A GUIDE TO HANGING ARTWORKS

by Pacesetter Gallery owner Keri Davis

As an artist and curator who creates and hangs art on a daily basis, I have learned a great deal about properly hanging artwork.  One of Pacesetter Gallery's services includes commercial and residential professional installations. From new construction law offices, dental office remodels, installing interior designers offices and adding Mississippi-made art to local restaurants, we have seen many types of work that have specific installation requirements.

Keeping it in the Family

We install together as a family, with my husband, Jason Davis, and our adult sons to provide this service.  We truly enjoy the time we spend together as we create special spaces in offices and homes across the Jackson metro area.

How to Select your Hardware

All hooks and cleats used for hanging artwork are weight rated, so be sure when selecting your hooks that you know what weight you will be supporting.  

A hook that is too lightweight for a painting will unbend overtime damaging both the artwork and anyone that may happen to be in the way.  One way to be sure you are supporting these larger heavy artworks is by using two hooks spread apart. This will ensure stability and will distribute the weight of a heavier piece between two points instead of all the weight hanging from one point. 

Alternate Hanging Options for Large Works

One of my favorite ways to hang a large or heavy artwork is with a french cleat. This two part cleat system must also be purchased to handle the weight of your painting and to the length of the painting. You must also purchase special cleats for metal framed paintings. 

The cleat will give you stability and keep your artwork and painting frame from bowing. An added benefit to the cleat is that it will also never need to be leveled, protecting your walls from any scratching as the painting is releveled over and over. Any size painting can be 

Why do Paintings become Unleveled?

Most paintings that are on a wall with a door will become unlevel over time as the door vibrates the wall, someone may brush against the painting. Any artwork in a busy area or near a door is a prime candidate for a french cleat. 

What is a Bumper and Why Do I Need Them?

Bumpers are attached to the bottom two corners of the painting slightly inset so they cannot be viewed from the sides.  The bumper will keep the painting from needing to be releveled as often, protect your paint from scratching and bring the bottom out so that the painting does not tip forward from the top.  Still have some forward tilting? You will most likely need to rewire your painting because the wire has stretched too far or your D rings were not screwed to the back 1/3 down from the top of the artwork. 

Commercial Installation for Public Safety and Security

Most commercial applications will call for a french cleat with a locking system for public safety and security purposes. Having a professional installer like Pacesetter Gallery install your artworks will keep them safe and secure to enjoy for years to come! Call us for a consultation!