Selecting and Displaying Paintings
A Guide to Selecting and Displaying Paintings
Preliminary Considerations
Before purchasing a painting, ensure the artist has used high-quality pigments. Artist-grade paints are more durable and colourfast than inferior materials like student-grade pigments or household paints. Avoid artworks created with experimental mediums or non-archival materials, as these may deteriorate over time.
Selecting Artworks
- Consider the space: Assess how a painting will fit into your home’s decor.
- Trust your intuition: Let your emotions guide you. If a piece resonates with you, it’s likely a good choice.
- Embrace individuality: Choose a piece that speaks to you, rather than following trends or trying to match existing decor.
- Prioritize enjoyment: Purchase art you love, not solely as an investment.
Hanging Paintings
- Avoid matching: Let the painting stand on its own, rather than trying to match it to your decor.
- Create contrast: A slight contrast between the painting and your room’s colours can add visual interest.
- Choose the right size: Ensure the painting is large enough to make an impact without overwhelming the space.
- Hang at eye level: The centre of the painting should be at eye level for an average viewer.
- Embrace originality: Don’t be afraid to choose a unique piece that stands out from the crowd.
Additional Tips
- Check return policies: Ensure the gallery or artist offers a satisfactory return policy for your peace of mind.
- Rotate your collection: Give your paintings a fresh perspective by moving them to different rooms.
By following these guidelines, you can select and display paintings that bring joy and enhance your living space.
