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The Art of Mixing Art Styles: How to Clash, Contrast, and Create Like a Pro

We’ll start with a simple truth: mixing art styles is an art form in itself. It’s not just about finding pieces you love—it’s about curating them in a way that feels intentional, balanced, and visually compelling. From abstract and minimalist to vintage and surrealist, blending different styles can bring personality and depth to your space, but it also comes with challenges.


How do you ensure your gallery wall doesn’t look chaotic? Should you stick to a color scheme? Can you mix classic portraits with contemporary digital art? The key to successfully mixing art styles lies in contrast, cohesion, and composition.


At BY Design And Viz, we believe that the best art collections tell a story, weaving together different influences while maintaining harmony. Below, we break down expert-backed strategies for combining diverse art styles into a gallery-worthy display. Plus, we’ll share five go-to methods for creating a look that feels effortlessly curated, no matter your aesthetic.


1. Mixing Art Styles: Find Your Visual Anchor



Before you start collecting pieces, identify a visual anchor—the one piece that sets the tone for your collection. This could be a bold abstract painting, a vintage print, or a striking black-and-white photograph. Once you have your anchor, use it as a reference point to build the rest of your collection.


  • Look for complementary colors, textures, or themes in other pieces.

  • Contrast modern with traditional, like pairing a Renaissance-style portrait with a sleek, contemporary graphic.

  • Play with scale—layering different sizes can make an eclectic mix feel intentional.


By starting with a focal point, you create a guiding force that ties everything together, no matter how varied your selections are.


2. Mixing Art Styles: Balance Abstract & Realistic Pieces



A great way to add visual interest while maintaining harmony is to mix abstract art with more realistic imagery. The juxtaposition of organic, freeform shapes against structured, detailed compositions adds depth and intrigue to your wall.


How to make it work:

  • Pair a dreamy watercolor landscape with a structured architectural drawing.

  • Mix a modern geometric print with a classical still-life painting.

  • Use a neutral background to let the contrast shine.


The balance between abstract and realistic styles allows your art collection to feel layered and dynamic without overwhelming the eye.


3. Mixing Art Styles: Play With Different Frame Styles



Frame choice can make or break an art collection. Mixing ornate vintage frames with sleek, minimalist ones adds an extra layer of contrast, making even the most eclectic assortment feel curated.


Tips for combining frame styles:

  • Use a consistent color palette for frames (like black, white, and natural wood) for a cohesive look.

  • Don’t be afraid to mix metallics—brass, gold, and silver frames can work beautifully together.

  • Float-mount delicate pieces like sketches or pressed botanicals for a museum-style feel.


By thoughtfully choosing your frames, you can elevate your artwork while keeping the overall aesthetic polished and intentional.


4. Mixing Art Styles: Layer Different Mediums



Don’t limit yourself to paintings and prints—mixing different mediums creates depth and texture, making your art wall more dynamic.


Try incorporating:

  • Textiles: Hang a woven wall hanging or embroidered piece alongside framed prints.

  • Photography: Pair moody film photography with bold, colorful illustrations.

  • Sculptural Elements: Add small three-dimensional pieces like ceramics or wooden carvings for an unexpected twist.


Mixing media ensures your collection doesn’t feel flat or one-dimensional. Instead, it becomes a rich, layered visual experience.


5. Mixing Art Styles: Use a Limited Color Palette



Even the most varied collection can feel harmonious if you stick to a limited color palette. Choosing 2-3 dominant colors and incorporating them throughout your pieces creates a unified look, even when styles vary dramatically.


How to implement this strategy:

  • If you love bold colors, pick a primary shade (like cobalt blue) and let it appear in at least 3-4 pieces.

  • If you prefer a neutral look, stick to warm earth tones or black-and-white pieces with subtle pops of color.

  • Use frames or matting in similar tones to reinforce the color story.


Color is one of the easiest ways to create cohesion within an art collection, even when styles, subjects, and mediums vary.


FAQs About Mixing Art Styles


Q: Can I mix modern and traditional art in the same gallery wall?

Absolutely! The contrast between modern and traditional can create an exciting, curated look. The key is to balance the elements—use similar color tones or framing to tie them together.


Q: How do I prevent my gallery wall from looking too busy?

Stick to a theme, whether it’s a consistent color palette, subject matter, or frame style. Leave breathing room between pieces and vary sizes to create visual rhythm.


Q: Can I mix digital prints with original paintings?

Yes! Digital art and traditional paintings can coexist beautifully. Consider pairing them with complementary textures—like a matte digital print next to a glossy oil painting—for contrast.


Q: How many different art styles can I mix in one space?

There’s no set rule, but 3-4 different styles are a good starting point. Beyond that, use a unifying element (color, frame style, or theme) to maintain cohesion.


Get Expert Advice for Your Space


Curating an art collection can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At BY Design And Viz, our team of interior designers can help you mix art styles like a pro, ensuring your space feels both personal and beautifully curated.


Book a consultation today and let us bring your vision to life!

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Hey friend, I'm Beril! An interior designer and architect with a passion for turning houses into homes. Join me for practical tips and endless inspiration to make your home truly yours!

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