Art has the power to transform a dull space into a captivating one, but sometimes, even the most well-intentioned art enthusiasts can make some serious blunders.
Fear not, dear readers! In this blog, we’ll explore the top five mistakes people make when choosing and hanging art and provide you with tips and tricks to fix them.
Let’s dive right in and bring some artistic harmony into your life!
Mistake #1: The Lilliputian Artwork
Oh, the woes of tiny artwork swallowed by vast walls! Choosing artwork that is too small for the wall space can leave your room feeling unbalanced and visually incomplete.
Fix: The Mantra here is “Go Big or Go Home!”
When selecting art for your walls, consider the dimensions of the wall and choose a piece that complements the scale. It should cover 2/3 to 3/4 of your wall or the piece of furniture.
Look for substantial artwork that makes a statement or create a gallery wall with a collection of larger and smaller pieces to fill the space effectively. It’s creating a focal wall. Trust me, it will elevate your home to the next level in décor.
Mistake #2: Misplaced Masterpieces
One common mistake is hanging art too high or too low, leaving viewers craning their necks or feeling disconnected from the artwork.
Fix: The Sweet Spot is at Eye Level.
Hang your art at a height where the center of the piece is approximately at eye level for the average person. If you’re unsure, use a measuring tape or simply invite a friend to stand in front of the wall while you adjust the height accordingly. Remember, art is meant to be admired and engaged with comfortably!
As a rule, the artwork center should be 57” – 60” from the floor to match the average eye level.
Mistake #3: Clash of Themes
Mixing and matching art styles can be a delightful endeavour, but it’s crucial to avoid a chaotic jumble of conflicting themes that leave your space looking like an unintentional mishmash.
Fix: Create a Harmonious Art Display
To achieve a harmonious art display, consider the overall style and ambiance of the room.
Choose artwork that complements the existing decor and reflects a cohesive theme. If you love eclectic combinations, opt for a common element like a colour palette or subject matter to tie the diverse pieces together.
Mistake #4: Lighting Limbo
Nothing kills the mood of a magnificent artwork like poor lighting. Insufficient or harsh lighting can make even the most stunning pieces lose their lustre. If your artwork is also dark, lighting may do the trick to make it stand out in your room and give it some depth.
Fix: Lighting is your Art’s Best Friend!
Invest in proper lighting fixtures that enhance the beauty and detail of your artwork.
Consider track lighting, adjustable wall sconces or art lighting like the ones you can find at Ikea or Amazon (some use batteries and give you a remote control to give you a clean look if you cannot hardwire them) to create a spotlight effect, drawing attention to your cherished pieces.
Experiment with warm or cool light bulbs to find the perfect ambiance for each artwork.
Mistake #5: Ignoring the Surroundings
Sometimes, even the most stunning art can be overshadowed by a cluttered or distracting environment. Ignoring the surroundings can diminish the impact of your carefully selected pieces.
Fix: Create a Backdrop that lets your Art Shine!
Declutter the area around your art and ensure it has some breathing space. Use a neutral wall colour or complementary shades to allow the artwork to take center stage.
Remember, less is often more when highlighting your art’s beauty.
Overall, art should be an expression of joy, creativity, and personal style. It should speak to your soul. When it does, then magic happens.
Your space transforms into a haven of inspiration which has a ripple effect on your mood, mindset and even productivity. Everything becomes more positive, and you feel amazing in your space.
By avoiding these top five mistakes and embracing the tips I’ve shared, you can elevate your art hanging game to new heights.
So embrace your inner curator, and let your art speak volumes in your well-appointed space.
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram or Facebook where I give you daily tips and tricks and what’s new and on trend so that you can easily create the space you love.
Happy hanging!
XO
