Displaying Your Watercolor Paintings and Prints

Artwork that uses paper as a surface must be protected from the elements. This applies to watercolor paintings and prints. Unlike oil on canvas or board, if the paper is soiled, it may not be possible to clean it. Therefore, a pane of clear glass or plastic protects watercolors and prints from damage. When mounting paper art, it is important that the surface of the art not touch the glass or this could cause it to adhere. A spacer is used to lift the glass off of the artwork. This spacer is called a "matt". The material that makes up the matt is called, "matt board". Traditionally, the matt is wide enough to create a background for the art. Usually the inner edge of the matt is beveled at 45 degrees. Generally paper artwork is surrounded by a narrow rectangular frame made of wood or metal. The artwork should be flattened as much as possible.

The art owner should harmonize the colors and shades of the frame, the matt, (the liner or liners, if applicable), and the artwork with the décor where the art will be displayed. If you are depending on a professional framer, it is a good idea to take a color photo of the area where you plan to hang the painting. The glass/plastic can be purchased in different qualities. The most expensive protect the art from ultraviolet radiation and reduce glare. Avoid "non-glare" glass, as it changes the appearance of the art. Unless money is no drawback, one can do well with glass that has UV protection only.

[ Back to Top ]

 
Copy & Copyright © 2006   Art by Edward. All rights reserved for all web contents.

Web Design by Creative Computing