Art Inspired Table Decoration  

Simply put an art inspired table scape is a table that relies on elements of art to create a visually appealing table for family and friends to enjoy. Your table scape will set the tone for the meal that will be served and hopefully cause guest to linger and spark interesting conversation.  

The elements of art (I sometimes call the building blocks of art) are dot, line, shape, pattern, texture and color.  

Element of Art Descriptions  

Dot is the smallest element of art; it can be any shape and is usually found with other dots.  

Line is a very powerful element of art and can lead the viewers' eye where you want it to go. There are many types of line to include thick, thin, organic (curvy) or geometric (pointy), vertical, horizontal or diagonal. Horizontal lines can create a calm, relaxing environment while vertical lines create a sense of growth or power. If you want to shake things up a bit, try incorporating diagonal lines which create tension and excitement.  

Shape is the outline of an object. Shapes, like lines, can be organic or geometric. Shapes can be used to incorporate symbolism or deeper meaning. For instance, my Walking Plates have a heart shape which of course symbolizes love in many cultures. I also love how my spoon rest fits in on this tablescape as if the plates had a baby! I call them walking plates because they have a notch for your thumb to fit and are great walking around at a party with a plate of food. They also look great on any table scape. I purposefully glazed my Walking Plates in the same contrasting colors of Jade Moss and then dipped the corners in Cherry Blossom. Both of these glazes I purchased at Kentucky Mudworks.  

Patterns are created when any shape is repeated. There are many patterns in God’s Creation found on plants and animals. Patterns can be regular when the space between each object is the same or irregular when the space between each object is not the same. Tablescapes naturally create a pattern by the placement of the plates, glasses & silverware used. Many of my ceramic pieces use a leaf or other interesting shape that can be incorporated into your table design. 

Color is another powerful element of art and my favorite! Color is a DEEP subject.  Color is a great way to add variety to your table. An effective way to use color on your tablescape is to use color harmony. I love using bright colors in my ceramics, often using blues, greens and purples or whatever strikes my fancy.  

Here are some ideas to create a variety of tablescapes using color:  

Mix brightly colored pieces with neutrals 

Create a complementary color harmony with the use of your tableware, tablecloth, candles or other accessories using colors that are opposite from each other on the tertiary color wheel.  

Create an analogous color scheme by choosing tableware and accessories that use 3 or more colors that are next to each other on the tertiary color wheel.