Art Blog #41: What is a floating frame?
20. October, 2024 - Reading time 7 Min. - Peter von Hauerland
#floatingFrame #floaterFrame #ShadowGapFrame #artFrame #PaintingFrame
A floating frame has several synonyms. It is called floater or shadow gap frame in certain regions. It is constructed specifically to accomodate stretched canvas art prints, paintings and artworks. Let´s have a look at how it is constructed and why it is so popular right now.
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Where is the floating frame coming from?
To understand the popularity of the floating frames we need to undertake a little art history discourse. As of the middle of the 20th century the display of unframed paintings, mostly canvases became an accepted practice. Expressionist and Abstract art era has brought the topic of unframed canvases into the art galleries and museums. The flank of an artwork or painting has become an integral part of the art and has not been treated as disposable residue anymore. Art forms like dripping by Jackson Pollock has shown that the type of art in its entirety is taking the entire canvas as a place of creation, not just its frontal part. This has led to artists wanting to display the three dimensional aspect of their paintings. Traditional framing practice was suddenly standing in the way of this.
Why do we frame art at all?
History of art and cultural conventions used to see an unframed painting as something incomplete and less worthy. A picture frame has often been used to elevate the artwork´s price on the art market. Visual connection of the painting to the surrounding environment works very well by a choice of the appropriate framing. Aesthetical integration of the artwork into the surrounding enrironment such as appartment or place of business has always been a prefered practice. There were always practical reasons as well. Frames helps prevent the warping of paintings and general feeling of protection is a viable argument as well.
Construction of a Floating Frame
Curious about how a floating frame is built? It's actually quite simple! A floating frame typically consists of a rectangular frame made from an L-shaped profile. Ussualy there is no backwall at all. This sturdy profile assembly provides a solid security to a stretched canvas attached onto it from the back, either with screws or wood staples. The method of securing can vary; some opt for physical fixings like clamps or screws, while others use adhesives. Overall, floating frames offer a sleek and contemporary look to an artwork, while also providing a secure and durable display solution. So why not consider a floating frame for your art of choice? The spacing created between the frame and canvas acts as a protective buffer preventing damage to the canvas edges. Floating frames are a favored option among art enthusiasts, photographers, and individuals seeking to enhance the appearance of their canvas prints.
Market succes of Floating frames
A floating frame for paintings creates an illusion of a painting floating within the frame. This is achieved by leaving a shadow gap between the frame and the artwork. This is adding a sense of value to the displayed painting or artwork. making it visually more compelling. As a latest trend, they are used for art canvas prints as well. The market share of the floating, floater or “shadow gap” frames is increasing in both volume and coverage.
Floating Frames: A Modern Framing Solution
Floating frames have a lot of new features and functionalities compared to traditional framing options. Here's why you might want to consider using one:
First off, floating frames can really elevate the look of your artwork or photo. The space between the artwork and the frame highlights the depth of the canvas, giving it a more professional and polished appearance.
Floating frames treat the entire artwork as an object of high value not just a display section visible thru an old fashionned looking visible section or pass-partout.
Floaters are perfect for framing thicker gallery wrapped canvas art because none of the modern art paintings are really flat, especially contemporary and acrylic or oil paintings
And an added bonus is that your canvas art will seem like it's floating inside the frame once it's hung up, giving it a unique and modern touch.
Stylish Transformation: Want to give your canvas a bold and elegant touch? Floating frames can do just that, taking your artwork to the next level with a sleek and modern finish.
Final words
Incorporating a floating frame into your wall art helps to seamlessly integrate your piece with the overall decor of the room. This creates a seamless transition from the painting or print to the wall, ensuring that your artwork blends harmoniously with the space. If the colors of the wall and print are similar, a well-chosen floating frame in a contrasting shade can provide a visually appealing touch. For instance, pairing light walls and a light print with a darker frame can create an attractive contrast.
