How to Choose Objects for Still Life Art Competitions: Styling Everyday Mundane Objects!

 As Pablo Picasso once said, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." So, whether you’re tackling this competition with childlike wonder or seasoned expertise, the key lies in the details—starting with the objects.

Still life art is a timeless genre that showcases artists' creativity, technical skills, and perspective. Whether you're an emerging artist or a seasoned pro, selecting the right objects for your still life art can make or break your piece in a competition. But how do you decide what goes on your canvas? Let’s break it down with a mix of humor and practicality.

Still Life Of Assorted Items On Red Ribbons

Why Objects Matter in Still Life Art

Think of the objects in your still life art as the cast of a blockbuster movie. You wouldn’t cast a rubber duck alongside Meryl Streep unless the storyline demanded it (or unless it’s a quirky indie film.) Similarly, the objects you choose must complement each other and tell a story that resonates with viewers.

The objects you select are your chance to flex your creativity, whether inspired by classic still life art examples or the bold experiments of modern still life artists. The right choices can make your art a masterpiece; the wrong ones could leave judges scratching their heads.

Still Life With A Globe, Violin, Open Books, And Skull On A Table Draped With A Brown Cloth. Emphasizes Knowledge And Transience.

1. Choose a Theme for Your Still Life Art

Themes are like the GPS for your still life art—they guide your creative journey. Are you inspired by the elegance of Dutch Golden Age paintings like those by Rachel Ruysch? Or do you prefer a quirky and unconventional modern still life art vibe?

Some popular themes include:

• Seasonal Delights: Think pumpkins and cinnamon sticks in autumn or fresh blooms in spring. Add a hot latte for good measure, because nothing screams “fall vibes” like caffeine and nostalgia.

• Everyday Objects Still Life: Capture the beauty of the mundane—keys, coffee cups, or even that crumpled to-do list you’ve been avoiding. (Yes, procrastination can be art!)

• Cultural Narratives: Incorporate objects that reflect a cultural story or heritage. 

Focus on a theme that aligns with your artistic voice while pushing boundaries.

Ornate Setting With A Silver Jug, Wine Glass, Candle, And Grapes On A Dark Tablecloth. 

2. Balance Simplicity and Complexity

Still life art thrives on balance. Overload your composition with too many objects, and it looks cluttered. Keep it too sparse, and it risks appearing uninspired. Strike a balance by selecting a mix of simple and intricate objects.

For example, pair a smooth ceramic vase with the textured vibrancy of a bouquet. Still life art examples from modern artists often showcase how minimalism and intricacy can coexist harmoniously.

Think of it this way: You wouldn’t serve a seven-course meal with all the dishes piled on one plate, right? Give your objects breathing room.

Hanging Vegetables And Fruits, Including Lemons, Parsnips, And Lettuce, On A Dark Background. Emphasizes Gloom.

3. Consider Symbolism in Your Still Life Art

Every object tells a story. Including symbolic elements can elevate your still life art from “pretty” to “profound.” Classic examples include skulls (mortality), fruits (abundance or decay), and books (knowledge). Modern still life artists often take a fresh spin on symbolism, incorporating items like smartphones or sneakers.

Choose objects that not only look good but also make viewers ponder deeper meanings. For instance, placing an avocado toast next to a book on budgeting could represent millennial struggles. Subtle, yet effective.

Ancient Fresco Featuring A Bird With Spread Wings Inside A Circular Frame. Background Has Blue And Earthy Tones With A Cracked Texture.

4. Play with Textures and Materials

Still life art drawing is a celebration of textures. Smooth glass, rough wood, velvety petals—each surface adds depth and variety to your work. Incorporate a mix of materials to challenge your skills and intrigue viewers.

For instance:

• Glass and Transparency: Try capturing the distortion and reflections in a wine glass. (Bonus points if there’s wine in it.)

• Fabric and Drapery: Add soft folds for a touch of drama. Think Renaissance vibes but with modern sass.

• Shiny vs. Matte: Juxtapose a gleaming metal bowl with a matte ceramic plate.

  

  Vase with Flowers | Rachel Ruysch

5. Draw Inspiration from Modern Still Life Artists

Modern still life artists have redefined the genre with bold ideas and unconventional objects. Look at artists who incorporate everyday objects in still life into their work, making the mundane extraordinary. Take notes from contemporary still life art examples while adding your unique twist. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. After all, art is about exploration.

A Basket Of Colorful Fruit And a Vase With White And Purple Flowers On A Wooden Table Against A Blue Background.

6. Practice Color Harmony

Your objects’ colors can make or break your still life art composition. Aim for a cohesive color palette, whether complementary, analogous, or monochromatic. If you are not sure where to start, borrow ideas from still life art examples—especially works by Rachel Ruysch, whose floral arrangements are a masterclass in color harmony.

Remember, throwing a neon pink vase into a pastel composition is as jarring as pineapple on pizza (but no judgment if you’re into that).

Dark Still Life Of Game, Fruit, And Birds On A Table. A Rabbit Hangs Upside Down. Grapes And Leaves Form A Backdrop, Mellow, Somber Mood.

7. Experiment with Lighting

Lighting transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Whether you opt for dramatic chiaroscuro or soft natural light, your objects are illuminated and can elevate your still life art.

Pro tip: Use lighting to create depth and highlight key elements. Shadows can add mystery, while highlights can draw attention to focal points. A well-placed shadow is the little black dress of still life art: subtle, elegant, and always in style.

Perspective Matter.

8. Think About Perspective

Perspective in still life art isn’t just about how you see the objects but how you want viewers to experience them. Experiment with different angles and arrangements. Modern still life art often embraces unconventional perspectives to break traditional boundaries.

Pro tip: A top-down view can add a contemporary edge, while eye-level perspectives bring intimacy. Find your vibe and own it.

A Still Life With Peaches, A Blue Dish, Peeled Citrus, And A Glass Of Wine On A Dark Background, Creating A Somber, Classic Mood.

9. Add a Dash of Humor (or Drama)

Who says still life art has to be serious? Add a playful touch by including unexpected objects—a rubber duck in a classical arrangement? Or go for drama with bold juxtapositions—like pairing an elegant teacup with a crumpled soda can. It’s your art; make it a conversation starter.

Practice And Experiment.

10. Practice and Experiment

Great still life art doesn’t happen overnight. Experiment with different setups, sketch rough drafts, and take plenty of photos before committing to your final composition. Draw inspiration from still life art examples and keep refining until satisfied.

Choosing the right objects for still life art competitions is an art in itself. From exploring themes and textures to drawing inspiration from modern still life artists, there’s a lot to consider. Remember, the objects you pick should not only look visually appealing but also tell a compelling story.

Rachel Ruysch

As Rachel Ruysch proved with her stunning floral arrangements, "It’s not just about painting objects; it’s about breathing life into them." So, the next time you’re arranging objects for your still life art, channel your inner Ruysch, get creative with everyday objects, and let your imagination run wild. Who knows? Your masterpiece might just be the one that wins over the judges and leaves a lasting impression in the world of still life art.