A Beginner’s Guide to Renting Art: Everything You Need to Know to Start Displaying Amazing Artwork in Your Home or Office
If you love surrounding yourself with beautiful, inspiring artwork but don’t have the budget to build a full-fledged art collection just yet, renting art may be the perfect solution for you. Renting art allows you to display high-quality original art in your home or office in an affordable, convenient way.
This beginner’s guide will cover everything you need to know to start renting art, from choosing a rental provider to installation to returning pieces. Follow this advice to embark on your art rental journey and enjoy constantly refreshing artwork without commitment.
Choose a Reputable Rental Provider
Known rental services like ARTPIQ offer curated collections of art rentals across styles and mediums. When selecting a provider, look for:
- A large catalog of works to choose from
- Reasonable rental rates
- Flexible rental terms (1 month minimum is common)
- Handling of shipping, installation, maintenance, returns
- Positive customer reviews
Doing research upfront ensures a smooth, enjoyable rental experience.
Decide on a Budget
Art rentals offer flexibility across budget levels. Many providers have works available for under $50 per month, with more complex or larger pieces going up to a few hundred dollars. Think about your goals:
- What’s your ideal monthly spend on rented art?
- Will you rent one statement piece or multiple smaller works?
- Are you renting for a single room or entire home/office?
Be upfront with your provider about your budget so they can make suitable recommendations. Don’t hesitate to ask about discounted rates for long-term rentals.
Select a Style
Art rental catalogs include varied styles from classic to modern. Consider what art aesthetics speak to you and the vibe you want to create in your space.
- Abstract, impressionism, minimalism, pop art, photo-based, and more
- Black and white photography or colorful mixed media
- Soothing landscapes or thought-provoking contemporary
Narrow your preferences before browsing to choose pieces you’ll genuinely enjoy living with.
Carefully Vet and Curate Pieces
At Artpiq, our art experts carefully curate each piece in our rental collection. We selectively acquire museum-quality art across a variety of styles, subjects, and price points.
When browsing our online gallery, use the filters to narrow down art rentals by size, medium, color palette, and subject matter. We make it easy to find pieces that fit your space and style.
As you refine your selections, consider:
- The visual appeal - does the art immediately catch your eye?
- How the piece complements your existing decor.
- The context provided in our detailed descriptions and reviews.
- Subject matter that resonates with you personally.
Our team handpicks art we believe will transform your space. Let our curation help guide you to special pieces you'll be excited to display. With Artpiq's collection, you can confidently rent art you'll love.
Understand the Rental Process and Timeline
Reputable art rental providers strive to make the process effortless for you. Here’s what to expect:
- Choose art online or by consulting your provider
- Finalize rental terms and sign any contracts
- Provider handles framing, packaging, and shipping
- Artwork arrives ready to install in 7-10 business days
- Provider sends any necessary hardware and hanging instructions
- Enjoy your rented art for your rental term (commonly 1-3 months)
- Contact provider when ready to return/exchange art
- Provider handles return shipping logistics
Some providers will even handle installation for you for an added fee.
Prepare Your Space
Once you’ve selected your artwork, think about where you want it displayed in your space. Decide on wall space or easels in your home or office and check for:
- Ample room to accommodate the piece’s dimensions
- Outlets if lighting will be needed
- Blank wall space or ability to rearrange decor
- Sturdy anchoring points for hanging hardware
If renting multiple pieces, map out an arrangement that achieves balance and harmony.
Install Your Rented Art Properly
When your rented artwork from Artpiq arrives, open it carefully to check for any damage in transit. If you purchase our professional installation service, our team will handle securely hanging or displaying the art for you. Feel free to ask us any questions during the installation process.
Proper installation is crucial to prevent damage to both your walls and the valuable artwork. Our experienced art hangers will use the proper hardware and techniques to display your rental piece. With Artpiq's installation service, you can have peace of mind knowing your art is in good hands. Sit back and let us transform your space with perfectly installed rented art.
Maintain Your Rented Art
One benefit of renting art versus owning is that providers handle any necessary cleaning, repairs, and maintenance. However, you should still take measures to keep rented art in good shape:
- Gently dust framed pieces with microfiber cloth
- Avoid direct sunlight that could cause fading
- Don’t remove art from frames or protective casings
- Keep climate/temperature controlled in space
- Leave a 1-2 inch gap between pieces to prevent rubbing
- Never attempt repairs yourself – alert your provider
This protects the art from preventable damage.
Consider Your Art Rental Options
When your rental term approaches expiration, you generally have below options:
- Extend your rental – Continue enjoying the art for longer
- Exchange the art – Have your provider ship new pieces
Reputable providers make this process easy. Evaluate which choice best suits your evolving style.
Understanding the full art rental process from choosing a provider to installation to returns removes any intimidation factor. With the helpful guidance above, you can start renting art in your space and enjoying constantly refreshed artwork.