When decorating or renovating, something to keeping mind is a good designer will help with your artwork, while a great designer will enlist in the help of a custom framer. Thus, understanding that art, in its many shapes and forms, has the ability to completely transform an environment. Simple and architecturally uninteresting spaces become elegant, hinting at an understated luxury when exhibiting an imaginative presentation of the artwork.

The presentation of artwork, whether a photograph, painting, print or sculpture, is as important as the work itself. Photographs displayed in cheap clip frames will not only deteriorate, but are easily mistaken for cheap magazine clippings. Conversely, magazine pages with a simple mat and frame will display as an original piece, and can last indefinitely with the appropriate conservation materials. The framing technique has the ability to completely transform a work of art.

Individuals often find the task of choosing artwork coupled with the task of choosing a custom frame somewhat daunting, with the number of choices reaching overwhelming proportions. Thousands and thousands of art choices, hundreds of frames, and thousands of frame/mat combinations are enough to send an indecisive consumer running for the nearest big box store.

Artwork should be a reflection of its owner in varying degrees, with the presentation or framing of the piece reflecting the artwork’s personality. The environment in which it will reside is taken into consideration, but is not necessarily a dominant factor. Try not to overanalyze the situation. Art should enrich its environment and heighten the observer’s senses. It was never meant to mimic your drapery, with the frame matching your cabinetry to a tee! A little imagination can go a long way.

Framing does not have to be complicated. There are three main categories to choose from:

1. What is hot (trendy)
   
   
2. What has staying power (timeless)
   
   
3. Just plain fun (no rules)

A well-balanced environment should include a sampling from all three categories. Trendy interiors require constant upkeep, timeless lacks zip, and a completely fun design scheme may border on the chaotic. Balancing your artwork results in a pleasantly, well defined environment. Whether you favor abstracts that are bold and bright or muted, more complex classical pieces, a diverse environment is sure to captivate its audience while creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Your framer should be able to provide both technical and aesthetic information relating to any specific situation. Many possibilities exist to solve any single design dilemma. To insure that your specific design needs are being met, remember to bring samples, samples, samples. Paint chips, fabric samples and any dominant wood or metal samples speak volumes over, “I have green walls, patterned furniture and medium brown woodwork”. Photographs and measurements of the area are key to helping with proportion. If you need help adding to a partially complete room, it is understandable that your current surroundings are imperative to choosing a new piece. The better that you can illustrate your needs, the better the results will be.

Bring your home to life with artwork including originals, prints, sculpture, child’s art, photographs and collages. Anything that is of importance in your life will provide a dynamic yet comfortable environment. Moments can be captured and passed on to friends and family for generations to enjoy. We at Ken Segal Gallery encourage you to explore your personality through art. Go crazy; put that great green abstract over your tangerine sofa just because you like it!