Smaller paintings deserve framing that treats them as if they are special jewels. To me, these smaller works have appeared "squished" by the mat or even without a mat, by the frame. Recently, I worked with my framer and we came up with a better solution.This one, going to the Appalacian National Pastel, is now re-framed. Even though it was a painting I liked, I disliked it when it was framed. I sat with it for months and then when the painting was accepted into the show it was time for a change.
The new look: the painting is floated and it shows its raw edges. My husband argues it looks unfinished this way. I think it looks real and it now can breathe.
It's in a shadow box-like frame with a wood with leaf under finish. The slight glow to the wood makes the inside water twinkle.
What is your opinion?
14 comments:
Personally I love pictures framed this way, I like to see the raw edge and the evidence of the layers that are left behind from making the piece. Your corner shot shows this beautifully.
It's a really good choice of moulding for the frame, in my opinion. It shows of this painting well and would work for lots of others. A group hanging in a show would sit well together whilst still being contained within the box.
I really like the framing. The edges of this piece are beautiful it would be a shame to hide them behind a mat. When painting watercolor I will use masking tape to define the border. I then mat showing that edge leaks and all. I do like yours better.
I like it for this painting. I always like to see evidence of how a piece is created and your raw edges seem to fit well with your "raw nature" subject. It's different, less formal and that automatically appeals to me!
Hi Loriann
Looks like you made the right decision. So often we get hung up on the notion that works done on paper need to be matted so the viewer cannot see the edges. I'm not one to favor that method.
Floating. . . is always more appealing to me, and I use it consistently for most of my work. Then again, I shy away from using adhesives of any sort, as well.
Here's hoping your work is met with high accolades.
Peace
Micros
This frame makes a memorable painting unforgettable. Sorry, Paul.
Hi Lisa, Carlene, Donna, Micros and Sam,
Thank you for your feedback about the framing. I agree with all of you about the raw edges being appealing, almost alluring. For that reason I have always loved to float work done on deckled edge paper...this was a switch. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. I really do appreciate it! Happy painting to all!
I love it, much better and freer, more honest. I frame my small watercolours like this now.
I love the raw edge, but I think I might have liked even more "surround" between it and the frame. Perhaps it would look even more like a jewel. But heck, it is wonderful the way it is.
Oops, just another thought... my eye goes to the darks, perhaps the frame could be a darker tone which would emphasize the glorious light you captured. Hmmm. Simultaneous contrast. Sound familiar?
Every voice has validity.
I'm with you and your framer ... whatever voices chose This version.
Raw edges and floating frame help viewer catch your unique offering ..
You serve so well at representing subtlety and Light.
The frame really works on this piece, not only the floating, but the metallic color matching the sky.
thanks Jo! i will make a point of dropping by and seeing your small watercolors.
Hi Marianne, you and i think alike. i did try a dark moulding as well but decided i liked this one more since I thought that it brought out the twinkle in the water more. Still maybe the darker would have been a better choice for the overall. choices, choices.
Hi anonymous! thank you for your comment. You are right, every voice has validity..i guess the trick is staying true to your own voice and honoring the other sounds as well.
Hi Pam, I haven't hear from you in awhile, welcome back. Your point is why I made the choice of this frame. Thanks for dropping by.
I love it when the edges are displayed in a smaller work. Your sensitivity to it's real size should give the new owner much pleasure. I haven't framed like this in years and should will look for those opportunities when presented. Bravo!
hi brenda! I don't know why i always thought the edges had to be deckled to float. why did i wait so long to try it? Like you, I will now continue to look for more opportunities.
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