The Art of Displaying Artwork

Dear Homeowner,

Don't get nailed with extra holes in your walls and poorly arranged pictures. Consider these tips before hanging artwork.

That can be arranged

· If you have several smaller items or a large wall on which to showcase your artwork, an arrangement may work best.

· Artwork can be grouped by color, subject matter or by matching frames or mats. Consider varying the sizes and shapes of items to add interest to an arrangement.

Orderly conduct

· To keep a grouping from looking disorderly, create a geometric shape with the outer edges and plan for at least one or two straight lines to run through the arrangement.

· You can achieve cohesiveness by hanging items relatively close together so they seem like a unit. Make sure one item doesn't overshadow the others.

· Items arranged in a V or inverted V shape lead the eye in a smooth fashion.

Location counts

· Pictures should be at either standing eye level or seated eye level depending on the room. Place pictures where they won't be obscured by the head of a sitting person.

· It's also best to mount items no more than one foot above furnishings. If you need to hang a picture higher, fill the gap with a vase or other decoration.

Put in on paper

· Don't start hammering until you have a plan. First trace around the frame on a piece of paper, mark where the hook is and cut out the form. Place the paper on the wall and when it's where you want — nail it!

For more home decorating ideas, call Real Living Sugar Pine Realty at (209) 586-3242.