The wall décor category has boomed in 2022. At each market thus far, wall décor vendors unveiled more collections, collaborations and introductions than ever before in direct response to the demand for more wall art. Consumers eager to spruce up their homes in the early days of the pandemic remain eager to fill their wall space, an area ripe for self-expression. Will demand continue into 2023? And what trends can we expect to see emerging on the walls in the next year?
“Our lifestyles have dramatically changed since 2020, and we are still seeing the effects of that. People are working from home long-term and creating permanent offices in their homes. Many people are also relocating for a better quality of life, and with that comes the desire to update the décor in their new homes for a fresh start,” said RFA Décor Creative Director Erin Ruddy.
Leftbank Art‘s “Evening Sun V” by artist Kara Green is composed of sculpted, layered birch wood and hand-painted to add texture and dimension.
Angela Ochoa, sales manager for Leftbank Art, agreed. “As with everything related to the uptick in home furnishings, the pandemic definitely contributed to the demand for more wall art. Time at home, a desire to improve your space, time and energy to focus on the home all played a huge part. We are part of the “final layer” of home design so as projects continue to complete, we stay relevant.”
Malanta Knowles, vice president of marketing and design for Paragon, said that wall décor is on top of the list for improving the home. “Since consumers have waited many months for furniture, now is the time to install the wall art and mirrors. Also, with new construction exploding, this gave us opportunities as well. In the past few months, our customers have ordered more inventory knowing that the consumer is ready to finish their home remodels or move into their new homes.”
Gabe Cohen, vice president of marketing for Classy Art, added that people had government stimulus money to spend from 2021 and 2022. “I believe the category grew when people started spending far more time at home when the pandemic started. People want to enjoy the space they’re spending so much time in.”
Karen Schweitzer, vice president, creative and operations for Level57, offered another reason why wall art is so important to consumers. “Art is the best expression of yourself in your home. It creates the story and sets the mood of your interior. It adds life and brings a unique element into design. “
What’s driving business
“Bright, colorful and oversized abstract art continue to dominate our business,” said Ruddy.
Level57, meanwhile, is confident it’s re-energizing the framed print market. “We offer a curated collection of exclusive art from both emerging and established artists from around the world and are constantly gathering new inspiration and fresh perspectives in design, trends and art to inspire both our artists and customers,” said Schweitzer.
Cohen believes that Classy Art’s products retail faster than those from competitors. “This is because of our proprietary method of product development and consumer engagement on social media during the selection processes. Essentially, by allowing consumers to vote on product that we are going to release, we bring products to market that they want instead of guessing like most manufacturers.”
Paragon’s e-commerce business remains important, but the interior designer market is a growing part of its business. “We are able to ship a segment of our line in 10 business days, which is a plus. The hospitality/healthcare segment of our business is also growing,” said Knowles.
Pargaon‘s “Along the Way I S/4” by artist Liz Jardine are landscape giclée’s hand-embellished with gold leaf.
Leftbank Art is always pushing the envelope with design and innovation. “Multi-layered and dimensional pieces that bring a lot of interest to a space seem to be exciting customers right now,” said Ochoa.
Trends for 2023
Vendors had varying opinions of what is trending in wall art.
Schweitzer pointed to one specific idea. “It is about surrounding ourselves with the things that we love and the people we can share them with.”
Cohen believes mid-century inspired designs, geometric shapes, triptychs, high textures and farm animals will trend.
It’s about special details for Paragon’s customers. “In our studio and handcraft departments we are able to provide products that are more custom than what you get with an imported product line,” said Knowles.
“Neutral tones that evoke a sense of calm and neon color palettes inspired by technology will trend,” said Ruddy, while Leftbank Art’s Ochoa predicted, “Neutral texture will continue lead the trend story, along with curves and arches and a clean traditional look.”
