Framing on a Dime

There is something about finding the perfect frame that adds finality to the artmaking process. Dabble all day long, but when the piece is matted, framed, and mounted, you know it is finished. A bit of presentation adds polish.

When the time is taken to frame a piece of artwork, there is a perceived worth bestowed upon the art by both the creator and collector. But why do we do this? How did it all begin? There certainly isn't a frame outlining the cave drawings of Lascaux (which are thought to be some of the earliest art made by human hands).    

A Quick History

While we can't say for certain, there is evidence of framing in other early civilizations. We find one of the earliest examples in an Egyptian tomb from AD 50-70. Made of wood, it outlines a portrait preserved in almost perfect condition.

Around the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, hand-carved, wooden frames became the norm. In fact, because artists were considered craftsmen during this time period, it was expected that if you painted the picture, you also carved the frame. 

The Louvre Museum has the largest collection of empty antique frames in the world. When it was looted by the Nazis during WW2, the curating staff carefully retained the frames left behind. And, more recently, following the art theft at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, barren frames were placed back on the wall till their masterpieces could be welcomed home. They are still majestically waiting.

The history of framing is fascinating! But for those more concerned with the here and now, what can we share to help you economically care for your framing needs? For starters…think ahead! 

Practical Steps 

When inspiration presents itself, it's easy to jump headlong into the act of creating. Is this a bad thing? Not necessarily, but it can lead to later framing headaches. Random sizing can require specialized framing. Here are a few things you can do ahead of time to help remove stress and lessen the financial cost associated with the artmaking process.

First, you can stockpile in standard sizes. Let's just take a moment and admit the obvious. It's not uncommon for artists to adopt a scarcity mentality and hoard materials for a rainy day. We do this for a lot of reasons. It's your choice whether you blame it on society's undervaluing of the artist's contribution or credit the artist for their innate ability to see possibilities in the discarded. Call it what you may, but if you are going to do it, you might as well do so purposefully. Collecting frames and canvases that adhere to standard sizes (4×6, 5×7, 8×10… etc.) will lessen the clutter and make the entire process a bit smoother.

Second, search according to your medium. If you are an oil or acrylic painter, your need for frames with glass is significantly decreased. Likewise, if you are working in a paper-based medium, a well-cut mat may be just the solution you are looking for to provide framing flexibility. Search out a basic mat cutter and save money on larger sheets of mat board rather than individual store-bought or custom-cut mats. 

(As a side note, if you are following this latter process, make sure that your piece isn’t touching the glass and that you are utilizing acid-free tape, mat, and backing board. These basic considerations will help in preserving your art for a longer period of time.)

Third, search for second-hand surplus. There are a number of establishments that regularly sell frames and other art supplies from the donated treasures their stores receive. These include places like Goodwill or Habitat for Humanity. Where I live, the Mennonite Central Committee runs a number of ReUzit Stores. In addition to saving money, when you purchase from places like these, you also bless others. Purchases go toward funding humanitarian efforts. In the end, everyone wins!

Fourth, consider the unusual. I once utilized an unfinished cabinet door as a canvas. The center was untreated MDF board (the same material I typically purchase and gesso for my acrylic paintings) and the outer frame was a high-quality unfinished hardwood; which was perfect for painting or staining. By thinking outside the box, I saved money and was able to get a fitted solution without extra concern about sizing.

Finally, rely on your community as you create. Artists are notorious for working alone. Yet, as human beings, we were made for community. Tap into your relationships not just for companionship but also for support. Let those around you know what you are looking for as you are contemplating a project. There is a wealth of resources to be found as a result of relationships.  

Re-Framing Our Lives

The idea of framing can also be applied to our personal lives. Just as a frame helps to focus our view, celebrate value, and protect from external abuse, God desires to re-frame our lives through the power of his Word. The Bible is our frame. It tells us that our temporary lives are of eternal consequence. Each moment of every day is important when it revolves around the focal point of the cross.

As we focus on the cross, we realize how much our lives mean to our Creator. Let’s make this personal for a moment: You were not created by chance. You were designed with purpose and crafted in love. And when, as a result of sin's rampant spread on the face of the earth, all humanity deserved destruction, Christ laid down his life to purchase your redemption. Does your life have value? Oh yes, more than you know!

While a frame is a thing of beauty, it also protects its contents from harm. We live in a far-from-perfect world and the negative impact of our choices, the choices of others, and the conditions of our broken planet are very real. Sin separates us from God and one another. We are all impacted at some level. Yet, the frame of Scripture keeps us from experiencing this heartache in its entirety. The Bible calls us toward righteous living and provides wise counsel. Though we may still wrestle with the consequences of our conduct and past decisions, God gives us a new start. Because of Christ’s cross, our value as God’s children is celebrated and our lives are re-framed by the loving hands of our Creator.

Final Thought

So, that takes us back to the beginning. While we may not know the origin of the frame, we do know the one who has redeemed and re-framed our lives. As you frame your creations for the world to see, remember that your Heavenly Father takes just as much pleasure in you. Taking the time needed to acquire your supplies frugally can be an act of faithful stewardship. Approach it as an adventure; an adventure with Him. After all, all adventures start with a creative spark! And they all started with God’s, “In the beginning…”