The secrets to a perfect gallery wall
If there is one design element that will instantly add style to your abode it is a wall gallery. Australian illustrator Kerrie Hess shares her secrets for successfully creating the most Pinterest-worthy galleries for your home.
"A great way to frame your favourite prints and art pieces, creating a gallery will transform a drab wall into a piece of beauty"
Kerrie Hess
1. Experiment with colour
"When styling your wall gallery," says Kerrie, "Think about the colours that are used in your house as a whole. If your house exudes more of a classic style choose artwork that seamlessly flows with this aesthetic."
"I find choosing artwork around one specific colour is the way to go. This will allow you to pick up different hues and accents in the piece and will ensure all your artworks complement each other. Drawing on different shades of one main colour is a great way to add instant impact to any wall gallery, while keeping it looking modern."
2. Mix and match
"If you want to give your wall more dimension, try mixing different textures in your artwork," Kerrie suggests. "Whether it is incorporating landscape and portrait paintings together, or perhaps displaying a multitude of styles like water coloured prints, a vintage movie poster or landscape photograph."
"Mixing mediums in the same colour tones is a simple way to add interest and start a conversation piece"
Kerrie Hess
3. Frames are key
Just as important as the artwork is the frame. "If your artwork is simple you might want to add interest to the look by using a variety of frames with different widths and finishes," says Kerrie. "Mixing slim fames with thick, and wooden with metallic or antique options will add an instant pick-me-up to an otherwise minimalist wall."
"On the other hand, if you have bold or statement artwork, opt for frames that are simplistic in theme so as not to detract from the main feature. I actually couldn’t find the size of gold frames that I was looking for my gallery wall, so I bought simple matt white frames and spray painted them gold myself."
4. Adjust your galley to suit your room
The size of your space will determine the amount of artwork you display on your wall. "A definite statement piece, a wall gallery draws the eye upwards and will give the illusion that your ceiling is higher than it really is," says Kerrie.
"When styling your wall gallery make sure you plan it out - especially if you are hanging art in a smaller space. I always find laying the framed artwork on the floor and moving the art around until I’m happy with it is the best place to begin. Then start placing your artwork from the bottom up, this will ensure your frames are at eye level."
"When spacing the artwork on a smaller surface area make sure to keep white space between the frames. This will make the artwork appear larger than it, which is great for small rooms. For larger rooms, keep the artwork a little bit closer."
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