✓ Short answer: Choose a picture light about 50-75% as wide as the artwork, mount it 6-7 inches above the frame, and use warm white (2700-3000K) LED so the art is not exposed to UV.
5 steps to lighting art at home
- Measure the artwork width and pick a light 50-75% as wide (rule of thumb).
- Place the light about 6-7 inches above the top of the frame.
- Choose your wiring: plug-in or battery if you cannot hardwire, direct-wire for a permanent look.
- Use warm white 2700-3000K and a high CRI so colors look true.
- Aim so the beam covers the piece without glare on glass; adjust the arm or head.
Source: Mullan Lighting picture light guide.
13 picture lights for collectors
House of Troy Classic Traditional 14" LED Plug-In Picture Light
Plug-in, no electrician needed.
House of Troy Classic Traditional 36" LED Plug-In Picture Light
Plug-in, no electrician needed.
House of Troy Slim-Line 15" LED Plug-In Picture Light
Plug-in, no electrician needed.
House of Troy Horizon 12" LED Plug-In Picture Light
Plug-in, no electrician needed.
House of Troy Classic Traditional 14" Battery LED Picture Light
Battery powered, no outlet needed.
House of Troy Slim-Line 12" Battery LED Picture Light
Battery powered, no outlet needed.
House of Troy Horizon 26" LED Plug-In Picture Light
Plug-in, no electrician needed.
House of Troy Oxford 16" Direct Wire LED Picture Light
Hardwired for a clean, permanent look.
House of Troy Guilford 24" Direct Wire LED Picture Light
Hardwired for a clean, permanent look.
Visual Comfort Trave 36 LED Picture Light
927 lumens at 90 CRI. 36" long
Visual Comfort Trave 24 LED Picture Light
793 lumens at 90 CRI. 24" long
Visual Comfort Trave 18 LED Picture Light
742 lumens at 90 CRI. 18" long
Visual Comfort Capa 24 LED Picture Light
124 lumens at 90 CRI. 24" long
FAQ
How wide should a picture light be?
As a rule of thumb, no wider than 50-75% of the artwork width.
How high above the frame should it sit?
About 6-7 inches above the top of the frame is a common guideline.
What color temperature is best for art?
Warm white, 2700-3000K, suits most artwork.
Do LED picture lights damage art?
LEDs emit little heat and no harmful UV, which helps prevent fading.
Can I light art without an electrician?
Yes. Choose a plug-in or battery model, or hire an electrician for a direct-wire fixture.
Need help choosing? Contact our design team.