How to Choose Unique Coastal Wall Art That Tells a Story
There’s a reason we’re drawn to the sea. The calm, the colours, the open horizon — they remind us of space, freedom, and connection. Bringing that feeling into your home or workspace isn’t just decoration; it’s storytelling. The right piece of coastal wall art can transform a blank wall into something deeply personal.
At Outlier Gifts, every artwork starts with real photography from the Devon coast — then blends digital craftsmanship, AI creativity, and hand-edited detail to create something new. But whether you buy from us or another artist, here’s how to choose a piece that truly fits you.
1. Start with Meaning, Not Just Aesthetic
Beautiful art catches the eye, but meaningful art keeps you looking.
Ask yourself:
Does this piece remind me of somewhere I love — maybe Teignmouth, Dawlish, or the wider South Devon coast?
Does it capture a feeling I want in my space: calm, energy, nostalgia?
Choosing art with emotional weight turns your wall into part of your story — not just a background.
2. Look for Real Craft Behind the Image
Mass-produced prints often look “flat” because they’re generated from generic stock imagery. Real craft — photography, texture work, and careful editing — gives depth that can’t be faked.
When a print is made from an original photograph, you can feel the realism: reflections, light, the perspective of the photographer.
At Outlier Gifts, that’s always the starting point. Each piece begins with genuine photos, then is enhanced through AI and Photoshop to create something unique yet believable, it still feels real.
3. Match the Colour Palette to Your Space (or Break the Rules)
Coastal doesn’t have to mean blue and beige.
Many of the most striking pieces mix bold oranges, deep blues, and high-contrast tones that feel alive — almost cinematic. Others lean into moody shadows or dark atmospheres that bring intensity and drama to a space.
Think about your tones:
Soft neutrals for calm, minimalist rooms.
Bright oranges and teals for energy and warmth.
Deep navy and charcoal for a modern, coastal feel.
Dark, expressive pieces when you want something that stands out and starts a conversation.
The right colour choice should reflect mood, not just match your walls.
4. Choose the Right Size and Format
For most homes and workspaces, A4 and A3 prints are ideal — big enough to make an impact without overwhelming the room.
If you’re looking for something larger, bigger custom sizes are available on request.
Consider orientation too:
Landscape pieces bring openness and balance.
Portrait pieces draw the eye upward and feel more intimate.
A gallery wall mix of both can tell a story across multiple frames.
5. Support Artists Who Care About Quality and Craft
Buying from a small creator means your money goes toward artistry, not mass production. Look for:
Artists who use premium papers and inks.
Transparent process and handmade elements.
Sustainable or small-batch printing methods.
Original imagery with genuine creative intent.
At Outlier Gifts, every print is reviewed, colour-balanced, and finished with care before it leaves the studio.
6. Consider a Custom Commission
If you want something truly personal — maybe a memory of a favourite coastal walk or a gift for someone who loves the sea — a custom commission can bring that to life.
You’ll get a piece built around your story, not just your walls.
7. Display With Intention
Framing matters as much as the print itself.
Natural oak frames work beautifully with coastal or warm-toned pieces, while black or charcoal frames give a more contemporary edge.
Hang your print where natural light can bring it to life — morning or golden-hour light enhances colour depth and detail.
8. Choose Art That Feels Real
Ultimately, the best art isn’t the most complex or the most expensive — it’s the one that feels like it belongs to you.
If it makes you pause, breathe, or think of a moment worth keeping, that’s the one.
Final Thought
Art should do more than fill a space. It should invite you in.
Whether it’s a peaceful stretch of the Devon coast or an abstract explosion of colour, choose something that speaks to your sense of place and story.
Explore the Outlier Gifts collection to find coastal wall art and custom pieces designed to last — locally created, photo-led, and finished with care.
Make it stand out
