A wall sculpture is an object that hangs on the wall for decorative purposes. Many sculptures are made of materials such as wood, metals, ceramic, and glass. A variety of wall hangings are available in synthetic materials such as plastic and fiberglass as well. Photos, paintings, and art created on paper or canvas are other types of popular wall decorations, but these are flat pieces of artwork that are often framed. A wall sculpture, on the other hand, is a three-dimensional object.
Hanging wall art is a popular way to add color and interest to almost any room. A wall sculpture is only one type of home wall decor that can be used. Paintings, tapestries, photographs, and even a method of finishing the wall — such as sponge painting — can all be considered wall decorations and art. A wall sculpture differs from these other types of wall art because it is three-dimensional, with both negative and positive space.
Positive space is the area that is taken up by parts of the actual sculpture. The areas around the sculpture that are empty are negative space. An oil painting or photo may be able to depict this, but it is an illusion created on a flat surface. A wall sculpture actually affects the space, including combinations of light and shadow that only something three-dimensional can create.
A wall sculpture can be almost any object or design. Faces, animals, trees, flowers, and almost any man-made object can be used as wall hangings. In ancient times, sculptures were often carved in relief directly into stone walls. Today, wall sculptures range from inexpensive plastic and fiberglass pieces to high-end designs and are often found in places that sell home decor products.
Three-dimensional wall design is often combined with one-dimensional pieces, such as paintings and photographs, to create a certain look in a room. Sculptures add texture and interest that can be seen from almost anywhere in the room, while paintings and photographs may be obscured from certain angles. Adding a large wall design to a room can make an entire wall seem like a piece of art and a focal point. Small wall hangings also are often grouped together to create the effect of a collection.
Wall art can be used to create a certain atmosphere in a space as well. A design that has flowing curves and soft colors. such as a pink flower or something abstract, can help create a relaxing mood. A wall sculpture that has several small areas of negative space may have the opposite effect. Bright colors, shiny metal surfaces, and straight lines and angles may be more eye-catching and lend more energy to a room.