“If you like it then you better put a ring on it!” Shout out to Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” lyrics as I think about all the unframed art work I have created over the last 20 years. If you like your art, put a frame on it!
Whether a piece of art is purchased, commissioned, or I have decided to display one of my own favorites, I am always surprised by how much change happens when you frame a painting. It’s as though it breathes a whole new life!
When choosing a frame, you must consider a few different features of the painting itself, as well as where you would like to display your art.
#1 - What colors jump out? If the painting include a lot of bold or primary colors, contrasting with black or white, you may want to select a simple black frame. If the colors are very soft pastels, maybe a white, silver, or white-washed wood frame will work.
#2 Is the painting oil, acrylic, or watercolor? Traditionally, watercolor paintings are displayed under glass, whereas oil and acrylic art requires no glass.
#3 Your home decor. Consider where you want to display your art. If you have a farmhouse theme in your home, a rustic barn wood frame will look beautiful. Traditional or Victorian homes may call for more traditional and elegant frames in subtle wood finishes or gold leaf. Modern or contemporary homes may look best with simple lines and frames in solid colors or metallic finishes.
No matter what style of frame you select, I promise you’ll be pleased with how much it solidifies your painting as a work of art! Don’t be afraid to experiment with options by bringing your art to a local arts & crafts or frame shop to size it up and see what looks best.
