Art En Masse

One look that has gained popularity over the past few years is hanging artwork "salon style"- that is, grouping framed art, usually disparate pieces, together in such a way as to create a cohesive look. This method of hanging art is actually quite rooted in tradition, with its origins going back to the Paris Salons of the 18th and 19th centuries. In order to create maximum impact, you will want to keep some harmony amongst the pieces you are hanging. Perhaps you want to use frames that are the same color or finish. Or, you may want to hang works that have a common theme as designer Mallory Mathison did below (her framed pieces focus on figural studies of females). The goal, however, is to avoid a hodgepodge of clashing frames and art.



A gallery in the home of Kate Spade, designed by Steven Sclaroff (photo courtesy of Town & Country)


Guest room in home of Kate Spade, again with the salon-style grouping of art (note how the art stands out against the vivid blue walls). (Photo courtesy of Town & Country)


Bedroom designed by Mallory Mathison. This gallery is quite cohesive and looks great against the dark, glossy walls (wall color is Farrow and Ball Mahogany).


A stairwell gallery, so to speak, by designer Eric Cohler.


Miles Redd's collection, hung salon style, in his living room (photo courtesy of New York Social Diary)

Photo at top: Kenneth Jay Lane in his sumptuous Manhattan domicile (photo courtesy of Elle Decor)