Art Off the Wall: Creative Ways to Display Art

Try overlapping art on the wall.

When most people think about displaying art, they think: find a blank wall, grab a hammer and a nail, hang it up. But abstract art invites us to break the rules. It’s bold, playful, emotional—so why not have a little fun with how we show it off?

If you’re looking for creative, non-traditional ways to display your art collection, especially abstract pieces, here are some ideas to help you think beyond the standard frame-on-a-wall routine.

1. Lean Into It—Literally

Not every piece needs to hang. Prop a painting on a console table, mantel, or even on the floor in a corner. It creates a relaxed, modern feel—and lets you easily rotate pieces whenever the mood strikes. I often lean a few works in my own studio and love how casual yet intentional it looks.

2. Try a Shelf or Picture Ledge

Floating shelves or picture rails aren’t just for books. They’re a great way to mix art with objects—think vases, plants, or meaningful keepsakes. Arrange a few small-to-medium artworks in a row for an effortlessly curated vibe. Bonus: you don’t need to patch holes every time you change your mind.

3. Group Boldly

Got several small abstract works? Group them together in a grid or asymmetrical layout. A salon-style arrangement can turn a small collection into a statement piece. This works especially well with cohesive color schemes—or wildly different ones that still play well together.

4. Go Off the Beaten Path

Some of the most interesting places to display art are the ones people don’t expect: the bathroom, kitchen, hallway, laundry room. These little nooks of everyday life come alive when you add a burst of color and creativity.

5. Display on Easels or Stands

Who says easels are just for the studio? A small tabletop easel on a bookshelf or sideboard can beautifully showcase a favorite piece. You can also find minimalist wood or acrylic stands that hold canvas panels or framed works without fuss.

6. Hang from the Ceiling (Yes, Really)

If you have an open-concept space or you're renting and can’t put holes in the wall, consider hanging a piece from the ceiling using clear cord or chain. It’s unexpected, eye-catching, and can help define a room or corner without rearranging furniture.

7. Mix Materials and Methods

Not all art needs a formal frame. Hang unframed canvas pieces with magnetic poster hangers, binder clips, or even decorative clothespins on a wire. Mount artwork on wood boards for a rustic touch. Repurposed materials—like vintage clips or fabric backings—can make even a simple piece feel special.

8. Layer It Up

One of my favorite display tricks is to layer multiple pieces—leaning one in front of the other on a shelf or sideboard. It creates depth and tells a story without being too “done.” You can even overlap framed and unframed pieces for added texture.

Final Thought

Abstract art invites freedom, and that includes how you display it. Whether you’re building a collection or just refreshing a room, don’t be afraid to try something different. Art isn’t just decoration—it’s expression. So make your space reflect you.