The “Basics to Wall Art” could translate to: 1.) Find art that you like. 2.) Find a spot on a wall that will fit the art that you like. 3.) Hammer a nail into a spot on the wall that looks like a good height for the art that you like. 4.) Hang the art. 5.) Eat some cheese to celebrate.

In a sense these are the basics, but we’d like to encourage you think a bit more about your art, your space, and the process before diving into the project. Below we have listed our suggestions for a more insightful perspective on wall art…

1.) Take your time. Put down the hammer. This isn’t a life and death situation and should take some time. Start collecting ideas about what you have seen in the past that really float your boat, maybe it was a collection of linen wall panels, or a bike love print, or a row of coat racks, or a simple canvas. Consider materials or techniques beyond a picture in a frame and start sketching ideas based on what you have in your room.

2.) Think about your space from all perspectives. What do you first see when you walk into the room? What do your guests see from the spot where they typically sit? What about when you leave the room? These few points of reference tend to be the spots where you’ll want to focus on the most. If any of these spaces are void of something visually interesting, they may need a touch of wall art love.

I like how the folks from notNeutral put it: “Think of the artwork as a window: where would you locate something to break up the monotony of the wall?”

3.) What is in your room? Think about everything in the room from the lamps, to the couch, to the lone cactus in the corner, to the overall existing color tones. Furniture near the works of art have an impact on where and what type of art would best complement your space so wait to hang any artwork until you have arranged your furniture.

Coordinating color between your furnishings and wall art can also have a dramatic impact on how everything comes together. We’re not talking about matching your art to your pillows and your throw and your rug and your toothbrush, but just be aware of the existing colors as well as what effect you want your artwork to have in the space.

4.) Proper placement. There are a number of theories or rules you can follow for “proper” placement of your artwork, but no one says you have to follow them. The general cliff notes version is not to exceed 60 inches high at a painting’s center. This may seem a bit low to some, but surprisingly Americans have a tendency to hang their art much too high for visual enjoyment. If you have a collection of pieces, pinpoint the center of the collection and hang your art working from the center out.

5.) Consider your lighting. You certainly don’t need a special spot light on your wall art, but you do want to think about what sort of lighting will be focused on the space. A super dark corner where no one can make out the details is probably not the best spot for a piece with detailed work (unless, of course it is a glow in the dark robot). On the flip side, strong sunlight can cause a lot of damage to artwork over time. Prints, for example, may fade or change color with repeat sun exposure.

6.) Seek an assistant. No, not to decorate your room for you, but to help you with the actual installation of your art gallery. It is nearly impossible to gauge whether you have the art in the right spot when you are standing along side the wall, holding the piece for positioning. An extra set of eyes and hands can make the installation process much smoother…and who knows, maybe he/she will have an idea that will tip your wall over the edge (not literally).

7.) Make a plan prior to hammering. Even a simple map or sketch will help guide you in the installation process. You can always take something down, spackle the hole, and start over, but if you have thought over all the details before diving in, it could prevent some massive headaches. Jotting down ideas may also open your eyes to new possibilities.

8.) Don’t be afraid. The biggest words of wisdom we can pass on this stage of the game: Trust your instincts but do not to limit yourself in your exploration. It is easy to pass by an idea and think, “Eh…I could never have that on my wall” when really it could be the stand alone difference in pulling your room together. Think beyond your normal design styles and try to expand into a new direction (don’t worry, you can still incorporate your character into something new…just take a deep breath!). What looks questionable in one space can look perfect in another. If you get something up on the wall only to realize you hate it, no worries…we always have our 30 day return policy…:)

Now let’s get our thinking caps on and see what styles inspire us. First up: Single Artwork and Symmetrical Displays…