The ART Of Framing

Some people have described art frames to be as important as the art itself. In fact, as put so eloquently by Emma Crichton-Miller of Christie’s,

“Frames are the Cinderellas of the art world; they do a tremendous amount of work.”

So you’ve fallen in love with a piece of art – Now what? Framing artworks is an important step to consider with a myriad of options that can be confusing. Apart from the differentiated look that an art frame can bring you, it actually fulfills more than just that one function. So in this guide, we have collaborated with Ode To Art Gallery yet again to share some different types of frames that you can consider, and how they can complement your space. 

Why Frames?

Living in a humid country such as Singapore with high levels of light, frames (with glass) are beneficial for countering such factors that might change the quality of your work, and prevent it from depreciating in value. Frames also provide protection if and when your artworks have to be moved between locations, such as when moving homes or even countries.

The Traditional: Ornate Frame

If you are an individual who values tradition and history, ornate frames are an excellent option for your art. With unique detailing and ornamentation, an ornate frame creates a dramatic and bold statement that is sure to catch the attention of anyone who enters your space.

A unique design detail is to use an ornate frame to complement a contemporary interior design. This will create a fascinating contrast of traditional and modern that will add depth to your space. 

The Contemporary: Acrylic Frame

Acrylic Frames are a bold yet subtle choice for framing works that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Without a border, these frames will infuse your space with a sleek and modern touch, and are great for showing off your magnificent artworks in a unique way. They are also extremely versatile and can adapt to almost any interior design, as the clear frames blend with any background.

The Subtle: Simple Frame

When your interior design and art are loud enough that you don’t need anything elaborate, a simple black, white or wooden frame can work wonders to complement them. An understated frame looks splendid with almost any style of interior design, and will ensure that the attention is fixed on the focal element of your space!

The unconventional: No Frame

Not keen to hang your work up? No worry! 

For paintings on sturdy platforms such as canvases, disregarding a frame can be an unconventional choice of displaying an artwork. An effective alternative is to lean a work against a wall, to create a unique form of presentation that can also heighten the sense of space in the room. 

Having started the article with a quote, it seems only right that we end with another. As Eli Wilner (Wilner& Co CEO) puts it:

“The best frames are an extension of the art they surround, not its antithesis”. 

Choosing the right frame can make or break the art piece that you’ve so carefully chosen. So if you are serious about framing your art, you should spend a little more time to give it the importance it deserves. 

For personalised advice on how to choose the perfect artwork or the perfect framing options, do visit Ode to Art to enquire, or visit their gallery at 252 North Bridge Road, Raffles City Shopping Centre #01-36E/F.