How to choose an abstract painting for your home

Buying art can feel like a biggie, but it doesn’t have to. The art world can feel like an elite club but it is for everyone - you’ve just got to dive in, and buying from an artist is a great place to start. You’re supporting a real person’s ideas, time spent honing their craft, and buying something meaningful - and beautiful.

But where do you start?

Start with the feeling

How do you want to feel when you walk past your new piece? Calm? Energised? A quiet ping of a memory or feeling? There isn’t one ‘right’ answer, just the answer that is right for you. Abstract art is particularly good at holding a feeling, and it can be as personal as you like.

Let the space guide the size and colours

Where would you like your painting to live? What colours do you have in that space? Is there space to stand back and take in a lot of detail or will the viewer be up close and so a smaller piece would be easier to read?

‘Where the Footsteps Planted, Minis’, Acrylic and oil pastel on kraft paper, August 2026.

Notice the light

Lighting is so key and can really change how a painting feels. Notice how the light moves throughout the day and consider which times of day you’re most likely to use that space. E.g. a hallway is in constant use but a bedroom is more likely to be used at the very beginning and end of the day.

Consider commissioning your own piece

It might sound a bit daunting, but artists love working thoughts and feelings into paintings. This way you’ll have a piece of work made with your story and space in mind, that will be yours to keep. Distance doesn't have to be a barrier either. Many of us happily work with collectors we've never met in person, corresponding over photos, colour notes, and a bit of back-and-forth.

A bit about how I work

My own paintings are abstract and built from memory, giving an impression of a place, feeling or moment rather than a literal scene. This allows me to feel rather than think, and as a mother of two young children I can capture the beauty of daily life and temporarily leave the realities behind. If any of this resonates and you’d like to talk through a piece for your space, do get in touch. I’m currently taking commissions and would love to hear what you have in mind.