Deluxe lighting systems are chosen for galleries and collections showing high-value paintings.
They are used where:
• Presentation quality must be unquestionable
• Colour fidelity is critical
• Dimming stability is essential
• Visual intrusion must be minimal
Deluxe systems combine:
• Exceptional beam quality
• CRI 97+ colour accuracy
• Smooth, stable dimming
• Long-term consistency
In these environments, lighting should disappear completely, allowing the painting to command full attention.
Colour temperature for lighting paintings
Most professional galleries light paintings at 3000K.
3000K:
• Feels warm yet neutral
• Preserves colour accuracy
• Supports a wide range of painting styles
• Builds buyer confidence
Some galleries use 2700K selectively on master paintings where warmth enhances emotional presence. This must be done intentionally and usually with Multi control to avoid yellowing whites or distorting cooler tones.
Cooler temperatures are rarely used for paintings as they flatten tonal nuance and feel clinical.
Glare control on varnished and glazed paintings
Glare is one of the biggest challenges when lighting paintings.
Professional art lighting addresses glare through:
• Precision optics
• Correct beam angles
• Proper track placement
• Thoughtful aiming
When glare is controlled, viewers can approach paintings comfortably and engage fully with surface detail.
Consistency across painting displays
Consistency is critical in painting galleries.
Lighting should:
• Match in colour and intensity across fixtures
• Feel balanced wall to wall
• Remain stable over time
Inconsistent lighting undermines trust. Collectors notice when paintings look different depending on where they hang.
Professional systems are designed to maintain consistency exhibition after exhibition.
Long-term thinking in painting lighting
Art lighting for paintings should be designed once, properly.
A professional system allows:
• Years of exhibitions without replacement
• Easy rehanging
• Reduced maintenance
• Long-term cost efficiency
Short-term fixes always lead to long-term compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Art lighting for paintings
What is the best lighting for paintings?
The best lighting for paintings is track-based gallery lighting with CRI 97+ colour accuracy, smooth dimming, and precise beam control. This allows paintings to be lit accurately, comfortably, and consistently across different sizes and mediums.
Why is CRI 97+ important for lighting paintings?
CRI 97+ ensures colours are rendered truthfully. Paintings rely on subtle pigment relationships that are lost under lower CRI lighting. High CRI lighting builds trust with artists and collectors by showing the artwork honestly.
Should painting lights be dimmable?
Yes. Dimming is essential. Paintings vary in sensitivity, surface reflectivity, and scale. Dimmable lighting allows galleries to fine-tune presentation, reduce glare, balance walls, and protect artwork without changing fixtures.
Is LED lighting suitable for paintings?
Yes. Professional-grade LED lighting is the preferred choice for galleries and museums. When specified correctly, LED provides CRI 97+ colour accuracy, low heat, long-term stability, and excellent dimming performance.
Is track lighting best for lighting paintings?
Track lighting is the preferred solution because it allows precise aiming, easy repositioning, and flexibility as exhibitions change. However, the fixtures must be designed specifically for art, not retail or residential use.
What colour temperature should be used for lighting paintings?
Most professional galleries use 3000K. It provides a neutral yet warm appearance and supports accurate colour perception. 2700K is used selectively for master works when additional warmth is appropriate.
How do you avoid glare when lighting paintings?
Glare is avoided through controlled beam optics, correct aiming angles, appropriate track placement, and careful dimming. Proper lighting design is essential.
Final perspective on art lighting for paintings
Art lighting for paintings is not decorative. It is part of the artwork’s presentation.
When lighting is done properly:
• Paintings feel present
• Colour and texture are revealed honestly
• Visitors engage longer
• Buyers feel confident
• The gallery’s reputation strengthens
This is the role of professional art lighting.
Why galleries choose Banno Lighting
Galleries work with Banno Lighting because we understand paintings and lighting at a professional gallery level.
We provide:
• Expert guidance
• Professional lighting plans
• Track-based gallery lighting systems
• Zoom, Multi, and Deluxe solutions
• CRI 97+ colour accuracy
• Smooth, stable dimming
• Long-term support
If you want art lighting for paintings that respects the artwork, supports sales, and adapts over time, professional systems and guidance are essential.
