How To Light Your Art
Have you ever noticed how the colors and energy in a piece of art can shift throughout the day? I know I have when I see my gallery wall in my studio at different times of day. Lighting shapes how every hue and brushstroke comes to life in a painting, making each time you look at a piece a new experience.
I like to think of my walls as a stage and light as the director. Whether you are enjoying a bold floral or a serene coastal piece, small choices in how you light your art collection can make a dramatic difference in atmosphere!
Here's some tips for how to light your art in your home:
- Pick the Right Bulbs: Use LED lights in the 3000K to 4000K range for a neutral, clear light. These bulbs highlight the true colors of artwork without distorting warm or cool undertones.
- Pay Attention to Placement: Avoid direct sunlight to minimize fading over time, especially when it comes to pieces like watercolor paintings. Place artworks near indirect daylight to keep those vibrant colors glowing naturally or install adjustable picture lights for control any hour of the day.
- Try Accent Lighting: Picture lights, wall sconces, or small spotlights let you direct attention and create a mini-gallery effect on any wall in your home. There's some easy-to-install battery-powered lights available on Amazon I've had my eye on!
Ready to give your walls a refresh? Curate a small collection by clustering two or three small artworks together at eye level. Experiment with lighting angles and bulb tones. Sometimes a little change in light uncovers details and brushstrokes you never noticed before in a painting!
Your art collection was made to connect you with nature, in every season, without leaving your home. Lighting is your secret tool to make each piece truly shine!
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