1300 070 771
7am to 9pm Every Day

Displaying Oversized Artwork: Special Mounting Techniques

A large piece of artwork is going to cause a stir in any room. It’s a statement and certainly an eye-catcher, so you definitely want to make sure you’ve taken into consideration all the factors to get the best results. The weight of the artwork and the type of wall you are hanging it off are crucial not only for the artwork itself, but for the wall and anybody close by – it needs to be hung safely and securely.

Any large piece of art is going to be the focal point of the room, so don’t let other decor or furniture pieces get in the way. Keep the surroundings simple and less noticeable than the artwork, so it can shine through and draw the eye directly to it. Classic locations like above the sofa or the fireplace can add a dramatic focal point to the room, and try to leave 6-12 inches of space between the bottom of the artwork and the top of the furniture. You can display a large piece of art on a smaller wall to make it feel larger, or in a hallway so it is seen upon entering, but try to hang the artwork so the centre point is at eye level, at around 60 inches from the floor.

Know Your Walls

Hanging oversized artwork requires a little more thought than smaller, lighter pieces, and knowing what type of wall you are hanging it from will help you choose the correct hardware to use so you avoid any disasters or hanging damage.

  • Dry walls/plasterboard – if you can locate the studs, then screwing to them directly will provide the strongest support; otherwise, specific wall anchors designed for the right weight of the artwork will create a secure hold.
  • Brick/concrete – As these walls are very strong, you will require a masonry drill bit to create pilot holes, and use specific screw and anchors designed for brick and concrete.

Always ensure your wall is clean and dry before you begin. Measure and mark the wall, and then double-check your measurements. You only want to drill once! Make sure you check your measurements are level and consider using a laser level, as it will be more accurate for larger jobs than a spirit level.

Different Mounting Techniques

  • Traditional hanging with hooks and wires can work for larger pieces as long as you use heavy-duty hooks and steel wire that is rated for double the weight of the artwork.
  • D rings offer a stronger and more secure attachment point directly to the frame, making them more appropriate for larger artwork.
  • French cleats are ideal for heavy items. They are easy to install and adjust, and the angled edges that are attached to the wall and the back of the artwork interlock, creating a secure and stable connection.
  • Picture rail systems can accommodate oversized artwork and allow you to rotate displays.

If in doubt, you can always call in the professionals who will save you all the hassle and leave you with a secure piece of statement artwork that you can admire for years to come. For professional installation of large-scale pieces, All About Hanging’s art installation specialists have the expertise and specialised mounting systems to handle oversized artwork safely. Whether you need advanced picture hanging systems or custom solutions for challenging installations, their experienced team ensures your valuable artwork is displayed securely and beautifully.