All Artworks, whatever the medium, can have a positive effect on any room; whether in the home, gallery, or commercial building. Poorly displayed art, whether you’re talking about still life paintings, abstract pieces, or even sculpture, can have a negative effect on a space; therefore, it is important to consider curatorship and display when it comes to art collections or even a stand-alone, singular painting.
Paintings are more than just decorative; they have the power to alter the general mood, aesthetic and theme of a room. By using professional display techniques and considerations you can ensure that your art collection will work aesthetically.
Size, Scale & Orientation
Paintings and drawings are created in a range of sizes and scales. A successful display doesn’t have to contain pieces of exactly the same size; in fact, a varied collection of artwork can create a more visually stimulating environment. When arranging paintings in regards to size, the space available and the current set up of the room. Small pieces can be used between windows or even beside doors or as a part of a quirky collection complete with larger pieces on one statement wall. Remember, if smaller pieces are displayed in too large a space, they will get lost in it and will lose some of their aesthetic qualities and appeal.
Visual Balance
When displaying visual artwork it is important to consider aesthetic balance. Paintings displayed together should have a logical connection – mood or subject matter – even size comes into it, especially in a group arrangement. Heavy pieces should be displayed to the left; in our culture, the viewer’s eye will begin to the left of the painting or of the wall (like reading a book). If there are 3 paintings; one heavy piece and 2 lighter; place the heaviest piece in the middle to create a central balance.
Traditional & Contemporary Display
More symmetrical displays are considered to be more traditional, whereas, A-symmetrical display is considered to be a much more modern form of art display. Framing will also alter how the artwork is perceived; frames should be kept of a similar aesthetic; for example golden antiqued frames should not be used with artworks that have more modern block black or coloured frame. Displays should have a unified aesthetic as well as the pieces that are included in them.
Display and aesthetic arrangement is exceptionally important, especially when hanging groups or collections of paintings. Careful consideration should be taken to ensure that the artwork in question can be admired or make the statement that it’s supposed to.
