When it comes to displaying artwork, the choice of mat colors and textures can make or break the overall presentation. A well-selected mat complements your fine art and ensures the focus remains on the piece while adding an extra layer of sophistication.
Matting not only enhances the visual appeal but also protects the artwork. In this guide, we delve into the top five considerations for choosing the perfect mat colors and textures for your art.
1. Match the Mat to the Artwork’s Tone and Mood
The first step in selecting a mat is understanding the tone and mood of the artwork. Is it vibrant and lively, or is it soft and contemplative? The mat color should align with these characteristics.
For vibrant pieces, choose bold, contrasting mat colors that highlight the artwork’s energy. For instance, a bright yellow mat can amplify the radiance of a sunny landscape painting. Conversely, for a subdued piece, opt for neutral or pastel hues that harmonize with the artwork’s mood without overpowering it. This thoughtful alignment ensures the mat becomes a seamless extension of the art.
Textures also play a role here. A smooth, minimalistic mat is ideal for contemporary fine art, while textured mats, like linen or suede, add depth and dimension to traditional or rustic pieces. This balance between color and texture keeps the focus on the artwork.
2. Complement the Colors in the Artwork
Another essential factor is selecting a mat color that complements the colors within the artwork. Analyze the dominant and secondary hues in your fine art piece, and use the mat to either echo or contrast these colors.
For example, a floral painting with shades of pink and green might benefit from a mat that picks up the soft greens or dusty roses within the composition. Using analogous colors—those close to each other on the color wheel—creates a harmonious effect. Alternatively, a complementary color scheme can add vibrancy and make the art “pop.”
When working with custom art framing, consider double or triple matting to layer complementary colors. This not only enhances the artwork but also adds visual depth. The outer mat can be neutral, with an inner mat in a contrasting color to subtly tie the frame and art together.
3. Consider the Artwork’s Era and Style
The era and style of your artwork should guide your matting choices. Classic and antique pieces, for instance, often pair beautifully with traditional mat colors and textures, such as cream or taupe with a textured finish. Modern, abstract art, on the other hand, thrives on bold, sleek mats in unconventional colors or smooth finishes.
For a vintage piece, consider mats with a slightly aged appearance, such as textured linen or lightly distressed surfaces. For contemporary fine art, a clean and sharp mat in a single color often works best. Pairing these mats with minimalist custom framing enhances the sleekness and puts the focus squarely on the artwork.
Understanding the style ensures that the mat enhances the art’s historical and aesthetic value rather than clashing with it. The right pairing conveys a sense of cohesion and respect for the piece’s origins.
4. Align the Mat with Your Display Environment
While the artwork should remain the focal point, the display environment also plays a role in mat selection. Consider where the art will be hung—the wall color, the surrounding decor, and even the lighting conditions.
If your art will be displayed on a bold-colored wall, choose a neutral mat to create separation between the piece and the backdrop. On the other hand, a mat color that subtly mirrors the room’s accents—like a shade from the curtains or furniture—can create a cohesive look. Additionally, think about the lighting: Bright lights might intensify mat colors, while dim lighting can soften them.
5. Experiment with Double and Triple Matting
Double and triple matting offers a chance to incorporate multiple colors and textures for added dimension and sophistication. This technique involves layering mats of different colors and materials to create a striking visual effect.
The outer mat is typically the most neutral, acting as a border that separates the artwork from the frame. The inner mat(s) can be bolder, introducing accent colors that highlight specific elements within the artwork. For example, a black-and-white photograph might feature a white outer mat with a red inner mat to draw attention to subtle red tones in the image.
Textures can also be layered—a smooth top mat over a textured inner mat creates contrast and visual interest. Double and triple matting is a hallmark of high-quality custom art framing and is ideal for enhancing fine art and making it stand out.
Elevate Your Art with Thoughtful Mat Choices
Choosing the right mat colors and textures is both an art and a science. By considering the tone, style, and environment of your fine art, as well as experimenting with techniques like double matting and proportional borders, you can elevate your artwork to new heights.
Whether you’re preserving a cherished family photograph, showcasing a modern painting, or protecting a vintage piece, your choice of mats should reflect the uniqueness of the art itself. Take the time to experiment, consult with framing professionals, and create a display that truly does justice to your artwork.
