Gallery Framing Tips for Artists: Make Your Art Stand Out

Creating art is only part of the journey for artists. Framing it well can make or break a sale. Indeed, the right frame grabs a buyer’s attention quickly. This blog shares practical gallery framing tips for artists to help your work shine. By keeping frames simple and modern, you’ll appeal to more buyers. Let’s dive into how to frame your art for success.

Why Framing Matters 

First, clients enter a gallery and scan the walls fast. A frame must catch their eye right away. Otherwise, they’ll keep walking without seeing your art. Ornate frames often fail here. In fact, many buyers find heavy, decorative frames distracting. Instead of focusing on the art, they notice the frame. Consequently, simpler frames help your artwork take center stage.

Moreover, galleries often see paintings in ornate frames sit unsold for years. However, switching to a simple or contemporary frame can change everything. For example, a painting ignored for months might sell in 24 hours after reframing. Clearly, the frame choice impacts sales.

The Rise of Contemporary Frames

Interestingly, more traditional and classical painters now use contemporary frames. These sleek, modern frames pull more eyes to the art. Generally speaking, a contemporary frame keeps the focus on the painting itself. For instance, a classical painting in a minimalist frame stands out in a gallery. As a result, buyers notice the art, not the frame.

Furthermore, the frame is usually an easy decision once a client picks a painting. By using a contemporary frame, you make it easier for buyers to say yes. In contrast, an ornate frame might make them hesitate. Therefore, modern frames are a smart choice for broad appeal.

Gallery Framing Tips: 1) Choosing the Right Frame

So, how do you pick the best frame? Start with simplicity and consider contemporary styles. Articient’s frame selection process focuses on frames that help sell your work. Specifically, their line offers thin, medium, and wide frames in traditional and floater styles. These come in multiple finishes to match various tastes. By keeping frames simple or modern, you let more people “see” your art.

Here are some Articient frames to try:

• Middleton: A sleek, medium-width frame with a modern vibe.
• Meeting: A wider frame that stays clean and contemporary.
• Vendue: A versatile frame with a subtle, modern finish.
• Warren: A wider frame that keeps things simple yet stylish.

Additionally, these frames appeal to buyers who like wider frames without turning others away. Typically, buyers who want ornate frames will buy them aftermarket. Thus, frame your art to attract the most eyes.

Avoid Overcomplicating the Presentation

Importantly, don’t limit your audience with complex framing. Ornate frames can push buyers away. On the other hand, simple or contemporary frames invite people in. For example, a buyer might love a painting but dislike a heavy frame. A modern frame, like Articient’s Logan or Reid floater, makes the art more approachable.

Moreover, galleries share stories of unsold paintings tied to ornate frames. In one case, a painting sat for a year with no interest. After switching to an Archdale frame, it sold the next day. Similarly, a painting in a deep frame went unnoticed until reframed with a Heater. Suddenly, multiple people talked about it, and it sold fast.

Gallery Framing Tips: 2) Wiring Your Painting Properly

Beyond picking the right frame, wiring your painting correctly is crucial. Nobody wants to see art tilting downward. When a painting faces the floor, it catches no light. As a result, it looks dull and uninviting. To fix this, raise your wire and keep it tight.

Interestingly, Articient’s hardware kits include plenty of wire. If you think the wire is too short, think again. Don’t be afraid to cut it to the right length. A tighter, higher wire ensures your painting hangs flat. Consequently, it reflects light better and looks more appealing.

Articient’s System for Success

Next, let’s explore Articient’s framing system. Designed for artists, it simplifies the framing process. Specifically, their system offers:

• Variety: Thin, medium, and wide frames in traditional and floater styles.
• Finishes: Multiple options, including contemporary looks.
• Simplicity: Frames that highlight the art, not the frame.

By using this system, you avoid the pitfalls of ornate framing. Plus, it lets you tap into the trend of contemporary frames. Instead of stressing over details, you present your art in the best way.

Broad Appeal Sells Art

Moreover, framing for broad appeal is a winning strategy. Clients can always upgrade to fancier frames later. For instance, a buyer might love your painting but dislike an ornate frame. If the frame is simple or modern, they’re more likely to buy. After the sale, they can choose a frame that fits their style.

In contrast, a heavy frame might stop them from considering the art. Therefore, don’t risk losing a sale over a frame. Articient’s approach, including contemporary options, ensures your art appeals to a wide audience.

Practical Tips for Artists

Finally, here are some actionable gallery framing tips for artists:

• Go simple or modern: Use clean or contemporary frames to focus on your art.
• Try Articient’s system: Choose from their thin, medium, or wide frames.
• Wire correctly: Raise and tighten the wire to avoid tilting.
• Skip ornate frames: They can distract buyers and limit your audience.
• Experiment with frames: If a painting isn’t selling, try a modern frame.

By following these tips, you give your art the best shot at selling. Additionally, you make it easier for galleries to showcase your work.

 Real-Life Success Stories

To illustrate, let’s look at some gallery stories. One artist had a classical painting in a wide, ornate frame. It sat unsold for two years. After switching to a contemporary Middleton frame, it sold in a week. Another artist used a deep frame for a traditional painting. No one noticed it until it was reframed with a Reid floater. Suddenly, it became a gallery favorite and sold fast.

These stories highlight the power of smart framing. Indeed, a simple or contemporary frame can lead to big results. By choosing frames that let your art shine, you boost your chances of a sale.

Gallery Framing Tips: Final Thoughts 

In conclusion, framing is a key part of selling your art. With the right frame, you grab buyers’ attention and keep it on your work. Articient’s framing system, including contemporary options, makes this easy. By offering simple and modern frames, they help artists appeal to more people. Moreover, proper wiring ensures your art hangs perfectly.

So, next time you frame a painting, think simple and consider contemporary styles. Avoid ornate frames that might push buyers away. Instead, use Articient’s frames and follow their wiring tips. As a result, your art will stand out in any gallery. Ultimately, these gallery framing tips for artists will help you sell more work and grow your career. Don’t let a bad frame hold you back—frame smart and let your art shine.