When decorating with sculptures vs art prints, there are many differences and similarities you will need to consider. But first, are you decorating the room around the art? Or are you decorating your room with art?

“The medium is the message.” – Marshall McLuhan

Marshall McLuhan’s words ring true in the art world as they do in popular media. Different types of artwork carry different messages, meanings and have a different impact on decor.

Decorating With Sculptures

A sculpture makes a statement. While you can buy paintings and sculptures in the same category, such as erotic art, having a sculpture says something different than art prints or paintings. As such, you need to approach decorating witch sculptures differently.

A sculpture will often draw attention and be a focal point in a room, or at least in its area. It compels the viewer to examine and appreciate it from different angles. As such, it’s nice to have it mounted in such a way that it is visible from all, or multiple, sides.

A sculpture works in a different dimension and serves to bring a room to life. Whether free-standing, wall-mounted or sitting on a table or shelf, they bring a dynamic element to space.

Often, people will use large sculptural art as the focal point in the room. However, any truly interesting sculpture will command attention no matter where you put it. They’re a great addition to any part of a room that could use some livening up.

Decorating With Art Prints

Photographs, paintings, and illustrations are just a few examples of popular art prints. Each has its own unique considerations for home decor, but they also follow some similar rules.

Most prints are wall-mounted, but they can vary in display. Frames can be ornate, decorative, simple, or have no frame at all. Generally, an art print will work with the existing colors and themes found in the room.

Similarities Between Decorating With Art Prints & Sculptures

One of the biggest similarities between decorating with prints and sculptures is the need to tie them in with the design of the room. This can mean that you choose your art to either flow with the colors of the room or completely stand out. In a neutral-colored room, the artwork may be chosen to purposefully stand out, with bold colors and imagery.

Another similarity is to tie the artwork into the thematic design of the room through complementing or contrasting themes. A contrasting theme will make the art stand out, whereas a complementary theme will make the room fit together.

Differences Between Decorating With Art Prints & Sculptures

Before Investing in Art, understand the space where it will live. The differences in decorating with prints vs sculptures have to do with dimensions. Sculptures have 3 dimensions, where prints are comparatively flat. As a result, their placing needs to be considered differently.

Free-standing or wall-mounted sculptures should be placed somewhere where they will not obstruct movement.

Another consideration for sculptures is their materials. A white marble sculpture, for instance, may not look best if it will be placed on a white marble countertop. However, if placed in a room with marble columns or installments, it will fit in nicely.

As well, if you have a statue, people will touch it. Make sure it is placed somewhere safe and stable. Among other forms of art, sculptures have the unique ability to be able to convey meaning through physical interaction.

Above all, when you are investing in a piece of art, it should be something that draws you back to it.