More than 40% of Americans think they own ‘museum-worthy’ art

Forty-two percent of Americans say they own a piece of art by an independent artist that they feel is “museum-worthy,” according to new research.

The poll of 2,000 adults found 56% follow independent artists on social media and 65% have purchased art they’ve spotted on social media, in books or magazines. One-third of men (34%) and a quarter of women take inspiration from celebrity houses.

While the most admired decorative art includes landscapes and scenery (44%), nearly four in 10 seek out photography (37%) and 35% lean towards pieces with sentimental value, painted portraits and vintage posters or signs.

Forty-three percent of those who own sentimental artwork said they love it not for the subject matter, but rather because “it was given to them by someone important, like an artist in the family.”

The survey, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Minted, the design goods marketplace of independent artists, focused on Americans’ appreciation of art and décor and attitudes toward incorporating them at home.

More than half (52%) admitted they find it difficult to choose items that coordinate with their existing home décor and budget.

More than two in five (42%) people said furniture can be the most challenging home item to purchase, followed by wall art (41%) and window treatments (40%), making the discovery of each essential item more rewarding.

Since the pandemic began, over half (52%) are more inclined to purchase more or different types of art than they would have before.

Although almost three-quarters (74%) of people are confident in their interior design skills, most people did not feel this way until they hit 27-years-old.

"Minted’s team of Art Stylists, who make design recommendations for customers every day, constantly encounters different and unique ideas of what constitutes a pleasing piece of art,” said a spokesperson for the design goods marketplace. “While some people spend hours searching for the perfect piece to fit their aesthetic, others focus more on sentimental value and meaning when choosing artwork for their homes."

Thirty-five percent of women expressed interest in spontaneous decorating, while 27% of men preferred to redecorate bi-annually at most.

More than half of women (52%) also admitted to being more price-conscious when choosing new items for the home, compared to just 37% of men.

When it comes to decorating children's rooms, a majority (60%) of parents allow their kids to set the design theme. Forty-six percent said they would buy an item for their kid's room if their little one found it inspirational.

Results also found that name recognition holds some sway in interior design — 73% are more likely to pick a piece of art if they are familiar with the artist.

"The beauty of art is truly in the eye of the beholder. While some people specifically seek out pieces to pair with existing decor, others discover artwork simply because it catches their eye.  Today’s consumer wants to be surrounded by art that inspires them and that they feel a connection to," said a Minted spokesperson. "We’re always thinking about how we can help decor-driven customers and interior designers find the perfect art for their space.  

WHAT IS CONSIDERED “ART”?

• Fine art - 50%
• Photography - 49%
• Abstract art - 44%
• Music - 41%
• Pottery - 41%
• Digital art - 39%
• Theater - 38%
• Mixed medium art - 35%
• Media (books, movies, TV shows) - 32%
• Fashion - 32%
• Typography - 25%