Home is Where the Art is: Sara Garanty
Meet Sara Garanty, an expert of colour psychology and interior design on how to make your Home is where the Art is.
Affordable Art Fair
Thursday 20 June, 2024
For Sara Garanty, colour is everything. Whether through her work as a stylist, decorator or artist, you’re able to see the impact of colour and its psychology in all aspects. Sara strongly believes that colour affects us physically, emotionally and spiritually. She is passionate about utilising colour theory and teaches with this in mind, focusing on ideas surrounding the effect colour can have on well-being and creating a positive change in your interior.
Sara is also one of the exciting curators of our ‘Spotlight’ feature at Affordable Art Fair Stockholm 2024, an addition to our fair that aims to inspire you to fall in love with a key theme.
We’re so lucky to get Sara’s insights into interior design and art collecting, so let’s take an exclusive look into her home to be inspired!
WHICH PIECE MEANS “HOME” TO YOU?
For me, the piece that means “home” is a painting I acquired from a local artist in Stockholm called Jessica Eldenstjärna. It captures the essence of geometric and organic shapes in an overlapping composition that births complexities and dynamics. Its dynamics point to vibrations in a variation of frequencies, creating new perspectives and horizons of understanding. Energy in the form of colour, shapes and light.
This piece evokes a sense of tranquillity and comfort, which are the feelings I associate with home.
Art that resonates personally and brings about a feeling of peace and belonging truly defines the essence of “home.”
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE ART PIECES FOR EACH ROOM IN THE HOME?
When selecting art for different rooms, I consider the function and mood of each space. For instance:
- Living Room: This is often the heart of the home, so I choose vibrant, engaging pieces that can serve as conversation starters and reflect the personality of the household.
- Bedroom: Here, I opt for soothing and calming artwork that promotes relaxation and tranquillity, such as serene landscapes or abstract pieces in soft hues.
- Kitchen/Dining Area: I look for pieces that are lively and stimulating, often featuring food, nature, or abstract designs in bright, warm colours to enhance the atmosphere.
- Office/Study: For these spaces, I select inspiring and motivational art, perhaps something with a bold and dynamic composition.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO PEOPLE WHEN THEY HANG ART IN THEIR HOMES?
Hanging art is an art in itself. Here are some tips:
- Eye Level: Hang artwork so that its centre is at eye level. In rooms where people tend to sit, such as the dining room, consider the seated eye level.
- Scale and Proportion: Ensure the size of the artwork is proportionate to the wall and the furniture around it. Large walls can handle bigger pieces or a gallery arrangement, while smaller walls suit more modestly sized art.
- Grouping: When hanging multiple pieces, arrange them thoughtfully. Consider a grid or salon-style arrangement for a cohesive look. Leave consistent spacing between pieces.
- Lighting: Proper lighting enhances the artwork. Use spotlights or picture lights to highlight key pieces, ensuring they don’t cast shadows or glare.
WHICH PIECE IS YOUR PERSONAL FAVOURITE?
My personal favourite is a contemporary abstract piece by Amandah Andersson that hangs in my home office.
The artwork features bold, sweeping strokes and a rich palette of blues, oranges, purple and yellow. It’s dynamic and full of energy, yet has an underlying harmony that captivates and inspires me every day.
This piece speaks to my love for modern art and the emotions it can evoke through colour and form.
WHEN CONSIDERING BUYING A NEW PIECE, WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE MOST IMPORTANT CRITERIA?
When acquiring a new piece, I consider several key factors:
- Emotional Connection: The piece must resonate with me on an emotional level. It should evoke feelings or memories that are meaningful.
- Quality and Craftsmanship: The technical skill and quality of the materials used are crucial. I look for well-executed work that demonstrates the artist’s expertise and dedication.
- Aesthetic Compatibility: The artwork should complement the existing décor and colour scheme of the space where it will be displayed.
- Artist and Provenance: Understanding the artist’s background and the story behind the piece adds depth and value. I also consider the potential for the piece to appreciate over time, particularly if it’s by an emerging or renowned artist.
We can’t thank Sara enough for her valuable advice on collecting art. Make sure to take note of her tips and tricks to seize the chance to find a piece that inspires you at Affordable Art Fair Stockholm, 2 – 6 October at Nacka Strandsmässan!
All photos are credited to Photographer Markus Stork.
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