Artwork, even in the home, can be lit to spotlight it's finest qualities.
It is important to have proper lighting when setting up art work for viewing. The light should be complementary, enhancing the artwork's appearance in the home or gallery. Lighting can also help to further set the mood that is being generated by the piece. Art lighting can be used advantageously in a few steps.
Instructions
1. Use natural lighting whenever possible. Hang artwork on a wall that is adjacent to a window, if possible. Avoid hanging art directly across from windows, especially if the pieces are framed. The reflection of light on the glass will make it difficult to view the piece. Place mirrors on each wall so as to gently reflect the light at all times, and illuminate the work.
2. Use incandescent lights for dark artwork. Incandescent light helps to make warm colors, like red and orange, pop. Small incandescent lights can be purchased at department and hardware stores, and hung directly above the art. This lighting should also be used for sculpture, to draw attention to the contours and dark areas. I
3. Use a low wattage halogen light for light artwork. Halogen bulbs can make pieces with soft pastels and neutral fully visible, without washing them out or severely reflecting off of the surface. Place a lamp with a halogen bulb, and a transparent shade, or no shade at all, directly to the right of the piece. You can also hang the bulb from the ceiling right above the artwork. Photographs and works of art on paper should always be lit with a halogen bulb, as it is the gentlest form of lighting and will not damage the paper and printing materials.
