Happenings: A Discussion on Art & Interiors
Last week, we were delighted to host a talk on Art & Interiors as a part of our Calendar of Happenings in the Tithe Barn. Chaired by Fiona McKenzie-Johnston, the panel saw interior designer Bunny Turner, art advisor Rebecca Gordon and gallerist Lyndsey Ingram introduce us to the worlds of art and interiors and talk us through the rules and how to break them, how the two worlds combine in organic, uncontrived ways, and the tricks to merging traditional and contemporary styles.
Our Spark Notes
Hanging Art
Using hanging rails in the house is a lovely mechanism to feel that you can have a living space. I don’t move things regularly, but I have the option which is lovely. – Bunny
At Kettle’s Yard, art has been hung in relation to a specific chair, so when you’re sitting you have the perfect view. - Fiona
Don’t be afraid to hang art high or low, in relation to something else, be bold, cram things in! Put big things in small spaces and small on large walls. The rules don’t matter. – Rebecca
“When it comes to rules, break them.
It is about what you love and how you experience art.”
Art can be Everywhere
Art can be everywhere – I have a Lucy Sparrow felt Chanel No.5 amongst my other perfumes, it brings me so much joy. – Fiona
Historically, people put the most expensive piece of art at the entrance of the hall. In today’s more contemporary life, we encourage people to hang art in the kitchen or bathroom – this is where most time is spent and you want to live around the art. – Lyndsey
Art in kitchens. Yes. But kitchens do generate heat, so don’t put an expensive oil with no glass. However, plates are brilliant. You can literally take them off the wall and wash them up! – Fiona
Pattern & Texture
People are often scared of hanging art on wallpaper, but you just need to go for it. Play with scale, shapes. It can really work. - Bunny
We often frame textiles, to add texture to the scheme. – Bunny
Use bronzes, having tactile things that ask you to engage with them are really important. – Bunny
Using ledges for layers is great, and bringing in other mediums. Art isn’t confined to the walls. Bring in ceramics, books and homeware.
Turner Pocock
Lighting
Picture lights are a brilliant way to decorate, they can bring a corner to life. – Bunny
Technology has really enabled the scope of picture lights to broaden, they can be a beautiful feature, or incredibly discreet. It’s really exciting. – Fiona
Lamps can interfere with an art piece, they can even be used to draw your eye in. - Bunny
Framing
Framing is reflective of the piece and the place it is destined to go into. Standard types of frames which people can change are safe bets; the wall and the character of the room changes it.
“When you design a room, you are designing an atmosphere and creating an empathetic space”
Turner Pocock
