Displaying Sculptural Art
Big or small, playful or serious, sculptural art can soften a room, add interest, texture, and dimension to space.
A wall sculpture captivates guests the moment they enter the lobby of Chase Bank in downtown Grand Rapids, MI. Inspired by the Calder across the street, Via Design designed and fabricated this 9 foot sculpture from layers of foam and fiberglass.
Sculptures are not just for museums or art collectors, however adding them into our living spaces can feel intimidating. Thankfully, sculptures exist in varying forms and are easier to add to a room than one might think! Big or small, playful or serious, sculptural art can soften a room, add interest, texture, and dimension to space.
Choosing a sculpture
Paintings, prints, and drawings add color, shape, and character to a space, but they lack the third dimension sculptural art can offer a room. Sculptures are made from a range of materials; metals, plastics, stone, wood, trash - you name it and a sculpture has likely been created from it. A sculpture does not have to be a marble figure of a Greek God. In fact, it does not even need to have meaning to you. When someone asks, “Why did you choose this piece?” you may simply say, “Because I like it.”
This burnt wood circular sculpture is a unique piece to feature on a bookshelf or mantel. The sculpture’s natural origins add interest and texture to a room. It’s eye-catching, and a conversation starter!
This small, yet cute, hedge hog object is unpretentious and a fun way to add a small dose of sculpture to your space!
Made with natural stone, this sculpture is one-of-a-kind. Display on a shelving unit, mantel, or recessed wall for a stand out piece of art.
Sculptures can be placed outside as well as inside! These soulful animals are carved out of marble and can weather rain or shine.
Placing your sculpture
Using sculptural art does not require a lot of space. These art forms come in many shapes and sizes, and can be displayed on furniture such as a credenza, coffee table, or a shelving unit. If you are tight on space, hang sculpture wall art to avoid the risk of clutter. For a classic display of your sculpture, place the piece on a pedestal to bring it to eye level. Mantels and hearths are a natural display in a home, and a prime spot to showcase an object.
When it comes to choosing your sculpture, don’t worry about mixing styles! Sculptures can be used to contradict the style of a home or office. A bold sculpture placed in a minimalist styled space is a striking visual you will appreciate each time you enter the room. If you have a modern or contemporary room, a traditional sculpture will offer balance. Contrasting pieces elevate both aesthetics and draw you to the art.
Getting started
There are limitless sculptural objects and elements, but there are two options to get you started:
Start small: Choose sculptural art as a decorative object to accessorize a room. Animals and geometric objects are eye-catching, fun, and simple to place.
Go big: A sculpture can exist in furniture pieces. Think of a coffee table with a unique base, or a lighting fixture set on a console or hanging above a dining table. You could even display a small sculptural object on a sculptural shelving unit.
Quick Tips:
Don’t worry about mixing design styles.
Shelves, mantles, and recessed areas are natural locations to display sculptural pieces.
If you’re low on space, choose sculptural wall art.
Small objects can make a big statement! A little visual discourse will go a long way.