HANGING ART TOO

example, a 275-centimetre-long sofa should have a 180-centimetre-wide expanse of art above it. If you are using artwork to frame an architectural element or a piece of furniture, you should hang pictures within 25 centimetres of the object.

While blank walls are a natural choice for displaying artwork, there is another option. You can prop artwork on the floor against a wall, on shelves or atop a piece of furniture for a casual display. This allows you the freedom to quickly change up the arrangement, without damaging your walls. Try layering pieces to add more dimension to the display: a house looks like a home when artwork and accessories are layered.

Frames And Lighting

What you hang on your walls is of course up to you, but make sure each piece is professionally framed. Remember that the frame is the foil not the focal point (it shouldn’t overpower the artwork) and always spend that little bit extra on non-reflective, anti-ultraviolet glass.

Select a frame that complements not just the painting but also the surrounding decor. As a general rule, small pictures need to be displayed in a dark-coloured frame and with a generous mount – this will help bring them into focus. Large pieces require a large, wide frame but can look more sophisticated with a thin mount. Consider hanging canvases unframed on the stretcher – this allows the viewer to focus solely on the artwork.

When you’re hanging multiple disparate pictures together, whether in a grid or on a free-form gallery wall, make sure they are all framed differently or you will ruin the eclectic effect. With a collection of one type of art, say black and white prints, you can use matching frames. If you want a less permanent display, invest in wall-hung gallery rails.

For a professional look, you need dedicated gallerystyle lighting, for example a system of track lights or spots recessed into the ceiling. Alternatively, mount a spotlight atop each piece. The angle at which light hits a picture is crucial so experiment before you install a fixture permanently. Position target lamps obliquely for the best effect —an angle of 40 to 60 degrees to the perpendicular will cut down on glare. Low voltage tungsten bulbs work best but place them some distance from the artwork to avoid heat damage.

Just about anything looks good on the walls as long as it is well-framed and properly lit. For a five-minute masterpiece, all you need is a stretch canvas, brushes or rollers, a paint pan and either latex or acrylic paint. Or frame up a favourite fabric, vintage poster or photograph. Wall displays should never be predictable or static, they can be constantly changed, rearranged and improved.