When you want to display many smaller pieces of framed art in a gallery, use shallow, wall-mounted shelves; arrange the frames in a row along the length of the shelves. Depending on the frame style, you might use shelves that are made of wood or metal. Choose shelves that have a trough with a front edge to keep the art in place, and make sure the trough is deep enough to allow the pieces to lean against the wall with enough of an angle so that they stay in place.
If you are displaying a collection of photographs or pieces of artwork that all relate to each other, you can use a wall of frames for a dramatic statement. For a stark look, arrange the pieces in a tight line at eye level. If you are displaying pieces that can be viewed from farther away, create a grid pattern that covers an entire wall. With this type of display, choose pieces of art that have a similar theme, topic matter, color schemes, or framing techniques; the similarities should be clear enough that a visitor to the gallery can ascertain the relationship among the pieces.
When you need to display artwork or artifacts that cannot hang on the wall, you might use single-pillar displays. Set up pillars around the room, far enough apart to allow an easy flow of traffic, and ensure that they are weighted heavily so as not to fall over if they are bumped. You can use simple tall, rectangular pillars or more ornate versions, depending on the style of the gallery and the pieces you want to display.
For pieces of art that you want to draw extra attention to, use individual standing wall sections placed around the room. Depending on the size of the room, you could use multiple walls in a diagonal or linear arrangement; plan the layout of the room to allow traffic to flow easily from piece to piece, particularly if the art should be viewed in sequence. If you want to add more emphasis, paint the walls a bright color. Because overhead lights might not effectively light the spaces away from the room's walls, use spotlights to direct light onto the individual walls.