Wall art above a television is one of the most searched home decor questions for a reason. It isn’t always necessary, and in many rooms, leaving the space clean looks better. So when art is added, it needs to be intentional, minimal, and carefully sized.
A wall mounted TV often becomes the main focal point in a living room, but without the right tv wall decor, the space can feel unfinished or overly dominated by a screen. When done correctly, wall art above a TV helps balance the wall, adds warmth, and turns a functional setup into a polished living space.
This guide covers exactly how to decorate above a TV using wall art that fits the space, reduces visual heaviness, and creates a cohesive look. From sizing and hanging art at the right height to choosing artwork that works with a tv screen, these tips focus on real decorating rules that interior designers actually use.
Key Takeaways
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Wall art above a TV should be sized in proportion to the tv width, not the entire wall.
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Hanging art close to the tv screen creates a cohesive focal point and avoids awkward spacing.
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Simple artwork with texture or subtle shape works best for tv wall decor.
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Canvas wall art and framed prints help reduce glare and soften the look of a wall mounted TV.
Can You Put Wall Art Above a TV?
Yes, wall art above a TV can look stylish and intentional when it is treated as part of the same wall display. The most common mistake is hanging art too high or choosing decor that competes with the screen instead of complementing it. The TV and artwork should feel connected, creating one balanced visual element on the wall.
This approach works especially well in a living room where the TV is mounted at eye level and the surrounding furniture is minimal. Whether your TV sits above a console table, near a fireplace, or between furniture elements, the art should help fill the space without overwhelming it.
What Size Wall Art Looks Best Above a TV?
Choosing the right size wall art is the most important general rule when decorating above a TV. Artwork that is too small gets lost, while a large piece that is too wide can overpower the tv wall.
A reliable guideline is selecting wall art that is roughly two thirds to three quarters the width of the TV. For example, a 65 inch TV pairs well with artwork that is around 40 to 50 inches wide. This proportion creates balance and helps the wall feel intentional.
A single large piece works well as a statement piece in modern spaces, while a gallery wall with consistent spacing can also work if the arrangement stays simple and cohesive.
How High Should Wall Art Be Hung Above a TV?
Height matters just as much as size when hanging art above a TV. The goal is to keep the artwork close enough to the screen that the two elements feel connected.
In most rooms, leaving about 4 to 8 inches of space between the top of the TV and the bottom of the artwork works well. This keeps the display tight and visually centered. Hanging art too high pulls the eye upward and makes the wall feel disconnected.
Always step back and view the entire wall, including the TV, console, and surrounding decor, before finalizing placement. The art should feel centered in relation to the TV, not the ceiling.
Best Wall Art Styles for TV Wall Decor
Because a TV already has strong visual weight, the artwork above it should bring balance, not distraction. Neutral abstract art, modern landscapes, soft nature prints, and minimalist paintings work especially well in this space.
Canvas wall art is a popular choice because it reduces glare from light and adds subtle texture. Framed artwork also works when the frame is slim and consistent with nearby furniture. Avoid overly glossy glass if the TV wall receives a lot of ambient light or LED lighting.
The best tv wall decor adds interest while letting the screen remain functional and unobtrusive when not in use.
Ready to turn your TV wall into a polished focal point? Start with our bestselling canvas wall art designed to work beautifully in modern living rooms.
One Large Piece vs a Gallery Wall Above a TV
Both options can work, depending on the size of the wall and the look you want to achieve. One large piece creates a clean, modern look and keeps the space feeling calm. This is ideal for smaller living rooms or minimalist interiors.
A gallery wall can work above a TV when the arrangement is simple and the artwork shares a consistent style, color palette, and frame finish. Keep spacing tight and avoid mixing too many shapes or textures, as that can make the wall feel busy.
Whichever option you choose, the arrangement should feel intentional and balanced, not like an afterthought.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hanging Art Above a TV
One of the most common decorating mistakes is hanging artwork too high or choosing pieces that are too small for the wall. Another is using art with heavy contrast or bold patterns that compete with the TV screen.
Avoid cluttering the area with shelves, sculptures, or too many decorative elements. Simplicity is what makes tv wall decor look stylish and expensive. Let the art support the space rather than overwhelm it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can wall art above a TV reduce glare?
Yes. Canvas art and matte finishes help reduce glare compared to glass frames, especially in rooms with lots of light or LED lighting.
Should wall art above a TV be centered?
Wall art should be centered relative to the TV, not the entire wall. This keeps the display balanced and visually grounded.
Is it safe to hang art above a wall mounted TV?
Yes, as long as the artwork is securely mounted using proper hardware. For a damage free option, lightweight canvas prints are a smart choice.
Does wall art above a TV work in small living rooms?
Absolutely. Choosing the right size and keeping the design simple can actually make a small living room feel more finished and cohesive.
Final Thoughts
Wall art above a TV isn’t about filling space for the sake of it. In many living rooms, leaving the wall clean creates a calmer, more polished look. When art is added, it should feel deliberate, properly sized, and visually connected to the TV so the wall reads as one cohesive focal point.
Choosing the right piece can soften the presence of a screen and bring warmth and balance to your living space without clutter. If you decide to add art above your TV, explore our curated wall art collections and choose a piece designed to elevate your space with intention.
