Framing Advice
The ART of Picture Framing
by Nancy Muldowney
We have just returned from the annual Picture Framing trade show in Atlanta. We were limited on the amount of time that we could spend there this year but the time that we did have was well worth it as we saw some amazing ideas for framing two and three dimensional artwork and photographs.
In the twenty years that I have been a professional picture framer, I think that the industry has made tremendous advances in making picture framing a decorative statement as well as a means of preserving the art or artifact that it surrounds. When I was framing in the 80's, simple wood frames were in style. The frames made no statement at all. The function of framing was merely to hold the artwork rigid so that it could be hung.
Luckily, today the trend is to make the frame become a part of the whole package with the artwork. Framers are becoming more creative and adventuresome with their framing. We can show off a piece of artwork in the framing that will enhance it rather than, as some people fear, will take away from the art. Sometimes frames are stacked together which makes a wonderful and exciting presentation. There are new ways of making shadowbox frames for three-dimensional objects. We saw a beautiful presentation for a demitasse cup. I also brought back a great catalogue of wonderful mirrors of all styles. Decorating with mirrors can add so much to a room.
Ways of framing needlework have changed also. Rather than just stretching and mounting the needlework, it can be presented as a treasured piece of artwork with as much importance given it as any painting or print. I have done that with one of my own pieces of stitchery. Using a wide frame mats and a fillet, give my needlework a importance that it would not have otherwise.
There are so many ways to decorate your walls using picture frames. The art you hang on your walls can become a unit with your other furnishings. We saw one display where the frames were mounted on two rails of moulding so that they looked something like a trellis and it leaned against the wall. Stepping out of the box can be very exciting especially in making art special and look outstanding.