Framing
Even though framing is an essential part of any art collection, many people have a difficult time visualizing what a work of art will look like framed and matted. Also, proper framing is quite expensive. Consequently, many people ironically end up buying the cheapest product available to protect a priceless image. Yet, if you want to preserve your image and show it at its best you should not skimp on the glazing.
Many art buyers are somewhat interested in the decorative aspect of frames but unfortunately completely disregard conservation issues. Anyone who buys art must be aware that climatologic factors (such as sunlight, heat, humidity, air pollution etc.) can have a dramatic effect on art over time.
Works on paper, including photographs, are especially sensitive to light and humidity, therefore the material used to
display your pieces must be selected carefully to protect it from the destructive elements. 
Always ask your framer to use acid-free mounting boards (backings), mats and, when budget allows, ultra-violet resistant materials for glazing - it will help protect your art from fading, yellowing, and other forms of deterioration.
Appropriate mats not only facilitate visually attractive display but also protect your work by creating room between the (plexi) glass and the artwork. Paper, canvas, or any other material: The frame should never touch the work in any way. Frames must be separated from the surface of the picture and the canvas by a buffer material (float frame), to allow the material to freely expand and shrink with climatic changes.
| Glass | Plexiglass (acrylic) | ||
| Heavy material - hard to use for large pieces | Lightweight - use for any size artwork | ||
| Less expensive | More expensive; especially UV protected version | ||
| Breaks easily | Hard to break | ||
| Does not scratch | Scratches easily when not handled with care | ||
| Not static | Static charge - framing more challenging and not fit to frame all kind of works on paper | ||
| Can attract moisture when cold | Does not get as cold/ attract moisture (in fact absorbs better than glass) | ||
| Does not expand much when warm | Expands slightly more than glass in warm temperatures | ||
| Can alter colors of artwork (greenish) | No color altering | ||
| Does not yellow | Might yellow over time – keep out of direct sunlight (best for any kind of artwork) |
At Artishock, LLC we will carefully select the frame that looks good with both the picture and its surroundings. We will help you choose the best frames and mats to simultaneously safeguard and enhance your art. We work closely together with local professionals whose expertise guarantees your art is both attractively displayed and competently protected for years to come.
