Filling your home with framed paintings, prints, and photography can make your interiors more comfortable and inviting while showcasing your personal style. However, the proper placement of your framed pieces can mean the difference between a pleasing aesthetic and visual discomfort. To display your pieces with the type of skill you’d see in a professional art gallery, follow the advice below.  

Do:

Hang lone pieces at eye level. 

If you have a wall reserved for one large piece of art, don’t hang it too close to the ceiling. Even if you have cathedral ceilings, high placement could make a room feel off-balance and smaller than it is. At an art gallery, you’ll notice pieces are placed at eye level to create balance. As a rule of thumb, framed art should be hung 57 inches up from the floor. 

Align rows based on center points.

When hanging multiple pieces in a row, you might be tempted to line up the frames. Lined-up artwork actually tends to looks staggered and haphazard, creating a dizzying effect. To create balance, place the center of each piece 57 to 60 inches above the ground.

Don’t:

Forget about proportions. 

If you have a small print, match it with a smaller frame. Don’t hang the piece alone on a large wall, as it could get lost on the expansive surface. To fill space, create a collage of similarly sized artwork to fill the wall. The largest frame should be positioned at the center point, with smaller frames placed around it. 

Forget to ask for help.

Some frames can be heavy, so ask a friend to help you hang the pieces. Having two people hold the piece can help prevent dangerous accidents. Ask a third person to help so they can stand back and let you know if any adjustments need to be made.

For eye-catching artwork to frame and display throughout your home, visit Queen Street Gallery in Martinsburg, WV. Located in downtown’s historic district, the art gallery is a reliable source to find an array of hidden gems, including vintage posters and antique prints. Stop by to shop the selection or browse the inventory online. If you have questions, call (304) 263-9495.