Elevate Your Space: The Art (and Science) of Hanging Art

Well, I did too. Now we need to hang it! There's always so much to consider when deciding where that freshly framed piece of art would look best. How high should it be? Should it sit solo above the fireplace or should you add it to your gallery wall? Critical decisions! It's so important, I decided to do a bit of research and gather a few best practices to share with you.

The journey of turning a house into a home begins with the proper hanging of your cherished artwork. Let's transform your space into a gallery that reflects your unique story.

It's Not (Just) Art, It's Science!

Hanging art isn't merely about driving a nail into the wall; it's a carefully orchestrated dance between aesthetics and spatial awareness. According to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology (Hagerhall, C. M., & Purcell, T., 2003) the placement of art in your home can significantly impact your mood and well-being. Properly hung art can create a sense of harmony, turning your living space into a sanctuary.

Eye-Level Elegance

One cardinal rule in the art of hanging art is to position it at eye level. The idea is to create a connection between the viewer and the artwork, allowing for a more intimate and engaging experience. Research from the National Endowment for the Arts suggests that art positioned at eye level tends to have a more profound impact on the viewer, enhancing the emotional resonance of the piece.

Remember, art doesn't have to be a passive experience. It's a conversation. And when we converse, we tend to look people in the eyes. Same deal here! You want to place it in a spot where it can be engaged with.

Gallery Wall Dynamics

Creating a gallery wall can be a powerful way to display multiple pieces cohesively. The Smithsonian American Art Museum suggests experimenting with different layouts before finalizing the arrangement. This can add a dynamic visual element to your space, turning your home into a curated collection of your personal journey. I'm not a stickler for rules, but if you're hanging more than one picture on a wall, aim for the 2/3 rule. Your gallery should be 2/3 the size of the object you're hanging it near.

And, you're in luck! I have a tool on my site that lets you visualise any print in my shop. You can even upload a photo of your room and arrange to your heart's content. Give it a shot on any of my art print pages (like this one)!

Measuring Matters

Before hammering that first nail, take a moment to measure and plan. Ensure the correct distance between pieces, maintaining balance and visual appeal. If you're off by an inch, it'll bug you every time you look at it! Trust me.

Filling your home with art is such a treat for your senses and well-being, especially when each piece has a story to tell. The way you choose to hang it can enhance or diminish that narrative. So, when you stand back to admire your newly hung artwork, ask yourself what stories these walls will tell, and how will they shape the story of your home?

If you're looking for a way to bring a bit of the many places we call home from outside and onto your walls, head over to my print shop. I've got something just for you 💛