Best Hanging Systems for Art Collectors & Rotating Exhibitions

Whether you are a private collector of art or you run a gallery, displaying your art is a skill in itself and the method you choose to use needs to provide you with a secure, flexible and non-damaging system that allows you to freely rotate your art pieces with ease. Picture rail and cable hanging systems are popular and versatile choices for most artwork, but for heavier or oversized pieces, French cleats are a better option as they offer a more secure system.

The secret to great hanging displays lies in the planning and preparation, so whatever your display you need to have a clear idea of the overall arrangement of your artwork, aiming for the centre of the artwork to be at eye-level (usually around 57-60 inches from the floor), and if hung above furniture aim for the width being about two thirds the width of the furniture beneath it.

Using different frame sizes and styles makes for a more interesting exhibition, and hanging pieces at different heights will draw the visitor’s eye along the line of different heights, arriving at the masterpiece, which will be the focus of the display. Hanging systems also allow for other objects like textiles or baskets to be hung, to keep the display interesting, but take care not to over-clutter and keep a balance between small, medium and larger pieces.

Picture Rail Systems

Aside from the initial installation and mounting of the rail, which may involve some drilling, this system is relatively simple to assemble. Picture rails are usually mounted along the wall near the ceiling, and cords, cables and hooks are used to hang the artwork from. Picture rails can be ornate and give a traditional, gallery-like feel to the display, allowing for a quick and easy process to change the display around without having to drill any more holes in the wall.

Cable Hanging Systems

Cable hanging systems may be a little more complex to install, depending on the system you choose, and you may require professional help to mount the rail. The rail or track is mounted to the wall with cables or rods that are suspended from the rail, and adjustable hooks or clips slide along the cables so you can position your artwork. This makes it very simple to adjust the height and position of the pieces, and gives a contemporary and minimalistic look to the system so that the artwork remains the focus.

Art Is Best When It’s Shared

If you are a passionate art collector, you will want to share that passion with others, and you don’t have to own a gallery to do so. Having a great hanging display in your own home can create a superb focal point and a way to show off your collection. You can hang your art any way you choose, but if you have many pieces to choose from, then utilising a hanging system allows you to rotate your artwork simply and regularly, so everyone can enjoy it! For professional installation of flexible picture and art hanging systems perfect for collectors and rotating displays, expert installers can ensure your system is perfectly mounted and optimised for easy adjustments. Whether you need guidance on hanging artwork like a professional or require full installation services, All About Hanging can help create a gallery-quality display that showcases your collection beautifully.