The Art of Hanging Canvas Artwork

The process of hanging a canvas artwork on the wall is an art in itself; it involves making decisions and choices on aesthetics, taking into consideration the space, colors, size, juxtapositions, eye level, and the overall impact. Hanging paintings also require a bit of skill and finesse—you don’t simply just hammer a nail and hook the painting. Hanging an artwork properly and giving it reverence is part and process of art appreciation.

Aesthetic principles

To get a feel of how paintings are aesthetically hung on the wall, you should visit a few art galleries where paintings are on display, ideally small art galleries, medium-sized ones, and big ones so you can get a feel of the difference of scale and space. A lot of times, the paintings and artworks displayed in galleries are hung by a curator, who spends a lot of time contemplating on what particular artwork goes where, in what series, and in which area or space. Notice how measurements of all the paintings are indicated (i.e. 16” x 20” or 24” x 36”). This is to let you know whether the frame will fit on a wall. Also, you will notice how most galleries have clean white walls and pin lights that shine on the painting to make it look exalted. The contrast of the white wall and the emphasis given by the halogen lighting make the painting look more dramatic and compelling.

Space and context

As you may have noted, art gallery spaces are nothing like living room spaces; they are unlike any room in your home. If you are going to hang a painting in a room, you will have to consider a couch over there and a shelf or cabinet against the wall. You may also have to consider that the wall is color green or yellow, perhaps, or that there is a door to the right and a window to the left. Before you even attempt to hang a painting, make sure that there is available space for it, wide enough so that it does not looked forced in or cramped. It is important to let the artwork breathe. On the other hand, the painting or paintings should not take up all of the space; there should be a buffer around each painting, allowing the eye to rest naturally between spaces. A large wall with lots of space and a single elegantly hung painting produces a very strong effect, making the viewer more attentive. Lastly, it is best to hang a painting on a wall that is not decorated with a modern art wall clock, for example that may distract from and compete with the painting.

Lighting

Lighting adds significantly to the painting’s visual effect. Good lighting can highlight the texture, brush marks, and strokes of the painting. If possible, the painting should have its own pin light to illuminate it at night and give it magnitude. When choosing a location for a painting it is best to put it in a place where it will be out of direct sunlight but will receive indirect illumination from natural light.