Art Gallery Wall Variations

Have you ever meandered through a museum and marveled at the artwork displays? From framing to placement to groupings, I often gain as much inspiration from looking at the method of display in a gallery as I do the art itself. Art gallery walls in our homes can have the same effect…and the options for gallery walls are as endless as, well, something endless.Here are some variations of successful residential art gallery walls. Each is unique and, in my mind, absolutely effective.

Kids wall art

This whole-wall gallery format looks quite at home in this contemporary living space. The artwork is all of a similar style (minimalist-realism), lending itself to a very impactful gallery. Additionally, similar framing – slim, simple, contemporary frames with white matting – paired with consistent spacing between the pieces lends itself to a cohesive whole-wall.

Kids wall art

This gallery wall has an overall rustic, historic vibe. Chunky frames are freely intermingled with slender frames, and all artwork and framing are kept within a very tight neutral color scheme…with one (obvious) exception. The colored print pops here. A variety of shapes and textures (mirror, antlers, shadow box) keeps the gallery warm and interesting.

Kids wall art

It may appear to be random, but this gallery wall makes the otherwise sparse hallway come alive. Frames are a variety of materials, thickness, color, tone, and artwork is also varied. And did you notice the one frame breaking free from the top horizontal “line”? I love that as a statement in and of itself! Punctuated with some un-framed 3D pieces of art (ceramic skull/mask, for example), this eclectic gallery offers something for everyone.

Kids wall art

Speaking of eclectic, this gallery wall holds its own in that category! Colors have a vintage-era feel, and the art wall extends seamlessly down into the table vignette, including the colorful earring display to the jewelry containers. The overall casual cheeriness is grounded neatly and effectively by the large wooden chest.

Kids wall art

If you have limited space, consider designating a small nook or walkway wall as the Kids Art Gallery Wall. Frames are kept simple – white, lightly distressed, and/or pale wood – and not everything is framed, lending a casual and kid-centered art appreciation. The genuine kid art is mixed with brightly colored “grownup” art, and the effect is bright, cheery, and sincere.

Picture sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.