Okay, today I'm coming out of the closet: I love Christmas. There is something in the air in the lead up to Christmas and on Christmas itself. I like that magic. I don't mind when the first spice cookies and gingerbread start appearing on the supermarket shelves in September. For me, that's when the anticipation begins. And... Attention, now it has to go out, ... Last Christmas by Wham is not anathema to me. Yes, I'm a little embarrassed Nevertheless, the song puts me in the Christmas mood. But what I like most about Christmas is giving presents.

Of course, giving gifts can be stressful. The pressure to find the right gift... All year long, I'm looking for gift ideas. I mentally make notes: L loved this the other day, Y's eyes light up at this, and S. loves this and that. After all, it's not the big, colorful, or expensive gifts that touch us. It's the carefully chosen ones, the unexpected ones, the ones that show us that we are seen.

Why we give

The perfect gift: 5 reasons to give art as a present

As an artist, it is obvious to me that art is a good gift idea. Our home is the place where we feel safe, which we share with our loved ones. Home is where we can retreat, where we can recharge our batteries. It is the place where we can be who we are. Let's give a gift to this place, let's give a gift to its inhabitants: inside.
Let me give you my top 5 reasons why art is the perfect gift for everyone.

1. original and unique

Another perfume, another wallet? And how much jewelry can you really wear? Gifts like these are interchangeable. Unless it's the perfume you've been looking for for a long time. The wallet was secretly bought on the Campo di Fiori during the last trip to Rome together, on the day when the sun was so blazing. And the jewelry is an old heirloom, meant to say: Welcome to the family.

That's what makes gifts valuable - far beyond their material value. It's about spending time together and showing the recipient how important they are to you. The right gift says: I see you, I know you!

Art is always an original, unique gift. It shows that you have thought about it and not just bought something. A work of art is a gift of memory, an invitation to remember and enjoy your time together. You can gather around it and create new memories. Art is a gift that can last for generations and even become a family heirloom.

2. good for the soul

Art makes people happy. What every artist already knows has now been scientifically proven. In 2019, the World Health Organization
WHO reviewed more than 900 publications and 3000 studies on art and health. Art and creativity strengthen mental and physical health and even help overcome serious illnesses.

Art strengthens social bonds, reduces stress, counteracts cognitive decline, and has a healing and supportive effect at all stages of life. This is not just true if you are a creative person. Passive enjoyment of art, such as in museums and exhibitions, also has these effects and is even prescribed by doctors in countries such as Canada.

Art touches us on an emotional level, stimulating our own creativity and boosting our self-confidence. Scientists have found that when we look at a work of art, our brains release the same hormones as when we look at a loved one. They say that looking at art has the same effect on us as a hug - can you give anything more beautiful?

3. invitation to feel

Art has a hold on us. Music can probably do this most directly, affecting our mood with the snap of a finger. Suddenly we want to dance - or cry. We are also aware of this influence in literature or movies, when we sympathize with the protagonists. In truth, any art can touch us that deeply, including dance, sculpture, or painting.

Art is aimed at a deeper level of the human experience, one that is often not immediately apparent. It conveys feelings and ideas that are difficult to put into words and is open to interpretation. This encourages engagement with a work of art on a personal level.

4. personal and relevant

"All art is at once surface and symbol. Those who go beneath the surface do so at their peril. Those who go beneath the symbol do so at their peril. In truth, art reflects the beholder, not life." - Oscar Wilde

Art often deals with universal themes that resonate with people around the world, such as love, pain, joy, loss, and hope. This creates a link between different cultures and societies. But it also makes us stop and think about our own positions on these issues. We begin to think about ourselves and our emotions.

Psychologist Dr. Helmut Leder puts it this way: "For me, art is an example of how we humans shape our environment. Our aesthetic sense has a lot to do with relating the relevance of external influences to our own self.

5. daily inspiration

Art encourages us to see the world from new perspectives. Those who go through life with a thirst for knowledge and curiosity will experience things that would otherwise remain hidden. Art stimulates that in us. When we engage in it, we become more creative, not just artistically. We can suddenly see new ways - even in solving problems.

A work of art is like a painted affirmation that makes us stronger, more open to diversity, more empathetic and understanding of ourselves. We grow within ourselves and gain a deeper understanding of complex issues.
Art can do all that! Don't you think this gift is perfect for everyone?

Choosing the right artwork

How do you choose a work of art to give as a gift?
Of course, you can ask yourself some general, I'll call them external, questions. In which room will the work of art hang? What colors will predominate there? Is there space for a large painting or a small one? Does the recipient already have art? What kind of art, etc.

In my opinion, gifts are always best received when the giver reveals a little bit about himself or herself. So I would almost always advise against giving something you don't like.

My advice is to look for a painting that touches something in you, that brings back a memory, that creates a connection between you and the recipient. It can be the subject, but it can also be a color or the dynamics of an artwork. How wonderful it is to hear: "When I saw this work of art, I couldn't help but think of you, so I want to give it to you."

You'll find that it also gives you wonderful moments when you go on this exploration. Isn't that blob of color the same shape as the blob of jam at our picnic? The color - just like his eyes. The movement in this picture reminds me of the wind that blew the first time I kissed her.

But I understand if you're not sure. Art is very personal, and it's meant to please. That's why I decided to offer gift certificates. You can choose the amount and send your loved ones on a journey of discovery. They can take as much time as they want, because the redemption is unlimited.

Art: A gift for any occasion

Art is a perfect gift for women, for men and even for children. The love of art can never be too young. And you don't have to spend a fortune to get
original art or a limited edition art print.

The perfect gift for a best friend? Art! For art lovers and art enthusiasts - anyway. A gift for people who like to travel to foreign cultures and those who prefer to stay at home, for city dwellers and nature lovers. Art comes in all sizes, colors, shapes, and themes. Whatever makes your loved one's heart sing, there is a piece of art that speaks of it.

In my opinion, a gift of art is appropriate for any occasion. First and foremost, of course, is Christmas. But the more personal the occasion, the more appropriate art is as a birthday or wedding gift. Moving into a new home is also the perfect occasion for art.

Have you ever received a work of art as a gift or an inheritance? What do you feel when you look at it? I would love to hear from you.

You've found a favorite piece of art for your home and want to make sure you can enjoy it for years to come? Or maybe you're worried about ruining it with the wrong care? If you've found something that means a lot to you, you want to protect it. I understand that very well. As an artist, I have gained some experience over the years that I would like to share with you today.

When cleaning artwork, it's especially important to use the right method and materials to prevent damage. Imagine: The Mona Lisa actually had eyebrows before it was cleaned too aggressively!
For valuable or fragile works of art, it may be wise to consult a professional restorer or art historian, or to hire a professional to do the cleaning.

A Space for Art

Choosing the right location is an important step in protecting your artwork. Light, humidity, and temperature all affect artwork and can damage it. Ideally, art should be exposed to a stable temperature of 18-20° and a relative humidity of about 55% - but who can guarantee these levels in a home?

Nevertheless, there are things you can do to protect your artwork. Choose a location where the temperature and humidity will not fluctuate too much. Of course, you can't completely avoid these changes as the seasons change. But you can use blinds or curtains to keep rooms cooler in the summer, and a bowl of water to increase humidity during the heating season.

• Avoid direct sunlight

Direct sunlight can cause fading, discoloration, and damage to your artwork. Choose a location that is protected from direct sunlight. If necessary, use curtains or blinds to control light.

• Climate Control

As mentioned above, fluctuations in temperature and humidity can also damage artwork. Avoid rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Don't store paintings you're not displaying in the basement - or only if it's really dry. Attics are usually uninsulated and subject to wide temperature swings.

• Avoid heat

Do not hang your artwork near heat sources such as heaters or fireplaces. This could damage the materials and cause deformation.

• Physical damage protection

Avoid high-traffic areas, narrow aisles, or places where images could be easily knocked or dropped.

How to Hang Your Art Safely

When hanging the artwork, you should pay special attention to 3 things:

• Wall condition

Inspect the wall where you plan to hang your artwork. Make sure it is dry, stable and able to support the weight of the artwork. For heavy or large artwork, it may be necessary to use special fasteners or anchors.

• Suitable hanging systems

Professional gallery rails, sturdy picture hooks, or wire D-rings are good options. If necessary, anchor them to the wall. Make sure the hanging system can support the weight of the artwork and is securely fastened to the wall.

• Air Flow

Air circulation helps regulate humidity. It also helps prevent condensation behind the painting. You can use a hanging system that leaves some space between the picture and the wall, or you can attach small pieces of felt or cork to the back of the artwork.

Special Aspects of the Materials

Different art materials have different sensitivities to environmental influences. Therefore, protective measures can vary.

• Watercolors and Drawings on Paper

Watercolors and drawings on paper are usually very fragile. Moisture, UV rays and acid can cause serious damage. They should be protected from direct sunlight, high humidity and acidic materials. It makes sense to display them only framed. Preferably under museum glass - more on that in a moment. For drawings and watercolors, use acid-free sleeves or mounts.

• Charcoal and Pastel Drawings

Charcoal and pastel drawings are also very sensitive. The dry pigments lie loosely on the paper and are susceptible to smudging. They should therefore be handled with care. Behind glass, they are protected from dust and friction. However, it is important that you use a mount so that the glass does not rest directly on the pigments.

• Oil and Acrylic Paintings

Oil and acrylic paintings tend to be more resistant to moisture and UV rays than watercolors or drawings on paper. Acrylics are even slightly less sensitive. Still, they should be protected from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture. Varnish or a protective coating seals the surface and protects against UV rays and dirt. Paintings on canvas may lose tension or become slightly deformed over time. Re-stretching can help maintain tension and correct any deformations.

If you are unsure, or in the case of valuable artwork, it is advisable to consult a professional such as a conservator or art historian to determine the best method of care.

Museums Glass

Museum glass is acid-free and contains no other components that could damage the artwork over time. It has a UV protective coating. This protects the artwork from these harmful rays.

Unlike traditional glass surfaces, it reduces reflections and glare. Details and colors of the artwork can be seen more clearly - without distracting reflections. Museum glass creates a barrier against dust, dirt and other contaminants that can damage artwork. It also helps protect the artwork from accidental contact or damage.

Proper Care of Art

To maintain the beauty and integrity of your art over time, proper care is important.

• Handling

Always handle your artwork with clean hands, preferably wearing cotton gloves to avoid fingerprints and dirt - and contact with acid! - to avoid fingerprints and dirt. Do not touch the surface of the artwork directly, especially paintings or delicate materials such as paper.

• Cleaning

Remove dust from your artwork regularly to prevent dirt buildup. Use a soft, clean brush or duster. Cloths, even fine microfiber cloths, can stick to the surface texture of paintings and cause damage. Do not use water or detergents.

If the dirt cannot be removed with a brush, use very, very little moisture (it sounds strange, but saliva is best). Be careful not to rub or squeeze. It is best to remove the painting from the wall to clean it so that it does not fall down.

• Periodic inspection

Inspect your artwork regularly for signs of alteration, damage, or insect infestation. If you notice any abnormalities or have questions about care, consult a professional conservator or art historian.

• Storage

If you must store artwork, make sure it is in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area. Use acid-free boxes, sleeves, or archival folders to protect artwork. Do not stack or crush artwork, and store it flat or in special containers to prevent damage.

Canvas artwork should be stored vertically, or the stretcher bars may sag and leave marks. If you are leaning them against the wall, place a sheet of acid-free paper between them. Separate multiple canvases with acid-free paper.

Feedback

I hope my tips are helpful, and I wish you a lot of fun with your artworks. Do you have any questions? Or suggestions, maybe even wishes for more blog posts? Just let me know.

Yours, Lea

How do you transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary? With art! But how do you hang art properly? How do you make sure it looks right and doesn't clutter the room? Arranging artwork in your own home can be tricky. But a room without art? Absolutely not!
An empty wall is silent.

Through inspiring art, the space begins to communicate. That's why this blog post is about living with art. Whether you're looking for the right place for a showpiece or want to turn your home into a small museum, the way you display your art is as much a reflection of your personality as the art itself.

In the Beginning is the Image: The Right Artwork for the Right Place

Before the how comes the what.
Sometimes we fall in love with a work of art, and the question of what becomes superfluous. On other occasions, it may be the place from which we start. We have a specific place in mind, and we look for the right painting. In the first place, of course, it has to appeal to you.
However, the following guiding questions are also useful in the search for the right artwork:

First, very practical considerations may come into play - for example, whether it is possible to drill holes into the wall, or to anchor something with hooks (sometimes difficult in old buildings). And whether works of art with heavy frames are suitable. More complex is the question of what effect you want to achieve. This also affects the hanging. A single small picture in the middle of an empty white wall can have a huge effect. How much space do you have? 

Do you want the artwork to complement your style or stand out? Is it the centerpiece or the icing on the cake? Do you want it to fill the room with aesthetic excitement? Are you looking for a piece of art for a place where you need to concentrate, be inspired, come to rest? What colors dominate? Do you want contrast or harmony?

Equally important is the format. Depending on the subject and color, formats can have different effects. Paintings in landscape format have a more calming effect on us. It corresponds to our field of vision when the picture is wide rather than high. This also gives a sense of spaciousness. Landscape formats are good for hanging over sofas, beds, or dressers.
The portrait format can seem a little more unstable to us - it's like a tower, but inside it, because of the content of the painting, something is happening that could destabilize the solid connection. But that also makes it seem more dynamic. It draws your eye up and can make a room seem higher. Portrait formats work well on narrow walls or in alcoves.

Square formats look harmonious because of the balance of the sides. They can be placed almost anywhere. There is less danger of destabilization and more danger of monotony.
You can play with the effects by using them or breaking them deliberately. Or you can trick the eye, for example, if you're looking for a piece of art for the space above your sofa, but you only like portrait-sized pictures, you can combine two or three pieces of art.

We're on topic.

How to make your wall an eye-catcher

You have chosen the works of art for your home with love, understanding and a sense of aesthetics. They express your taste, your values, your personality. And they deserve to be displayed perfectly.

Here are my best tips for making sure your artwork gets the attention it deserves.
As always, you need to know the "rules" to play by and, if necessary, to break them skillfully.

The right height
Paintings look best when hung at eye level. This means that their center is approximately at eye level. This does not have to be the measured center, but the central focal point of the artwork. On average, eye level is between 1.50 m and 1.60 m. So you can't go wrong with 1.55 m (About 57–60 inches). Of course, you can determine your own eye height. Do you want to admire your painting from your favorite chair? The eye height for artwork viewed from a sitting position is different.

Spacing and Proportions
When hanging art over furniture, there should be at least 20 cm (8 inches) between the top edge of the furniture and the bottom edge of the frame. It looks especially harmonious and cohesive if the width of the artwork is about 3/4 or 2/3 of the width of the furniture. A space of 5 cm (2 inches) between two or more paintings has a soothing effect on our eyes.
You don't have to stick to this, of course, but it's a good idea to keep to the distance you've chosen. It is also possible to play with a multiple, for example 3 cm (1.2 inches) and 6 cm (2.4 inches).

Play with Colors

If you like more contrast, you can also use complementary colors. These are opposite colors on the color wheel, such as blue and yellow or red and green. Light, powdery colors, such as pastels, have a soothing effect.
The darker and more intense the colors, the more powerful they appear. Black and white art works well on any background.

Set the scene: The lighting

To bring out the beauty and emotion of a work of art, it's all about the right lighting. While nothing beats natural light, direct sunlight causes colors to fade. Original art and valuable reproductions should never be exposed to direct sunlight. On the other hand, a wall without direct sunlight may be too dark to give a work of art the effect it deserves.

Artificial lighting can help. But be careful not to overdo it. Highlight individual, special pieces. You don't have to illuminate every piece of art to the smallest detail.

You can choose from classic picture lights or ceiling spots. These are more flexible if you redecorate from time to time. However, the entire painting should always be evenly lit. Choose lamps with a neutral white color. This is the best way to present the colors of your artwork. The light from picture lights has a more intimate effect and should not be too bright. Spacing and angles are important with spotlights. While an angle of about 30° will always work, you will need to experiment with spacing. If the light source is too far away, it will glare; if it is too close, it will create unattractive shadows.

Use soft, even lighting that adequately illuminates the artwork without overwhelming it. If the artwork is very detailed, the light can be more intense. But be sure to choose LED lights; not only are they more environmentally friendly, but they don't produce UV rays or heat, so they won't damage your painting.

Please avoid

I have already mentioned the damaging effect of sunlight on art. Colors fade. If it is a work of art on paper, it can also turn yellow. In both cases, museum glass provides some protection by filtering out ultraviolet light. However, you should never expose art to direct sunlight for long periods of time

Proximity to a radiator is also not recommended. The heat or temperature fluctuations can damage your artwork. The same goes for air that is too dry or too humid. Cracks may appear in the paint, wood may warp, and paper may curl. Still want to hang art in your kitchen or bathroom? Ask your local retailer about protective frames, place artworks out of the way of cooking steam, and don't hang your most valuable piece directly over the bathtub.

For maintenance, use only a dry, soft cloth to remove dust. A feather duster will also work. If at any time you need to remove a stubborn stain, use very, very little moisture. Be very gentle. Dab rather than rub. Avoid chemicals or any additives - even curd soap - altogether.

Within your own 4 walls, you can be as creative as you want. Here are a few examples of how to play with the rules.

• Pictures don't always have to hang. It also works differently. Leaning against the wall or draped over a shelf or dresser often makes art look extra casual.
• Corners or niches can be interesting places to stage your artwork.
• Paintings don't always have to hang individually.

Mix and Match: Different artworks become a gallery wall

Do you have several favorite paintings that you can't hang because you don't have enough space? Pah, sometimes more is more. With a gallery wall, you can combine different styles and formats to give your room a personal touch.

The Salon Wall: Petersburger Hängung

The Petersburger Hängung is named after the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, Russia. There, in many rooms, countless paintings and works of art hang close together. In some rooms, the artwork covers the entire wall. Rich St. Petersburg citizens used to adopt this hanging to demonstrate their status.

A salon wall can create an overwhelming and dramatic effect by presenting a multitude of artworks in one room. It leads the viewer's eye from one painting to the next and is bold, creative and dynamic. This arrangement creates a sense of fullness and richness, but it can also create a sense of restlessness.

Relate the paintings to each other. This brings a bit of calm to the chaos. This can be the same or similar frames, for example. Or mounts. Or always the same distances. It can also be a theme or a color that appears at regular intervals. Size, format, style... there are no limits to your creativity.

The Petersburg tapestry works better on a large wall and is well suited to communicative spaces. It can be overwhelming in the bedroom. Paint the wall a neutral color or one that ties the artwork together.

The edge hanging

The grid hanging

Inside the Lines

A Single Piece

Speaking of statement...
The single piece is all about one thing: impact! Pick your favorite piece and give it room to breathe. That's all you really need to do: make everything revolve around the star. Pick a wall color that creates the perfect backdrop, and eliminate anything that steals the show. The effect can be breathtaking!

What do you think? Share your experience

Which of the featured hangings appeals to you the most? Or maybe you've already found another way to create the perfect picture wall yourself? I'm eager to hear your experiences and opinions on this! Feel free to let me and the other readers know in the comments. And if you like, feel free to share this article with your friends and inspire them to create their own perfect picture wall too. Thanks so much for reading!