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How To Display Your Best Art Pieces

A Guide to Presenting Your Artwork in Any Space

A Figure Painting displayed in a living room

It's essential to create a welcoming environment for your art pieces. The way you display your art can significantly influence how viewers perceive and interact with your work. Consider the lighting, wall color, and positioning of each piece. Use spotlights or track lighting to highlight your best pieces and consider the color of your walls. Neutral tones often work best to let the artwork stand out. Be mindful about the positioning of each piece -- you don't want it too high or too low, but at eye level, so it's comfortable to view. Remember, the goal is to invite your viewers in, engage them, and allow them to appreciate the nuances of your art. Whether you're displaying your art in a gallery or at home, here are some tips to present your best pieces effectively.



Lighting your Artwork


Lighting is crucial when it comes to displaying artwork. The right lighting can enhance colors, textures, and details in your piece. It's essential to have both natural and artificial light sources that provide adequate illumination without causing glare or shadows. If you're displaying your art at home, consider placing it near a window to let in natural light during the day. For galleries or exhibitions, professional lighting equipment such as spotlights can be used to highlight specific pieces. Make sure to test the placement and intensity of lights before finalizing the display. Spotlights can also be adjusted to create different moods and effects, depending on the type of art you're displaying.



Framing and Mounting


Artist standing in front of her watercolour creations
Illustrator Inna Gertsberg with her Watercolour Monsters

The right frame can make all the difference in how your artwork is perceived. It should complement and enhance the piece without taking away from it. Consider using frames with neutral colors and simple designs for a clean, modern look. If you have multiple pieces, try using the same or similar frames for a cohesive display. Additionally, make sure to use acid-free materials when framing to prevent any damage to your artwork in the long run.


Mounting is also an important aspect of displaying art. It should be done carefully and securely to prevent any accidents or damage. For heavy pieces, it's best to seek professional help with mounting. For lighter pieces, use appropriate hanging mechanisms such as wire or D-rings and make sure they are properly attached to the frame. Also, consider using a level or measuring tape to ensure your artwork is hung straight and evenly.



Shiny/Metal Prints


Shiny or metal prints can add a remarkable sense of depth and luminosity to your artwork. This type of print involves infusing an image onto a sheet of aluminum, resulting in a display that is both rich and vibrant, while also being resistant to fading. Metal prints are particularly effective in showcasing high-contrast images, as they enhance the vivid colors and sharp details. Furthermore, they possess a sleek and modern aesthetic that complements contemporary settings.


When it comes to displaying metal prints, it is important to carefully consider their placement. Due to their reflective nature, it is advisable to avoid positioning them directly opposite strong light sources, as this can lead to glare. Instead, opt for a location where the changing light throughout the day can reveal different aspects of the artwork, adding to its allure. Namely, the professionals from ShinyPrints recommend placing these prints on walls that receive natural light, as this produces a dynamic and ever-evolving display. A lot of creative opportunities can arise from the use of shiny or metal prints, so don't be afraid to experiment with different sizes and placements to find what works best for your art.



Grouping Art Pieces

Two framed drawings above a bed

Consider grouping your best art pieces together to create a visual impact. Grouping can help showcase similarities or differences between pieces and add variety to the display. It also allows viewers to see your work as a collection rather than individual pieces. When grouping, consider the size, color, and theme of each piece. You can also mix different mediums or styles for an eclectic feel.


There's no right or wrong way to group your art; it's all about creating a visually appealing display that showcases your best work. For instance, if you're displaying a series of paintings, consider hanging them in a grid pattern or side by side to create a cohesive look. If you have different sizes and styles of art, try creating layers by placing smaller pieces in front or overlapping larger ones. Grouping can also be done with sculptures or other three-dimensional artwork by placing them on pedestals at varying heights.



Displaying Your Artwork for Sale

Artist with Collector at Gallery with Artwork
Winged Canvas founder Artist Fei Lu with a collector at her exhibition

It's crucial to create an engaging and visually appealing exhibition that captivates potential buyers. Start by carefully selecting the appropriate display space and lighting to showcase your artwork in the best possible way. Group pieces that share a common theme or style to create a cohesive and harmonious presentation. Use clean, neutral backgrounds and minimalistic frames to ensure the artwork remains the focal point. Leave enough space between each piece, and consider how to curate a cohesive body of work instead of showcasing artwork with different styles so it's a more memorable and branded experience.


Clearly label each piece with essential information, such as the title, artist's name, medium, dimensions, and price. Don't forget to provide a comfortable viewing area where potential buyers can contemplate the art. Consider offering informational materials about the artist's background, inspiration, and creative process to help potential buyers connect with the work on a deeper level.



Presentation Affects How Artwork is Perceived (and Priced).


How you display your artwork is just as important as the creation process. It shapes the viewer's experience and interaction with your pieces. Prioritizing aspects such as lighting, grouping, the use of shiny or metal prints, and proper framing and mounting can significantly enhance the presentation. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to art display. It's a process that involves experimenting with different methods and settings to find what best showcases your work. With careful attention to detail and a dash of creativity, you can create an engaging and immersive environment for your audience to appreciate and explore your art.



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