Choosing Art for Your Living Room: What Not to Hang

When it comes to choosing what art to hang in your living room, there are certain types of images that should be avoided. This article explores why certain pictures might not be the best choice and offers some insights into personal tastes and house decor guidelines.

Personal Preferences and Boundaries

There are various reasons why one might choose not to hang certain pictures in their living room. For me, I would never hang a picture of myself. I am not vain, nor do I like to be reminded of my appearance constantly. Furthermore, I personally avoid any pictures that make me look bad or ones that I do not like. This extends to any part of my home, but particularly in the living room, where it's often the focal point and a space for guests to see.

Religious Art and Occult

Religious art and anything depicting the occult have no place in my living room. I strongly believe that religious symbols should be confined to sacred spaces or designated rooms. This view is due to my personal discomfort with being surrounded by potentially offensive imagery, whether it's religious icons or items from the occult.

Dark and Depressing Artifacts

Another type of art that I avoid hanging is anything dark, depressing, or containing nudity. These themes can alter the mood of a space and may not be appropriate for all individuals. Even if the wall space is large, the presence of such art can have an immediate and lasting impact on the atmosphere of the living room.

Personal Artistic Choices

I have a variety of art pieces hanging on my walls, many of which I created myself. Starting from 1971, I have accumulated a collection of art that feels personal and meaningful to me. In a more private part of the house, I have a few family photos hanging. This area is less visible and more secluded, making it a better place for personal mementos.

Controversial Art and Guest Reception

One of the most controversial pieces in our home is a painting depicting a fully nude man holding a baby boy, with the mother standing behind in a professional outfit. The room where it resides is upstairs, and it was a decision made together with the boys of the house. While the painting is placed in a living and dining room upstairs, the boys have their own rule against it due to the nudity. This example illustrates the importance of considering the reaction of guests and family members.

Recent Movie Review and Critique

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that in my living room, there is a picture of a movie poster that I absolutely despise. This poster is from the Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan movie, with Samuel Bayer as the director. In my opinion, this movie was a debacle. A great horror franchise was ruined by this film, and it's a shame that the same fate may befall the next film in the series.

So, when decorating your living room, it's essential to consider the impact and reactions of guests and family members. While personal art should be appreciated, there are certain types of images that might not fit the intended mood or atmosphere of the room. By choosing wisely, you can create a space that feels welcoming and enjoyable for everyone who enters.