Properly displaying these cherished pieces can elevate your home’s décor while honoring the memories they represent. Here are some of the best ways to showcase your heirloom portraits and give them the respect they deserve.
1. Create a Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is a fantastic way to display multiple portraits and create a visual narrative. Choose a dedicated wall space, like a hallway or living room, and arrange the portraits in a cohesive layout. Consider mixing different frame styles and sizes for an eclectic look, or stick to a uniform style for a more polished appearance. I've always found thrift stores and flea markets have excellent frame choices. In fact, putting together a huge gallery wall was famously (in our house) our first pandemic project.
2. Frame With Care
Selecting the right frame is crucial. Choose materials that compliment the portrait and match your home’s aesthetic. Vintage frames can add character, while sleek modern frames can create a striking contrast. For valuable or delicate pieces, consider professional framing to ensure preservation. UV-protective glass can also help prevent fading over time. My children's portraits are framed in an ornate gold frame with a thick off white matting.
3. Incorporate in Unexpected Places
Heirloom portraits don’t have to be confined to walls. Think outside the box and incorporate them into your décor. Place a portrait on a mantelpiece, side table, or even in small spots in your kitchen. This unexpected placement can spark intrigue and invite guests to engage with the piece more intimately.
4. Rotate Your Collection
If you have a large collection of heirloom portraits, consider rotating them periodically. This keeps your décor fresh and allows different family members to shine at various times. Personally my largest pieces aren't an easy swap out, but my smaller frames are much easier to update yearly.
5. Tell a Story with Themes
Arrange portraits thematically to highlight specific aspects of your family’s history. For example, create a section dedicated to ancestors from a particular generation or region. This approach not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites storytelling and deeper connections to your heritage. My walls feature old polaroid prints of great grandparents, long gone pets, and band competition shots!
Displaying heirloom portraits is about more than aesthetics; it’s about preserving family history and celebrating the connections that bind us. Whether you choose to create a gallery wall, use floating shelves, or explore digital options, the key is to display these cherished pieces in a way that resonates with your family’s story. By giving these portraits the attention they deserve, you not only honor your family's history, but also create a warm, inviting space that reflects your unique story. Happy decorating!
