Art Curation: a personal approach to choosing art that speaks to you
Art has always been more than decor for me—it's a feeling. A memory. A moment suspended in texture, tone, and intention.
Through Monique Collection, I curate and create art with soul—pieces that bring energy, emotion, and quiet elegance into a space. Whether I’m sourcing art from local makers, discovering new work during my travels, or painting in my studio, I always follow that inner nudge—what resonates, what feels honest, what sparks joy or stillness. That’s the kind of art I bring into my home and offer to others.
Let me take you behind the scenes of how I curate art—for myself, for my clients, and for the spaces I style.
My personal taste in art
I’m drawn to contemporary pieces—especially abstract works with movement, depth, and emotion. I love supporting living artists and artisan creators, both in Australia and abroad. There’s a beautiful kind of intimacy in knowing where a piece comes from, who created it, and why.
I also collect pieces on my travels—art that carries the energy of the place it was found. A woven textile from a Balinese maker, a hand-painted tile from a Lisbon side street, or a simple sketch bought at a local market. I love how these treasures become woven into the story of a space. They hold memory and meaning.
What makes a piece “Right” for me
When a piece stirs something in me—when it stops me mid-step or softens my breath—I know it’s one to keep. For me, it’s less about “matching” a space and more about feeling. I want my clients to feel that same emotional connection: a spark, a sense of calm, or even curiosity.
Whether I’m styling a home or creating a gallery wall, I approach art as an experience. A good piece of art should invite you in—it should give a space soul.
Finding art that speaks to you
If you're not sure where to start, don’t worry. Art curation doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here's how I encourage my clients (and myself!) to approach it:
- Spend time with art: Visit galleries, local exhibitions, street fairs—even online artist collectives. There’s no right or wrong reaction to art. Let yourself be drawn to what moves you.
- Notice patterns: Do you gravitate towards textured abstracts, monochrome sketches, or calming coastal palettes? Once you recognise what resonates, you’ll start curating with intention.
- Start with a feeling: Do you want your home to feel grounded, inspiring, joyful, serene? Let that emotion guide your selections.
- Embrace different forms: While I adore wall art, don’t forget about ceramics, sculpture, textiles, and even framed objects like pressed leaves or found papers. These pieces add beautiful texture and personality.
- Forget the rules—and the price tags: Some of the most special pieces in my collection are simple and affordable. Art isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about how deeply it connects.
Styling your home with art
When I style with art—whether it’s for a client’s home, a villa in Bali, or one of my own exhibitions—I always let the artwork lead the way. It becomes the anchor. I layer textures, tones, and natural materials around it to let it breathe and shine.
A few principles I live by:
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Let the piece breathe – Give art space to stand on its own.
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Consider storytelling – Combine artworks that share a colour palette or emotional tone, not just a style.
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Balance the room – Offset large-scale works with soft furnishings or sculptural decor for harmony.
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Curate slowly – A collected home tells a richer story than one styled all at once. Allow your art to find you over time.
Final thoughts: make it personal
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years as a stylist, designer, and artist, it’s this: there’s no wrong way to collect art. If it lights you up, if it makes you feel something—it’s meant for you.
Whether you’re curating an entire home or looking for one signature piece, trust your instincts. Open yourself to the journey of discovery. Surround yourself with beauty that tells your story—layered, personal, and full of soul.
Monique Collection is where art meets emotion and interiors become experiences.
Browse my collection, discover styling inspiration, or reach out for help curating your own artistic story.