Buying Modern Art for Your First Home: A Beginner’s Guide

A stylish modern living space featuring a vibrant hummingbird artwork. The room is tastefully decorated with a woven chair, pampas grass in a tall vase, and a sleek cabinet topped with books and decorative items, creating a harmonious blend of natural and contemporary elements.

Moving into your first home is exciting and overwhelming. Furniture, lighting, layouts… and then there’s the artwork. Many first-time homeowners leave art until last, unsure of where to start or afraid of choosing “the wrong piece.”

The truth? Artwork isn’t something to rush, but it is something worth choosing intentionally.

Tip #1 - Start with feeling, not trends

Forget what’s popular on Instagram. Ask yourself:

– How do I want this space to feel?

– Calm? Energising? Grounded?

– Personal or bold?

Art should reflect you, not a showroom.

Tip #2 - Original art vs prints: What first-time buyers should know

Prints can fill a wall. Original art creates presence.

Original artwork brings depth, texture, and story, something mass-produced art simply can’t replicate.

"The only art I'll ever study is stuff that I can steal from" - David Bowie

Tip #3 - Size matters more than you think

One common mistake is buying art that’s too small. A well-scaled piece anchors a room and makes a space feel intentional.

Tip #4 - You don't need to buy everything at once

Your home evolves. Your art collection should too. Start with one meaningful piece and build from there.

Tip #5 - Why working with an artist makes the process easier

Artists don’t just create modern art; we help you see your space differently. From scale and colour to placement, guidance removes the fear.

Your first home deserves modern art that feels personal, not rushed.

👉 Subscribe to my studio "Insights" for practical art-buying advice, behind-the-scenes insights, and guidance for new homeowners.

Take care

Michelle

"Bringing the outside, inside" - Michelle Schulz - Artist