Empty Walls Are Depressing
Moved into my current place two years ago and stared at blank walls for way too long before doing anything about it. Finally put together a gallery wall and the difference was immediate - suddenly it felt like a home instead of a temporary space.
The intimidating part is figuring out where to buy art that doesn’t look like everyone else’s apartment. Here’s where I’ve found good stuff.
Where to Get Wall Art
Society6
Millions of designs from independent artists. The variety is genuinely insane - whatever your taste, you’ll find something.
Multiple size options, framed or unframed. The artists get a cut of sales which feels better than buying mass-produced stuff. Prices range from reasonable to splurge depending on what you choose.
Quality varies a bit depending on print type - I’ve had great experiences with their art prints, less consistent with some other products. But for unique pieces you won’t see in everyone’s apartment, this is the place.
Desenio
If the idea of arranging a gallery wall stresses you out, Desenio has pre-designed sets. They show you exactly how to arrange them and even sell matching frames.
Very Scandinavian aesthetic - lots of minimal line art, botanical prints, neutral tones. If that’s your style, great. If you want something more eclectic, look elsewhere.
They have a room visualizer tool where you can see how prints look in your space before buying. The prints themselves are good quality, nice paper stock.
Etsy Custom Portraits
Custom pet portraits, family illustrations, house drawings - Etsy has artists who’ll turn your photos into actual art. My sister got a custom portrait of her dog in a Renaissance style and it’s genuinely hilarious and well-made.
Turnaround time varies by artist so plan ahead for gifts. Prices range wildly too. Read reviews carefully before ordering.
For something truly personalized, this is hard to beat.
IKEA (BILD and RIBBA lines)
Not exciting but extremely practical. Their prints are cheap, their frames are cheaper, and honestly they look fine.
Good for filling space while you figure out what you actually want. Or for rooms where you don’t want to invest much - guest rooms, rental bathrooms, wherever.
The downside is everyone has the same stuff. You’ll see the same prints in multiple apartments if you live in a city.
iCanvas
Museum reproductions done well. Licensed prints with good color accuracy on canvas or framed. If you want a Monet in your living room, this is how you get one without robbing a museum.
Multiple sizes, quality printing. Looks more expensive than it is. Not as unique as original art but there’s a reason classic paintings are classic.
Quick Comparison
| Source | Style | Price Range | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Society6 | Indie/varied | Affordable-mid | Unique finds | [Check Price] |
| Desenio | Scandinavian | Mid | Gallery walls | [Check Price] |
| Etsy | Custom | Varies | Personalized | [Check Price] |
| IKEA | Minimal | Budget | Affordability | [Check Price] |
| iCanvas | Classic art | Mid-high | Museum vibes | [Check Price] |
Wall Art Tips
Frame Colors
- Black - Modern, gallery feeling
- White - Clean, bright, Scandinavian
- Natural wood - Warm, boho, organic
- Gold/brass - Traditional, statement
- No frame - Minimal, contemporary (canvas wraps)
Doing a Gallery Wall
Start with your largest piece as the anchor. Keep 2-3 inches between frames. Mix sizes but keep something consistent - either all the same frame color or all the same style.
Lay everything out on the floor first before putting holes in the wall. Some people tape paper templates up first, which helps but feels tedious.
Sizing Guidelines
Above a sofa, the art should be about 2/3 the width of the furniture. Center point should be around eye level (57-60 inches from floor). Above a bed, leave 8-10 inches from the headboard.
When in doubt, go bigger. Lots of small pieces on a big wall looks cluttered.
If You’re Renting
Command strips work if you follow the weight limits. Picture hanging strips for heavier pieces. Some people use washi tape for lightweight prints but that can damage paint.
Alternatively, lean pieces on shelves or mantels instead of hanging.
Art Style Glossary
- Abstract - Shapes and colors, non-representational
- Botanical - Plants, flowers, nature illustrations
- Typography - Words, quotes, lettering
- Photography - Landscape, portrait, editorial style
- Line art - Minimal, often single continuous line drawings
The Short Version
For unique pieces, Society6 supports indie artists and has massive selection.
Stressed about arranging things? Desenio’s pre-made gallery sets are foolproof.
Want something personal? Custom Etsy portraits, especially pet ones.
Tight budget? IKEA is cheap and fine.
Love classic art? iCanvas museum reproductions look legit.
Prices vary by size and framing - check for options.