Placing sculptures is an excellent way to take your home decor to the next level. It brings an extra dimension to your living space by bringing art off the walls and into the room. Sculptures are a very versatile device as well. They come in many different sizes, styles, and mediums and can accommodate a variety of interior color palettes. You can use a sculpture as everything from the centerpiece of a room to a coffee table display and it will create impact.
It’s a good idea to plan your artwork picks and interior decor together to preserve aesthetic harmony across your home. Sculptures with muted color palettes tend to draw attention to their form and design. However, when framed against a similarly-hued wall, much of their appeal is glossed over. Try to incorporate subtle contrast through accent walls and tablescapes as you place your artwork.
Read on for tips on using decorative sculptures for your home’s unique spaces.
Entryway
Sculptures can be a great way to welcome your guests and can often set the tone for the rest of the house. Feng shui and Buddhas are a popular choice as decor elements facing the front door. The belief is that when chi enters the home and encounters the positive aura of a deity, it casts an auspicious vibe throughout the place. Other decorative sculpture options include artsy key bowls and imaginative coat hangers.
Living Room
A living room is the perfect place to go big with your sculpture decor. If you’re into large scale art and want a piece that dominates a space, this is where it should go. Figurative sculptures, in particular, can add a lot of personality to a room. Some of Michael Parke’s creations, for instance, can be a very impactful presence. They’re beautifully crafted pieces that borrow from mythological themes and typically have an interesting story to go with them.
On the other hand, if you like really expressive artwork with a more modern touch, consider some of Boris Kramer’s work. He creates exquisite hand-forged figurative metal sculptures that evoke intensity and dynamism. They’re great attention-grabbers and conversation starters.
You can also make small-to-mid-sized decorative sculptures more visible in your home by adding a pedestal or base. Sculptures should ideally be displayed at eye level for optimal viewing. Some of Jack Storms’ cold glass sculptures are perfect for pairing with a raised pedestal in your living room. They’re awe-inspiring, skilfully-crafted pieces that are bound to create interesting conversation.
For something more understated, consider stainless steel or monolithic sculptures. These are usually great for pairing with other restrained artwork to create an attractive display.
Bedroom
Your bedroom decor is a chance to let you be you. Add some decorative sculptures that lend these spaces a welcoming and comforting vibe. Lyman Whitaker creates beautiful wind sculptures that are best placed near a window or balcony. Inspired by his love of the environment, they create mesmerizing movements that you can admire for hours on end. Aim for color coordination between your sculptures and surrounding elements. People tend to favor neutral palettes for their bedrooms. You could try mixing in a few vivid statuettes to add a pop of color.
Pay special attention to your tablescapes and shelves. Curate some nice smaller scale sculptures to make those surfaces stand out. Some of Mackenzie Thorpe’s pieces are great for adding cheer and positive vibes to your bedroom.
Study
This can be a tricky place in your home for decorative sculptures. You want something that stands out and blends in at the same time. Think about your own interest and what you want the vibe of the place to be. Creative? Contemplative? Rustic? Pick something that inspires you to get down to work. Maybe even add a desk muse to your workstation. Loet Vanderveen’s animal sculptures are an excellent choice for this. Their intricate designs and beautiful patinas make them a lovely addition to any space.
Corridors
Don’t neglect your passageways. Decorative sculptures and artwork can help break up the monotony of a long corridor or staircase. Mackenzie Thorpe‘s emotive sculptures are a great way to perk up these spaces. Consider having recessed alcoves or shelves built into your walls to create a mini sculpture gallery. Alternatively, hallways are also a good place to add some display cabinets to showcase your artwork.
Bathroom
A well apportioned bathroom is one of the most underrated decor decisions. Thoughtfully placed artwork can lift the vibe of the space and make those long baths a truly decadent experience. Decorative sculptures are a good choice for this; they’re much less susceptible to spoilage from condensation than say an art canvas.
Vases and finely carved figurative sculptures tend to be popular picks. Opt for sculptures made from ceramic or natural materials that don’t rust over time. If something quirky or eccentric is more your taste, consider some of Frogman’s jewel-toned creations. Inspired by amphibious and seaborne creatures, they’re a fitting choice for the bathroom.
Dining Room
Dining room decor can subtly influence the mood, conversation, and even appetite of those in there. Some polished metal and ceramic decorative sculptures can give the space a stately, elegant feeling. For a more homely, rustic vibe consider wooden sculptures. Malcolm Tibbetts practices segmented woodturning, a rare technique that demands a lot of patience and skill from the artist. His pieces combine complexity, creativity, and the natural appeal of wood. They’re a good fit for places like the dining room and even kitchen.
Browse More Decorative Sculptures at Marcus Ashley Gallery
If you feel inspired by some of the suggestions here or you’re in the process of curating artwork for your space, be sure to browse through our gallery. Our collection includes artwork from internationally-renowned sculptors and features some rare and truly fascinating sculpting techniques.
Reach out to our art consultants for advice on choosing the perfect decorative sculpture for your home. Browse through all the services we provide to enhance your art experience, including home previews and excellent financing options. We ship across the continental U.S. and all artwork is insured till it reaches your doorstep.
