There is perhaps no other part of selecting and purchasing art that is as daunting to some
as hanging that art. 

Where to hang it?  How low?  How high?  What should go in a grouping?   We’ve assembled some tips to help you.

Single works of art:

Single pieces of art should do two things…occupy the correct amount of space and be hung at an appropriate level.  The most common mistakes we see are pieces that are far too small for the space they are trying to fill, and pieces that are hung way, way too high!  Although there are exceptions to every rule, as a general guideline, a piece should dominate the space ever so slightly; if the space dominates the piece, find another spot for it, or plan on adding to it with other wall items.  Larger pieces should not be hung more than 6” above a piece of furniture.  When a piece is hung too high, it looses it’s relationship with what it is below it: sofa, buffet, side table, etc.  Eye-level is a good place to start.  You shouldn’t have to crane your neck to appreciate a nice piece of art!!!  Also, if you are hanging a piece above a table, don’t hesitate to place “leading” objects on the table!  Bowls, lamps, candlesticks, all of these items give a lovely transition into your art. See some of our example photos!  After all, a photo is worth a thousand words!

Groupings:

Here at Junction Gallery, we pride ourselves in creating some of the most unique wall groupings that anyone has ever seen!  Here are a few pointers to creating some of your own!  First, try to decide if you are more of a “formal” or “informal” balance type of person. Formal balance is a more traditional and structured way of arranging a group of objects, it works well with objects that are similar in size and shape.  Groupings that have  informal balance are less rigid and tend to work better with items that are not “equal.”

Think in terms of “flow”, shape and dimension.  Even if you opt for a formally balance grouping, it should have a certain amount of rhythm to carry the eye across.  Sometimes the style and layout of the room will dictate the type of grouping to use.  Formal groups can give an air of serenity and balance, informal groups lend a more dramatic and exciting edge.  Pick the one with which you are most comfortable. 

Also, the idea of “negative space” should be considered.  Frequently, the negative space is equally as important as the “positive space.” Often, it’s the use of negative space in wall groupings that lends drama to smaller, or odd sized objects.  A good way to begin is to lay all the “members” of the group out on the floor in front of the space that you will be working with.  Take into consideration light switches, air vents, thermostats, doorbell chimes etc.  Sometimes if you treat these “intrusions” as part of the group, you will find that their prominence is greatly diminished. If you are still having trouble visualizing how everything is going to relate to the items around it, don’t be afraid to try the “newspaper method!”  Cut out pieces of newspaper the same size as your items and tape them to the walls until you get a pleasing arrangement!  Don’t be afraid to incorporate dimensional items like shelves and brackets in your wall grouping, again, this adds dimensional interest.  Also, great groupings incorporate different sizes, shapes and frames.  After all, variety is the spice of life!