Framing - The Last Step In Oil Painting?

The frame of an oil painting seems like it should be the last step in the process of the artwork. In fact, oil paintings are often sold unframed, leaving the framing to the buyer in order that the frame match the decor of the room in which the painting might be displayed. I believe that sometimes it is assumed that the frame of a painting is an after-thought. Contrary to the preference of the general public, I choose to determine the frame of each painting I create and begin incorporating it into the artwork right from the start. In some cases I even build the creation of the painting around the concept of the frame.

I'll be the first to admit that I don't know anything about traditional framing. I couldn't put a custom frame together if I tried. Moreover, I get overwhelmed at the frame store when I see the large variety of samples on the wall. I'm really not a custom frame type of person. However, custom framing is really not what I'm talking about here.

Even though I generally do not use traditional framing sources, framing a painting is something I think about before the piece is even finished. To me, the frame becomes a part of the artwork. Often that means I have to construct the frame myself out of materials that I feel offer reinforcement to the concept of the paintings.

I painted a whole series of artworks wherein the concept of the series is built upon the interaction between the frame and the painting. In each case I built the frame before I even began painting. Click here to see examples from the series.

Some of my more current work also includes the frame as part of each piece. One entitled A Manifold of Events is meant not to wear a frame at all, but is bordered with gold leaf around the edges. For some others, the frame is merely the stretchers covered in decorative fabric.

There are many artists today who maintain that their work remain unframed altogether. In this case, not only the painting surface is painted, but all four sides as well, in order to give it a finished look.

I do have to admit that when I painted a portrait of my parents for their wedding anniversary, it certainly did call for professional framing. Indeed, I felt that a nice traditional frame would suit the painting best. But, should framing be the last step in an oil painting...I think not!

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