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RISING WOMEN EXPERT
ADVICE...
I can manage hanging a single piece of artwork, but I have trouble
with group arrangements. Are there some tips to follow?
When it comes to hanging groupings of artwork, it can seem like rocket
science would be easier to figure out. How should multiple pieces be
positioned in relation to each other? What are the rules, if any?
One thing to consider before you hang a grouping is the type of look you are
going for. Are you trying to emphasize a formal or casual look? Symmetrical
arrangements tend to have a formal feel to them, while asymmetrical
arrangements feel more casual or whimsical. In either case, remember to keep
the spaces between the frames consistent, usually no more than a few inches.
Generally, start from the centre and work out. Place the center piece or
pieces so that the middle of the picture is at eye level. Then arrange the
remaining pieces around them. It is also important to pay attention to the
overall balance of the arrangement. For example, if you have one or two
larger pieces and multiple smaller ones, place the larger ones in the
center, equally on either side, or at the bottom of the arrangement with
smaller ones on top to effectively “ground” the grouping. Placing large
pieces on top with smaller ones underneath could feel off balance or
top-heavy.
The easiest way to manage groupings is to work it out on paper first,
literally. Trace all your pieces on paper and cut them out. Then play around
with the arrangement on the floor, or better yet, tape the paper cutouts
right on the wall. Move the cutouts around until you find the layout you
like. You can make the actual hanging easier by marking on your cutouts the
location of the hanging hardware from each frame. Then, when you have your
cutouts on the wall, you’ll be able to see exactly where to put your nails.
It may seem tedious, but if you try to “wing it” you will only end up with a
lot of unnecessary nail holes, and a likely unbalanced and off-kilter
arrangement. Take the time in the beginning to make sure you have your
grouping just the way you want it before you even think of picking up the
hammer and nails. Ultimately, the amount of time you spend in the planning
phase of your arrangement will usually determine its success.
By Vicky Blaine of Inner Space Home Styling. |
