7 amazing spaces transformed by artwork

Supported by bluethumb

Artwork has the power to completely transform how a space feels, adding colour, pattern, personality and emotion in a way few other design or decorative elements can. Whether it’s a single statement piece or a thoughtfully curated collection, the right artwork can elevate even the simplest room.

To refresh this article, we’re chatting with Alexandra Guglielmino, Head of Art Advisory at bluethumb, who is sharing her expert insights into how to choose and style artwork. Here are 7 ways artwork can transform a space and how to get it right!

Related article: 10 Australian abstract artists to discover and love on Bluethumb
Related article: 50 quick cleaning tasks and decorating updates to get your home ready for spring!

1. Grouping like artwork

Curated groupings of art can instantly elevate a wall, especially when there’s a unifying theme tying the pieces together.

“Start off by choosing a theme or colour scheme, then have fun mixing it up with different sized artworks and frames,” says Alexandra.

This approach works beautifully in living rooms, hallways and stairwells. The key is cohesion (think shared tones, subject matter or style) while allowing enough variation to keep the arrangement interesting.

Styling tip: Lay artworks out on the floor first to experiment with spacing and balance before committing to the wall. Or take a cue from the image below and scatter the artwork and placement, such as on the wall mounted shelf, resting on the floor and mounted to the wall.

2. Bold and oversized

Minimal, neutral interiors continue to dominate, but artwork is where you can safely inject colour and drama.

“Minimalistic and neutral colour schemes are very much in style. Add some flair by including a large, bold statement piece to bring colour and impact into the room,” Alexandra explains.

Oversized artworks work well above sofas, beds and dining tables, anchoring the space and drawing the eye upward.

Designer note: one bold artwork often has more impact than multiple smaller pieces competing for attention.

These types of pieces are generally complex and busy, and work best in a restrained space.

3. Texture as a design feature

Beyond colour and subject matter, texture is becoming an increasingly important element in artwork selection.

“There are some wonderful artists creating heavily textured and earthy artworks,” says Alexandra.

“Pick a favourite artwork that suits the room’s style and mood, making sure its size is proportionate to the wall space.”

Textural artworks add warmth and tactility, making them ideal for contemporary, coastal and organic interiors.

Styling tip: Textural art pairs beautifully with natural materials like timber, linen and stone.

4. Sister artworks

Pairing artworks from the same series can create a curated look, perfect for bedrooms, studies or symmetrical spaces.

“I love pairing artworks from the same series, so discover an artist who captivates you and explore their profiles,” says Alexandra.

“Create balance by pairing artworks of the same size, or if you’re designing a gallery hang, go crazy with different sizes.”

Bluethumb’s filtering tools make it easier to explore works by the same artist or within a consistent style or palette.

5. Animal love

Interior Designer Darren Palmer says it’s important to bring life into every room of the home… and an interpretation of this is animal artwork.

Show your Aussie pride with a beautiful native animal like a cockatoo — you’ll find dozens of works on bluethumb with cockatoos, from mixed media on paper to abstract on canvas.

6. Indigenous art

Modern Indigenous art offers depth far beyond aesthetics.

“Modern Indigenous art speaks volumes, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary expression, weaving together culture, identity and creativity,” says Alexandra.

Bluethumb works with Indigenous Art Centres across Australia, as well as independent First Nations artists, helping create sustainable markets for their work.

Including Indigenous art in your home can bring powerful meaning, while also supporting artists and communities.

7. Colour story

Artwork doesn’t just decorate a room — it can inform the entire palette.

“Use the artwork as a guide for selecting complementary design elements, such as furniture, rugs and accent pieces, incorporating its colours into the room’s palette,” Alexandra suggests.

This approach creates cohesive interiors that feel layered and intentional rather than matchy.

Designer tip: pull one or two secondary colours from the artwork rather than the dominant hue for a more refined result.

You might also like to check out Julia Green’s advice on bringing art into your home.

There you have our 7 ideas for displaying art in your home. Which look do you love the most? Thanks to bluethumb who supported this blog post. To search Australia’s biggest authentic artist marketplace, check out the bluethumb online gallery.

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This article was first published in April 2016 and has been updated with new information and images.