The psychology of colours in picture framing

In the world of framing colour isn't just a visual phenomenon. Colour evokes emotion and can be viewed as a language that speaks to us. Colour is the ingredient that can improve how a piece of artwork is perceived and how its story is conveyed to the viewer.

The frame is more than a border. It shows the artwork to a viewer like a conductor guides an orchestra. The right colour choice can show the nuances of a piece, amplify its message, and create a dialogue between the art and its surroundings.

We will look at the interplay of colour psychology and framing, empowering you to make informed choices that improve your art collection.

 

How frame colours influence the perception of art

Colour is a potent force that can speak to our subconscious. It has the power to evoke feelings, memories and associations. When it comes to framing, understanding these effects can make all the difference in how your artwork is perceived.

 

Black

Timeless, elegant and sophisticated. Black frames exude a sense of drama and contrast, allowing the artwork to emerge from its surroundings.

 Just as Coco Chanel famously said, "I have said that black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute. It is the perfect harmony." Black frames are ideal for modern and contemporary pieces, infusing them with gravitas and dignity.

 

White

Clean, crisp and minimalist. White frames seem ethereal, they create an atmosphere of airiness and light, allowing the artwork to take centre stage. Think of it as a gallery wall in a pristine white cube, a blank canvas that lets the art speak for itself.

White frames are perfect for showing off delicate watercolours, minimalist drawings, or black and white photography. This is especially true when the artwork adorns a coloured wall.

 

Gold

The ancient Egyptians revered gold for its association with the sun god Ra. And so too does a gilded frame imbue artwork with divinity and grace.

Gold frames evoke history, warmth and richness. They add regal elegance to classical paintings, portraits and antique treasures.

 

Silver

Cool, modern and industrial. Silver frames echo the lines and metallic sheerness of contemporary architecture and design.

They create a vibe of understated sophistication. This is an ideal complement to abstract art, black and white photography, or minimalism.

 

Natural wood

Warm, organic, and grounded. Natural wood like oak, walnut, or cherry creates a sense of harmony and warmth, connecting the artwork to nature.

The Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi celebrates the beauty of imperfection and impermanence. And so too do natural wood frames embrace the character of the piece they support. They pair well with a wide range of art styles, from traditional landscapes to contemporary abstracts.

 

Colored frames

If you want to add colour to your frame, you can choose from the pigment-rich Farrow and Ball colour palette. With 132 unique colours to choose from, there’s a colour for your painting waiting to be chosen.

Whether you’re looking for an airy pink, an intense blue or a mysterious green, we can help you choose and provide advice on what colours compliment your artwork.

 

Choosing colours to complement artwork and décor

Selecting a frame colour is equivalent to pairing food with the correct wine. It's about finding complementary notes that enhance the overall experience. Let's look at how to create agreeable pairings between frames, art and décor.

 

Bold artwork

Vivid and colourful artwork can be accentuated by a neutral frame colour like black, white or natural wood. This situates the art at the centre of the viewer’s attention. Alternatively, a complementary colour can impose a striking contrast. Imagine a Matisse print framed in bold red.

 

Minimalism

Delicate or minimalist artwork thrives in a simple frame. It can be white, wood or a soft pastel hue. This approach allows room for the art to breathe and avoids overwhelming the composition. For inspiration, consider the delicate Japanese ink wash paintings in bamboo frames.

 

Traditional

Classic paintings and portraits tend to suit gilded gold frames. Why? They enhance their timelessness and have become the de facto look. However, don't avoid experimentation at the expense of societal norms. Bolder colours like deep reds and blues create a modern twist. Consider a Rembrandt portrait framed in royal blue velvet.

 

Modern

Contemporary interiors call for sleek, minimalist frames with metallic finishes. These frames complement the clean lines and uncluttered aesthetic of modern design, much like a minimalist line drawing in metallic finished wood frame. Their likeness creates the contrast.

 

Eclectic

In a mixed eclectic space, the possibilities are endless. Mix and match frame colours, textures and materials to create a curated look. One that reflects your personality and style.

For instance, a collection of vintage travel posters could be displayed in mismatched frames. This approach gives you infinite creative space within a confined space.

 

Embrace the power of colour

Colour is a powerful tool that can transform the way we perceive art and our living spaces. By understanding the psychology of colour and its impact on framing, you can make informed choices that lift your art collection and create a home that reflects you as an individual.

The next time you're choosing a frame, don't just consider its style and material. Consider its colour as well. Let your intuition guide you and don't be afraid to experiment. The possibilities are endless. The limit is your imagination.

A frame speaks volumes about how much you care for your artwork. It tells people a little bit about yourself, focusses attention, creates atmosphere and protects your artwork.

 

Whether you’re framing for a collection, a one-off piece or for a gift, we have a vast selection for everyone. Visit Versus Arts and immerse yourself in our sensory collection of frames, boasting countless materials and styles.

Our framers have a genuine interest in art and making it more approachable. They will help you discover the right frame and advise on how best to display and care for your artwork.