Easy Tips to Create a Gallery Art Wall You’ll Love
- Susan Powell
- Oct 24
- 4 min read
There’s something magical about a gallery wall. It’s more than just décor — it’s a visual story about who you are, what you love, and how you see the world. Whether you’re drawn to soft watercolor paintings, bold mixed-media art, or chic black-and-white posters, curating your own
wall art display can instantly transform your space. The best part? You don’t need to be an interior designer to pull it off. With a few simple tips, you can create a gallery art wall that looks effortlessly curated and totally “you.” Enjoy our tips to create a unique gallery art wall you will love!
1. Start With a Theme or Mood for Your Gallery Art Wall
Every great gallery wall starts with a vision. Ask yourself: What feeling do I want this wall to create? Do you want a calming, nature-inspired vibe with watercolor landscapes? A bold, modern look with abstract prints? Or maybe a cozy, eclectic mix that tells your story through art and photography?
Defining your mood helps narrow your art choices and gives your display a cohesive flow. At Ruby Keen, we love mixing posters, framed art prints, and original artwork to create contrast and texture. Try sticking to a loose color palette — for example, warm neutrals with a pop of terracotta, or cool blues balanced with touches of metallic gold.
2. Mix Sizes and Shapes
The secret to a visually interesting wall is variety. Combine large statement pieces with smaller art prints to create balance. A big framed wall art piece can anchor your layout, while smaller posters or mini prints fill in the gaps and add rhythm.
If your space feels too rigid, play with shape — square, rectangular, or even circular frames can break up the grid and make the arrangement more dynamic. Lay your pieces out on the floor first before hanging them to get a sense of proportion. Snap a photo of your layout, then adjust until it feels right.
3. Frame It (or Don’t!) With Intention
Not all art needs a frame, and not all frames need to match. Mixing framed and unframed pieces can make your wall feel collected over time, like a true artist’s gallery. Make any space truly unique with a gallery art wall!
Framed prints give your display a polished, finished look — perfect for modern or minimalist interiors.
Unframed posters bring a casual, creative energy — ideal for boho or eclectic rooms.
For a personal touch, add a few original artworks or mixed-media pieces to introduce texture and dimension.
When choosing frames, consider the color of your walls and furniture. Black or white frames are classic, but natural wood can warm things up, and metallics can add a bit of glam.
4. Play With Layouts
The layout of your gallery wall can completely change how it feels. Here are a few popular styles to experiment with:
Grid layout: Perfect for symmetry lovers. Use identical frames and spacing for a clean, modern look.
Organic layout: Go free-form! Start with your largest piece at eye level and build outward with smaller works. This layout feels natural and artistic.
Row layout: Line your artwork horizontally or vertically to create structure. Great for hallways or above furniture.
Shelf or ledge gallery: Display art on floating shelves. You can layer pieces and easily swap them out as your style evolves.
Tip: Always hang your art so the center is about 57 inches from the floor — the average eye level — for the most balanced view.
5. Add Dimension With Objects
A gallery wall doesn’t have to be all flat prints. Add a few three-dimensional touches for depth and personality.
Try including:
A decorative mirror for light reflection
Small shelves to hold plants or candles
A woven tapestry or textile art
A favorite tote bag or hat hung between frames for an artistic, lived-in feel
These small details make your wall feel curated rather than copied, and they give your art room to breathe.
6. Balance Color and White Space
When arranging multiple pieces, think like a designer. You want a good balance of colors, textures, and visual weight. Spread out darker or bolder artwork so one side doesn’t overpower the other.
Don’t be afraid of white space! The negative space between your pieces helps each artwork stand out. If your wall feels crowded, take a step back and remove one or two items. Remember: less can be more.
7. Tell Your Story
Your gallery wall should feel personal — not like a showroom display. Mix in art that reflects your passions, places you’ve been, or quotes that inspire you.
Include:
Art prints that speak to your favorite colors or moods
Watercolor paintings that evoke nature or travel memories
Mixed-media art that shows off creativity and texture
Posters of meaningful films, bands, or causes
Personal photos printed in complementary tones
This mix of personal and artistic pieces creates a wall that feels deeply yours and tells a unique story about your journey and taste.
8. Use the Right Tools
Nothing ruins a good gallery wall like crooked frames. Use a level, measuring tape, and painter’s tape to plan your layout before hammering in nails. Command strips are a great alternative for renters or anyone who wants to avoid holes.
If you’re hanging heavier framed art, use proper wall anchors or picture-hanging hooks. It’s worth taking the time to do it right — your wall will look professional and stay secure.
9. Keep It Fresh
The best thing about a gallery wall is that it doesn’t have to be permanent. Rotate your artwork seasonally or whenever your style evolves. Swap in a new poster, update a framed print, or showcase a new original artwork from your latest Ruby Keen find.
Refreshing your gallery wall keeps your space feeling vibrant and creative — just like you.
Final Thoughts
Creating a gallery wall you love is all about combining art, style, and personality. It’s your chance to play curator and turn your walls into a reflection of your life. Mix watercolor paintings with posters, blend framed wall art with mixed-media pieces, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
At Ruby Keen, we believe art should feel joyful, expressive, and accessible. Whether you’re designing a cozy reading nook, brightening your office, or filling your living room with color, our collection of art prints, posters, and home décor helps you make every wall a masterpiece.
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