Outdoor spaces offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, bare outdoor walls can feel stark and uninviting. Metal wall art introduces visual interest, personality, and beauty to patios, porches, gardens, and other outdoor areas.
With the right Outdoor Decor Metal Wall Art pieces, you can transform your outdoor space into a soothing sanctuary that nurtures your spirit. In this Nousdecor article, I’ll discuss how to breathe life into your outdoor area with metal wall art.
Key Takeaways
- Outdoor metal wall art takes your exterior space’s design to the next level.
- When selecting pieces, consider your space’s size, style, existing accents, and desired mood.
- Weather-resistant welded steel, powder-coated aluminum, verdigris copper, and Corten steel stand the test of time outdoors.
- Go bold with substantial oversized art in groupings of complementary pieces thoughtfully placed to catch the eye.
Consider the Benefits of Outdoor Decor Metal Wall Art
Metal is a wonderful material for outdoor wall décor. It stands up to sun, wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Metal art resists rust, requires little maintenance, and can last for years outdoors. Here are some key benefits of metal outdoor wall art:
- Durability – Made from welded steel, iron, copper, or aluminum, metal wall art withstands the elements. It won’t crack, peel, warp, or deteriorate like other materials can.
- Intriguing texture – Metal has a tactile, industrial vibe. The art’s dips, ridges, and patina add visual interest.
- Customizability – Many metal artisan shops offer customized pieces so you can match your outdoor space’s style.
- Easy installation – Metal pieces come ready to mount. All you need is a stud finder, drill, hardware, and a helper.
- Longevity – With proper mounting and occasional sealing, metal wall art can adorn your outdoor space for years of enjoyment.
Evaluate Your Outdoor Space
Before shopping for outdoor metal wall art, take stock of your space. Note the size, architectural style, colors, textures, and overall vibe. Here are some factors to consider:
- What are the dimensions and layout? Measure wall spaces that could accommodate art.
- What is the overall design aesthetic? Rustic, modern, beachy, traditional? Metal art comes in all styles.
- What colors currently exist? Complementary or contrasting art colors will make the biggest impact.
- What is the purpose of the space? Relaxing sanctuary or party zone? Tailor the art’s mood to the function.
- What feeling do you want to evoke? Calm, joy, intrigue? Select artwork that elicits your desired emotion.
Evaluating your existing outdoor space helps narrow metal wall art options to pieces that integrate seamlessly into the whole design.
Shop for Durable Materials
For outdoor spaces, focus on metal wall art made of weather-resistant, durable materials that can withstand sun, rain, snow, and temperature swings. Here are some top choices:
- Welded steel – Extremely durable, welded steel has bold lines and interesting facets. Powder coating protects it from rusting.
- Aluminum – Lightweight but strong, aluminum resists corrosion and easily accepts paint or metallic finishes.
- Copper – Naturally weather-resistant, copper develops a unique verdigris patina over time.
- Iron – Wrought iron has delicate yet strong silhouettes. Iron is prone to rusting unless regularly sealed or treated.
- Corten steel – Also called weathering steel, Corten steel forms a rust-like patina that seals out further corrosion.
Once you’ve zeroed in on durable, weather-worthy metals, it’s time to choose pieces that express your personal flair.
Select Styles to Showcase Your Unique Personality
Outdoor metal art sets the tone for your exterior space. The style you select conveys what you want visitors to feel. Here are some popular metal wall art styles for outdoor areas:
Rustic Nature Metal Art
Rustic metal art features natural shapes like sacred geometry, trees, leaves, flowers, butterflies, birds, and other organic life. Metallic renditions of geckos, lizards, and insects on weathered steel or iron have an earthy, primal vibe perfect for casual, lodge-style outdoor rooms.
Metal Garden Art
Celebrate the beauty of nature with floral and plant-inspired metal art. Standout Ginkgo leaf, graceful vines, elegant orchids, bold sunflowers, and delicate butterflies crafted from copper, iron, or aluminum bring your garden to your walls.
Contemporary Abstract Pieces
Large, contemporary metal wall art makes a stunning style statement outdoors. Geometric shapes, cascading lines, contemporary glass wall decor, and abstract tesseract in powder-coated aluminum or stainless steel give modern spaces a polished, gallery-like feel.
Rustic Signs & Silhouettes
Rustic signs, family silhouettes, and wall plaques in distressed metals and vintage shapes add homespun charm to porches, patios, and outdoor kitchens. Hang them individually or arrange an eclectic metal collage.
The style you gravitate toward reflects your unique personality. Select pieces that speak to you and align with your exterior space.
Size Matters – Go Big & Bold
Unlike busy indoor spaces competing for attention, outdoor areas showcase oversized art beautifully. When selecting outdoor metal wall decor, go big and bold! Here are the size guidelines:
- Small spaces – 24 x 36 inches or larger
- Medium spaces – 36 x 48 inches or larger
- Large spaces – 48 x 60 inches or larger
- Oversized pieces – 60 x 80 inches or larger
A hulking large outdoor metal art piece makes a serious style statement. For massive exterior walls, choose supersized art like a contemporary oversized wall art piece or an extra large metal tree of life with spreading branches. Their commanding presence anchors the whole space.
Don’t be afraid of going big. Oversized art jaws drop and awe outdoor onlookers.
Curate Cohesive Collections
Rather than one massive piece, carefully curated collections of metal wall art infuse outdoor spaces with depth, interest, and personality. Here are tips for cohesive collections:
- Unify by color – Stick to all warm metals or cool silvers for visual continuity.
- Vary textures – Combine smooth powder-coated pieces with rugged rusted metals.
- Mix complementary styles – Blend nature, abstract, modern, and rustic.
- Overlapping groupings – Break up linear spacing by clustering pieces.
- Odd numbers rule – Hang groupings of 3, 5, or 7 artworks for organic flow.
- Vary scale – Incorporate a few small pieces among large statement works.
Take time arranging and rearranging until your collection delights your eye. The right mix transports viewers.
Prime Placement Boosts Impact
Where you position outdoor metal wall art affects its visual impact just like choosing the perfect kitchen wall art or office wall art decor. Here are prime placements to show it off:
- Drawing the eye – Hang a stunning piece where everyone can see it. Art visible from inside the home blurs indoors and outdoors.
- Filling empty space – Anchor a vacant wall with bold, oversized artwork.
- Creating focal points – Draw the eye to metal art at the end of a path or patio.
- Building atmosphere – Suspend airy mobiles or windchimes to engage the senses.
- Making an entrance – Greet guests with an entrancing artwork by the outdoor entryway.
- Casting mood lighting – Spotlight wall sculptures to cast intriguing shadows at night.
- Defining areas – Designate separate functional spaces with designated wall art.
- Adding privacy – Cover boring view-blocking fences or walls with interesting metal art.
Smart placement and lighting amplify your artwork’s impact so it flatters and focuses the entire outdoor aesthetic.
Caring for Outdoor Metal Wall Art
While metal is inherently durable outdoors, taking proper care of your art ensures it endures. Here are metal wall art care tips:
- Seal annually – Reseal iron, steel, and uncoated metals with a protectant annually.
- Check for rust – Look for rust spots on iron and uncoated steel, sanding and resealing as needed.
- Clean gently – Remove dirt and debris with a soft cloth, mild soap, and water. Avoid abrasive chemicals or scrubbing.
- Tighten mounts – Ensure the superb wall hangings for any room remain securely tightened into the wall.
- Bring inside – Store delicate mobiles, chimes, and signs indoors during harsh weather or winter.
- Touch up paint – Reapply finish like powder coating if it chips to avoid oxidation.
With occasional maintenance and sealant, your metal artwork will amplify your outdoor oasis for years on end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Outdoor metal wall art instantly elevates patios, gardens, porches, gazebos, and other exterior living spaces.
When thoughtfully chosen and strategically placed, metal art defines your unique personality and desired aesthetic. Collections and oversized pieces make the boldest impact. Focus on durable, weather-resistant materials like steel, aluminum, and copper.
With occasional sealing and cleaning, metal artwork graces outdoor spaces for years of enjoyment. Let your spirit soar surrounded by metal art that awakens your outdoor sanctuary.
