Display Decisions
Determining the presentation of a Painting requires understanding key institutional standards.
Height
Museum convention places the centre of the work at a fixed eye level, commonly 145 to 155 cm from the floor.
For example, a work 90 cm tall centred at 150 cm sits between 105 cm and 195 cm.
Light
Light damage accumulates over time. Exposure is measured in lux-hours.
| Material | Limit |
|---|---|
| Oil and tempera | 150 to 200 lux |
| Works on paper, textiles | 50 lux |
| Metal, stone | Not limited |
For instance, 50 lux for 8 hours across 250 days totals 100,000 lux-hours.
Labels and Mechanics
Convention dictates the label order: artist, title, date, medium, dimensions, and credit line. Always list dimensions as height before width, then depth.
Essential mechanics include:
- Writing a Condition report before and after transit
- Using cleats and rated hanging fittings
- Taking dated installation photographs
The Exhibition Space
Display makes an artistic argument. In 1942, Duchamp filled the First Papers of Surrealism show with string, actively obstructing the view.
Common pitfall: treating the hang as mere administration. Poor display undermines strong work.