Hanging your art prints correctly can make a big difference in how they look and feel in your space. Whether you're decorating your home, office, or any other area, knowing the right way to display your artwork ensures it enhances your environment. In this guide, we'll explore different hanging styles, common mistakes to avoid, and helpful tips to get your paintings looking perfect on your walls.
Types of hanging styles
Choosing the right hanging style depends on your space, the size of your art prints, and your personal taste. Here are some popular styles to consider:
Single piece
Sometimes, less is more—a single standout artwork can serve as a powerful focal point.
Gallery wall
A gallery wall is a curated collection of artworks arranged in a freeform or structured pattern that reflects personal style. This method allows for an eclectic mix of frame styles and sizes, but incorporating a common element—like a shared color or material—can help achieve a harmonious look.
Grid arrangement
A grid arrangement delivers a clean, modern aesthetic by aligning several artworks in a precise, symmetrical pattern. Using identical or very similar frames accentuates the orderly layout, making it an ideal choice for contemporary spaces
Salon style
Inspired by traditional European exhibitions, salon style involves grouping a variety of pieces together in a dense, museum-like fashion. This approach works best when you mix different frame designs and sizes, yet you might consider a unifying element—such as consistent matting or subtle color accents—to tie the ensemble together.
Collage
A collage arrangement brings together a mix of artworks in varying sizes and styles to form an eye-catching focal point. To ensure the display doesn’t become visually chaotic, try to maintain a consistent color palette or theme in your frames, allowing the diversity of the art to still feel intentional.
Diptych / Triptych
Displaying two or three interrelated pieces side by side creates a narrative or visual dialogue that enriches the viewing experience. For a seamless appearance, consider using matching or similar frames, which can unify the series and emphasize their connection.
Tabletop display
Perfect for smaller pieces, a tabletop display transforms a shelf, coffee table, or mantel into a mini gallery. Choose simple, elegant frames or even shadowboxes to maintain a refined, cohesive look that complements the surrounding decor.
Floor leaning display
This style offers a relaxed, modern look by positioning an artwork on the floor, either leaning against a wall or set on an easel. It works wonderfully in contemporary or industrial spaces, and opting for a minimalist frame can keep the focus on the artwork without overwhelming the setting.
Common mistakes
When hanging art, there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind to ensure your space looks balanced and inviting. For instance, the height at which you hang art is crucial. If art prints are placed too high or too low, they can disrupt the room’s overall flow. A good rule of thumb is to avoid positioning pieces directly above furniture without leaving some breathing room—ideally, leave about 6 to 12 inches between the top of your furniture and the bottom of the artwork.
Another frequent issue is overcrowding the walls. While it might be tempting to fill every available space, too many prints can make your room feel cluttered. Sometimes, choosing a few key pieces and giving them enough space to stand out creates a much more elegant and intentional look, though a well-curated collage can work beautifully too.
Even spacing is another important factor. When the gaps between art prints vary, the arrangement can feel disorganized. Using a measuring tape or level can help you achieve a uniform look, typically spacing pieces around 2 to 5 inches apart.
The style of the frame also plays a significant role. Frames that are too ornate for modern art or clash with your room’s decor can draw attention away from the artwork itself. Instead, selecting frames that harmonize with both the piece and your overall color scheme helps to elevate the presentation.
Lighting is key as well. Poor lighting might leave your art looking dull, while harsh or uneven light can create distracting shadows or glare. Rather than relying solely on natural light—which can also contribute to fading—it’s a good idea to incorporate adjustable lamps, spotlights, or picture lights that highlight your art beautifully.
Before you start hammering nails into the wall, it helps to plan your layout carefully. Measuring your wall and sketching out your arrangement on paper, or even using painter’s tape to simulate where each piece will go, can save you a lot of hassle later on. Having the right tools and hardware, such as hooks, nails, or even picture hangers designed for the weight of your art, will keep everything secure.
It’s also useful to experiment with your arrangement before making any permanent changes. Laying the pieces on the floor or using paper cutouts to mimic the size and placement of your art allows you to visualize the final look without any commitment. A good tip is to hang your art at eye level, which tends to make it more engaging and enjoyable from different angles.
For those in temporary spaces or renting, command hooks provide a flexible and damage-free solution. Following the manufacturer's guidelines will help ensure they hold up your artwork properly. Finally, think about how the art fits into the room’s overall function and color scheme. In a serene space like a bedroom, softer, calming pieces might work best, while bolder works could be more suited to a lively living room.
In summary, taking the time to measure, plan, and experiment with your art arrangement can transform your space into a personalized gallery that’s both beautiful and thoughtfully curated.
High price tags
One big reason modern art pieces are so expensive is that owning them is seen as a status symbol. Galleries and auction houses promote these pieces as exclusive and prestigious, making them highly sought after. But this focus on status often overshadows the actual quality or meaning of the artwork. When art becomes more about showing off wealth than about genuine creativity, the high prices can seem unjustified.
Artists like Picasso and Damien Hirst have built huge reputations, which drives up the prices of their works. Take Maurizio Cattelan’s famous “Comedian,” a banana taped to a wall. It sold for a whopping $6.2 million! While some people find it clever or humorous, others see it as just a simple banana on a wall that says nothing. The high price is often more about the artist’s name than the artwork’s creativity or message.
Not all modern art is exciting or thought-provoking. Sometimes, it feels like just random shapes and colors slapped onto a canvas. For example, a single dot on a canvas might be marketed as a masterpiece, but to many, it’s just a boring mark with no real meaning. When art doesn’t engage or inspire, its high price tag becomes even harder to justify.
Many modern art pieces are priced based on trends and popularity rather than their actual artistic value. When a simple installation or minimalistic painting sells for thousands, it raises questions about what truly makes art valuable. The focus shifts from the artwork itself to the hype and demand surrounding it, making the prices seem inflated and disconnected from the art’s true worth.
Art is most meaningful when it resonates personally with the viewer. However, some expensive modern art pieces fail to create this connection. A duct-taped banana might spark a conversation, but it doesn’t evoke deep emotions or tell a compelling story. Without a personal bond, the art feels superficial, leaving buyers questioning why they spent so much on something that doesn’t add value to their lives.
The art market plays a significant role in inflating prices. Auction houses and galleries often set high prices based on demand, rarity, and the artist’s reputation rather than the intrinsic quality of the artwork. This market-driven pricing can create an illusion of value that doesn’t necessarily align with the artwork’s actual impact or creativity. As a result, many people end up paying exorbitant amounts for pieces that might not offer true artistic fulfillment.
Affordable prints makes sense
Affordable art prints offer a way to enjoy beautiful and meaningful artwork without breaking the bank. Unlike high-priced modern art, which can be out of reach for many, art prints make it easy for everyone to decorate their spaces with pieces that they truly love and connect with. This accessibility allows more people to enjoy art in their daily lives.
When you choose an affordable art print, you can select pieces that resonate with your personal tastes and interests. Whether it’s a vibrant video game, a serene abstract, or a detailed portrait of your favourite pet, prints allow you to find art that speaks to you on a deeper level. This personal connection enhances the enjoyment and value of the artwork far beyond its price.
Art prints often come from emerging artists who may not yet have the fame to command high prices for their work. By purchasing these prints, you support talented artists and help them grow their careers. This support fosters a more diverse and vibrant art community, encouraging creativity and innovation without the constraints of inflated costs.
With affordable art prints, you can easily switch out pieces to match your evolving tastes and decor. This flexibility allows you to keep your space fresh and interesting without making a significant financial commitment. You can experiment with different styles, themes, and artists, creating a dynamic and personalized art collection that reflects your unique personality.
This is how I create the brush stroke oil paintings you see in this store. From the tools I use to where I find my ideas, this blog will give you a look into my process as an artist.
My inspiration comes from everyday interactions and things I see online. Talking with friends helps me understand their interests and passions, which I then turn into my artwork. I also spend time on Pinterest and Instagram, looking at different styles and ideas to keep my work fresh and interesting.
Here’s how I set up my studio:
Lighting and ambiance: I let natural light into my studio through large windows, making the space bright and welcoming. I also use adjustable studio lights to keep the lighting consistent, no matter the time of day.
Canvas vs panels: I prefer using canvas over panels because canvas feels more traditional and gives my brush strokes better texture. Panels are handy but don’t offer the same depth. I keep my workspace tidy, with all my materials in their place so I can focus on painting without any distractions.
Easels: I use a sturdy wooden easel because it’s reliable and holds my canvases securely. I’m thinking about getting a new easel soon that might give me more flexibility for different painting styles and sizes.
Protective gear: Instead of aprons, I wear old clothes that I don’t mind getting paint on. For ventilation, I keep my studio windows open as much as possible and use a fan to circulate air, ensuring a comfortable and safe working environment.
tools and accessories
Brushes: I use a range of brushes, from large flat brushes for broad strokes to fine detail brushes for intricate work. High-quality sable brushes are my favorites because they offer excellent control and durability.
Palette knives: These are essential for mixing paints and creating textured effects. The sharp edges allow for precise application, adding depth and character to my paintings.
Canvas: I prefer using premium canvases as they provide a sturdy and traditional surface for oil paints. I find that canvases offer better texture and flexibility compared to panels, which can sometimes feel restrictive.
Materials and mediums
Oil Paints: I select artist-grade oil paints for their rich pigmentation and superior blending capabilities. Brands like Winsor & Newton and Gamblin are my go-to choices.
Mediums: To achieve the perfect consistency and drying time, I use mediums such as linseed oil and damar varnish. These enhance the paint’s flow and luminosity, bringing out the vibrancy of each color.
Step-by-step process
I start by priming the canvas with a thin layer of gesso, creating a smooth surface that allows the paint to adhere properly. Once dry, I sketch the initial design lightly with pencil or charcoal, outlining the main elements of the composition.
Planning is crucial for achieving the desired outcome. I spend time refining the sketch, ensuring the proportions and perspectives are accurate. This stage allows me to visualize the final piece and make any necessary adjustments before committing to paint.
With the groundwork laid, I begin applying layers of paint to develop the composition. I start with the background, laying down foundational colors and gradually adding more details.
Each layer adds depth and complexity to the artwork. I carefully build up the colors, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next to create a rich, multidimensional effect.
I use a variety of brush strokes to create texture and interest. Whether it’s broad, sweeping strokes or fine, delicate lines, each brush movement contributes to the overall feel of the painting.
The final touches bring the painting to completion. I refine the details, accentuating highlights and deepening shadows to add realism and depth. Once satisfied, I apply a protective varnish to preserve the colors and ensure the longevity of the artwork.
Inspirations and references
Inspiration for my artwork comes from regular interactions with friends and online. Engaging conversations help me understand different perspectives and motivations, which I then translate into my art. Additionally, Pinterest, Instagram helps me too.
This was my process behind my brush stroke oil paintings. I hope this behind-the-scenes look has given you a deeper appreciation for the artwork available in our Shopify store.