It may be necessary to hang especially heavy pieces on a section of the wall where the supporting studs are located. [2] X Expert Source Peter SalernoInstallation Expert Expert Interview. 10 June 2019. Be sure to take this into consideration when envisioning a layout for the wall where you plan to show off your painting. [3] X Research source Make sure the painting isn’t obscured by any furniture or architecture. If you have a large wall, use a large painting. A smaller painting will look odd and empty on a large wall.
Situate larger pieces towards the lower part of the wall to avoid taking attention away from your main painting. You might also consider mounting a greater number of secondary paintings and photos on the right-hand side of your main display piece. Since most people tend to read from left to right, their eyes will instinctively settle on the painting before anything else. [5] X Research source A level can come in handy for double-checking that your artwork is hung correctly. Arrange everything on the floor and take a picture to use as a reference when you move it to the wall. [6] X Expert Source Peter SalernoInstallation Expert Expert Interview. 10 June 2019. Grids are very popular at the moment! You can try getting 12 to 16 different frames at the same exact shape to fill the space around your main piece. [7] X Expert Source Peter SalernoInstallation Expert Expert Interview. 10 June 2019.
A collage of family photos can lend a more personal touch to a collection of classical artwork. [9] X Research source For a more creative display, you could even purchase custom-sized frames to showcase a few of your favorite movie posters, records, or other ephemera. If you have art that doesn’t look the same, put them in the same frame or use a similar frame color to make the pieces more cohesive.
Houseplants and other accessories that mimic a few of the painting’s more prominent features can help create a three-dimensional effect that brings the artist’s work to life.
If you’re looking for a less conventional way to illuminate your gallery wall, experiment with warm, organic-looking sources like tea lights, Himalayan salt lamps, paper lanterns, or even candles. [12] X Research source Finding the ideal lighting to your painting may require you to reposition it to a part of the wall that receives more exposure.
When mounting artwork in the bedroom, the best place for it is either directly above the bed or on the opposite wall. If you decide to hang a painting above a fireplace, make sure there’s some kind of barrier in place just below it, such as a mantle or molded ledge, to protect it from the rising heat. [14] X Research source Put a spotlight or frame the art in wall moldings if it’s a focal point of the room.
Black-and-white portraits, for instance, can be even more striking when juxtaposed with a muted or monochromatic palette and modest patterns and textures. Similarly, pieces boasting splashes of vibrant color lend themselves well to pairing with furniture and accessories in daring color choices (so long as they don’t clash). [16] X Research source
Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to stick to more neutral colors that won’t look tacky or be overwhelming to the eyes. This means that that hot pink or bright yellow found in one or two bold brushstrokes may not make the best choice for your entire living room. Use a bright and colorful painting if you want it to stand out from the wall. Use an online room designer program to virtually recolor the walls of your home or office and see what you think of the change. [18] X Research source
Don’t forget to account for the dimensions of the frame when you’re doing your measuring. [20] X Research source Avoid sticking eye-catching pieces where they might be partially covered by curtains or open shutters. Avoid squeezing a painting into a tight space.
Minimize potential distractions by moving them outside of your field of vision when looking at the painting head-on. If they’re still noticeable, consider relocating them to a different part of your home or office altogether. Turn, tilt, cover, or push back any nearby items that are too big to move to make them less conspicuous. Your art should be the main attraction of the room it’s displayed in (or at least the walls).
