Framed

It usually takes about an hour to frame each piece.  First the pieces need one last look, a signature, a name and trimmed to fit the frame.   I usually use standard frame sizes for the economy.  I want to sell my art so framing expense needs to be reasonable.  The frames you see in the picture are from an online art website.  My friend Gail and I watch for the sales and buy in large lots to get the "free" shipping.  The glass is also purchased in bulk.  I use non-glare.  There are conservations between using regular glass, non-glare and museum glass.  When you see a piece framed in each of the styles you can decide which you prefer.   There must be a riser between the glass and the pastel image.  Since none of these pieces are matted the riser is thin and set on the edge of the frame. 

Notice the piece on the top right still needs glass.  I need to check my inventory as the 16x20 size is depleted.  The piece is called Rejoice and will be on display at the Cheyenne Artists Guild Easter show in April.

These pieces were painted over the last few months.  The studio is now ready for new inspiration.

Framing

The evolution of a painting begins with the inspiration.  After it is painted it needs to marinate and eventually it is time to scumble it out and begin again or frame.  The shelf in my studio is getting pretty full. Later today I will will give all these paintings one last review, and if ready, sign, take a picture of the image and give them to my framer.  I am lucky as I married my framer.  He has learned the elements of framing.  I choose the frame and he cleans the glass and adds the riser that protects the pastel from the glass.  He makes certain the non-glare glass is placed correctly and insets the points, adds the d-rings, picture wire and wa-la, another piece of art ready for showing.  

The link is an article from Deborah Secor on framing pastel art. http://www.deborahsecor.com/pastel_talk.html