How to Choose the Right Temporary Wall System for Your Next Art Exhibition

Whether you’re planning a pop-up gallery, student showcase, touring exhibition, or a one-night arts event, the walling you choose will make or break the presentation. Temporary wall systems are essential for turning any venue — from warehouses to community halls — into a polished, professional gallery.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the right temporary wall system for your next art exhibition?

Here’s a straightforward guide to help you select the perfect walls for your layout, artwork, budget, and venue.

1. Start With the Type of Artwork You’re Displaying

Different types of artwork require different levels of wall strength and stability.

Lightweight artwork (prints, drawings, photography):

Standard temporary walls usually suffice
Cable hanging systems or simple hooks work well

Medium-weight artwork (framed pieces, canvases):

Choose reinforced temporary walls
Ensure the walls can handle multiple load points

Heavy artwork (large frames, mixed media, 3D pieces):

Opt for structurally engineered wall systems
Ask your supplier about weight ratings and fixing options

Choosing the right wall strength ensures your work is safe and securely displayed.

2. Consider the Space You’re Transforming

The venue plays a major role in the type of temporary wall system you’ll need.

Ask yourself:

Is the room large or small?
Modular walls help divide open spaces; slimline walls help in tight rooms.
Is the venue symmetrical or irregular?
Flexible systems are ideal for unusual shapes.
Is there natural light?
Thicker walls help block glare or create controlled lighting zones.
Does the venue allow drilling or alterations?
If not, freestanding temporary walls are essential.

The goal is to choose a wall system that adapts to the venue, not the other way around.

3. Look for Modular and Reconfigurable Designs

If you want maximum flexibility, choose modular wall systems that can be rearranged, reshaped, or extended depending on your exhibition needs.

Modular walls offer:

Straight runs for photography
Corner walls for feature pieces
Island walls for 360° viewing
Zig-zag layouts for immersive storytelling
Alcoves and sections for multiple artists

A modular system lets you design the layout you envision — not one that’s dictated by the venue.

4. Check the Surface Quality and Aesthetics

The finish of your walls matters more than you think. A clean, smooth surface elevates the artwork and gives your exhibition a professional aesthetic.

Choose temporary walls that are:

Smooth and gallery-grade
Neutral in colour (white or light grey are standard)
Seamless, with invisible joins
Resistant to marks
Suitable for lighting mounts

High-quality surfaces ensure that nothing distracts visitors from the artwork.

5. Ensure the Walls Can Support Proper Lighting

Good lighting is crucial in any exhibition — and your wall system should work with it.

Look for walls that:

Allow for spotlights or track lighting
Include mounting points for LED fixtures
Can hide cabling cleanly
Create controlled lighting environments

Walls that can’t hold lighting limit your ability to present art at its best.

6. Check How Easy the System Is to Install and Dismantle

The last thing you want before an exhibition is a stressful setup. A good temporary wall system should assemble quickly and safely.

Ask about:

Installation time
Whether tools are required
Whether professional installation is included
The number of people needed for setup
How compactly the walls can be transported

Fast installation is especially important for pop-up shows and short-term events.

7. Think About Storage and Reusability

If you plan multiple shows — especially for schools, universities, or collectives — it may be worth choosing walls that can be easily stored and reused.

Reusable systems offer:

Long-term cost savings
Reduced environmental impact
Consistent branding and aesthetics
Fast setup for future exhibitions

Even hired systems can be reused across events if you work regularly with the same provider.

8. Evaluate Your Budget (But Don’t Sacrifice Quality)

Temporary wall systems come in various price brackets. While budget matters, the cheapest option isn’t always best — especially if:

The walls look flimsy
They can’t hold artwork securely
They limit layout options
They don’t create a clean, gallery-standard look

Prioritise value over cost: a good temporary wall system pays off in presentation, professionalism, and visitor experience.

9. Choose a Supplier With Experience in Art Exhibitions

Not all wall suppliers understand the needs of galleries and curators.
Choose a provider who specialises in temporary gallery walls and has experience transforming diverse venues.

Ask for:

Previous examples of installations
Testimonials
Floor plan support
Lighting options
Delivery and installation services

An expert supplier can help you design a layout that enhances your exhibition vision.

Conclusion: The Right Wall System Shapes the Entire Exhibition

Choosing the right temporary wall system isn’t just a practical decision — it shapes the atmosphere, flow, lighting, and professionalism of your entire exhibition.

With the right walls, you can:

Transform any venue into a gallery
Display artwork safely and beautifully
Create a custom layout
Deliver a memorable visitor experience

From pop-ups to large-scale exhibitions, temporary walls are the backbone of modern, flexible, and professional art display.

Need High-Quality Temporary Wall Systems for Your Exhibition?

We supply premium modular and temporary wall systems designed specifically for galleries, artists, curators, and event organisers.

👉 Contact us today for expert advice and a seamless setup for your upcoming exhibition.