Home Garden

How to Light Artwork in the Home With Gallery Flood Lights

If you've ever been to an art gallery or a home that has art displayed on its walls, you might have noticed the light that is used to illuminate the works. Using appropriate lighting in the correct orientation is essential for viewers to see all of the colors and subtle nuances of the artwork itself. Natural light is not recommended for artworks because UV rays can cause damage and because sunlight is difficult to control. Gallery flood lights are a great option because you can control where you place them and what angle they hit the artwork.

Things You'll Need

  • Swivel floodlight bracket
  • Screwdriver
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase gallery flood lights that are three times the brightness of your room lighting. Also, try to purchase a combination of halogen and incandescent lights for the most effective results.

    • 2

      Place the flood lights approximately three feet above the artwork to begin, but do not attach them to your wall or ceiling yet.

    • 3

      Adjust the height of each flood light so that the light is evenly cast over the entire work. You also want to ensure that there is not an excessive amount of heat being directed at the artwork. Place your hand near the top of the painting to test; there should be little or no difference between room temperature and the temperature of your hand.

    • 4

      Attach your swivel flood light brackets to the wall at the height you decided in Step 4 using the screws provided and your screwdriver. Space the brackets evenly over top of the artwork.

    • 5

      Set your flood lights into the brackets and attach them using the brace provided. Angle the flood lights at approximately 30 degrees to the wall.