August, 2002
Source: Pioneer Press
Picture This
Turn Your Own Photographs into Objects of Art
Few of us can afford, or indeed want, a piece of fine art for every wall space in our home. And, though it is nice to have a piece of art that can be enjoyed for its pure aesthetic value, how nice it is to have a piece of art that has a personal connection to us. It is very likely that you already have such a piece. It is something you or your children have created and you haven’t yet realized how wonderful it will look on your wall with just a little careful attention.
For instance, in your collection of photographs from the past year or two, whether from travels or family photographs, chances are there are some great pictures. Go through recent photographs that you are fond of. Set aside those that attract your eye. In the travel photographs, look for two or three that have a similar feel in content, theme or color. Consider how they might look as a group if they were enlarged and thoughtfully matted and framed.
Family photographs and portraits can be terrific additions to a wall or on top of a piece of furniture such as a piano or chest when framed in the right way. Black and white photographs of family members often have a special artistic quality about them and when matted and framed properly, are every bit the piece of art a painting is. Vintage family photographs are unique and almost always interesting to look at as well as to talk about. How much more personal can a piece of art be?
Beyond Photographs
Children’s art is another source of decoration for a room. Much of the work done by children is very upbeat and colorful. Consider matting and framing it to highlight its essential elements. Hang it in a place where you will see it often during the day, like the kitchen or by the back door and it will have a sunny effect on the space where it is hung.
Framing collections of various kinds is also an interesting way to create personal art. For example, coin collections, collections of shells or vintage buttons can all be displayed in frames in colorful and fun ways.
Beyond Frames
Some collections that are worthy of display as art are not conducive to framing. I know a woman who collected small, interesting purses that dated from the early 1920’s through the 1950’s. One day she decided to display her collection rather than keep it packed away. These purses hang from hooks on her living room wall, adding their interest and color to her space.
Sources
Every neighborhood has its own frame shop, many of them are very good. As your friends and neighbors which shop they have used to frame art that you admire in their homes.