If you have a mix of paintings and photos, you may be wondering how to create a gallery wall.
A gallery wall is a wonderful way to display several favourite photographs, paintings or prints in one space. Instead of choosing a single large piece of artwork, you can combine different images to create a display that reflects your personality and interests.
And the best part? Everything doesn’t have to match.
Start the Gallery Wall With a Theme
Although gallery walls can include a variety of subjects, a common thread helps create harmony.
You might choose:
- Travel photographs from places you’ve visited.
- Nature and landscape photography.
- A combination of paintings and photographs.
- Black-and-white images mixed with subtle colour.
- Artwork connected by a particular colour or mood.
For example, photographs of oceans, sunsets and coastal landscapes can work beautifully together, even when taken in different locations.
Mix Sizes and Orientations on your Gallery Wall
A gallery wall doesn’t need identical frames or perfectly matching dimensions.
Combining horizontal and vertical images can make the arrangement more interesting.
Add interesting arrangements by combining horizontal and vertical images. Create a focal point with one larger piece and several images around it.
The goal is to create balance without making everything look overly planned.
For more information, check out this article on How to Choose the Right Size Artwork.
Do the Frames Need to Match?
Not necessarily!
Matching frames create a consistent, orderly look, while mixing wood, black, white, or metallic finishes can give your display a more relaxed, collected-over-time feel.
If you prefer different frame styles, try keeping one element consistent, such as the matte colour or frame finish.
This helps tie everything together.
Plan Before Hanging on The Gallery Wall
Before drilling holes, lay your artwork on the floor as you visualize it on the wall.
Experiment with different layouts until you find one you like.
You can also cut paper templates matching the dimensions of your framed pieces and tape them to the wall. This makes it easier to visualize the arrangement and adjust the spacing.
As a starting point, leave about two to three inches between frames, adjusting as needed for the size of the artwork.
Leave Room to Grow
There is no pressure to finish a gallery wall right away.
Start with three or four favourite pieces and add more as you discover photographs or artwork you love.
A gallery wall can evolve as a visual collection of memories, experiences and personal favourites.
For additional inspiration, explore how The Metropolitan Museum of Art suggests bringing art into your home, including creating a personal gallery wall.
Make It Personal
Whether your gallery wall is carefully coordinated or wonderfully eclectic, the most important thing is that it reflects your taste.
Choose images that make you happy, bring back memories, or capture your attention. That’s what makes a collection meaningful.
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