How to Bring Beautiful Art into Your Home without Breaking the Bank
Art transforms a home. It adds warmth and style and the most importantly, personality. It’s finding your style of art without having to sell a good kidney that generally poses an issue.
The good news? There are free public domain art resources, ways to support local artists, and professional printing tips that let you create gallery worthy displays at home.
What is Public Domain Art and Why it Matters
Public domain art refers at works whose copyright has expired or that museums and collections have released for public use. This means you can legally download, print and display these artworks for free.
Even though attribution isn’t always legally required, giving credit to the original artist is considered best practice. It honors the creator and adds context.
Support Local Artist First
While public domain artwork is a great resource, nothing replaces investing in local artists. Baltimore has a very vibrant art scene, with creators producing pieces for every style. Buying local supports the community and adds unique one of kind pieces to your home.
How to properly give crediT
I feel eternally indebted when someone gives me something for free, especially something as important as art. The least I can do is give credit. These being public domains makes that no different. Me not knowing the artist, makes that no different. Attribution isn’t required by the domains, however it’s required ethically, right? Imagine your life’s work - impactful, beautiful, blood, sweat, tears - one day floating around the earth being falsely claimed by others.
I know a few artist. I watch the physical, emotional and mental changes and challenges they incur as they create. I pray no one ever has their work on their walls and responds with a shrugging of their shoulders when asked who the artist is.
Making the ethical decision to credit your free art to its creator is easy. A quick and simple format is:
Artist Name, “Artwork Title,” Year.
Source: [Museum/Collection Name]
Example:
Vincent can Gogh, Irises, 1889
The Getty Museum
You can include credits in your display, on the back of a frame to easily read off when asked, or a caption/dedicated slide when posting online.
Free Public Domain Art Resources
These museum quality art works are perfect for creating gallery walls, my favorite thing to do.
Print your art for a high end look
Here’s how to turn free digital art into beautiful prints that look like you took it right off the walls of the BMA.
High Resolution files - Use 300-600 DPI images for crisp printing
Paper choices - Matte fine art paper, textured cotton rag, or heavyweight cardstock elevated the look
Proffesional printing- Local print shops, or online services can ensure archival quality prints with vibrant true colors
Finishing touches - UV safe inks, proper margins, and careful framing make your prints feel gallery ready
Tip: For a cohesive gallery wall, choose a consistent style of paper or frame color.
Art is more than decoration…it tells a story. Public domain artwork is an incredible resource when decorating on a budget, but pairing it with local art gives your home depth, personality and a meaningful story. I wish you a happy art finding journey.