If you have an ornate tribal mask, for instance, you might place several primitive pieces around it, like a woven basket, simple tools, or other artifacts you’ve collected. If you’re displaying a feathered masquerade mask, you might show it in an embellished frame, then create a gallery effect by hanging framed black-and-white photos of Venetian architecture.
Consider leaving the rest of the wall bare so the masks can really stand out. You can also stagger the masks, which looks especially nice if you have an odd number. For example, you might line them up so you have 3 on top and 2 on bottom, all spaced evenly.
To make it easier to find the arrangement you like best, lay all of the masks out on the floor before you hang them on the wall. That way, you won’t have to put any nails or hooks into the wall until you’re happy with the layout. [5] X Expert Source Peter SalernoInstallation Expert Expert Interview. 10 June 2019. It can help make the collection look more cohesive if you hang a mask at each of the 4 corners of the display. However, you don’t necessarily have to stay inside those 4 corners—it’s fine if some of the masks go a little outside the imaginary line running from corner to corner. It’s best to stick to a similar style of masks for your collection—like using all Tiki, African, Mardi Gras, or movie-monster masks. That way, the display will still feel cohesive even if the masks are very different in size and shape. [6] X Research source
Including several different types of media will add a lot of visual interest to your mask gallery, so get creative![8] X Research source Don’t forget—you can also display items on low shelves beneath your masks. Statues and figurines can really complement this style. Try to stick to a single theme, like Tiki or masquerade ball.
Try to choose a picture that includes some of the same colors as your masks to help the display feel even more unified.
Do your best to pull in other colors from your home. For instance, you might choose masks that have colors similar to other art in the room, your favorite rug, or your furniture.
For instance, you might choose teal or magenta for a playful look, or you could go with burnt orange or forest green for a more classic combination. [11] X Research source Similarly, if your masks are brightly-colored, you might prefer displaying them on a neutral-colored wall so they’ll stand out.
If the masks are different sizes, or if you’re creating a gallery with a lot of different masks, not all of the masks have to be perfectly aligned. Just make sure the overall arrangement matches the angle of the stairs—the display will look more deliberate and balanced that way.
Once the adhesive is dry, all you have to do is place the wire on a hook to hang the mask. If your mask doesn’t have eye cut-outs, place the glue right on the indentation created by each eye. If the eyes are cut out, put the adhesive right above each eye. You can buy picture-hanging kits that come with the wire, the hardware to attach the wire, and the hooks all included. If your mask is very valuable, it may not be a good idea to alter it in this way. Consult an art professional, like a museum curator who specializes in your type of mask.
Removing the glass allows the masks to really stand out. It will also be easier to see any intricate carving. [14] X Research source
This is a great option if you have a collection of plastic masks—like Halloween masks—that you want to show off.
