Framing as an Art

Not many people think of framing as an artform, but to create a frame that enhances fine art pieces takes a keen eye as well as a multitude of skills. A frame, if properly conceived, is a way of mediating between a picture and its surroundings. As Martin Kotler once put it, “It is the mother holding its child.”

There are many factors to consider when choosing a frame, including the type of artwork being framed, the style of the frame, the color of the frame, and the size of the frame. All of these factors must be taken into account in order to create a frame that will really make the artwork shine. Frames and paintings should harmonize in color and in style and the integrated unit should in turn harmonize with the room in which it is placed. ‍

If you’re framing delicate artwork that utilizes organic or perishable mediums such as pastel, graphite or charcoal, you’ll want to consider talking to your framer about mounting, or “mats,” and using glass to protect it. Oil paintings do not traditionally make use of glass when being framed due to the paint needing to breathe, however are usually mounted in floating frames.

Does your artwork highlight bright happy colors, or is it in black and white? Is your artwork an aged historical piece, contemporary abstract, or a photograph from your favorite spot in South Carolina? You’ll want your frame to compliment your art, draw the eye in, and pull the room together. Maybe with a low country landscape oil painting, a simple gold floating frame will bring out the sunset. With your black and white photographs, you’ll want to add a mat and use a simple frame.

‍Framing has many components from start to finish and is an artform, in and of itself. Rob Shaw Gallery can guide you through the custom framing process and help you select the right materials for your valuable paintings, photographs, artifacts, and documents.