3 Expert-Level Tips to Make Your Art Collection Look Like a Million Bucks (Even If It Didn’t Cost That Much)
A thoughtfully styled art collection can transform a space—not just visually, but emotionally. The good news? You don’t need a trust fund or gallery connections to make your walls feel elevated and intentional. Here are three insider tricks to make your art collection look high-end whether it is or not.
1. Frame Like a Pro
A beautiful piece in a cheap frame feels off. But the reverse is also true: even a child’s drawing can look gallery-worthy with the right treatment.
Solid wood, brushed brass, or gallery white makes even simple pieces look expensive. Consider float mounting or wide mats for paper pieces, and use museum glass when possible.
Good framing is the equivalent of fine tailoring: it’s quiet, but powerful.
Good framing is transformative
This original piece on paper has been floated mounted on a linen mat board with a generous margin between the piece and the frame.
Because it was framed behind anti-reflective glass, the clarity is exceptional.
Here’s a tip for great framing on a budget: Choose a quality ready made frame that’s proportional to the piece. Have a custom mat cut to elevate the artwork and give it breathing room. This creates a clean, tailored effect that instantly adds polish—without the price tag of a full custom frame job.
2. Curate for Conversation, Not Just Decoration
A sophisticated collection invites curiosity. Include at least one piece that feels a little strange—something intriguing, weird, even provocative.
If you normally choose colorful, representational art, consider a monochromatic abstract like this piece I painted called “Safe in the Storm” — a tribute to surviving 2024 and the terrible hurricane that hit our area.
Let art both delight and surprise the eye. I have a weird lip sculpture that I got at auction hanging on the wall in my kitchen. It makes me laugh, and it’s unexpected.
3. Hang with Precision—and Confidence
How you hang art matters just as much as what you hang.
Follow the museum rule: center the artwork around 57–60 inches from the floor.
Use a level. Keep consistent spacing between pieces.
If you are hanging a piece above furniture, aim for 8 - 10 inches between the artwork and the top of the furniture.
Think about proportions too.
The art piece should ideally be at least 2/3 the length of the furniture piece. So a standard 84 inch sofa needs a painting/mirror etc that is at least 56 inches long.
And when in doubt, go big. Large-scale art reads as luxury. So does restraint. A single bold painting, thoughtfully placed, often carries more impact than a collage.
“Harmony Reflected” 60 × 96; original on canvas
Your collection doesn’t need to be expensive to feel exceptional. It just needs intention, a little boldness, and the right finishing touches.