All 2-D artworks submitted to DVSA for exhibitions, auctions, sales, etc. must be ready to hang – with D-rings attached to the back of the piece and wired with hanging wire. Works that are not wired will not be accepted.

Using D-Rings

D-rings should be installed about a quarter to a third of the way down from the top of the work. D-rings are available in various sizes to accommodate different frame weights and sizes. Generally, smaller D-rings are suitable for lighter artwork, while larger ones are needed for heavier pieces. A good rule of thumb is to match the D-ring size to the width of the wire you’ll be using. D-rings can be found at home hardware stores.

Choosing Your Wire

Ensure you are using picture hanging wire as opposed to other types of wire. Please ensure the wire is able to hold the weight of the piece. The wire length should be roughly 1.5x to 2x the width of the frame; this allows for enough wire to wrap around the D-rings and create a secure connection without being too slack. The extra length is necessary to thread the wire through the D-rings and create secure knots or twists.

Wiring

Below is a resource image for how to wire a piece with D-rings.

Confirm your wire is of proper length – once wired it should have some slack when hung to allow for a slight triangular shape. This prevents the artwork from hanging too high on the wall, ensures it doesn’t show the hanging nail/hook and isn’t pulling away from the wall. After wiring, please check the wire ends are not poking out. Taping the ends of the wire is recommended.

We strongly recommend a test hanging your artwork before submitting to ensure it is wired correctly and hangs properly.

Other Hanging Options

Sawtooth hangers will only be accepted for works 4” x 4” or smaller.

Frames with built-in hardware on the back of the frame will only be accepted if it is also wired properly as instructed above. See image below.