What does ‘Ready to Hang’ mean?

Ready to hang means that artworks must arrive with a suitable hanging system attached. This includes fixings such as “D” rings with cord or picture wire strung between.

Please note: The organising committee cannot be responsible for any damage to artworks that have been poorly prepared for hanging.

Stretched

This refers to an artwork where the canvas is stretched over a simple timber frame (called a stretcher). The hanging system is attached to the back of the stretcher.

Stretched canvas
Back of stretched canvas

Framed

The artwork is bordered with a frame and often covered with glass or Perspex.
The hanging system is attached to the back of the Frame.

Back of framed artwork

Mounted

Works of art on paper or photographs can be matted or mounted on mat board with a sturdy backing (mat board or foam core board). Works should then be framed with a suitable hanging system attached to the back.

Please note: There are some hanging systems available to use with unframed foam core board but these are only suitable for light works.

Extra Hints

  • Fixings for cord/hanging wire should be attached to the top third of the frame to assist the work to hang flat on the wall.
  • Use D-rings not eye-screws, the tension on the wire can cause the eye-screws to pull out.
  • Any special instructions needed to hang or install an artwork should be included with the work.
  • If an artwork is made up of more than one part, number each component and include a layout drawing of the arrangement.
D-rings