Framer's Corner

Alan Claude

Downeast Art & Framing is proud to feature work by local artist, Alan Claude. His lighthouse collection series is a dramatic and bold interpretation of Maine Lighthouses and their surrounding environments. Claude currently has mastered 6 lighthouses; Bass Harbor, Cape Neddick (NubbleLight), Pemaquid Point Light, Rockland Breakwater Light, West Quoddy Head Light and The Portland Headlight. These prints are available 18 x 24, 36 x 53 and 12 x 36 for the collection of six. Stop by to see his collection at Downeast Art & Framing.

Framing Tips from the Experts

Too narrow of a mat distracts more than too wide of one. Proportionally between frame width, mat and your art and the style of framing(traditionalvx.modern)are guides. A general rule of thumb is matting from 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 times the width of the frame.

A light colored top mat moves the art toward the viewer, while a dark colored one moves the piece back visually. Two or more mats add visual interest by interacting with the colors and tones in a piece, while a single mat is a more static presentation.

Major improvements in framing materials occur every 5-8 years. Acid free mats and UV-reductive glazing are now standard. If you are unsure if your valued piece has these materials, bring it in and let us take a look.

Stop by Downeast Art & Framing for more tips from our experts.