The Dos and Don’ts of Hanging Artwork
Artwork is one of the most impactful ways to enhance your living or workspace. It expresses personality, adds color and texture, and can even create emotional resonance in a room. Whether it’s a bold statement piece, a collection of family photos, or a carefully curated gallery wall, the way you hang your art can significantly influence the ambiance of your space. However, improperly hung artwork can have the opposite effect, disrupting the flow of your decor or even damaging your walls and pieces.
From achieving the perfect height to ensuring secure installations, every detail matters when it comes to displaying art. To ensure your art shines as it should and complements your interior design, we’ve compiled a detailed guide on the dos and don’ts of hanging artwork. Let’s dive in and help you create walls that truly speak to your style.
The Dos of Hanging Artwork:
Choose the right location. Art placement is key to its visual impact and longevity.
Use the right mounting height. A general rule is to hang artwork so its center aligns with the average eye level. For groupings or gallery walls, treat the arrangement as one cohesive piece and apply this guideline to the midpoint of the display.
Plan your layout. Whether hanging a single piece or creating a gallery wall, planning ahead prevents mistakes.
Select the right mounting hardware. Proper hardware ensures your artwork is secure and protects both the art and the wall.
Mix frame styles thoughtfully. Mixing frame styles and finishes can add depth to your display, but aim for cohesion. For example, a gallery wall might combine modern thin black frames with vintage gold ones, unified by a consistent matting style or a shared color palette in the artwork.
Use proportions wisely. Match the scale of the artwork to the size of the wall or furniture beneath it.
Consider your lighting. Highlighting your artwork with lighting can enhance its impact and draw attention to your focal piece.
The Don’ts of Hanging Artwork:
Don’t hang art too high. A common mistake is hanging artwork closer to the ceiling than eye level. This disrupts the viewer's connection to the piece and can make a room feel disjointed. Always prioritize accessibility and alignment with the surrounding decor.
Avoid overcrowding. Even a stunning gallery wall can lose its charm if pieces are too tightly packed. Overcrowding makes the space feel chaotic. Instead, focus on creating breathing room between pieces, allowing each to stand out.
Don’t forget about your current wall your wall condition. Before hanging, inspect the wall's condition. Holes, uneven surfaces, or weak drywall can lead to instability. Use appropriate fillers or reinforcements as needed.
Avoid ignoring the weight of the artwork. Heavy artwork requires sturdy hardware and wall anchors. Never rely solely on nails for weighty pieces; this risks damage to both your wall and artwork.
Don’t hang artwork without content. Art should complement your room's style, color scheme, and furniture. A modern abstract piece might clash with a Victorian-themed room unless thoughtfully juxtaposed for contrast.
Avoid sunlight damage. Never underestimate the power of sunlight. Direct exposure can fade colors and damage materials over time. If your preferred location is sunny, consider UV-blocking glass or protective film on windows.
Don’t skip leveling! Crooked artwork, even by a slight margin, can be distracting. Use a spirit level or a leveling app to ensure perfect alignment. For gallery walls, measure distances meticulously to maintain symmetry.
Hanging artwork is both an art and a science. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll not only prevent common pitfalls but also elevate your space with personal flair. The right piece, perfectly placed, can transform a room, serving as a focal point or seamlessly tying together your decor.
Whether you’re curating a gallery wall, showcasing a treasured canvas, or experimenting with unique placements, remember that the ultimate goal is to create a harmonious, inspiring environment. Take your time, plan carefully, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through your choices. After all, the art you display is a reflection of your style and story.
What’s your next art-hanging project? Share your tips and stories in the comments!
What even more expert guidance on the dos and don’ts of hanging artwork?
This guidebook is designed with YOU in mind—whether you’re a design novice or a seasoned decorator. Turn your walls into a reflection of your personality and style, and let your art truly shine.
With practical tips, step-by-step instructions, and expert insights, here are some of the concepts you'll learn more about:
✨ Perfectly position artwork at the ideal height.
✨ Create balanced, eye-catching gallery walls.
✨ Select the right hardware and tools.
✨ Understanding lighting in relation to your artwork.
✨Avoid common mistakes that can damage walls or diminish your décor.
Don’t settle for boring walls or costly mistakes. Get your copy today and take the guesswork out of hanging artwork!
