Art is Life

Art is life. It brings warmth, character and feeling into the spaces we inhabit every day. At Studio Elwood we believe art should never feel fussy or intimidating — it should be accessible, enjoyable and part of everyday living. Most importantly, the artwork you choose should be something you truly love.

In this guide, artist and Creative Director Tory Burke shares practical insights from the studio on choosing artwork, understanding scale and placing art beautifully within the home. These notes explore common questions such as where artwork should be placed in a living room, how large artwork should be for a wall, and how to style art within interior spaces.

From selecting extra large artworks for expansive walls to styling pieces above a sofa or fireplace, these guides are designed to help you live comfortably and confidently with art.

What Size Artwork Should I Buy for My Wall?

Choosing the right size artwork can transform how a room feels. This guide explains the principles designers use when selecting artwork scale, including the 60–75% wall rule and when extra large artworks work best.

Read the Guide >>
Pascal Blush 1 - Original oil painting by Tory Burke

How High Should I hang my Artwork?

The height of artwork can dramatically change how balanced a room feels. Learn how galleries and designers determine the ideal hanging height and how far artwork should sit above furniture.

Read the Guide >>
A framed Giclee print featuring abstract art with a sensual warm tonal color palette, displayed in a modern living room setting.

Where Should Art Be Placed in a Living Room?

Artwork often becomes the focal point of a living room. This guide explores the best places to position artwork - from sofas and fireplaces to large open walls.

Read the Guide >>
Framed Giclee print featuring abstract geometric artwork with a pink and beige color palette, displayed above a sofa in a living room setting.

How to Style Large Wall Art Above a Sofa

A large artwork above a sofa can anchor the entire living room. This guide explains how to choose the right scale and hang artwork so it feels balanced with your furniture.

Read the Guide >>

Leaning Artwork vs Hanging Artwork

Both hanging and leaning artwork can work beautifully depending on the space. Learn when leaning artwork creates a relaxed contemporary look and when hanging is the better option.

Read the Guide >>
Greek Blue Stucco and Green Stucco - Giclee print artwork framed in raw oak on a marble mantle

Framing Artwork

Framing is an important part of how artwork is presented within a space. The right finish can enhance the artwork and help it feel connected to the room while allowing the piece itself to remain the focus.

Read the Guide >>