Some of the pictures have mounts and some don't. No gold frames, some black. Some photos, framed. The room is south-east facing but isn't the brightest. What do you mean by mid toned background? Possibly a silly question!

Hi GJ sorry, I mean how light or dark. I don't think there are rules. I collect a lot of art (I teach art) and most of my pictures are grouped which seems to help. I have a 'display' ideas book if that helps.

Thank you both for your comments. I've had a look at your display ideas book and that has been a great help- some lovely art as well! I think we will go for a light colour to show off the art.

Hi Emily. I specialise in colour theory which I teach to MA and BA students.

I think it all depends on what you are displaying. If I was displaying a huge red painting I would never hang it on a white wall as this to me would create too much contrast and make the red look dark. Hanging it on a darker wall (especially with the complementary undertone - green) would make the red glow. This article is good:

http://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/color/advice/a8540/how-to-choose-the-best-paint-color-for-art-gallery-wall/

White works depending on art and ... frames ?

Thank you- we have gone with a warm shade of white to showcase the art.

I will never accept that white is the best for art ,as art galleries continue to purvey ? It can look crisp but I so often favour dark walls. Matt grey. coca-cola brown lacquer, prussian blue, dark green or deep mustard. It very much depends the art and if you are lucky enough to have gorgeous gilt frames, on either traditional or abstract/modern art , these look great against a dark background .