African Wall Art: Bringing Culture and Color to Your Living Room

Wall Art for Living Room: Enhancing the Aesthetics

The living room is often considered the heart of a home, a space where families gather and guests are entertained. To create an inviting and visually pleasing atmosphere in this central area, the choice of wall art plays a crucial role. From serene landscapes to vibrant African art, there are various options to explore.

When selecting wall art for a living room, it is important to consider the overall theme and style of the space. For instance, if you desire a tranquil ambiance, a painting depicting a greenery-rich landscape with a shining sun and clear blue sky can be an excellent choice. Such art pieces are particularly suitable for the South-East direction of the house, as they are believed to bring positive energy and harmony.

To infuse happiness into your living room, consider applying a green or similar color on the Eastern wall. This can be done through a painted accent wall or by selecting artwork with dominant green tones. Simple and charming landscapes in light, gentle colors can also contribute to a joyful atmosphere. Additionally, paintings featuring animals or birds can bring life and vibrancy to a space with a light interior and wooden furniture.

When it comes to African wall art, the continent boasts a rich and diverse artistic heritage. One of the most renowned forms of traditional African art is the striking masks produced by various cultures across the continent. For example, the Zamble masks of the Guro culture from present-day Ivory Coast, or the facial adornments created by the Yoruba, Lulua, and Goma communities in Nigeria, Congo, and Tanzania respectively.

African wall art can add a unique and captivating touch to your living room. The intricate designs and bold colors of these art pieces can create a focal point and spark conversations. Whether displayed individually or as part of a curated gallery wall, African art brings a sense of cultural richness and artistic appreciation to any space.

When hanging wall art in your living room, it is important to consider proper placement. A good rule of thumb is to position the midpoint of the artwork between 57 and 60 inches from the floor. This height allows for comfortable viewing, keeping in mind the average eye level of most people. However, it is advisable to aim for the lower end of the range if your household consists of shorter individuals. In rooms with higher ceilings, artwork can be hung a little higher than 60 inches off the floor.

Selecting the right wall art for your living room can significantly enhance its aesthetics and overall ambiance. Whether opting for serene landscapes or vibrant African art, consider the theme and style of your space to create a harmonious and visually pleasing environment. Remember to hang artwork at an appropriate height for optimal viewing enjoyment. Let your living room reflect your personal taste and style through carefully chosen wall art.

Which Wall Painting Is Good For Living Room?

When it comes to choosing a wall painting for your living room, it is important to consider the atmosphere and energy you want to create in the space. One popular choice is a greenery-rich painting with a shining sun and a clear blue sky. This type of artwork can bring a sense of tranquility and natural beauty to your living room.

In terms of placement, it is recommended to hang this type of painting on the South-East wall of your living room. The South-East direction is associated with abundance, growth, and prosperity according to the principles of Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui. By placing the painting in this location, you can enhance the positive energy and prosperity in your home.

Furthermore, if you are looking to attract happiness into your home, you can consider applying a green or similar color on the Eastern wall of your living room. Green is often associated with growth, renewal, and harmony, making it a suitable choice for creating a joyful atmosphere. You can choose a painting with various shades of green or opt for a solid green wall color to bring a sense of happiness and positivity to your living space.

To summarize, a greenery-rich painting with a shining sun and clear blue sky is a good choice for the living room. Hanging it on the South-East wall can enhance abundance and prosperity. Additionally, applying a green or similar color on the Eastern wall can attract happiness into your home. Consider these suggestions to create a harmonious and joyful living room environment.

african wall art for living room

What Kind Of Art Should I Hang In My Living Room?

When selecting art for your living room, it is important to consider the overall aesthetic of the space. Opting for simple and modest pieces that exude elegance and avoid pretentiousness can create a sophisticated atmosphere. Landscapes in light, gentle colors can add charm and complement wooden furniture. Additionally, artwork featuring animals or birds can bring a touch of nature indoors.

To summarize, here are some key points to consider when choosing art for your living room:

1. Keep it simple and modest: Avoid overly complex or flashy artwork that may overpower the space.
2. Embrace elegance: Choose pieces that exude sophistication and refinement.
3. Light and gentle colors: Opt for landscapes or artwork with a soft color palette to create a soothing ambiance.
4. Complement wooden furniture: Consider artwork that harmonizes with the natural tones and textures of your wooden furniture.
5. Images of animals or birds: Adding artwork featuring animals or birds can bring a touch of nature and liveliness to the space.

By following these guidelines, you can select art that enhances the overall aesthetic of your living room and creates a visually pleasing environment.

What Is Famous Traditional African Art?

Famous traditional African art encompasses a wide range of artistic expressions from various cultures across the continent. One of the most well-known forms of African art is the creation of masks. These masks hold great cultural significance and are produced by different communities throughout Africa.

1. Zamble masks: The Guro culture, located in present-day Ivory Coast, is known for their Zamble masks. These masks often feature elongated faces with geometric patterns and intricate designs. They are used in ceremonies and rituals to represent ancestral spirits and invoke their powers.

2. Yoruba facial adornments: The Yoruba people, based primarily in Nigeria, are renowned for their intricate facial adornments. These adornments, often made of brass or bronze, are worn during ceremonies and celebrations. They depict various deities, kings, and important figures from Yoruba mythology.

3. Lulua masks: The Lulua people, residing in the Congo, are known for their distinctive masks. These masks are characterized by exaggerated facial features, such as elongated noses and enlarged mouths. They are used in initiation ceremonies and funerals to honor ancestors and invoke their protection.

4. Goma masks: The Goma people, located in Tanzania, create unique masks that represent animals and spirits. These masks are made from materials like wood, animal hide, and feathers. They are used in dances and rituals to connect with the spiritual realm and seek guidance from ancestors.

In addition to masks, traditional African art also includes sculptures, pottery, textiles, and jewelry. These art forms often reflect the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the communities that produce them. The use of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and symbolic representations is common in African art, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of the artists.

Traditional African art is famous for its diversity, symbolism, and connection to ancestral traditions and spiritual practices. It continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world with its rich cultural heritage.

How Do You Hang Art In A Living Room?

To hang art in a living room, follow these steps:

1. Determine the desired height: Measure the height of the wall and calculate the midpoint between 57 and 60 inches. This will be the ideal height for hanging the artwork. Adjust this height if needed, considering the height of the ceiling and the average height of the people in your household.

2. Prepare the wall: Clear the wall of any obstructions and make sure it is clean and smooth. Fill any holes or imperfections with spackling paste and sand it down for a seamless surface.

3. Choose the right hardware: Depending on the weight and size of the artwork, select appropriate hanging hardware. Options include picture hooks, nails, screws, or wall anchors. For heavy or large pieces, consider using wall anchors or a French cleat system for added stability.

4. Find the center: Measure the width of the artwork and mark its center on the back. Measure the width of the wall and find its center as well. Align the two center marks to ensure the artwork is centered on the wall.

5. Mark the hanging point: Measure the distance from the top of the artwork to its hanging point (usually a wire or sawtooth hanger). Subtract this measurement from the desired height of the artwork on the wall. Mark this distance below the midpoint on the wall. This will be the point where you will place the hardware.

6. Install the hardware: Use a level to ensure accuracy. For picture hooks, align the bottom of the hook with the marked point on the wall and secure it. For nails or screws, use the marked point as a guide and insert them securely into the wall.

7. Hang the artwork: Carefully lift the artwork and place it on the hardware. Adjust the positioning if necessary, ensuring it is level and centered.

8. Check the placement: Step back and double-check the height and positioning of the artwork. Make any adjustments as needed.

Remember to consider the overall aesthetic of the room and the surrounding furniture when hanging art. Group multiple pieces together for a gallery wall or create a focal point by hanging a single statement piece.

Conclusion

Wall art plays a significant role in enhancing the ambiance and aesthetic appeal of a living space. It is not just a decorative element but also a reflection of one’s personality and taste. Whether it’s a vibrant landscape painting, a traditional African mask, or a simple and elegant artwork, choosing the right piece for your walls can make a substantial difference.

When deciding on the placement of wall art, it is essential to consider the direction and position in which it will be hung. For instance, greenery-rich paintings with a shining sun and clear blue sky are ideal for the South-East direction of the house, bringing a sense of positivity and harmony. Similarly, applying green or similar colors on the Eastern wall can attract happiness and create a serene atmosphere.

The height at which art is hung also matters. The midpoint of the artwork should ideally be between 57 and 60 inches from the floor, ensuring it is at eye level for most individuals. However, adjustments can be made based on the height of the room and the people living in it.

Ultimately, the choice of wall art should align with the overall interior design and theme of the space. It should complement the furniture and other decorative elements while also adding a touch of uniqueness and personal style. Whether it’s a traditional, contemporary, or abstract piece, wall art has the power to transform a room and evoke emotions, making it an essential element in home decor.

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Ilona

Ilona is an experienced travel counselor who loves everything about Africa! She studied Tourism and Hospitality Management at Middle Tennessee State University, and now lives in Nashville. With 15 years of experience under her belt, Ilona is well-equipped to plan your perfect African adventure.