unframed wall art wide acrylic print above sofa in contemporary living room

Art Buying and Decorating Tips: How to Choose Wall Art

Every piece of wall art needs a home—and choosing the right wall art is about more than just finding something you like. The relationship between wall art and interior space plays a major role in how a room feels. When wall art and décor work together, they create balance, harmony, and visual richness.

Many collectors begin by choosing wall art they love and connect with emotionally, then adjust their interior design to support it. That approach works beautifully. Sometimes, all it takes is a small décor update—such as pillows, paint accents, or textures—to let the wall art become the focal point of the room.

If you’re buying wall art or art prints for your home, understanding your options will help you choose confidently and invest in pieces you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Canvas Wall Art "Honeybunch" - Abstract Floral

Understanding Contemporary and Abstract Wall Art

When choosing wall art for your home, it helps to understand the style you’re drawn to. Contemporary wall art and abstract wall art are especially popular in modern interiors because they focus on mood, movement, and expression rather than literal imagery. Abstract wall art, in particular, allows for personal interpretation, making it easy to connect emotionally while fitting into a wide range of décor styles.

If you’ve ever wondered how contemporary art differs from modern or abstract art—or which style best suits your space—it’s worth exploring the nuances. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose wall art that aligns with both your design aesthetic and your lifestyle. This guide on contemporary art, modern art, and abstract art—what’s the difference breaks it down and can help you choose artwork that aligns with both your style and your space.

wall art for living room hung above sofa — Wall Art “Sea Gold" - Unframed Gallery Wrapped Canvas

Choosing the Right Wall Art Print Medium

Selecting the right wall art medium can dramatically affect how artwork looks and feels in your space. Each print option offers a distinct aesthetic and practical benefit.

Metal Wall Art Prints
Metal wall art prints are a favorite for modern interiors. Known for sharp image clarity and luminous color, they create a bold, contemporary statement. Printed directly onto aluminum with a glossy finish, metal wall art floats slightly off the wall for a sleek, gallery-style presentation—ideal for minimalist, industrial, or modern spaces.

Canvas Wall Art Prints
Canvas wall art is one of the most popular choices for large abstract wall art. Canvas offers a timeless, painterly feel and holds up beautifully over time. The subtle texture adds warmth and depth, while gallery-wrapped edges provide a clean, frameless look that works especially well in contemporary interiors and living rooms.

Acrylic Wall Art Prints
Acrylic wall art has a glossy, glass-like appearance with striking depth and saturation. This modern wall art option is highly durable and performs well in humid environments, making it a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, or coastal-inspired spaces. The glass effect also pairs well with subject matter related to water, lights, and anything that is reflective.

Fine Art Paper Wall Art
For those who prefer framed wall art, fine art paper prints offer exceptional quality and longevity. Papers like Hahnemühle Photo Rag produce rich color with a soft, refined surface, making them ideal for collectors seeking museum-quality wall art.

Coordinating Wall Art With Your Interior Design

The wall art you choose may influence how you decorate your space—or vice versa. Start by observing the main colors already present in the room. If those tones appear in the wall art, even subtly, the space will feel more cohesive.

You can enhance this connection by repeating colors from the wall art in small décor accents such as pillows, throws, or decorative objects. A neutral living room, for example, can be completely transformed by a large, colorful abstract wall art piece paired with complementary accents.

Texture and form are equally important. Heavily textured wall art pairs beautifully with tactile materials like wood, stone, or woven fabrics, while organic or floral abstract wall art often complements spaces with plants and natural elements.

man adjusting large wall art and learning how to decorate

Choosing the Right Size and Orientation for Wall Art

One of the biggest advantages of buying wall art prints is flexibility in size. Before purchasing, measure your wall and use painter’s tape to outline where the artwork will hang—this helps visualize scale and balance.

Large wall art tends to have greater emotional and visual impact, especially in living rooms and bedrooms. Wide horizontal wall art works well above sofas and beds, while tall vertical pieces complement high ceilings or narrow walls. When hanging multiple artworks, aligning them along the same visual horizon creates a clean, cohesive look.

Large-scale contemporary and abstract wall art is especially effective when you want to make a strong design statement. Oversized canvas wall art anchors furniture, defines open spaces, and elevates modern interiors—particularly in living rooms. For inspiration, explore these big canvas wall art ideas for the living room to see how scale and abstraction work together beautifully.

framed wall art hanging on wall — Framed Wall Art “Potter Pond" - Contemporary Landscape

Considering Energy, Mood, and Emotion in Wall Art

Wall art isn’t just visual—it carries energy and emotion. Some wall art evokes calm and serenity, while other pieces feel bold, expressive, or dynamic. Consider how you want the room to feel and choose wall art that supports that intention.

Abstract wall art often references natural elements such as water, earth, light, or movement. A quiet space may benefit from energetic wall art, while a busy room might call for softer, more atmospheric tones. Color theory and feng shui principles can also offer guidance when choosing wall art that feels balanced and intentional.

modern three-piece triptych canvas wall art with even spacing on a living room wall — Modern Canvas Art "Romance" - Framed Three-Piece Triptych Set

Lighting Your Wall Art Properly

Lighting plays a crucial role in how wall art is experienced. Natural light brings out color and texture during the day, while accent lighting helps artwork stand out at night. Overhead picture lights, wall washers, or nearby floor lamps can turn a piece into a true focal point.

Be mindful of glare, especially with glossy mediums like metal or acrylic. Adjusting angles and light placement ensures the artwork remains vibrant without distracting reflections.

Proper placement is just as important as choosing the artwork itself—especially with large contemporary or abstract pieces. Hanging art at the right height and spacing ensures it feels intentional and balanced within the room. Whether you’re installing a single statement piece or a large canvas above furniture, understanding best practices can make all the difference. This guide on how to hang large modern wall art in a living room or bedroom walks through simple, professional tips to help your artwork look its best.

big vertical contemporary abstract wall art on side wall living room — Big Abstract Painting “Sapphire Dream" - Framed Canvas Wall Art

Final Thought

Choosing wall art is a personal and rewarding process. When you understand size, medium, color, and mood, you’re not just decorating—you’re shaping how a space feels and functions. Thoughtfully chosen wall art can transform a room and become something you connect with every day.

Art Buying Tips, Art Decoration Tips, Art Information

oversized statement canvas wall art above sofa

Big Canvas Wall Art for Living Room: 7 Modern Ideas

Big canvas wall art can completely transform a living room, creating a bold focal point and defining the overall atmosphere of the space. Whether your style leans modern, minimalist, or nature-inspired, oversized canvas art adds depth, scale, and visual impact that smaller pieces simply can’t achieve. Below are seven modern ideas for using large canvas wall art in your living room to elevate your interior design with confidence and style. If you’re unsure how large artwork should be or where to place it, this guide on how to hang and size large modern wall art will help you choose the right scale with confidence.

1. Modern Abstract Landscape Canvas Art

Wall art for the living room should complement the space where people gather most to relax and have fun. Nature-inspired art often captures this feeling best because it’s relatable and grounding. Try hanging an abstract landscape or seascape to give your living room an updated look and instantly elevate the aesthetic.

modern abstract landscape canvas wall art for living room — Large Landscape Painting "Breath Of Autumn" - Framed Canvas Wall Art

2. Bright and Expressive Abstract Floral Art

Flowers are naturally cheerful. From deep conversations and laughter to sharing important family moments, the living room brings people together. What better way to energize the space than with a beautiful, large-scale floral canvas? The best part—there are endless styles and color palettes to choose from.

large abstract floral canvas wall art living room — Large Painting "Starlight Unfurling Blooms" - Framed Canvas Wall Art

3. Oversized Statement Wall Art for Large Living Rooms

There’s no question that big canvas wall art can transform a room and create a strong focal point. Oversized canvases command attention and define the atmosphere of a space. With a frame, these statement pieces feel bold and expansive, enhancing the sense of scale and demanding attention. A chunky unframed gallery-wrapped canvas art adds understated elegance and pairs beautifully with simple, contemporary interior décor. When working with oversized artwork, proper placement and scale are essential. For best results, follow these professional tips on hanging and sizing large modern wall art to ensure your piece feels balanced within the room.

4. Bold and Wide Abstract Art Above the Sofa

Sofas are wide, and the space above them is often not very tall—so choosing the right proportions matters. A wide, horizontal canvas that’s bold and colorful works perfectly here. Hang it about 8 inches above the backrest. Pay attention to your furniture style, pillows, and blankets so the artwork harmonizes with the space—it should feel like a natural extension of the sofa itself.

bold wide colorful abstract canvas wall art living room — Large Abstract Painting “Just Being" - Framed Canvas Wall Art

5. Square Canvas Art Over the Fireplace

Historically, the fireplace was where families gathered for warmth, stability, and connection—and that grounding presence still matters today. Mirrors are nice, but consider switching things up with a contemporary square canvas centered above the mantel. Make sure the artwork is slightly narrower than the fireplace to maintain visual balance and alignment.

Best wall art for living room - fireplace mantel square canvas — Large Abstract Painting “Elegant Surprise" - Unframed Canvas Wall Art

framed wall art abstract flower painting in contemporary living room — Framed Wall Art “Champagne And Roses" - Large Modern Abstract Floral Art

6. Large Vertical Wall Art on a Side Wall

A blank side wall can feel lonely and boring, making it an obvious place to hang art. The goal is to add visual interest without overwhelming the space. Choose a piece that fills the wall while leaving some breathing room around it. Taller artworks usually work especially well here. Opt for something visually engaging—perhaps a more detailed piece that invites people to stop and take a closer look.

Nature-inspired vertical abstract art on side wall living room — Large Abstract Floral Painting “Topical Splendor“ - Unframed Canvas Wall Art

7. Coastal Color Themed Art with Soft Neutral Tones

There’s no doubt about it—coastal color themes are a top choice. Light blue and green tones combined with soft neutral hues harmonize beautifully with modern, clean interiors. An unframed gallery canvas or a soft tan wooden frame pairs perfectly with the minimalist aesthetic of this style, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere.

modern wall art for living room - a large framed coastal color theme canvas — Large Abstract Seascape Painting “Spring Mist“ - Framed Canvas Wall Art

Big canvas wall art for living room - large unframed coastal color theme — Large Abstract Sky Painting “Skyward“ - Unframed Canvas Wall Art

Conclusion: Elevating Your Living Room with Big Canvas Wall Art

Big canvas wall art is one of the most effective ways to elevate a living room, creating a focal point that brings personality, balance, and visual impact to the space. Whether you prefer abstract landscapes, nature-inspired designs, or bold contemporary compositions, choosing the right size and placement makes all the difference. Explore large canvas artworks that resonate with your style, and use thoughtful sizing and hanging techniques to transform your living room with confidence. Explore our collection of large abstract wall art designed to complement modern living rooms and expansive interiors.

Art Buying Tips, Art Decoration Tips, Art Information, Large Abstract Art, New Modern Abstract Wall Art

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Unframed Canvas Wall Art: 6 Stunning Examples

In recent years, unframed canvas wall art has become a popular choice for interior decoration. Not only does it add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room, but it also provides a modern and sleek look that is perfect for contemporary spaces. Additionally, the absence of a frame makes it more affordable while also allowing the canvas to take center stage, making it an impactful focal point in any room. If you’re looking to spruce up your home with an unframed canvas painting or print, here are some ideas to help you achieve a stunning modern look.

Large Artwork Above A Sofa

Hanging a large unframed canvas painting above the sofa is a prime spot that immediately catches your eye. You can have either one large canvas art or a set of two to complement the wall space proportionately. Remember to leave enough space around the artwork to avoid making the room feel smaller.

Unframed canvas wall art example #4 — Canvas Painting "Auric Dawn" - Unframed Canvas Wall Art

Abstract Art

One of the most popular choices for unframed wall art is abstract art. With its bold colors and unique shapes, abstract art can instantly elevate the look of any room. Whether you prefer a large statement piece or a series of smaller artworks, abstract art is a versatile option that can complement any decor style.

Unframed canvas wall art example #3 — Canvas Painting "Elegant Surprise" - Unframed Canvas Wall Art

Unframed canvas wall art example #5 — Canvas Painting "Skyward" - Unframed Canvas Wall Art

Minimalist Art

For those who prefer a more understated look, minimalist prints are an excellent choice for unframed canvas wall art. Simple geometric shapes, neutral colored art, or monochromatic designs can create a sleek and sophisticated look that is perfect for modern spaces. Pairing minimalist canvas art prints with minimalist furniture and decor can create a cohesive and stylish aesthetic.

Abstract Nature Art

Bringing the outdoors in with abstract nature art is another great way to incorporate unframed wall art into your home. Whether you choose botanical prints, landscape paintings, floral artwork, nature-inspired art can add a touch of tranquility and beauty to any room. Consider a large abstract nature art canvas piece that matches the decor colors in the room for a striking and cohesive look. A wonderful thing about nature-inspired abstract art is that it balances the familiar recognizable world around us with the unseen creative expression of abstract art, and this blend is welcoming and enjoyable to the senses.

Unframed canvas wall art example #6 — Canvas Painting "Secret Garden" - Unframed Canvas Wall Art

Unframed canvas wall art example #2 — Canvas Painting "Uplift My World" - Unframed Canvas Wall Art

Want To See More?

We invite you to see the entire collection of unframed wall art by Jaison Cianelli. These unique mixed media artworks combine abstracted illusionary layers, transparent colors, and bold texture. Cianelli’s contemporary abstract compositions are proudly displayed by art enthusiasts with a desire to elevate an interior space with lively expression and the timelessness of nature inspired art. And visit this blog post if you would like to see more examples of large wall art for the living room.

Art Decoration Tips, Large Abstract Art, New Modern Abstract Wall Art

How To Hang Large Modern Wall Art For Living Room or Bedroom

Hanging large modern wall art can dramatically transform a living room or bedroom, but achieving a balanced, secure, and intentional look requires more than simply choosing a spot on the wall. Proper height, scale, spacing, and mounting hardware all play a role—especially when working with oversized or heavy artwork. From single statement pieces to multi-panel gallery sets, this guide covers how to hang large modern wall art so it feels visually connected, professionally installed, and built to last.

Choosing the Right Height for Large Modern Wall Art

One of the most common mistakes when hanging large wall art is placing it too high. As a general guideline, the center of the artwork should sit approximately 57–60 inches from the floor, which aligns with average eye level.

When hanging art above furniture such as a sofa, console, or bed, the bottom edge of the artwork should typically sit 6–10 inches above the furniture. This keeps the artwork visually grounded and connected to the space rather than floating awkwardly on the wall.

large canvas wall art hanging above a sofa in a modern living room — Modern Abstract Art "Passion" - Framed Canvas Wall Art Above Sofa

How Large Wall Art Should Relate to Furniture and Wall Size

Scale is essential when working with large modern wall art. As a rule of thumb, artwork should not be larger than the furniture. It can be equal to or a little less than the furniture depending on the look you are after. But it’s more common for the artwork tor span two-thirds to three-quarters of the width of the furniture beneath it.

Artwork that is too small can feel lost on a large wall, while properly scaled pieces anchor the room and create a strong focal point. In rooms with high ceilings or expansive walls, oversized artwork often feels more intentional and balanced than multiple smaller pieces. Visit this article if you need to see more examples of large canvas wall art in the living room.

large modern canvas wall art hanging above a chairs in a contemporary living room — Large Modern Wall Art "A Heart So Big" - Side Wall in Open Concept Living Room

abstract wall art hung in the living room above modern sofa — Abstract Wall Art "Whimsical" - Framed Canvas Art in Living Room

Spacing Out a Modern 3-Piece Gallery Wall (Triptych Sets)

Modern three-piece gallery wall sets—often called triptychs—create movement and visual rhythm when spaced correctly. The key is consistency.

Recommended spacing for triptych artwork:

Leave 2–4 inches between each panel
Keep all panels aligned at the top or center
Treat the full set as one visual piece when determining height and scale

When hung too far apart, the pieces lose cohesion. Proper spacing allows the artwork to read as a unified composition while still maintaining individual impact.

Hanging Large Wall Art Above the Bed

Hanging artwork above a bed requires special consideration for both proportion and safety. Large modern wall art works best when centered horizontally over the bed and sized to complement the headboard.

Best practices for above-bed placement:

Artwork width should be at least half to two-thirds the width of the bed
Hang the artwork 8–10 inches above the headboard
Avoid pieces that are too small or placed too high

Because this area is directly above where people rest, secure mounting is especially important. Always use appropriate hardware and avoid lightweight hanging solutions.

large modern wall art centered above a bed in a minimalist bedroom — Modern Wall Art "Spring Mist" - Unframed Canvas Above Bed

large wall art centered above a bed in a contemporary bedroom — Modern Wall Art "Secret Garden" - Unframed Canvas in Bedroom

Wiring Large Canvas Art for Secure Hanging

Most large modern canvas artwork is designed to hang using picture wire attached to D-rings on the stretcher bars.

How to wire large canvas art correctly:

Install D-rings about one-third of the way down from the top on each side
Use heavy-duty picture wire rated above the artwork’s weight
Pull the wire taut enough to prevent sagging while allowing room for leveling

For especially large or wide pieces, using two hanging points instead of one provides better balance and long-term stability.

Many large canvas artworks are designed to be displayed without a traditional frame, allowing the artwork to extend cleanly to the sides of the canvas edges and create a more contemporary look. If you’re considering this style you should know that wiring the canvas framed or unframed is still the same. You can also explore 6 stunning example of unframed wall art to see how frameless artwork can enhance modern living rooms and bedrooms.

back of large canvas wall art showing picture wire and D-ring hanging hardware

Securely Mounting Large Modern Wall Art

For large or heavy modern wall art, proper mounting hardware is essential for both safety and long-term stability. Whenever possible, artwork should be anchored into a wall stud using a wood screw or lag screw, which provides the strongest support and minimizes movement over time. If a stud is not available due to placement, heavy-duty drywall solutions such as plastic or metal anchors or toggle bolts rated well above the artwork’s weight should be used—never lightweight nails or basic hooks. For oversized, wide, or panoramic pieces, using two anchor points spaced evenly helps distribute weight, keeps the artwork level, and reduces stress on the hanging wire, ensuring the piece remains secure and visually balanced.

adjusting newly hung modern wall art — Large Modern Wall Art "Somebody's Smiling"

Conclusion

Hanging large modern wall art successfully is a balance of thoughtful design and proper installation. When artwork is sized correctly, spaced intentionally, and securely mounted, it becomes a powerful focal point that elevates the entire room. Whether you’re displaying a statement canvas above a sofa, arranging a three-piece gallery wall, or anchoring artwork above a bed, following these guidelines ensures your art feels cohesive, confident, and beautifully integrated. With the right approach, large modern wall art doesn’t just fill a wall—it defines the space.

Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting — Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "Cosmic Consciousness"

Art Decoration Tips, Large Abstract Art

The Difference Between Framed and Unframed Canvas Art - Framed Sample Canvas Art

The Difference Between Framed Vs Unframed Canvas

The difference between framed vs. unframed canvas is very slight. But deciding which type you need for your interior decor makes all the difference towards creating cohesiveness and beauty in your space.

What is Unframed Canvas?

Are you wondering what is a canvas print without frame? Usually the term “unframed canvas” is used to describe artwork that is not set into a frame. A frameless canvas wall art print or painting can still be hung without a frame because the canvas is stretched and stapled onto wooden bars that create a simple internal frame. Another way to describe this type of minimalist canvas artwork is a “gallery canvas” or “gallery wrapped canvas.”

In this article we are referring to this type of canvas. Not often, but sometimes unframed canvas is a term used to describe canvas that is not mounted to stretcher bars at all, meaning it is literally just canvas art that comes rolled in a tube. This type of canvas will need to be stretched later on.

Framed Vs Unframed Canvas

Unframed Canvas Wall Art

Unframed canvas wall art prints are very popular. The modern minimalist look of a frameless canvas wall art works especially well with today’s contemporary furniture and overall interior setting. They are also versatile because they can adapt to any room decor style.

If you plan to hang your canvas unframed then it is important that the artwork is a gallery wrap canvas because it will come stretched onto 1.5″ thick stretcher bars that are strong enough to be hung without the support of a frame. The chunkier proportions of a gallery wrap also compliment the canvas artwork as a whole, giving it a little more visual strength, something you need since there is no border frame.

On a gallery wrapped canvas you will want the artwork carried onto the sides or a black colored border. This will also help create a completed look to the art. Take a look at the examples below to see the difference in unframed canvas art.

Framed Canvas Wall Art

A framed canvas wall art prints are lovely when done correctly. Framed canvas art can feel more completed and cohesive in a well appointed setting. Framed canvas works best when it matches and harmonizes with interior decoration. The frame itself can complement and highlight the quality of artwork.

If you decide to frame modern canvas art we prefer floater frames. They are simple and provide an understated elegance to the art. They are available in gold, black, or silver.

It should be noted something magical and complimentary happens when the shimmer of a gold or silver frame matches the metal in the interior space as well as the shimmer in the artwork. All the elements come together so perfectly!

If you choose a more traditional frame instead of the floater frame, then you can order the canvas art on the thinner 5/8” stretcher bars. This will help reduce cost and give you more framing options. A more classically decorative frame works well with more traditional art, however it is possible pull off using a more modern piece of art if the artwork has similar texture, patterns, or forms. Take a look at the examples below to see the difference in framed canvas art.

Elegant Decor and Modern Style

In your attempts to achieving a beautifully decorated space, sometimes the choice to frame canvas art is simple if you think in terms of cohesiveness and size. Generally speaking smaller artwork looks better framed, and matching that frame to your decor does wonders to complete the look.

For example, a smaller canvas art sitting above an end table will fit in perfectly when framed especially when the frame matches the material of the table. It ties together so nicely!

On the other hand, a very large modern abstract art piece hung in a minimalist contemporary living space, doesn’t necessarily require the frame. The expansiveness of the large oversized canvas is all that is needed to convey the emotional impact of the abstract art. That’s not to say a large canvas shouldn’t be framed, it’s just that sometimes the understated elegance of unframed canvas harmonizes better with the simplicity of space. If you are hanging large modern canvas art visit this article for 7 big modern canvas wall art ideas.

The Difference Between Framed and Unframed Canvas Art - Unframed Sample Canvas Art — Unframed Canvas Art "Becoming" by Jaison Cianelli.

Framed Canvas Wall Art Sets

Hanging canvas art as a 2 or 3 piece wall art set can add a bold and elegant touch to your home. With the addition of framing the sets you create even more visual grid lines and more attention to the art.

You will also notice your eye is drawn to the framed canvas that is dark and includes a contrasting white mat. This may or may not be something you desire. A white frame is more subtle and will allow for the set to be a little less attention grabbing.

Framed Canvas Art-Contemporary Abstract Art Gallery Wall 2 Piece Set — 2 Piece Framed Canvas Art "Abstract Landscape Floating" by Jaison Cianelli.

Framed Canvas Art-Contemporary Abstract Art Gallery Wall 3 Piece Set — 3 Piece Framed Canvas Art "Essence" by Jaison Cianelli.

Unframed Canvas Wall Art Sets

If you desire the canvas art set to be softer on the eyes you can always hang the canvas unframed. Many times unframed canvas sets are already eye catching enough especially if the artwork has a lot of color and movement. So in many applications hanging them unframed is just fine and gives a little bit more of an understated look that balances out the feel of the space.

Unframed Canvas Art-Contemporary Abstract Art Gallery Wall 3 Piece Set — 3 Piece Unframed Canvas Art "Essence" by Jaison Cianelli.

Want More Unframed Canvas Art Examples?

To see more examples of unframed canvas art view the gallery below or browse our Abstract Art Collection. All of these beautiful contemporary art pieces can be purchased as unframed canvas art on or framed canvas and prints. If you need help hanging wall art visit this article on how to hang large wall art.