A local landscape captured in brushstroke, a charcoal sketch etched out on canvas, a candid snap in black and white.
Regardless of the style, level of accomplishment, or even surface value, framed art wields a transformative capability when it comes to designing your home.
When grouped together, prints, paintings and photographs can create truly characterful gallery walls, and leading interior design house Neptune have created a guide on how to begin.
In terms of location, a large blank wall is the obvious choice, but you can utilise smaller spaces just as effectively.
The area above a door frame is a great example, and the same goes for the space above your headboard.
Narrow vertical spots, like those that run alongside wall cabinets or windows, also lend themselves well to smaller-scale gallery walls.
In terms of what to include, your choices are only as limited as your imagination.
Incorporating different types of media will add interest to your wall and give it a relaxed and eclectic feel.
Pair original art with prints or posters, framed textiles, masterpieces by the kids and family photos.
In terms of scale, by incorporating both large and smaller pieces, you will create a wall that has a more natural feel.
If you prefer a looser style of gallery wall, it is fine to mix frames – it adds to the eclectic nature of the wall and will also help to make it look like your collection has been built over time.
Of course, if you prefer a slightly more considered look, keep to just one colour of frame, but vary the widths and textures.
To soften all those corners, Neptune suggest including a few circular pieces alongside your square and rectangular frames.
Mirrors, vintage trays with handles and plates will all work well - you could even update a simple side plate with a lick of paint rather than buying new.
Finally, before picking up the hammer and nails, find a large area of floor space and lay out your chosen works of art, starting from the centre and working your way out.
This way, you can move your frames about until you settle on an arrangement that you’re happy with.
Neptune’s collection of framed and mounted prints, photographs and sketches – made using accurate reproduction methods – is available to explore in stores and at Neptune.com
