Do's and Don'ts for Showcasing Artwork in your Home

Decorating your home with art is not just about filling empty walls; it's about creating an environment that reflects your personality and enhances your living space. However, the art of art placement involves more than just hammering nails into the wall. From choosing the right pieces to knowing how to hang them, there are several do's and don'ts that can make or break the aesthetic appeal of your home. Drawing on expert advice from art consultant Louisa Warfield, as well as common practices among art collectors like Helen Sunderland Cohen, this article will guide you through the essential tips and common pitfalls of displaying art in your home.

Understanding the Basics of Art Placement

The Gallery Wall: A Unified Approach

One of the most popular and visually striking ways to display art is through a gallery wall. This approach allows you to showcase a collection of different artworks together, creating a cohesive look. "A gallery wall, where multiple artworks of varying sizes are displayed together, is a popular choice for homeowners," explains Louisa Warfield. She suggests achieving unity by using simple means such as employing black frames or maintaining a consistent theme.

Size and Placement Matter

When it comes to hanging art, size and placement are crucial. A common mistake is hanging artworks that are too small for the space or too high on the wall. Warfield advises, "A room feels more inviting and spacious when a large painting is hung, even in smaller areas like hallways." She recommends hanging artwork at a height where the center is approximately 150cm above the floor, or at a level where the viewer's eye is about a third of the way down from the top of the piece.

Expert Tips for Selecting and Arranging Art

Be Bold with Large Artworks

Don't shy away from large pieces, even in small spaces. Louisa Warfield, an art consultant, is an advocate for the courageous display of enormous artworks in small spaces. She suggests that a gallery wall is a good option for bringing together pieces that appear to be incompatible with one another. Large artworks can act as a focal point and add dramatic flair to any room.

Prioritize Personal Preference

It's important to prioritize your personal taste when selecting and placing art. Warfield encourages homeowners to "prioritize their preferences when it comes to art placement, even if it means deviating from a chosen color scheme." This personal touch ensures that your space truly represents you and can evolve with your tastes over time.

Consider Longevity and Flexibility

When investing in art, consider the longevity of each piece and its potential to adapt to future decor changes. For artworks that don't fit your new space or style, Warfield recommends options like reframing, hanging unframed, or using non-reflective and UV-protective glass to give the pieces a fresh look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding Your Space

While a gallery wall is a great way to display multiple pieces, overcrowding can detract from the individual beauty of each artwork. Ensure there is enough space between pieces to allow each one to be appreciated separately.

Ignoring Lighting

Lighting can dramatically affect the appearance of your art. Natural light is ideal, but if this isn't available, consider using spotlights or track lighting to enhance the visibility and color of your artworks.

Neglecting the Theme

Maintaining a thematic consistency across your artworks can enhance the overall harmony of your space. Whether it's a color theme, a subject matter, or a style, cohesive themes can create a more unified and appealing display.

Displaying art in your home effectively requires a blend of creativity and strategy. By following these expert tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you can enhance your living environment and enjoy your art to its fullest potential. Remember, the key to successful art display is not just in choosing the right pieces, but also in how you choose to present them.

By incorporating these insights and recommendations, you can transform your living spaces into a beautifully curated art showcase that reflects both your style and your life.