Gugu Mbatha-Raw Shares Her Tip For Hanging Art In Your Home

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Introduction

When it comes to interior design, one key element that can transform a space is art. Whether you’re a fan of paintings, photographs, or sculptures, the right piece of art can add a touch of personality and flair to any room. However, knowing how to properly hang art can be a daunting task for many homeowners.

In this article, we sit down with renowned actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw, who also happens to be a passionate art enthusiast, as she shares her top tips for hanging art in your home. With her keen eye for beauty and her understanding of design principles, Gugu provides valuable insights that can help you showcase your art in the best possible way.

“Art has the power to evoke emotions and bring life into a space,” says Gugu. “It can reflect your personality and be a conversation starter. That’s why it’s crucial to consider various factors when hanging art in your home.”

So, let’s dive into Gugu’s expert advice on choosing the right art, considering the space and style, employing proper hanging techniques and tools, and arranging the art in a visually appealing way.

Choosing the Right Art

When it comes to choosing art for your home, Gugu emphasizes the importance of selecting pieces that resonate with you on a personal level. “Art should evoke emotions and speak to your soul,” she says. Whether it’s a vibrant abstract painting, a serene landscape photograph, or a thought-provoking sculpture, the art you choose should reflect your taste and style.

Gugu advises considering the subject matter, color palette, and overall aesthetic of the art you are considering. It’s important to choose pieces that complement the existing decor and bring a sense of harmony to the space. If you’re unsure about what type of art to choose, visiting local art galleries and museums can help you discover artists and styles that resonate with you.

Another important factor to consider is the size of the artwork. Gugu suggests measuring the wall space where you intend to hang the art and keeping those measurements in mind when shopping. “Oversized artworks can make a bold statement in larger rooms, while smaller pieces can be grouped together to create a dynamic gallery wall,” she explains.

Lastly, Gugu encourages homeowners to support local artists and explore the world of original artwork. “There’s something truly special about owning an original piece of art,” she says. By supporting artists and investing in original artwork, you can bring a unique and personal touch to your home.

Consider the Space and Style

Once you have selected the right art pieces for your home, it’s essential to consider the space and style of each room before hanging them. Gugu advises taking into account the overall aesthetic of the room and the intended mood you want to create.

If you have a minimalist or contemporary space, Gugu suggests opting for clean lines and simple frames to complement the modern style. On the other hand, if your home has a more traditional or eclectic style, you can be more adventurous with your art choices, incorporating ornate frames or unconventional artwork.

Consider the size of the wall and the surrounding furniture when choosing the placement of your artwork. For larger walls, a statement piece or a grouping of multiple artwork can effectively fill the space, while smaller walls may benefit from a single focal point. Gugu recommends keeping the art at eye level, around 57-60 inches from the floor, to ensure maximum visual impact.

Additionally, Gugu advises creating a sense of balance and symmetry when hanging art. If you have a large piece of art, you can balance it out with smaller pieces on either side. Alternatively, creating a gallery wall with a mix of artwork in different sizes and orientations can bring a dynamic and curated look to the space.

Lastly, don’t forget to consider the lighting in the room. Whether it’s natural light or strategically placed fixtures, lighting can greatly enhance the visibility and impact of your artwork. Gugu suggests experimenting with different lighting options to highlight the texture and details of the art while creating an inviting ambiance.

By carefully considering the style and space of each room, you can ensure that your art pieces harmoniously integrate into your home decor, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing environment.

Hanging Techniques and Tools

Now that you have chosen the right art and considered the space and style of your home, it’s time to learn about the various hanging techniques and tools that will ensure your art stays securely on the wall.

Gugu advises using appropriate hanging hardware, such as picture hooks, D-rings, or wire hangers, depending on the weight and size of your artwork. It’s important to select hardware that can support the weight of the art to prevent any accidents or damage to the wall.

Before hammering any nails or attaching any hooks, Gugu suggests using a level to ensure that your artwork hangs straight. This will ensure that your art is properly aligned and visually appealing. Taking the time to measure and mark the desired placement of your art will also make the hanging process smoother.

If you’re hanging multiple pieces of art in a gallery wall arrangement, Gugu recommends laying out the artwork on the floor first to visualize the arrangement. You can experiment with different compositions until you find one that you like. Once you are satisfied with the arrangement, you can transfer the measurements to the wall and start hanging the artwork accordingly.

When it comes to spacing between multiple pieces of art, Gugu advises leaving a consistent gap between each piece. This allows each artwork to stand out individually while still maintaining a cohesive look overall. You can use a ruler or a spacer tool to ensure even spacing between your art pieces.

Finally, Gugu stresses the importance of using quality tools and following manufacturer’s instructions when using hanging hardware. This ensures that your artwork is safely secured to the wall and reduces the risk of any damage or accidents in the future.

By utilizing proper hanging techniques and tools, you can confidently display your art pieces, knowing that they are securely attached and beautifully showcased in your home.

When hanging art in your home, use a level to ensure it’s straight. Consider the height at which it will be viewed and leave enough space around it for visual balance.

Placement and Arrangement

Once you have mastered the art of hanging your artwork securely, it’s time to focus on the placement and arrangement of your pieces to create a visually captivating display.

Gugu suggests considering the focal points of the room when deciding where to hang your art. If you have a fireplace, a large window, or a prominent piece of furniture, you can use these as points of reference for your art placement. By positioning your artwork near these focal points, you can draw attention and create a sense of balance in the room.

When arranging multiple pieces of art, Gugu encourages experimenting with different layouts and configurations to find what speaks to you. You can try creating symmetrical arrangements with equal spacing between each piece or opt for an asymmetrical display for a more eclectic and dynamic look. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different sizes, shapes, and orientations to create visual interest and add your personal touch.

Consider the scale of your artwork in relation to the surrounding furniture and decor. If you have a large statement piece, it may be best to give it some breathing room by placing it on a larger wall or as a standalone focal point. On the other hand, smaller pieces can be grouped together to create a cohesive gallery wall.

For an effortless and cohesive look, Gugu recommends using a common element to tie the art pieces together. It could be a similar color scheme, style, or theme that brings a sense of unity to the arrangement. This cohesive element will create a harmonious flow and make your art display visually pleasing.

Last but not least, remember that your art display is not set in stone. Gugu encourages homeowners to embrace flexibility and change things up every now and then. “Art is a reflection of your journey and personal growth,” she says. So, feel free to switch out art pieces, rearrange the display, or add new pieces to keep your home decor fresh and ever-evolving.

By taking the time to plan and arrange your art pieces thoughtfully, you can create a captivating and visually engaging display that showcases your personal style and artistic taste.

Showcasing Your Personal Touch

While incorporating art into your home is a great way to inject your personality and style, Gugu emphasizes the importance of adding your personal touch to truly make the artwork shine.

One way to do this is by adding complementary accessories or decor items around your art pieces. Gugu suggests incorporating items such as plants, decorative objects, or unique lighting fixtures to enhance the overall aesthetic and create a cohesive look. These additional elements can help to highlight the art and create a visually appealing vignette.

Another way to showcase your personal touch is by incorporating sentimental or meaningful pieces alongside your artwork. Gugu believes that art is not just about aesthetics, but also about telling a story. By including heirlooms, travel souvenirs, or personal photographs, you can create a more intimate and personalized art display.

Gugu also encourages experimenting with textures and finishes to add depth and visual interest to your art display. Consider incorporating different framing options, such as rustic wood frames or sleek metallic frames, to complement the artwork and enhance its overall impact.

Lastly, don’t forget to regularly clean and maintain your artwork to keep it looking its best. Gugu suggests using a soft microfiber cloth to gently remove any dust or smudges from the surface of your art pieces. This will ensure that your artwork maintains its vibrancy and beauty over time.

Remember, the art in your home should be a reflection of your unique style and personality. By adding your personal touch and infusing your own story into the art display, you can create a space that is not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.

Conclusion

Hanging art in your home is a transformative process that can bring beauty, personality, and a sense of inspiration to any space. With the expert tips shared by Gugu Mbatha-Raw, you now have the knowledge and tools to confidently hang and showcase your art with flair.

From choosing the right art to considering the space and style, every step of the process plays a crucial role in creating a visually appealing and harmonious art display. By selecting pieces that resonate with you, considering the aesthetics of each room, and utilizing proper hanging techniques and tools, you can ensure that your art is not only securely displayed but also visually impactful.

When it comes to arranging your art, Gugu encourages you to embrace your creativity and experiment with various layouts and configurations. Whether it’s creating a symmetrical display or an eclectic gallery wall, the arrangement should reflect your personal taste and style. By showcasing your personal touch through complementary accessories, sentimental items, and different textures, your art display will truly become a reflection of your unique personality.

Remember, the beauty of art lies not only in its visual appeal but also in the emotions and stories it evokes. By incorporating art into your home, you are creating a space that speaks to your soul, sparks conversation, and brings joy to your everyday life.

So, embrace the power of art, trust your instincts, and let your creativity soar as you embark on the journey of hanging art in your home. With Gugu’s expert advice and your own personal touch, your art display will become a captivating and stunning focal point that will leave a lasting impression on all who enter your home.