Framing Works on Paper with Artist Kellie Lawler

Framing is a topic we could discuss for days! Often our artists ask for feedback on whether to release their work framed or unframed, wondering if our Well + Wonder collectors enjoy taking a work of art to their local framer… or maybe there’s a comfort and ease of purchasing something framed that can go immediately on your wall. As you can imagine, the answer isn’t always cut and dry!

The fact is we have customers in both camps, so it’s nice to have options. If you’ve been following Walls of Wonder for a while, you may recall that we have covered “Framing Works on Canvas with Artist Hillary Howorth and Anne the Framer" and “Framing 101 at Cross Gate Gallery". Here to shed some light on framing works on paper is Well + Wonder Artist Kellie Lawler of Anniston, Alabama.

Kellie’s abstract work is bold, imperfect in the best way, and incredibly beautiful. She employs a Picasso style continuous line technique to create a graphic perspective on human figures, nature and other subjects. You’ll see that Kellie primarily paints on Deckled edge paper, and she is a pro when it comes to understanding how to frame her work in a way that complements her painting, preserves the art and looks great while withstanding the test of time.

Let's hear from Kellie on her famous deckled edged paper and what to keep in mind when making the three important framing choices...

I have had an overwhelming response that people prefer deckled edge paper. I personally like that the delicate raw edges of the paper in someways contrast the abstract perspective of the work. When I frame these pieces with my trusted local framer, Noble Frame & Gallery, it is my preference to show the deckled edges.

1. Choose a Mat: If the work on paper has deckled edges, consider floating the artwork on top of a white mat to keep the exposed edges of the deckled paper visible. I have seen people frame their pieces on colored mats, and that also looks amazing!

2. Choose a Frame: I prefer to use a solid gold frame with a black exterior edge, or an intricate antique style frame because I like the juxtaposition of an antique looking frame against modern abstract art.

Investing in professional conservation/archival framing materials is key. I feel that is important to protect your investment by professionally framing it to protect it from aging and direct sunlight. 

3. Choose a Glass or Acrylic: Your framer will likely present you with options when it comes to a glass or acrylic to finish your framing. Here are the three most common options with descriptions!

• Conservation Glass: This will protect your artwork, but you will see a natural glare from surrounding light sources in the glass.
• Museum glass: This also provides all of the conservation and archival properties but produces minimal glare. This is also the most expensive option. 
• Conservation Acrylic: This is an alternative to glass. It still protects against sunlight and aging, but it is a more lightweight material than glass and is safer to ship/transport and move around  your home. If the acrylic were to ever break the chance of it potentially harming the artwork inside is lower. It is also much lighter when moving around your home or a gallery or for shipping.

If you are lucky enough to purchase a framed work on paper by Kellie Lawler, you are likely investing in Conservation Acrylic framing - a material that will serve you well!!

Thank you, Kellie for walking us through your beautiful, thoughtful framing process for works on paper. Now that you're hopefully feeling inspired, checkout Kellie's current collection on Well + Wonder! As always, don't hesitate to reach out HERE with any and all questions! 

xx, Emily