Nov 11, 2023

How to choose the best frame for artwork

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It never ceases to amaze me just how different the same painting can look in two different frames. In fact, just having a frame versus a bare canvas is equally dramatic. I'm sure there's some well researched psychological effect to explain it but the fact of the matter stands that frames do make a significant impact on how a painting is perceived.

Some trends stick - corks in wine bottles, for instance - even when the alternative is superior (a screw top is far more practical). But, in other arenas, particularly art, trends vary with the tide of opinion.

Unwaveringly, museums display classical paintings from the giants of the art world in equally impressive gold-pattern, extravagant frames. It's keeping of the period and we have become accustomed to such. However, contemporary art differs (such a rebel) and in recent times it's also been considered fashionable to display a frameless-painting, typically painted on a deep canvas so it protrudes nicely from the wall. Where frames are used, contemporary ones are whatever you want them to be, but they generally are less fussy. Personally, I'm all in favour of this as it allows the painting to 'speak' for itself.

Which frame is better?

In this example, we can see the same painting displayed in multiple frames. Does the black frame evoke a different reaction to the use of a white frame? How about the traditional gold option versus a humble wooden frame? Of course, there's a myriad of frame options out there but it's clear that the simple change of frame can help enhance or deflate a painting's perception.

The more observant ones among you will be saying that's all well and good but the wall colour also impacts our perception - and you'd be right! You only have to flick the TV on and catch a minute of one the numerous property shows to see some new build house with pristine white walls and the very first thing the owner does is to add some ginormous abstract painting with loud colours. Incidentally, these painting owners never use a frame for such works to keep in with the whole minimalist house vibe thing. On a side note, if this is your preference that always ensure the sides of the canvas are painted - this effectively is the frame.

That said, there's something about a frame that lifts an image and a subtle white frame can definitely 'add' to such a vibrant abstract. Needless to say, frames vary drastically in quality and price and a quick search of frames on Amazon illustrates this nicely. So, you're probably asking yourself, is it worth having a custom made frame? Well, if the artwork in question is a non-standard size then the answer is a clear yes. For high-value paintings (that definition varies wildly depending if you are related to a billionaire or just looking for a cheap option to decorate a blank space on the wall) but if it's an image you plan to treasure for some time then it might be worth having a frame made to your personal taste. They do tend to be better made and surprisingly affordable (at least the local frame maker I came across was super cheap!).

Oil Paintings

As I'm an oil painter I'd just like to highlight that oil paintings DO NOT have glass in front. Let's dispel this common misconception - the canvas needs to breathe (seriously) so you must leave access for the air, hence no glass sealing it in. What about protection from those cousins, grandkids, partners (or even yourself) from splattering spaghetti? That comes in the form of varnish - I'll be popping a future blog post about that, no worries. In contrast, watercolours etc DO require glass for protection. Speaking of looking after your precious paintings, please do not hang them in strong sunlight - it breaks down the pigments over time, leaving a pale imitation of the original vibrant image. Whilst we're on a tangent, extreme temperatures also adversely affect artworks.

Summary

In summary, don't settle for the first frame you stumble across, as it will impact the image. Dare I say it, sometimes even the artist/gallery has made a horrendous choice of frame. Your best approach is to try to match the style/genre of image to the frame e.g. if it's a moody nightscape of New York City then a bright white frame will jar badly, whereas a subtle black frame will help draw the eye in.

Good luck in choosing and watch out for the upcoming post on how to hang a painting correctly.