Lena Rivera
There are differing opinions on whether to measure length or width first when painting. Some sources state that the standard format for denoting the size of a painting is width first, then height (the WxH format), while others argue for height first, then width (the HxW format). The WxH format is said to be the standard in graphics, digital images, and photography, while the HxW format is typically used for artwork, with the height measurement coming first. The HxW format is also said to be the standard ratio for measuring art in general, with height coming before width in the alphabet serving as a mnemonic for this convention. Ultimately, the choice of which measurement to take first may depend on the specific context and conventions of the artistic medium and industry.
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What You'll Learn
Height is listed before width in art
There is some discrepancy in the art world about whether height or width should be listed first when painting. Some sources state that the standard in the graphics industry is to list width by height (width x height), while others claim that the standard format for reporting measurements is height x width.
The discrepancy may be due to the fact that the standard varies depending on the specific field of art. For example, one source mentions that in the graphics and digital image world, width is listed before height, while another source mentions that in the art world, height is listed before width.
However, it seems that the consensus is that height is listed before width in art. Multiple sources, including artists, art websites, and art collectors, state that height should come before width when measuring or listing the dimensions of a painting. This is further supported by the fact that H comes before W in the alphabet, making it easier to remember that height comes first.
One reason for listing height first is to indicate the orientation of the painting, especially if it is abstract. By listing the height first, it is clear that the painting should be hung with the smaller sides going up and down the wall, and the larger sides horizontal to the floor. This is important information for curators or jurors when displaying the artwork.
Additionally, some artists recommend forming the habit of always measuring the height first and calling out or writing down "Height" or "Width" as you record the measurements. This helps ensure that the dimensions are recorded correctly and avoids confusion or mistakes.
In conclusion, while there may be some variation in different fields of art, the standard practice in the fine art world is to list height before width when measuring or describing a painting. This helps ensure clear communication about the artwork's orientation and size.
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Width comes before height in graphics and digital images
There is some variation in the way dimensions are listed in the art world. While some sources state that the standard format for reporting measurements of a print is to list height followed by width, others state that the graphics industry standard is to list width followed by height. This is also the case for digital images and photography.
For example, a US artist told one source that it is "always height and then width", while another source states that "height x width is the standard ratio for measuring art". However, a separate source notes that while this is the case for artwork, there is a different perspective in the graphics and digital image world, where the standard is width by height.
This is supported by another source, which states that the standard format for reporting measurements is height followed by width, but notes that there are websites that state the dimensions the wrong way around. This source also notes that some framing sites treat height and width as interchangeable, which is not the case when it comes to mats for works on paper.
The graphics and digital images standard of width by height is also supported by the software used for cropping images, which typically use a width x height format.
Therefore, while there may be some debate over the order of measurements in the art world, it is clear that width comes before height in graphics and digital images.
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Measurements are usually given in inches or centimetres
When it comes to measurements in art, there are a few conventions to be aware of. Firstly, it's important to distinguish between measurements for artwork and other contexts such as paper, frames, furniture, or curtains, which follow different standards.
For 2-dimensional artwork, the standard way to list dimensions is height x width, with height coming first. This is often abbreviated as "H x W" and is typically given in inches or centimetres. For example, a painting could be listed as "30.7 x 23 cm" or "12.1 x 9.1 inches". It's worth noting that some sources suggest that width is listed before height, especially in graphics, digital images, and photography. However, for artwork, the consensus seems to be height followed by width.
The reason for this convention is to provide clarity on the orientation of the painting, especially if it's abstract. By listing height first, it becomes clear whether the painting should be hung vertically or horizontally. This is crucial information for curators or buyers who need to know the correct way to display the artwork.
It's also worth mentioning that measurements for framed artwork might include depth, especially if the canvas is unusually deep. In this case, the standard format becomes height x width x depth. When providing measurements for jury submissions, gallery exhibitions, or online listings, it's generally recommended to give the dimensions of the artwork itself, excluding any matting or framing, unless it's essential to the piece.
While there might be slight variations in practices across different regions or industries, adhering to the height x width convention in inches or centimetres is a widely recognised way to ensure clear and consistent communication about artwork dimensions.
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The depth of the canvas is sometimes included
When measuring a painting, the standard practice is to list the height first, followed by the width. This is especially important for abstract paintings, as it helps convey the orientation of the painting. However, there are some nuances to consider.
Firstly, it is crucial to differentiate between measurements for artwork and other contexts, such as paper, frames, or furniture. Artwork, including paintings, typically follows the standard of height first, then width. This standard format is often expressed as Height x Width, with “H x W" or "H x W x D" notations for clarity.
It is worth noting that the graphics and digital image industries may use a different standard, with width listed before height. This variation underscores the importance of context and the need to adhere to the conventions of the specific field.
While the standard practice for paintings is to list height followed by width, there may be exceptions or variations depending on specific requirements or contexts. Ultimately, the goal is to provide clear and accurate measurements that adequately convey the dimensions of the artwork.
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Buyers appreciate photographs of paintings to gauge size
When it comes to measuring paintings, there seems to be some debate about whether length or width should be measured first. Some sources suggest that the standard practice is to list height first, followed by width, especially for abstract paintings, to indicate the orientation. Others argue that the graphics industry standard is width by height, which aligns with how measurements are presented in photography and digital images.
Now, regarding buyers' preferences for gauging the size of paintings, it is beneficial to provide photographs along with clear and accurate measurements. Buyers often appreciate visual representations of the artwork to get a sense of its dimensions. This is particularly true when purchasing art online, where they cannot physically see the piece. Providing photographs with a reference point for scale helps buyers understand the size of the painting in relation to their space.
Additionally, it is essential to consider the presentation of the artwork. Mounting small pictures with wide borders, for instance, can make them appear larger and more stylish, potentially commanding a higher price. Enlarging prints can also make a piece seem bigger, but it's important to compensate for potential loss of quality with the right software. Leaving ample white space around an image and using a larger frame can also create the illusion of a larger piece.
It is worth noting that the size of the artwork itself plays a role in its marketability. Larger artwork tends to be more profitable, especially in galleries, as it stands out and can be priced at a premium. However, smaller artwork can be more easily sold in certain contexts, such as craft shows or street stalls, where portability and impulse buying are factors.
In conclusion, while there may be differing opinions on the order of measurements, providing buyers with photographs and clear dimensions is crucial. Visual aids, along with creative presentation techniques, help buyers gauge the size of the artwork and make informed purchasing decisions. Ultimately, the goal is to give buyers a comprehensive understanding of the artwork's size and appeal to their preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
The standard way to list the dimensions of a painting is height followed by width. This is the convention for jury submissions, gallery exhibitions, and catalog listings.
Listing the height before the width makes it easier to determine the orientation of the painting, especially if it is abstract.
It is not necessary to include the depth of the canvas unless it is unusually deep.
Yes, you should include the units of measurement. In the US, use inches, and in Europe, use centimeters.
Yes, it is helpful to include the size of the painting with and without the frame, especially if you are selling the painting.
