Mid-Century Modern is an odd type of décor. This is the era that gave us thin, boxy couches, narrow rectangular utilitarian desks, and olive drab refrigerators and stoves – alternated with mustard yellow appliances. It’s an odd range of years, beginning with almost ultra-conservativism and ending with the wild abandon of the 1970s. Out of this mishmash of social behavior has come some truly incredible artworks. Abstracts in bright colors are certainly a part of the mid-century modern wall décor.
“Mid-century” in this instance refers to the years between 1945 – shortly after World War II, to shortly after the 1970s. This includes the era in which “art” could be created by literally throwing paint at an oversized canvas. While some of those canvases were just accidental arrangements created with the thrown paint, others were more planned.
One artist even incorporated his burned cigarette stubs in the picture. As you can see, it was an era that embraced everything from metal rain chimes to paisley bell bottoms. It was also an age when people were just starting to understand the supreme importance of preserving our natural world.
Nature paintings, ocean scapes and more became popular to hang on your living room wall. It also became popular to incorporate natural items into artwork. Driftwood, for example, became a material frequently used to make lamps, centerpieces, and even practical items such as coat racks. Therefore, midcentury modern wall décor can embrace a wide range of materials and motifs. It can include reliefs, sculptures, oil and acrylic paintings, as well as water color. It almost seemed as if artists were vying with each other to create the most original art style possible. Failing that, they rivaled each other for new and unusual ways to produce their works of art. Joni, who painted holding a paintbrush in her teeth, for example, or Close who strapped a brush to his unresponsive hand to produce gigantic murals.
Below are listed ten varied and interesting arts from the mid-century modern movement. As you can see, they are eclectic. But this means that no matter who you are, you are likely to be able to find the perfect piece for your wall.