Going arty on texture

If your artwork canvases are not working in your home, then maybe it’s time to consider textured art to bring life to rooms

I AM a big fan of statement artwork; however, there are many places in the home where a bright abstract canvas is simply not going to work.

This is where what I refer to as textured art can be the perfect solution.

It is no secret that I cannot get enough of texture and when set against the perfect flatness of a wall its beauty is further accentuated.

This is no modern phenomenon; the walls on many European castles were adorned with rugs, which acted not only as an artworks but also helped with insulating and sound.

While we mightn’t have the vast walls to display rugs we can borrow the concept but use it on a smaller scale.

As we know, many cushions are simply works of art in their own right so why not frame and hang them and really showcase their intricacy and beauty? It will add a threedimensional quality that a print or canvas cannot bring. Generally speaking, textured art is a lot quieter in demeanour than its more figurative cousins, therefore the perfect option for bedrooms, hallways or to balance a feature artwork in a living area; you do not want all your art fighting for attention.

There are endless varieties of subject matter ranging from wooden beads to shells to sequins. It is the repetitive use of a single element that makes these pieces so calming.

The backing substrate varies from hand-dyed textiles to linens to beautifully textured handmade watercolour paper. It is the layering and contrast of materials that makes each unique.

As with all decorative accessories it will be the colourway that will determine the overall feel of the piece.

By choosing a brightly coloured artwork you can add some vibrancy and life to a room, darker tones will be more sophisticated, whereas whites and neutrals will be more elegant and refreshing.