The ice is gone but I’m still celebrating the miracle of this season’s change. Here is one more painting of the ‘last of the ice’. This one is of the Chena River from the Nordale boat landing.

Choosing a frame is a challenge. You need the frame to protect the artwork but it also creates a ‘stage’ for the painting or drawing. It is interesting to see how a frame changes the painting and adds to the total experience.

Choosing the right frame takes time but it is worth it. Frames are the ‘fine furniture’ for your walls. Paintings and the frames are the first thing you see when you enter a room.

Take a look at this recent watercolor that I painted of two swans.

When you look at the photo below of the painting framed, it gives a better idea of the size. It’s a full sheet of watercolor paper, 22″ x 30″ but that is hard to imagine until you see it above the couch.

A watercolor should never be in direct contact with the glass. The matt keeps it back from the glass slightly and protects it. A double or triple matt adds color and interest. I chose a metal frame because it reflects and shimmers like water and ties into the theme.

The swans are in Creamer’s Field for such a short period of time. I’m glad that I ‘caught’ them in this painting.

More information about this painting of the pair of swans is at this link.

8″ x 10″ oil painting of the north fork of the Chena River from one of my plein air adventures in April.

The wood frame with gold leaf edging makes the painting feel cozy and welcoming. It complements and balances the color and makes a very pleasing combination.

More information about this painting is at this link.