STATE OF THE ART
Five experts weigh in on what to consider when displaying art in the home
LINDA BORONKAY ON PAINTINGS
Framing is one of the most overlooked aspects of displaying paintings: done right it can elevate a basic work of art into something special, but get it wrong and even the most impressive pieces can end up looking flat. ‘Framing is your chance to give a painting its finishing touch,’ says interior designer Linda Boronkay, ‘In a room with many period features, I’d opt for something minimal.’ Consider placing bold canvases in simple, snugly fitting tray frames rather than carved gilt ones – the sleek finish this gives can add drama and modernises more traditional works. Linda also says it is worth bearing in mind at which stage of the design process you start incorporating canvases: ‘Some make the mistake of thinking of paintings as a finishing touch, whereas I look at them as a starting point.’ The mood of a painting and the intention of its creator can alter an interior, so be careful to match works up with the atmosphere you are trying to create – ‘I’m a true believer that the choice of art can make or break an interior.’
JAVIER ROBLEDO ON PHOTOGRAPHY
When it comes to photography there are a number of important factors to bear in mind when both framing and displaying pieces. Javier Robledo, director of Proud Galleries, is keen to point out that quality matters. ‘When you acquire a fine art print it is important to ensure all the framing materials are acid-free. Choose anti-UV reflective glass, and if budget is not a restriction, opt for museum glass. Whichever kind of photographic print you opt for, check that it has been made to meet the highest archival standards in terms of paper and inks used. Once hung, the piece should be kept out of direct sunlight and guarded from extreme temperatures.’ When it comes to the creative aspect of displaying photographs, Javier suggests a grouping approach. ‘Create a composition. Use the same type of frame but in different sizes. Start with the largest in the middle and work your way out and aim for a playful curation.’
SARAH MYERSCOUGH ON TEXTILES
According to Sarah Myerscough, whose namesake gallery specialises in artist-makers grounded in craftsmanship, textiles can bring a warmth to interiors quite unlike other art. ‘Fibre art brings rich narrative and cultural resonance into our homes in a sensory way, through texture, tactility and warmth. Like all crafted art, textiles retain a welcoming openness and add humanity to our interiors connecting us to thousands of years of history and tradition.’ When it comes to the practicalities of displaying these pieces, Sarah advocates a simple approach. ‘We tend to suggest hanging u
