Wide Plein Air Frames: Grandeur, Prestige, and Commanding Presence
Born from the revolutionary spirit of the Impressionist movement, the Wide Plein Air Frame collection is specifically designed to bestow grandeur and importance upon artworks created in nature. Characterized by its signature wide profile, typically 3 inches or more, this style is a favorite among landscape artists, galleries, and collectors. It adds a sense of substance and prestige to artworks of all sizes, making a powerful statement that is both classic and authoritative.
A Legacy Born from Impressionism
With roots in 19th-century France, the plein air style was developed as Impressionist artists moved outdoors. They required a frame that was simpler than ornate Salon styles but still possessed enough substance to command attention. Drawing inspiration from the Italian "Cassetta" (little box) frame, the modern plein air frame features a wide, clean profile that powerfully complements the art without distracting from it.
The Power of an Authoritative Profile
The defining characteristic of this frame is its wide, authoritative profile. This width is intentionally substantial, adding a feeling of "grandeur" and "prestige" that elevates the artwork's perceived value. It provides a commanding border that ensures even a small painting becomes a strong focal point on a wall, while also providing the necessary visual weight to balance large-scale pieces.
The "Visual Amplifier" Effect
The wide profile of a plein air frame acts as a "visual amplifier," a critical strategic tool for artists. The disproportionately wide border expands the artwork's visual footprint, giving it more "wall power" and presence than a narrow frame could. This effect draws the viewer's eye inward while making the entire piece feel more significant, a crucial advantage for artists in gallery exhibitions or competitions.
Why Choose Wide Plein Air Frames?
Choose a Wide Plein Air frame when you want to make a bold, confident statement. This style is the definitive choice for adding importance and value to landscape paintings, but its classic, clean design makes it versatile enough for portraits, still lifes, and more. For a presentation that is prestigious, commanding, and steeped in art history, the wide plein air frame is an unparalleled solution.