriental carpet in Hans Memling altarpiece of 1488–1490. The "hooked" motif defines a "Memling carpet". Louvre Museum, Source Wikimedia, Art Scene India

Yellow Oriental carpet in Hans Memling altarpiece of 1488–1490. The "hooked" motif defines a "Memling carpet". Louvre Museum, Source Wikimedia

There are numerous varieties of carpets and rugs which are in demand for their textures, patterns and colours, based on the place of their origin, weave, quality of materials used and age. Antique carpets and rugs can be very expensive and are highly coveted. On the other hand, unusual carpets, rugs and tapestries with paintings and designs by fine artists also add an unusual element to home décor and these are also preferred and much sought after by art connoisseurs.

A Navajo rug made circa 1880

Pop art, abstracts, mythological subjects and contemporary paintings are popular as textile art - paintings by fine artists are also transferred or woven into rugs. Artists Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein’s art is widely depicted on rugs, where their well-known works are shown. Their bright colours, geometric motifs and patterns, images from popular culture make them trendy accessories that can transform any space. Handmade carpets and rugs are the ones which are more desired as compared to machine made ones. Therefore, when buying rugs designed by fine artists, it is advisable to look for ones that are handmade and ethically produced.

Similarly, tapestries are created by artists – these may have an entirely new series of paintings on them or have an earlier painting woven. It requires an exceptional skill to produce tapestries in order to match the original design and colours. In fact, if you like a particular painting, you can always have it woven into a tapestry by a skilled craftsman. A tapestry should be displayed on the wall to emphasize the colours, design and texture to its advantage.

Although it is more common to have a rug on the floor, there are times when you may want it displayed on the wall instead. This could be because of its size, rarity, vintage value and price. When displaying it on the wall, it is important to highlight it yet take adequate care to ensure no nails or adhesives are used.

This article was published in The Times of India-The Address recently.

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12 Dec 2014

Art in Interiors: Miniature Paintings in Home Décor

Traditional miniature paintings are exquisite and should be displayed in an uncluttered environment.

Miniature paintings, as the name suggests are small format artworks with innate historical and traditional linkages. In India, the miniature style of painting is believed to date back to the 16th century, although earlier accounts do exist. Miniatures are traditionally colourful, intricately executed and are typically done on various surfaces such as paper, wood, silk etc. Early works feature portraits, ceremonies, court and hunting scenes, stories from epics and mythology – different schools have their own peculiarities and styles. Some of the notable traditions of miniature painting in India are the Mughal, Rajasthani, Pahari and Deccani courts.

Traditional miniature painting 'Krishna and Radha' by Nihâl Chand, used under creative commons license, Art in Interiors, Art Scene India

This form of art is delightful and immensely collectable. Paintings which are old have a great vintage and antique value. Often rare and infrequently sold during auctions or private sales, the minute artworks are heavily prized for their delicately detailed work and their historicity.

Miniature paintings are exquisitely intricate and have such fine brushstroke that they need to be displayed on uncluttered walls with minimal mounts and frames so as not to distract from the wonderful stories that are being articulated in the images. From a home décor perspective, miniature art with its historical themes are ideally suitable for traditional and ethnic décors. The effect can be enhanced by displaying them in a cluster and highlighting them with suitable lighting. Grouping them according to theme, period and school which they belong, to build a narrative would work best to heighten the impact.

Mughal miniature painting from the Hamzanama series, used under creative commons license, Art in Interiors, Art Scene India

Their antique look and vintage appearance add much to their value and as long as they are in fairy good condition one need not tamper with them.

In case, one doesn’t have access to original miniature works, there are a few artists who can reproduce and also make their own small format paintings. These too can be grouped and put up as part of a traditional décor and displayed in a similar way. Corresponding antique furniture and other artifacts which complement such a décor scheme will be in harmony with traditional miniature art, as well.

This article was published in The Times of India-The Address recently.

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18 Nov 2014

Art in Interiors: Painting a Wall

An entire wall painted with a mural can be the highlight of any décor scheme

The impact of a single large artwork in interiors is well recognized as it can dominate any space and set the tone for the entire décor. There are two ways to go about it - one can either display a very large painting on a wall to cover it completely and make it a centerpiece. Or, one can treat the wall as the canvas and paint it directly. The impact of a painted wall, essentially a mural is definitely more striking. It is therefore important to choose the right wall for this purpose, for instance, it should be prominently placed so that it can easily become the highlight of the décor scheme.

Art in Interiors, Mural by artist Bharati Sagar, Image courtesy artist, Art Scene India

Once the wall is decided, it is essential to choose the theme and the artist with care to ensure best results. There are artists who specialize in doing murals and it would be a good idea to get in touch with one. The paint materials which are used for a mural have to be selected such that they can be sustained over the years, and the painting remains fresh and undamaged. The advantage in commissioning an artist is that the residents can participate actively in the concept, design and details of the artwork.

Art in Interiors, Mural by artist Bharati Sagar, Art Scene India, Times of India-The Address

An uncluttered wall will display a mural to its advantage, however one could even have the wall behind the television painted with a mural as most of the seating is directed towards it. On the other hand, a mural on a wall directly in front of an entrance, such as a bedroom or a children’s room will work, as long as it is conspicuously placed. Once an entire wall is painted, it is important to not clutter it with more artworks, especially paintings.

The lighting of the mural also requires care so that every detail and nuance gets accentuated effectively. More than one spotlight may be necessary to cover the entire mural. Again, lights must be chosen so that they do not harm the colours of the painting.

This article was published in The Times of India-The Address recently.
Image courtesy artist Bharati Sagar

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2 Jul 2018

Art need not be limited to interiors of homes and can also be displayed in the garden or terrace

Selection

Display

13 Oct 2017

Fresh artworks can infuse a new life in your surroundings and add a creative flair to the décor

Display

29 Nov 2016

3 Oct 2016

25 Mar 2016

Empower yourself

Set a budget

2 Mar 2016

7 Apr 2015

12 Dec 2014

Traditional miniature paintings are exquisite and should be displayed in an uncluttered environment.

18 Nov 2014

An entire wall painted with a mural can be the highlight of any décor scheme

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