If you like it, keep it. If you hate it, get something else.

I would want it to stretch to fit the width of the brick.

It might look better if it stretched the entire width of the fireplace. The white looks okay, but natural wood mantle that matches the hardwood would look nice too.

I just think it feels heavy, could you do something that isn't as tall? If it's 12 inches, making it like 9 or 10" ?

A beautiful off white modern mantle would really be a beautiful pop to the space! On the other hand a dark rustic wood beam across the fireplace would be beautiful as well and it would give it that country Texan theme.

As others have said, I think it needs to stretch across the fireplace and needs to be smaller in height. I prefer the off-white because it is lighter, but natural wood would be pretty too.

That mantel is not original but I agree a nice natural wood that spans the width of the fireplace is what should be there

I think its nice and it matches the trim and walls. The trim on the edge of the brick will look funny with natural wood. So you should keep it.

Actually kind of like the basic idea behind your framed art display as is -- calming in the uncomplicated simplicity of black and white art in basic black frames.

Would probably replace the mirror over the mantel with something with much more color to contrast the more monotone nature of the rest of the room -- something that reflects your family's favorite place or activity.

Do consider changing the mantel for a more simple one ( hung w/top of mantel ending up lower than the existing mantel) and have the mantel as wide as the entire width of the brick.

Would not make the mantel "rustic" as such -- but, unless you want to paint it white again, use wood with a mid shade wood finish -- not too light and not too dark.

I thought it was a picture of cow horns on the mantel.

I like it. Very Texassy.

The only thing wrong with it is that it's too small in width from side to side. It should cover the brick from edge to edge. Otherwise its nice & goes with the rest of your woodwork.