As a celebrity style news editor with an interest in art, I love seeing what works celebs choose to hang in their homes. While the Kardashian-Jenners boast work in their homes by Tracey Emin and Yoshitomo Nara, many of us are working within a different price range.
As such, I was delighted to see Drew Barrymore’s take on some modern rustic-ready artwork – albeit, on the kitchen set of her TV program, The Drew Barrymore Show.
In a clip recently shared to the host’s Instagram page, we can see Barrymore’s set features a mix of warm wood cutting blocks and cool marble countertops, with the hanging artwork (a still life of fruit and pottery) serving as a focal point.
We are used to seeing art hanging in hallways, living rooms, dining rooms, and the like. However, kitchens position themselves as an unexpected area to hang art. With all the accessories and appliances that fill a space, you might not consider hanging a painting when you could hang some pots and pans instead.
I am a big proponent of placing art in the kitchen, and I believe that it can accentuate even the most minimal of spaces (and make them feel instantly more personal). Selecting the work is key here, though, to ensure that pieces do not look out of place.
Moreover, a natural pick for a kitchen art idea is the imagery of food and drink. Still, lifes of fruit are classic and timeless, while portraits of moka pots or cocktail glasses add some character to a space.
Apart from imagery, looking at color palettes is a significant factor in selecting kitchen wall art. I love how the works in Barrymore’s TV kitchen blend seamlessly into the rest of the warm-neutral color scheme, with subtle pops of color thanks to the yellow fruit in the painting (as well as the fresh food on the table).
If you’re also working with a modern rustic kitchen, try sticking to neutral works with interesting imagery – the visuals will hold enough interest without additional colors becoming too busy.
(Image credit: Sherwin-Williams)
One aspect of decorating with art in the kitchen to be mindful of is that you are introducing work to a space that often generates messes from cooking. I recommend housing any artwork in a frame, preferably one that has a glass front for protection.
Additionally, consider where you will be hanging the work – above the stove or sink may not be ideal, but an open wall that is away from any potential spillages works great. I recommend hanging a single portrait at eye level, whereas a gallery wall can feature works of mixed positions.
(Image credit: Margaret Rajic)
Below, I have rounded up some kitchen-centric works that are sure to work in a variety of spaces.
A natural fit for the kitchen, this orange art print is bright and zesty.
Minimalist Fine Line Art Print
A fine line against a white and gray background is the ultimate minimalist art piece.
Above all, select works that speak to you – design is ultimately a personal practice, and kitchens should be spaces to facilitate joy.