TIPS ON CURATING YOUR WALL SPACE AT HOME

The art season in Miami is upon me and I’m very fortunate each year to be on the Planning Committee for the Art Africa Miami Arts Fair {@artafricamia} happening the first week in December.  I’ve served as a Creative Consultant for the past 4 years and delight not only in the growth of this meaningful event, but my own growth in my appreciation of art.  

Being an interior designer, I can’t help but to juxtapose both worlds.  Afterall, what is an interior space without art, right?  And, this idea of “wall space” whether in one’s home or at an art exhibition is one that is and should be curated.  It requires thought, it should have meaning and it should evoke a feeling.

Because I'm in full planning mode on how to make this year's event the best cultural experience we've had yet and inspiration is buzzing all around me, I invite you to check out how I create wall space envy {at my home} in hopes of serving up some inspiration to you as well:

FEATURE A PAINTING YOU LOVE

In my living room, this oversized pencil sketch by an anonymous South African artist was the perfect finishing touch for this wall.  My home speaks through the lens of culture, in a modern context of clean lines and uncluttered surfaces.  Colors are vibrant in my accessories but the subtleness of this painting – a child on a horse – reminded me of my early childhood and the weekends spent with my dad at the horse race track.  The selection goes far beyond trying to figure out an interesting piece on my wall.  As you think about selecting art for your home, I challenge you to pull from a deeper place and choose something that you'll connect with in your own unique way.  It's a great story to share.

CREATE A SPACE TO FEATURE SMALLER ART OBJECTS

I designed and installed these floating shelves to utilize an awkward corner in my home.  The space wasn’t large enough for seating and exists sort of in a walking path but I wanted it to be functional and visually pleasant.  These floating shelves gave me a base for wall sculptures but also accommodates nicely treasured objects collected through travel, frames of special moments spent with loved ones, fun books and more. 

STATEMENT WALL SCULPTURE

I have a few African masks throughout my home, this one is from the Fang Tribe found throughout Gabon and Cameroon.  The elongated and exaggerated features serve as a muse for me.  African masks are natural talking pieces when guests visit due to their history and they're fun to learn about.  They also add a welcomed dimension to the space. 

COMPLEMENTARY ART WORKS

In one of my dining spaces, I feature the work of renowned black artist Miles Regis.  I come from a very diverse background and the messages of coming together, unity and love were essential to have in my home and values I wanted to consistently reinforce with my boys.  Miles is a prolific artist, you can view more of his works here.

WHAT ABOUT YOU?

How do you curate your wall space in your home?  I'd love to hear if you have a different approach.  There are so many ways to tell one's story in their home.  My story is pure culture and how do you portray that in a chic way.  It's the source of my love and what makes me call my house truly my home.

Thanks for sharing these moments with me. One love, Taj