What Size Artwork Actually Works? A simple guide to picking the correct size artwork. - Shazzy Campbell Art

What Size Artwork Actually Works? A simple guide to picking the correct size artwork.

When it comes to art, size really does matter. The right piece can completely transform a room, get the sizing wrong, and even the most beautiful artwork can feel lost or overwhelming. To help you choose the perfect size for your space, here’s a simple guide I put together from my own experience as both an artist and a collector.

1. Small Art (30cm – 50cm)

Perfect for: shelves, bedside tables, gallery walls, or smaller nooks.

  • Small pieces work beautifully as part of a collection or paired with other artworks.

  • They make great “conversation starters” when styled on consoles or sideboards.

  • Think of them like jewellery for your home: subtle but full of character.

2. Medium Art (60cm – 90cm)

Perfect for: apartments, home offices, above desks, or small dining spaces.

  • Medium works are versatile,  large enough to stand alone, yet easy to group with others.

  • They bring balance in tighter areas where oversized art may feel overpowering.

  • Ideal for gifting, as they fit most wall sizes without much measuring stress.

3. Large Art (100cm – 120cm)

Perfect for: over a bed, sofa, dining table, or feature wall.

  • Large artworks create impact. They become the focal point of a room instantly.

  • A good rule of thumb: aim for your artwork to be about two-thirds the width of the furniture it sits above.

  • This size works especially well when you want to elevate a room from “nice” to “wow.”

4. Oversized Art (150cm and above)

Perfect for: open-plan living, high ceilings, entryways, or modern minimal spaces.

  • Oversized pieces demand attention and can completely set the mood of a space.

  • They work well in house-proud homes that want an instant “gallery feel.”

  • Don’t be afraid of going big,  one bold piece can often look cleaner than a clutter of smaller ones.

Tips to Get it Right Every Time

  • Measure first: Use masking tape to map out the size on your wall. This helps you visualise scale before committing.

  • Consider the furniture: Artwork should connect with the scale of your furniture, not float too small above it.

  • Think bigger: Most collectors say they wish they went larger, not smaller. Big art often feels more “worth it.”

  • Play with multiples: If one oversized piece isn’t your style, create impact with two or three medium-sized works hung together.

Final Thoughts

The right artwork size isn’t about rules, it’s about balance, impact, and what makes your space feel alive. Whether it’s a petite piece on a shelf or an oversized canvas that takes centre stage, choosing the right scale ensures your art doesn’t just decorate a room, it transforms it.

✨ Browse my canvas prints and fine art print to see which size might work best for your home. If you are looking for larger sizes that aren’t on my website, feel free to get in contact with me as I am able to source larger custom sizes. 

I hope this helps, thanks for reading. Shazzy x