Art, in its myriad forms, has the capacity to inspire, challenge, and console. Recently, a unique, innovative intersection of construction and creativity has come to the fore and is swiftly making its mark in homes worldwide: LEGO® Art Sets. These kits allow people to exercise their creativity while introducing a contemporary, playful touch to their interior décor.
The History of Art in Homes
Our affinity for decorating our living spaces with various forms of art has roots that trace back to the dawn of civilization. Early cave paintings dating back to 40,000 years ago provide evidence of our ancestors transforming their homes into canvases for expression. This trend evolved through the epochs, with Ancient Romans using intricate frescoes and mosaics to adorn their opulent villas, reflecting their power and wealth.
The Renaissance period marked a significant shift as art began transitioning from public spaces and religious institutions into private residences. Affluent patrons like the Medici family commissioned artists like Botticelli and Leonardo Da Vinci to create exquisite pieces for their homes. Some of these artworks, including “The Birth of Venus” by Botticelli, are now recognized globally.
As we moved into the 19th and 20th centuries, technological advancements, like printmaking and photography, democratized art, making it more accessible. Copies of famous pieces, such as Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” or Picasso’s “Guernica,” became commonplace in homes, adding a touch of sophistication and artistic flair.
3 Alternative Forms of Art in Homes
Modern society and technological advancements have given rise to various alternative forms of home décor. Digital art, mixed media, upcycled materials, and even light installations have found a place in modern homes. These unconventional choices of decoration serve not just as an extension of the homeowner’s tastes and preferences but also often convey a statement about their values.
1. 3D Printed Art
3D printing has revolutionized the realm of customizable art. With an array of materials and colors to choose from, homeowners can now design and produce pieces that perfectly reflect their aesthetic sense and complement their interior spaces.
2. Recycled Art
For those passionate about sustainability, recycled art made from reclaimed materials offers an eco-friendly option. Such pieces not only enhance the visual appeal of spaces but also carry a deeper message of environmental consciousness.
3. Interactive Art
With the integration of technology, interactive art installations that respond to the viewer’s movements, touch, or sounds have emerged. This new form of art offers a dynamic, immersive, and personal experience.
LEGO® Art Sets: Bridging the Gap Between Nostalgia and Artistic Expression
LEGO®, a brand traditionally associated with children’s toys, has smartly broadened its appeal to adults by introducing its art sets. Here are some of the most popular sets that have taken the home décor world by storm:
LEGO® Vincent van Gogh – The Starry Night 21333
Set Number: 21333
Theme: Ideas
Year Released: 2022
No. Pieces: 2316
RRP: £149.99 / $169.99 / 169.99€
This set is a tribute to the Dutch post-impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh’s masterpiece, “The Starry Night.” Using a myriad of vibrant LEGO® bricks, this set replicates van Gogh’s swirls and dynamic brushstrokes. It offers a unique way to engage with the masterpiece, providing a creative and relaxing building experience.
LEGO® Jazz Quartet 21334
Set Number: 21334
Theme: Ideas
Year Released: 2022
No. Pieces: 1606
RRP: £89.99 / $99.99 / 99.99€
LEGO® Jazz Quartet is a celebration of jazz music. This LEGO® set brings the dynamism and soulful nature of a Jazz Quartet to life. It’s a testament to the art form’s rich history and a creative tribute to the countless jazz legends who have made significant contributions to this genre.
LEGO® The Rolling Stones 31206
Set Number: 31206
Theme: LEGO® Art
Year Released: 2023
No. Pieces: 1998
RRP: £129.99 / $149.99 / 149.99€
This LEGO® Art Set pays homage to the legendary rock band, The Rolling Stones. It captures the iconic “Tongue and Lip Design” logo that’s become synonymous with the band’s rebellious spirit. The set provides fans an opportunity to connect with their favorite rock band in an engaging and creative way.
LEGO® The Amazing Spider-Man 31209
Set Number: 31209
Theme: LEGO® Art
Year Released: 2023
No. Pieces: 2099
RRP: £169.99 / $199.99 / 199.99€
The Amazing Spider-Man LEGO® Art Set celebrates the beloved Marvel character with a detailed portrait, created from LEGO® bricks. The set allows fans to engage with Spider-Man’s history and build their own piece of superhero art, evoking nostalgia and a sense of fun associated with the Spider-Man comics.
LEGO® Modern Art 31210
Set Number: 31210
Theme: LEGO® Art
Year Released: 2023
No. Pieces: 805
RRP: £44.99 / $49.99 / 49.99€
The LEGO® Modern Art set is a vibrant and dynamic collection that draws inspiration from modern art movements. This set allows LEGO® enthusiasts and art lovers to explore abstract art through the playful medium of LEGO® bricks, creating their own interpretations of contemporary art trends.
LEGO® Floral Art 31207
Set Number: 31207
Theme: LEGO® Art
Year Released: 2022
No. Pieces: 2870
RRP: £59.99 / $79.99 / 69.99€
This set combines the beauty of floral designs with the tactile enjoyment of LEGO®. The Floral Art set enables builders to create stunning, colorful floral patterns that can add a touch of nature-inspired art to any room, reflecting the tranquility and beauty found in our natural world.
LEGO® Jim Lee Batman™ Collection
Set Number: 31205
Theme: LEGO® Art
Year Released: 2022
No. Pieces: 4167
RRP: £104.99 / $119.99 / 119.99€
Inspired by Jim Lee’s iconic Batman artwork, this LEGO® Art Set allows fans to recreate his distinct interpretation of the Dark Knight. This set’s detail, complexity, and scale capture the intensity and mystery associated with Batman, creating a striking piece of art for any fan of the DC Universe.
LEGO® World Map 31203
Set Number: 31203
Theme: LEGO® Art
Year Released: 2021
No. Pieces: 11,695
RRP: £214.99 / $249.99 / 249.99€
The World Map set is currently the largest LEGO® set by piece count. It provides a creative and customizable representation of the world map. This set not only allows for a deeply engaging build but also offers the opportunity to personalize the map based on one’s travel memories or aspirations.
LEGO® Hokusai – The Great Wave 31208
Set Number: 31208
Theme: LEGO® Art
Year Released: 2023
No. Pieces: 1801
RRP: £89.99 / $99.99 / 99.99€
This set allows you to recreate Hokusai’s famous ukiyo-e woodblock print, “The Great Wave off Kanagawa.” With its dynamic shapes and vibrant shades of blue, it’s a unique opportunity to engage with a piece of historic Japanese art through the medium of LEGO®, bringing a touch of the Edo period into your home.
Tips for Art Collecting at Home
Collecting art for your home can be a deeply personal and enriching endeavor. Each piece you choose helps tell a story about you, your experiences, and your preferences. As you embark on this journey, whether you’re an experienced collector or a novice, here are some elaborated tips to guide your selections:
Make it Personal
Your home is your personal sanctuary, and the art you select should reflect this. While it can be tempting to choose pieces solely based on trends or commercial value, the most fulfilling collections often hold personal resonance.
Consider pieces that echo your experiences, passions, or aspirations. For instance, if you’re an ardent traveler, art inspired by different cultures or depicting different landscapes may be a great fit. If you’re passionate about a specific cause, art pieces that align with those principles could be a fantastic addition to your collection.
The art that decorates your home is more than just visual accents – they’re a reflection of your journey, interests, and personality. Let your collection tell your story.
Diversify
While maintaining a coherent theme can be visually appealing, don’t hesitate to diversify your collection with different styles, mediums, and periods. It’s not necessary for every piece of art in your home to match or belong to a specific style or time period. An eclectic mix often adds a unique charm to your collection and keeps it from feeling monotonous.
You might blend contemporary digital art with classic impressionist paintings or place a minimalist sculpture beside a maximalist piece of abstract expressionism. Such contrasts can create intriguing dialogues between different pieces and prevent your collection from becoming predictable or dull.
Research
Researching each piece of art can add a depth of understanding and appreciation to your collection. While a piece may catch your eye based on its aesthetics, knowing its backstory can enrich your connection.
Try to understand the artist’s perspective, the inspiration behind the piece, and its historical context. For example, knowing that the Star Wars LEGO® Art Set was inspired by the iconic Sith Lords adds a layer of understanding and appreciation for Star Wars fans. Similarly, a piece of recycled art takes on more meaning when you know the materials’ origin and the artist’s intentions.
This research doesn’t just add intellectual value to your collection; it provides conversation starters when you’re sharing your space with guests. Each piece of art becomes a story to be told rather than just a visual element in your home.
More Info
How do I choose the right art piece for my home?
Selecting the right piece of art for your home can seem daunting, but by considering a few key factors, you can make the process much simpler.
First, take into account the available space. The scale of the artwork should complement, not overwhelm, the room. A large, open wall might be the perfect spot for a striking, large-scale piece like the LEGO® World Map set. Smaller spaces might be better suited to more petite pieces or a series of small works hung together.
Next, consider the color scheme of your room. While the artwork doesn’t have to match the room exactly, it should at least complement the existing colors or contrast interestingly to draw attention.
Finally, think about the mood you wish to set with the art piece. Each artwork carries a mood and a message. A serene landscape could bring a peaceful vibe, whereas pop art could create a lively, vibrant atmosphere. Choose a piece that enhances the desired ambience of the room.
How do I take care of my LEGO® Art Sets?
LEGO® Art Sets, like any piece of art, require care to keep them looking their best. Avoid placing your LEGO® sets in areas with direct sunlight, as UV rays can lead to color fading over time.
It’s also essential to dust your LEGO® sets regularly. Dust can accumulate in the nooks and crannies, making the set appear dull or discolored. A soft, dry cloth or a can of compressed air can be very effective in maintaining the pristine condition of your LEGO® artwork.
Lastly, while LEGO® bricks are durable, they can become loose over time, especially in sets with many pieces. Periodic checks and minor adjustments can help maintain the integrity of the piece.
Are LEGO® Art Sets suitable for children?
LEGO® Art Sets are primarily designed with adults in mind, focusing on complex builds and sophisticated themes. However, children can also enjoy the process of building these sets, given the complexity of the builds and with adult supervision.
Building a LEGO® Art Set can be a wonderful bonding activity and a way to introduce children to different art styles and artists. It’s also a great way for children to develop their concentration, fine motor skills, and patience. However, given the small parts and intricate details, these sets are not recommended for young children.
Can I customize LEGO® Art Sets?
Absolutely! One of the great joys of LEGO® is its inherent versatility and customization. Many LEGO® Art Sets offer multiple building options, allowing you to choose between different designs.
For instance, the Star Wars™ The Sith™ set offers three different Sith Lords that can be built. If you’re feeling especially creative, you can create your own design using the pieces. Just remember, if you stray from the original design, it might be challenging to return to it later without additional pieces.
Can LEGO® Art Sets increase in value?
While LEGO® sets are purchased primarily for enjoyment and creative expression, some increase in value over time, especially rare or retired sets. It’s similar to the world of art collecting, where an artwork’s value can appreciate over time.
Start Your Artistic Journey with LEGO® Today
Embark on your artistic journey today with LEGO® Art Sets by visiting Belle-Ve Bricks, a reliable source for custom LEGO® sets and MOCs. Remember, these sets offer more than just a hobby—they represent a unique intersection of nostalgia, creativity, and personal expression. Whether it’s a classic painting, an innovative 3D printed sculpture, or a vibrant LEGO® creation, the art you choose for your home speaks volumes about who you are. So, don’t hesitate. Let your walls echo your stories, let your spaces inspire, and let your creativity take flight with LEGO® Art Sets. After all, your home is your canvas.
