Hang It Up!
Furniture on the wall.
by edward nader

The Boxes are unpacked...
Now What?

What do you do first upon moving into a new place? Your artwork is a great
starting point. It is a major design element. I always say that placing
art in your home is like accessorizing an outfit. You can have a simple
outfit and accessorize it with great shoes and jewelry and end up looking
fantastic. However, if you have a great outfit and accessorize it poorly,
then the overall look is drastically reduced. Let's talk about what's
important to think about when accessorizing your home with artwork.

SELECTION:
Remember, your art does not need to match your furniture.
Your art should set the mood and tone of your home and help to establish
your personality and lifestyle. Throw away the status-quo and hang what you
like.

PRESENTATION:
Great art needs a great frame, just like great accessories for a dress. It
is very important for the frame not to overpower the art. Frame designs
should be simple, pure and repetitive. Framing is expensive, so do it once.
Don't try to match anything with the framing design. A good, clean museum
look is always classic and timeless whether modern or traditional.

PRESERVATION:
How you frame your art determines if you will end up
with a treasure to keep or a dull piece to throw away. It is of critical
importance to use proper materials that deter and retard damaging
elements to the artwork.

THE ENEMIES:
Acid, mold, light and bugs present the greatest danger
to your works of art. It is important to be a knowledgeable buyer and look
for preventatives to the enemies. These range from cotton fiber paper, U-V
blocking glass, frame airspace and paper backing.
Quick Checks to Confirm Aging

1) Check the edge of the art board. The opening is usually beveled.
Look to see if it is a clean white. If it is yellowing or brown, the
chances are that your mat board has turned acidic and is beginning to damage
your art.

2) Rub your hand across the paper backing on the back of the frame. If
you feel ridges, it is very likely that the backing is highly acidic.
*If you notice either of these, immediately have your
artwork reframed.

HANGING:
How high should I hang my art? The quick and simple answer to this is
eye-level, however, eye level is relative, and so should be the placement of
your art. You may then begin placing your furniture. Your furniture
placement will dictate wall spacing. Example...possibly a small side table
needs a piece of artwork nestled in low for the light to bring it to a glow.
Remember, artwork does not have to be eye level, it should be placed where
it feels right.

Now...get out the hammer and nails and lets Move On In!