Nailed It

The trend of hanging eclectic collections of art is no longer limited to actual galleries – it’s expanded into homes as a style statement. A gallery wall is an easy way to give a room some personality without wallpaper or paint. Whether you’re working with your own mismatched pieces or starting from scratch, here are some tips and tricks to build your own gallery wall. 

1. GO VINTAGE

Expand your shopping destinations from galleries and gift shops to include antique stores where you can find old artwork with character. Discover items like this watercolor by Mary Mason Brooks at Re in North Kingstown, or check out other vintage purveyors like White Star Antiques in Providence and Nick Haus in Warren.

2. FRAME IT
Choose at least one unifying element to connect all of the separate pieces of art

together, like custom frames. This mini oil painting by Karen Murphy in Riverside
comes with one, but you can do it yourself with help from Providence Picture Frame or Picture This! Framing and Gallery in Wakefield. Other tie-ins include color scheme, subject, and style.

3. MIX IT UP
Not every piece of your gallery wall needs to be a painting on canvas or paper. Incorporate different materials, like maps or metal, such as this copper plate by Teresa Mowery of Patina Studio in Tiverton.

4. SHOP LOCAL
Rhode Island is a cultural hub for talented artists and makers. So, take advantage and scour your local galleries, shops, and co-ops for art like this Narwhal print from Frog & Toad in Providence. Other destinations include Hotpoint Emporium in Bristol, Yes! Gallery in Wickford, and Lou Lou’s Decor in Newport.