As an art consultant with over 35 years experience, one of the most common reservations I encounter when discussing artwork colors for commercial and hospitality projects revolves around warm colors, specifically red. Probably because of its intensity or the fact that clients fear they’ll overwhelm the space or interior design but I am here to champion red hot artwork and show you how, when curated correctly, it can excite and help to invigorate employees and guests.
How Do We View Color?
When light strikes any colored object, the object absorbs only the wavelengths that exactly match its own atomic structure and reflects the rest to the observer. When light strikes the human eye, the wavelengths do so in different ways, influencing our perceptions. The hypothalamus is the part of the brain governing our hormones and our endocrine system, when light hits the retina it is converted to electrical impulses that are then transmitted to the hypothalamus for interpretation.
The Emotional Resonance of Red
Color, at its core, is emotion and according to various research, the color that surrounds us in our daily lives has a profound effect on our mood and on our behavior. In clothing, interiors, and landscape, colors can change our mood from sad to happy, from confusion to intelligence, and from fear to confidence. The design of an environment through temperature, sounds, layout, lighting, and colors can stimulate perceptual and emotional responses in consumers and affect their behavior and how they feel about their environment. Color is one of the effective factors in a space which influences the way individuals express their emotions.
And red, in particular, is a powerhouse of feeling. Red is the color of passion, energy, and excitement. It evokes warmth, strength, and even a touch of luxury. Think about the psychological impact: a vibrant red can stimulate conversation and engagement, making it ideal for a bustling restaurant or a lively hotel lobby. A deeper, richer red can exude sophistication and intimacy, perfect for a high-end lounge or a private dining room. Far from being a mere accent, red fine art or work with large swaths of red can become the emotional anchor of a space, dictating its mood and inviting interaction.
Oversized Red: A Game-Changer for Any Space
One of the most adventurous ways to leverage the impact of red is by placing an oversized piece of fine art in a focal point of a large room. Imagine walking into a spacious corporate lobby or a grand hotel atrium to be greeted by a monumental art piece pulsating with crimson hues. An oversized artwork blushing with red tones makes a striking statement. The bold artwork commands attention, creates a focal point, and instantly elevates the energy level and adds to the sophistication of the entire space.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, an oversized wall art in red or warm colors can cleverly manipulate perception, instilling a sense of warmth in a workspace or large conference room, making the vastness feel more inviting. In a more compact space, a carefully chosen artwork in warm hues can paradoxically expand the visual field, drawing the eye in and creating a sense of depth and dynamism. The oversized red painting, textile or wall sculpture becomes an architectural element in itself, helping to define the character of the room.
Rejoice with Red Fine Art
The apprehension surrounding red in design is often unwarranted. The key to acceptance lies in understanding its nuances and how it interacts with its surroundings. Red doesn’t have to be loud or aggressive. Red and warm hued artwork can be:
- Sophisticated: Think of deep burgundy, rich maroon, or a nuanced terracotta. These shades add gravitas and elegance without being overwhelming.
- Playful: Bright, poppy reds and pinks can inject fun and youthful energy, ideal for more contemporary and adventurous settings.
- Warm and Inviting: Reds with orange undertones can create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for lounges or reception areas.
- An Energy Source: In a corporate setting, a bold red piece can subtly energize employees and clients, fostering a dynamic and productive environment.
Furthermore, red pairs beautifully with a surprisingly wide range of colors and materials. It sings against neutrals like grey, beige, and white which allow the artwork to truly pop. Hot fine art in red colors create a striking contrast with cool blues or greens, adding visual interest and depth. And when combined with natural materials like wood, stone, or metallic accents, red fine art takes on a new dimension of luxury and refinement.
So, the next time you’re envisioning a bold and energetic aesthetic for a commercial or hospitality project, work with me and I’ll show you how to embrace the transformative potential of red fine art. Let the passion, energy, and undeniable presence of a well-chosen red fine artwork elevate your design, captivate your audience, and leave a lasting impression. Red isn’t just a color; it’s an experience waiting to unfold.
Let’s create AMAZING together and tell the unique story of your client’s restaurant, hotel, commercial property, or special project using innovative artwork and custom installations. Hiring Embrace Creatives, a full-service art consultancy firm with 35+ years of expertise will save you time and de-stress the process of building an art collection. Schedule a discovery call or if you’re ready for brilliant artwork to compliment your design project, share it with Andrea!