Vertical Art Print

A vertical art print, also known as a portrait-oriented print, is an artwork that is taller than it is wide. This format is the perfect design solution for the narrow and tall wall spaces in a home where a standard horizontal print won’t fit. It’s an elegant way to add a point of interest, draw the eye upward, and make your home feel more complete.

Vertical prints are incredibly versatile for those tricky, in-between spaces. They are ideal for hanging on a narrow wall in an entryway, in the space between two windows, at the end of a hallway, or on a thin column. A pair of vertical prints can also be a stunning alternative to a single horizontal piece, beautifully flanking a doorway or a piece of furniture.

Vertical lines naturally draw the eye upward, creating an illusion of height and spaciousness. Hanging a vertical art print can make a room with a low ceiling feel taller and more open. This format has a sense of elegance, grace, and aspiration, which can add a sophisticated and uplifting feel to your overall decor.

The vertical format is naturally suited to subjects that are taller than they are wide. It is the classic choice for figure art and portraits, as it mirrors the human form. It’s also perfect for depicting single botanical stems, tall architectural details (like a skyscraper or a staircase), and certain abstract compositions that emphasize an upward movement.

For a narrow wall, choose a print that leaves a comfortable amount of “breathing room”—at least 3-6 inches of empty wall space—on either side of the frame. The print should be substantial enough to feel intentional. A good rule is that the artwork should occupy about half to two-thirds of the width of the wall section it’s on.

Yes, a series of vertical prints can create a very elegant and rhythmic gallery wall. Hanging three matching vertical prints side-by-side is a classic triptych arrangement that works beautifully above a sofa or console table. In a more eclectic gallery wall, a vertical print is a crucial element for adding height and variation to a collection of square and horizontal pieces.

The standard rule applies: hang the artwork so that its center is at average eye level, which is about 57 inches (145 cm) from the floor. This ensures it’s perfectly positioned for comfortable viewing. If you are hanging a pair of vertical prints one above the other, treat them as a single unit: find the center point between the two prints and use that as your 57-inch mark.