living room wall art mid century modern

"Mid-Century Modern Living room Wall Art: Elevate Your Space in Style"

By Andrew Allen
AD

If you're a fan of mid-century modern design, you're likely always on the lookout for ways to infuse that sleek, minimalist aesthetic into every aspect of your living space. And while furniture and decor are key, one element often overlooked is the power of living room wall art. Mid-century modern wall art can be a stunning focal point, adding character and completing your space's design narrative.

The mid-century modern style, which flourished in the mid-20th century, is characterized by clean lines, a focus on functionality, and a celebration of natural materials. When it comes to wall art, this translates to pieces that are simple, elegant, and often abstract or geometric.

Understanding Mid-Century Modern Wall Art

The mid-century modern era was a breeding ground for unique and innovative art styles. To create an authentic mid-century modern space, it's essential to understand the key characteristics of this wall art style.

AD
18 Mid Century Modern Living Room Wall Art Ideas You’ll Love
18 Mid Century Modern Living Room Wall Art Ideas You’ll Love
Modern minimalist printable wall art templates: Mid Century Abstract Decor
Modern minimalist printable wall art templates: Mid Century Abstract Decor
Mid Century Modern Gallery Wall Art | Retro Typography Posters & Earthy Decor
Mid Century Modern Gallery Wall Art | Retro Typography Posters & Earthy Decor

Mid-century modern wall art often features bright, bold colors, particularly after the late 1950s and early 1960s when Pop Art became popular. These colors could be paired with monochromatic or black and white pieces to create balance and harmony in the space.

Geometric and Abstract Shapes

One of the defining features of mid-century modern wall art is its geometric and abstract shapes. These images are often composed of simple, clean lines and forms, evoking a sense of order and balance. Examples include minimalist line drawings, circles, triangles, and squares.

Mid Century Modern Abstract Canvas Print, Burnt Orange Moss Green Organic Shapes Wall Art
Mid Century Modern Abstract Canvas Print, Burnt Orange Moss Green Organic Shapes Wall Art
Mid Century Modern Living Room Ideas With Warm, Lived-In Details
Mid Century Modern Living Room Ideas With Warm, Lived-In Details
Modern Retro Living Room: Orange Bauhaus Gallery Wall and 70s Olive Green Sofa
Modern Retro Living Room: Orange Bauhaus Gallery Wall and 70s Olive Green Sofa

Artists like Bridget Riley and Frank Stella are known for their geometric and abstract works from this period. Their pieces often play with perspective,patterns, and the optical illusion, adding depth and interest to wall space.

Bold Patterns and Textures

Mid-century modern wall art also embraces bold patterns and textures. Think graphic prints, color blocking, and heavy use of Wood, Textured Art, or even wall-coverings. For example, Anni Albers' textile works and Alexander Girard's pattern-based designs embody this spirit.

AD

These bold patterns can help anchor a room's color scheme and create visual interest. They also align with the mid-century modern focus on functionality, as they can visually enlarge a space or create the illusion of additional architectural elements.

Mid Century Modern Abstract Canvas Art | Geometric Shapes Print
Mid Century Modern Abstract Canvas Art | Geometric Shapes Print
Mid-Century Modern Living Room Inspiration | Warm Earthy Tones Decor
Mid-Century Modern Living Room Inspiration | Warm Earthy Tones Decor
34+ Notable Mid Century Modern Wall Art Ideas to Inspire
34+ Notable Mid Century Modern Wall Art Ideas to Inspire
Monet Coastal Cliff Landscape | Warm Coastal Wall Art for Mid Century Modern Living Room
Monet Coastal Cliff Landscape | Warm Coastal Wall Art for Mid Century Modern Living Room
a living room with orange couches and posters on the wall
a living room with orange couches and posters on the wall
Mid Century Modern Geometric Framed Canvas Wall Art: Panoramic Print - Etsy
Mid Century Modern Geometric Framed Canvas Wall Art: Panoramic Print - Etsy

Choosing Mid-Century Modern Wall Art for Your Space

Now that you understand the key characteristics of mid-century modern wall art, it's time to choose pieces that will complement your space. Here are some tips to help you:

First, consider the scale of your wall art. Large pieces can make a bold statement and draw the eye upward, making smaller rooms feel more expansive. Conversely, smaller pieces can create a more intimate atmosphere in larger rooms.

AD

Matching the Art to Your Color Scheme

When selecting mid-century modern wall art, consider how the colors in the piece complement your room's color scheme. If your room has earthy tones, you might opt for pieces with complementary or analogous colors. If your room is decorated with bright, primary colors, consider pieces that use those colors or introduce new ones that complement them.

How to Fake an Expensive Mid-Century Living Room Wall on a Budget 🤫
How to Fake an Expensive Mid-Century Living Room Wall on a Budget 🤫
there is a blue cabinet with records on it in front of pictures and a lamp
there is a blue cabinet with records on it in front of pictures and a lamp
an image of some type of art work
an image of some type of art work
200 Amazing Mid Century Modern Design and Decor Ideas
200 Amazing Mid Century Modern Design and Decor Ideas
Mid Century Modern Geometric Art Print: Terracotta Beige Black (digital Download) - Etsy
Mid Century Modern Geometric Art Print: Terracotta Beige Black (digital Download) - Etsy
Terracotta Bird Print | Modern Folk Bird Wall Art | Mid Century Modern Nature Print | Neutral Earth Tone Home Decor | Boho Living Room Decor
Terracotta Bird Print | Modern Folk Bird Wall Art | Mid Century Modern Nature Print | Neutral Earth Tone Home Decor | Boho Living Room Decor
Cozy Nordic Living Room with Artful Wall Decor
Cozy Nordic Living Room with Artful Wall Decor
Original Mid Century Modern Painting on Canvas Minimalist Art Custom Wall Art Geometric Painting Living Room Painting Fashion Wall Decor - Etsy
Original Mid Century Modern Painting on Canvas Minimalist Art Custom Wall Art Geometric Painting Living Room Painting Fashion Wall Decor - Etsy
Mid-Century Geometric Wall Art, Terracotta Sage Print (Digital Download)
Mid-Century Geometric Wall Art, Terracotta Sage Print (Digital Download)
Cozy Retro Mid Century Modern Living Room with Gallery Wall Inspo ✨
Cozy Retro Mid Century Modern Living Room with Gallery Wall Inspo ✨
a mid-century modern living room with color block walls, a bold mid-century modern poster gallery wall and potted greenery - Shelterness
a mid-century modern living room with color block walls, a bold mid-century modern poster gallery wall and potted greenery - Shelterness
Retro Wall Art Geometric Set of 36 Prints Bauhaus Mid Century Modern Posters Geometric Gallery Wall Set Mid Mod Decor Trendy Bundle
Retro Wall Art Geometric Set of 36 Prints Bauhaus Mid Century Modern Posters Geometric Gallery Wall Set Mid Mod Decor Trendy Bundle
Mid Century Modern Wall Art, Geometric Abstract Poster, Retro Burnt Orange Canvas, Vintage 70s Decor, Boho Sun Arch Print, Earth Tone Art - Etsy
Mid Century Modern Wall Art, Geometric Abstract Poster, Retro Burnt Orange Canvas, Vintage 70s Decor, Boho Sun Arch Print, Earth Tone Art - Etsy
Mid Century Floral Wall Art Print | Retro Botanical Artwork in Burnt Orange and Cream | Modern Boho Wall Decor | Digital Download Printable
Mid Century Floral Wall Art Print | Retro Botanical Artwork in Burnt Orange and Cream | Modern Boho Wall Decor | Digital Download Printable

Remember that mid-century modern art often features bold, contrasting colors. Don't be afraid to choose a piece that adds a pop of color to your space or leap out against a neutral background.

Considering the Piece's Subject Matter

Mid-century modern wall art covers a wide range of subject matters. From abstract geometric shapes to landscapes, figurative works, and even pop culture-inspired pieces, there's something for everyone. Consider your personal tastes and what resonates with your design aesthetic when selecting a piece.

AD

For instance, if you love nature and have a mid-century modern home, you might choose a landscape painting or a piece featuring bold, stylized nature-inspired graphics. On the other hand, if you're a fan of mid-century culture, you might prefer a piece inspired by ADC or연한 Eames' work.

Ultimately, your living room wall art should reflect your personal style and complement your space. By choosing mid-century modern pieces that speak to you and work with your room's existing elements, you can create a harmonious, engaging, and visually striking living space.

AD