|
|
|
WHERE SHOULD I HANG THE ART?
Tuscan hillsides, seascapes, still life
and florals, are some of the art themes that not only inspire and
delight us, but also draw our attention when placed properly. Whether
using a grand scale original, or a grouping of inexpensive prints, we
need art to move our eye up and around the walls, as well as reflect our
personalities.
If a room doesn’t have a fireplace, or interesting windows, you can
create a focal point by arranging a grouping of art over the sofa on the
main wall. You shouldn’t hang anything wider than the sofa, but it looks
more proportional if the art is about two-thirds of the width of the
sofa or credenza. A large canvas, or perhaps a group of six prints of
the same size, hung 3” to 4” apart, can form a large rectangular shape
above the sofa.
Avoid hanging art too high. On high walls, stack the pictures in totem
fashion rather than placing them two or more feet above the furnishing.
The term “eye level” is more about the comfort level of viewing art,
rather than the height of the basketball player that hangs the art. We
are usually doing more viewing when we are seated than standing, so the
bottom of the piece or grouping should be about 8” to 10” above the
furnishing below it. If the art is being hung in a hallway where no
furniture is below it, then the center of the art should be about 5’
from the floor.
Mantles are the familiar setting for your favorite work of art. The art
can go up to 6 inches from the ceiling, but should not be less than half
the width of the mantle. To bring it up to the two-thirds ideal, you may
need to add vases or candlesticks to expand your vision.
If you have a cherished work of art, then let it set the wall color and
furniture arrangement to be sure it is highlighted. If you just want a
finishing touch , then be sure you choose a piece that compliments the
color scheme and mood of the room. Unless you are trying to be
whimsical, keep the poster art in the casual room, and the landscapes in
the living room.
Other than the usual places, hang art in unexpected places, to add
variety and delight visitors. A few small plates, metalwork of scrolls,
can be placed above a doorway. Hang a painting low on the wall of a
landing so you can view it as you ascend the stairs. Place one or two
small prints above an end table, but below the lamp. Take out a shelf of
your bookcase and hang art on the back wall.
Change the matting and framing to reflect changes in décor. Consider
non-glare glass to prevent too much reflection. Use two hooks, placed 4”
apart to stabilize prints. Above all love the art that surrounds you. If
not, it’s time to recycle.
|