Decorating your home with wall art is a great way to express your personality and style. However, hanging art can be tricky, and many people make common mistakes that can detract from the overall look of their space.
Learn the do’s and don’ts of hanging wall art to ensure that you make a bold statement with your decor while avoiding some of the most common pitfalls.
Creating a Gallery Wall
Start With a Plan
Before you hang art on your walls, it’s essential to have a plan. Decide on the theme, color scheme, and layout for one large piece on your gallery wall. Planning will help you avoid creating a chaotic mishmash of art pieces.
For instance, opt for classic paintings if you have a traditional setting. At the same time, a modern interior may benefit from contemporary pieces like canvas art (https://ikonick.com/collections/best-sellers).
Mix Different Sizes
Incorporate both large and medium art pieces into your gallery wall. This contrast in scale adds depth and dimension to your arrangement, making it more visually appealing.
Use Different Heights
When hanging multiple pieces of good art on a wall, vary the heights to create visual interest. Taller pieces can go towards the top, while smaller ones can be clustered lower.
Avoiding Common Art Hanging Mistakes
Hanging art too High
One of the most common art hanging mistakes is placing a large piece of artwork too high on the wall. To ensure your art is at eye level, hang it so that the center of the piece is around 57–60 inches from the floor.
This setting not only makes it more accessible for viewers but also creates a sense of intimacy with the artwork.
Small Art on a Large Wall
Don’t hang tiny pieces of art on a vast, empty wall. The too-small art will get lost in the space and won’t be an effective focal point.
Instead, opt for a larger art piece to fill the wall space adequately.
Ignoring the Furniture
Consider the furniture below when hanging art. The art hung should relate to the furniture piece beneath it, either by size or theme. Ensure the art doesn’t appear disconnected from the rest of the room.
For example, if you have a dining room with a sizable wooden table, consider hanging a small piece of art that complements the wood’s texture and color.
The Science of Art Hanging
The two-thirds Rule
A good rule of thumb is to hang a single piece of art to occupy about two-thirds of the available wall space. This proportion provides a sense of balance without overwhelming the room.
However, you might want to adjust this ratio slightly in rooms with lower ceilings or a lot of furniture. The key is to balance your art and the space it occupies.
Hanging art at different Locations
Avoid hanging all your art pieces in one room at the same height or location. Spread them throughout your home, using art to create a cohesive yet diverse decor scheme.
Place art pieces in unexpected areas, such as hallways or alcoves, to add interest to transitional spaces.
Art hanging tips and tricks
Measuring and marking
Always measure and mark the wall before hanging art. This step helps you avoid unnecessary holes and perfectly align your art.
Use a level to double-check your markings before hanging them for a straight and professional appearance.
The right height matters
To maintain the right height for hanging art, use a level and measure from the ceiling or the floor. Precision is vital to achieving a professional look.
If you’re uncertain about the placement, try creating a paper template of your artwork’s dimensions and temporarily attaching it to the wall with painter’s tape.
Creating a focal point
A piece of art can serve as a focal point in a room. Choose a striking art piece you love, and let it take center stage in your decor.
This addition not only adds personality to your space but also invites conversation and admiration from your guests. Consider the great idea of accentuating your art with appropriate lighting, like spotlights or wall-mounted fixtures, to enhance its visual impact.
Final thoughts
Hanging art is both an art and a science. By following these guidelines and avoiding typical wall art hanging mistakes, you can transform a blank wall in your living space into an inviting collection of artwork. Plan your gallery walls carefully, consider the scale and placement of your art pieces, and always aim for the right height.
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