How to Light Your Art Like a Pro
Tips from the Framing & Gallery Experts
You’ve invested in a piece of art you love—maybe it’s an original work by a Kansas City artist, a meaningful print, or a family heirloom that’s been custom-framed with care. Now it deserves to be seen in the best light—literally. Proper lighting doesn’t just illuminate your artwork; it brings out texture, detail, and depth while protecting it for years to come. At Parkville Frame Gallery, we frame and display artwork daily, and we’re here to share some simple but impactful lighting strategies to help your collection shine.
Start with Placement
Before choosing a bulb or fixture, consider where your artwork is located. Direct sunlight, though beautiful, is one of the worst offenders when it comes to fading and damage over time. Even filtered sunlight through windows can take its toll on delicate pigments and paper. For this reason, aim to place art on interior walls away from harsh natural light or consider using UV-filtering glass or acrylic to help protect the piece if sunlight exposure is unavoidable.
Next, think about the height and viewing angle. Ideally, artwork should be hung at eye level (about 57–60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece). This makes it easier to light evenly and enjoy naturally.
Choose the Right Light Bulbs
When it comes to lighting art, not all bulbs are created equal. The wrong kind can distort colors or emit too much heat. Here's what to look for:
LED bulbs are the gold standard—they’re energy-efficient, emit very little heat, and are available in a variety of color temperatures.
Aim for a color temperature around 3000K to 3500K, which gives a soft white glow that’s warm without being yellow or overly cool.
Look for a high Color Rendering Index (CRI)—90 or above is ideal. This ensures colors appear vivid and true to life.
Avoid halogen or incandescent bulbs, which produce a lot of heat and can damage sensitive materials over time. And steer clear of overly cool fluorescent lights, which can cast an unnatural blue tone over your art.
Fixture Types: What Works Best
There are several types of fixtures to consider, depending on the mood and setting you’re creating:
Track lighting is one of the most flexible options. It allows for multiple adjustable heads, so you can reposition lights as your collection grows or shifts.
Picture lights, which mount directly above the frame, offer a more traditional, gallery-style presentation. These are excellent for spotlighting one piece.
Ceiling-mounted spotlights or recessed lights can create a clean, modern look—just make sure they’re angled properly to avoid glare.
A good rule of thumb is to position your light source at a 30-degree angle from the wall to reduce glare and shadows. Adjust slightly for larger frames or pieces with significant texture or glass.
Bonus Tips from the Gallery
Use dimmers! The ability to adjust light levels can dramatically enhance ambiance and minimize exposure over time.
For glass-covered art, non-reflective glazing and correct lighting angles help minimize distracting reflections.
If you’re displaying a gallery wall or rotating seasonal pieces, keep lighting adaptable so it can evolve with your display.
Art Deserves Attention—and Protection
The right lighting transforms how art is experienced. A well-lit piece invites closer attention, tells its story more vividly, and becomes a focal point in your space. Whether you're a serious collector or just starting to fill your walls with beauty, these professional lighting tips will help your art shine for years to come.
Need help designing the perfect art space? Stop by Parkville Frame Gallery for expert framing, display consultations, and a gallery full of inspiration. We're always happy to help your art find the spotlight it deserves.