At Artscape, we’ve had the pleasure of working on many unique projects, and one of the most
inspiring has been our collaboration with local photographer Juliet Morton and West Lodge Park Hotel. Juliet, commissioned by the hotel to capture the beauty of their stunning gardens, partnered with Artscape to bespoke frame over 45 large photographs for West Lodge Park’s guest rooms. The project theme, “bringing the outside in,” has transformed the hotel’s bedrooms into serene reflections of the natural beauty found in the gardens. The vision remains in place and even though a significant number of rooms have now been completed, Juliet’s work with the hotel continues. The Vision: Infusing Nature into Every Room West Lodge Park Hotel’s vision is to make guests feel surrounded by the peaceful charm of their gardens, even indoors. Their aim is not just to decorate but to create a tranquil atmosphere echoing the elegance of their gardens. When Juliet approached us with her beautiful collection of photographs, we saw the potential to enhance her work with frames that would harmonize with each room's design, blending her nature-inspired pieces seamlessly into the hotel's interiors. Juliet’s photographs capture everything from vibrant flowers to shaded pathways and towering trees—each a breathtaking view of West Lodge Park’s grounds, transporting viewers into the heart of the gardens. We knew that choosing the right framing would elevate her images and bring that intended sense of nature-inspired calm into every room. Crafting Custom Frames for Juliet Morton’s Photography We took a personalised approach to framing each of Juliet’s large-format photographs. Every frame, so far, has been designed with meticulous attention to detail, carefully selected to match the unique qualities of Juliet’s work while creating a cohesive look across the hotel. Here’s how we approached the process: • Material Selection: To align with the hotel's modern interior design, chrome and brass frames were chosen, known for their sleek, sophisticated finishes. Chrome frames add a polished, contemporary feel, while brass frames provide warmth and elegance, complementing room fixtures and fittings. This choice not only enhances the photographs but also creates a unified aesthetic, merging art with functional design elements like lighting and mirrors. • Mounting & Borders: The right mounting can greatly influence a photograph's impact. We tailored each mount to complement the photograph’s colours and tones, using minimal borders for simplicity or textured mounts for added depth. Each choice has allowed Juliet’s images to resonate while amplifying their visual impact. • Frame Style & Finish: Understated elegance was key for this project, so we opted for soft, neutral finishes that wouldn’t compete with Juliet’s vibrant scenes. Earth-toned frames brought warmth and life to each photograph, creating a presence that feels both captivating and calming. Bringing the Project to Life at West Lodge Park Hotel As each frame has been completed, Juliet collaborates closely with the West Lodge Park team to hang each photograph thoughtfully, considering each room’s layout and lighting. The result is a seamless blend between the beauty of the images and the comfort of each guest room. Every room now serves as a window into the gardens, offering guests a peaceful retreat that mirrors the hotel’s natural surroundings. With sweeping garden views and intricate floral close-ups, Juliet’s photographs—enhanced by our custom frames—immerse guests in the story of West Lodge Park’s landscapes. Each room now embodies an atmosphere of tranquillity, giving guests a lasting sense of the outdoors. Why Custom Framing Matters This project beautifully illustrates how custom framing can amplify the impact of art and photography in a space. The right frame transforms a photograph from a simple image to an immersive experience. Our collaboration with Juliet Morton and West Lodge Park Hotel allowed us to push our creativity and expertise, bringing the outdoors indoors and making each room a peaceful retreat. At Artscape, we view custom framing as an art form, and we’re grateful for opportunities like this to showcase our craftsmanship. Working with Juliet to bring West Lodge Park Hotel’s vision to life has been a rewarding journey, and we’re proud to have helped create a memorable experience for their guests. Looking Forward: Transforming Spaces Through Bespoke Framing We look forward to future collaborations with photographers, designers, and venues who share our commitment to quality and creativity. If this project inspires you, reach out to us to explore how bespoke framing can enhance your space and create something truly unforgettable. If you’d like to commission Juliet for photography or experience the beauty of West Lodge Park Hotel and its grounds firsthand, please click the links below. www.julietmorton.com www.westlodgepark.co.uk
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At our bespoke framing studio, we’re passionate about creating frames that enhance and elevate the work they hold. Each project brings its own challenges and opportunities for creative presentation, and recently, we had the pleasure of collaborating with local artist Tim Spencer. Tim’s stunning watercolour pieces, set to be showcased at the Lloyds Art Group Winter Exhibition from November 25th, called for a framing solution as thoughtful and elegant as the artwork itself.
Floating Box Frames for an Impactful Display For this special exhibition, Tim requested a presentation that would make his watercolours truly stand out. Together, we decided on a floating box frame—a style that gives the illusion of the artwork gently hovering within the frame. This method not only adds depth and dimension to the pieces but also draws the viewer’s eye in, creating a gallery-worthy effect that feels both modern and refined. The frames were carefully designed to complement the soft, luminous quality of Tim’s watercolours without overwhelming them. We selected archival-quality materials to ensure the longevity of his art and crafted each frame to exact specifications, so the final presentation would look flawless. The colours and finishes of the frame were chosen to subtly accentuate the artwork, making every detail pop while preserving the delicate nature of watercolour. The Art of Collaboration Working with Tim was an inspiring experience. As a local resident and talented artist, he brought immense passion and vision to this project, and his enthusiasm was infectious. We discussed the intricacies of each piece and worked collaboratively to ensure the frames would do justice to the art. The result is a collection that not only showcases Tim’s talent but also demonstrates the power of thoughtful framing to transform an artwork’s impact. Join Tim at the Exhibition! We’re thrilled to see these pieces come to life in the upcoming Lloyds Art Group Winter Exhibition from November 25th to 28th. If you’re in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to see Tim Spencer’s breathtaking watercolours in person, beautifully framed and ready to make an impression. Whether you’re an artist looking to frame your next masterpiece or an art lover wanting to preserve a cherished piece, or you have a momento you would like to place in a box frame and display for generations, our bespoke framing services are here to make your vision a reality. Contact us to discuss your next project, and let us help your art shine! Link to Tim's exhibition page One of our long-standing and valued customers at Artscape Framing, Annette O'Donnell, has seen her artistic career flourish year after year. Her journey into art began after overcoming a serious illness, and since then, her unique approach has brought a distinctive angelic presence to every piece she creates. Annette’s remarkable talent has gained global attention, leading to commissioned works from clients worldwide. In addition to her success as an artist, she has also run the highly successful "Artskool" for children in Hertfordshire for the past 21 years, offering local children the chance to learn from a talented mixed-media artist.
Recently, Annette’s artwork was selected as one of five finalists for the Art Prize Paris. The winner of this prestigious competition will have their work exhibited at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, a monumental achievement and a testament to her artistic recognition on the world stage. At Artscape Framing, we are proud to support Annette on this exciting journey. Our custom framing services are designed to showcase her vibrant and detailed work with professionalism and care. Each frame is crafted with museum-grade materials, ensuring her artwork is protected from environmental damage while enhancing its beauty. Furthermore, our expert packaging guarantees that her pieces will be safely transported to Paris, ready to be displayed in one of the most iconic art venues. By providing bespoke framing and packaging that meets the high standards of the Louvre, Artscape Framing plays a crucial role in ensuring Annette's work is presented in perfect condition at this prestigious exhibition. Annette is also starting Saturday morning Art classes for kids local to Harpenden from November 2024 which can be booked on the links below. Website: www.annetteodonnell-global.com Wesbite: www.artskool-kids.com Art Prize Paris Instagram: AngelartbyAnnette At Artscape, every framing project tells a story, and recently we had the pleasure of being part of a truly special one. One of our customers came in with an exquisite piece of artwork that she had travelled all the way to Canada from Harpenden to collect. The artwork, a delicate and captivating line drawing by none other than Dame Laura Knight, needed a frame that would do justice to its timeless beauty. For those unfamiliar, Laura Knight was one of the most celebrated British artists of the 20th century, renowned for her masterful depictions of everyday life and her pioneering role as a female artist. Her line drawings are especially revered for their elegance, fluidity, and attention to detail, capturing the essence of her subjects with minimal strokes. This customer, a true art lover, had bought the rare piece and made the journey to Canada to collect it. Upon her return to Harpenden, she knew the drawing deserved something special. After landing back in the UK, she came straight to Artscape, trusting us to create a bespoke frame that would enhance and protect her prized acquisition. Framing a Laura Knight drawing was both an honor and a challenge. We understood the importance of matching the frame to the artwork’s simplicity and grace, while ensuring it was preserved for years to come. After a thoughtful consultation, we selected a minimalist yet sophisticated frame that complemented the clean lines of the drawing without overshadowing its intricate details. We chose archival-quality materials to ensure the piece remained in pristine condition, and added museum-grade glass to protect it from UV damage while maintaining perfect clarity. The result was a frame that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the artwork, elegant, timeless, and worthy of Laura Knight’s renowned artistry. It’s moments like these that remind us why we love what we do. Every piece that comes through our doors tells a story, and we’re proud to help preserve those stories through our bespoke framing services. Whether it’s a treasured find from a distant land or a cherished family heirloom, we believe every piece of art deserves to be framed with care, craftsmanship, and creativity. If you have artwork that needs special attention, visit us at Artscape and let us create the perfect frame for your masterpiece. After all, every artwork has a journey, let us be part of yours. In 2010, during a visit to the Forbidden City Palace Museum in Beijing, our clients’ had the unique opportunity to have a piece of art created by a silk screen calligrapher.
Two beautiful scrolls were produced, each featuring their sons' initials written in Mandarin. The plan was to frame them once their boys were old enough to truly appreciate their significance. This week, they had the pleasure of bringing the first scroll to Artscape for framing. For such a special piece, they chose a bespoke framing design to enhance the artwork’s beauty and cultural significance. With advice from our staff they selected a hand-finished, lacquered frame with a subtle black and gold finish to complement the rich colors of the scroll and the bold black calligraphy. To protect the delicate silk, we used a museum-grade, UV-protective glass that prevents fading and ensures longevity. The scroll was carefully mounted on an acid-free backing, preserving the fabric and preventing any damage over time. To add depth and elegance, we included a shiny backing board to add depth to the overall look. The bold black characters in the design are the focal point, each symbolizing something meaningful. While they had a Mandarin speaker translate them at the time, they’ve since forgotten the exact meanings—though they recall one represents good luck and the other happiness. They are now looking forward to bringing in the second scroll for framing soon, completing this meaningful pair having been very happy with the presentation of the first one. This bespoke framing project has been a joy to work on, and we are thrilled to see this treasured piece of family history preserved and displayed beautifully. Whether it’s a cherished memory from a faraway land or a beloved piece of art, we take pride in crafting frames that tell your story. Pip Mole, known for her dynamic abstract expressionist works that capture the essence of movement, will showcase her art in her debut solo exhibition from October 2nd to 5th, 2024, at The Chapel, Highfield Oval, Harpenden.
Each piece is an exploration of motion, influenced by her diverse experiences in dance and sports.To complement Pip's unique art, Artscape Bespoke Framing offers tailor-made framing solutions, ensuring every artwork is impeccably presented. With custom framing, our service at Artscape can enhance both the aesthetic and longevity of the pieces, making it perfect for exhibitions. Bespoke framing has played a crucial role in elevating the presentation of Pip Mole’s artwork at her exhibition. Artscape's custom framing solutions chosen for the pieces displayed at the exhibition have been designed to complement the abstract expressionist style, enhancing the visual impact without overpowering the art itself. By using materials and finishes that align with the tone and texture of her dynamic works, Artscape ensured that each frame not only protected but also added a layer of sophistication. This meticulous attention to detail helps viewers experience Pip's art in its fullest expression at the exhibition making each piece a worthwhile investment for the art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Be sure to visit the exhibition running here in Harpenden from the 2nd October to 5th October. For more information and to find out more about Pip please visit: Website: www.pipmoleart.com Instagram: @pipmoleart Recently, we had the pleasure of working with a stunning piece by the renowned artist Damien Hirst, Politeness (2021). This limited-edition artwork, from Hirst’s The Virtues series, measures 120 cm x 96 cm and is a laminated giclée print on an aluminium composite panel—a striking medium that required a customized framing solution. Framing a work on aluminium composite is no simple task. Unlike traditional canvas or paper, this medium demands a unique approach to ensure both stability and visual impact. Simply placing a standard frame around it wasn’t an option; the piece needed a frame built that would not only support its weight and structure but also enhance its bold presence.
The Bespoke Framing Process 1. Understanding the Artwork: Before starting the design, we carefully analyzed the artwork's texture, color palette, and overall aesthetic. Hirst’s vibrant and dynamic style, coupled with the sleek finish of the aluminium, called for a frame that would complement the piece without overwhelming it. 2. Custom Frame Design: We opted for a minimalistic floating frame design, allowing the artwork to appear as though it’s “floating” within the frame. This approach emphasizes the clean lines and contemporary feel of the piece while offering sturdy support. The frame was custom-built from scratch, using high-quality wood with a matte white finish to contrast beautifully with the artwork's vivid colors. 3. Mounting Technique: Traditional mounting methods would not suffice for this piece. Instead, we built, in our workshop, a concealed support system specifically designed in house for this aluminium composite panel. This method not only ensures the artwork is securely fastened but also maintains a seamless, elegant look. 4. Final Touches: The finishing touch was a discreet, recessed hanger that allows the piece to sit flush against the wall, giving the illusion that it’s hovering—a perfect showcase for such a modern work of art. The Result; The final framed piece not only safeguards this valuable artwork but also elevates its presentation, making it a true focal point in any space. Our client was delighted with the outcome, and we were thrilled to have the opportunity to frame such a captivating piece by one of today’s most influential contemporary artists. The client, a private local collector, is now giving us his other three limited edition Damion Hirst pieces to frame. Whether it's a delicate work on paper or a challenging medium like aluminium composite, every artwork deserves a frame as unique as the piece itself. At Artscape, we specialize in bespoke framing solutions that honor the integrity of your artwork and enhance its beauty. If you have a special piece that requires custom framing, we would love to work with you to create the perfect showcase for your art. In the world of bespoke picture framing, every project is unique, carrying a story that’s deeply personal to the client. Recently, Artscape had the pleasure of working on a special project for a client who wanted to create an unforgettable gift for his three close friends. These friends, who had spent years playing golf together, were from different parts of the world, and he wanted to encapsulate their shared passion and memories into something that would last forever.
The concept? A beautifully framed memorabilia piece featuring golf balls from each of their respective countries—an extraordinary and meaningful keepsake to celebrate their bond. The Story Behind the Project Our client, an avid golfer himself, often played rounds with three of his closest friends. They were an international group, hailing from different corners of the globe, but united by their shared love for the game. Over the years, they had played on courses all over the world, each round filled with laughter, competition, and camaraderie. As a surprise gift, the client wanted to present something that symbolized not just their passion for golf, but the unique friendship they had cultivated. Rather than opting for generic golf-themed gifts, he envisioned something bespoke—something that represented the individuality of each friend while also commemorating their collective experiences. That’s where Artscape came in. The Vision: Golf Balls as Memories The client’s idea was simple but thoughtful: he wanted to frame four golf balls, one from each of their home countries. These golf balls would serve as a representation of each individual’s heritage and their shared golfing journey. With a clear vision in mind, he entrusted Artscape to bring the idea to life. The Framing Process We knew that this project needed to reflect the elegance of the sport and the personal significance behind it. Our design team carefully selected materials that would highlight the simplicity and beauty of the golf balls while creating a frame that was both modern and timeless. The layout of the piece was particularly important, as it needed to give each golf ball equal significance while ensuring the presentation felt cohesive. We decided on a minimalistic, shadow-box style that allowed the balls to almost ‘float’ within the frame. This gave the display a clean and polished look, drawing attention to the memorabilia without overwhelming it. Each ball, included a subtle nod to the country of origin, incorporating a small but tasteful flag motif along with a small name plaque. This detail added a personal touch, making each ball more than just a piece of sports equipment—it became a symbol of the friend it represented. The Finishing Touches To complete the project, we chose high-quality, museum-grade glass to protect the memorabilia, ensuring it would last for years to come without fading or damage. The frame itself was crafted from a sleek, dark wood that contrasted beautifully with the bright white golf balls, creating a striking visual balance. Once completed, the result was a stunning piece of bespoke memorabilia—a gift that would be cherished by the client’s friends for a lifetime. Each friend would receive their own framed piece, a constant reminder of their shared moments on the green, no matter where life took them. A Gift That Lasts Forever This project exemplifies the beauty of bespoke framing. What started as four simple golf balls was transformed into a meaningful, elegant piece of art that encapsulated years of friendship, fun, and international camaraderie. The client was thrilled with the final product, knowing that the gift he was about to give would not only be appreciated but would stand as a lasting memory of their time together. For his friends, receiving such a thoughtful and personal gift would surely be a priceless moment—one that they’d cherish for years to come. At Artscape, we pride ourselves on making memories tangible. Whether it’s a personal memento, a piece of art, or a beloved photograph, we love helping our clients bring their stories to life through beautifully crafted, custom framing. In this case, we didn’t just frame golf balls—we framed memories. And that’s what makes the art of bespoke framing so special. Final Thoughts Whether you’re looking to commemorate a special event, celebrate a friendship, or create a unique gift for a birthday, anniversary or even the ultimate Christmas present for the person who has everything, bespoke framing offers endless possibilities to make your vision a reality. Every piece tells a story, and at Artscape, we’re here to help you tell yours in the most beautiful way possible. For our client and his three friends, this bespoke piece was more than a simple gift—it was a memory, carefully preserved, beautifully framed, and shared among friends for a lifetime. For over two decades, Rory Browne has entrusted Artscape with his artwork, benefiting from our expert bespoke framing services to enhance his distinctive pieces. As a seasoned artist with a dedicated following, Rory understands the importance of presentation in showcasing his work to its fullest potential. Rory having spent 30 years heading up the art department at the popular St Georges school in Harpenden and having taught art to thousands of children over the years decided to leave that career behind and dedicate his time to his artwork. His exhibitions have been popular across the globe, and he has gained international recognition for his work. The presentation of these art pieces has been crucial to the success of his work. We caught up with Rory in his studio to get an insight into his world.
With numerous bespoke framing options available, Artscape has consistently provided Rory with the tailored solutions needed to complement his artistic vision. In this article, we delve into Rory Browne's enduring partnership with Artscape, highlighting the framing service that has played a crucial role in his success, here in the UK and abroad with his international exhibitions. Discover how our bespoke picture framing service can elevate your artwork to new heights. Bespoke Picture Framing Journey Rory Browne's bespoke picture framing journey with Artscape began over 20 years ago. Initially, Rory was looking for a framing service that could match his exacting standards and enhance his unique artistic style. His work resides in public and private collections both here in the UK and abroad. A graduate of the Chelsea School of Art, Rory said, "he seeks to reflect the beauty of the created world through his work" and that is evident when you see his work. Whether focusing on city scapes, mountains or the coast, his work never ceases to engage the viewer. After researching various framing options, he found Artscape. Our bespoke picture framing services offered customizable solutions that perfectly aligned with Rory's vision. Over the years, this partnership blossomed, with Rory consistently returning for our expert craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each frame was meticulously designed to complement his artwork, ensuring that every piece was showcased in the best possible light. This enduring collaboration has not only elevated Rory's work but also cemented Artscape's reputation as a go-to destination for bespoke picture framing. As Rory said, "he feels at home when in the Artscape framing workshop, working with our master framer to create the perfect frame for each piece". Precision and Craftsmanship Precision and craftsmanship are at the heart of Artscape's bespoke picture framing services. Each frame created for Rory Browne has been a testament to these core values. Our team of skilled artisans meticulously measure and cut each component to ensure a perfect fit. We use high-quality materials that not only protect Rory's artwork but also enhance its visual appeal. From selecting the right frame style to choosing the perfect matting and glass, every decision is made with the utmost care and attention to detail. This dedication to excellence ensures that Rory's pieces are not only preserved but also presented in a manner that truly reflects their artistic value. "This can make the difference when presenting your artwork in a gallery or exhibition" as Rory told us. Our commitment to precision and craftsmanship is what sets Artscape apart, making us the preferred choice for bespoke framing for many artists, some of which still travel to us even though they have moved far away. Discover our Bespoke Picture Framing service If Rory Browne's experience has inspired you, it's time to discover our bespoke picture framing service. At Artscape, we understand that every piece of art is unique and deserves a frame that complements its essence. Our framing services offer a wide range of options to suit different styles and preferences. Whether you have a modern painting, a classic print, or a cherished photograph, our team is ready to create a frame that enhances its beauty. Visit us in Harpenden to explore our variety of materials, finishes, and designs. Our experts will guide you through the process, ensuring that your artwork receives the attention it deserves. By choosing Artscape for your framing needs, you are opting for quality, precision, and a level of craftsmanship that has satisfied artists like Rory Browne for over two decades. Elevate your artwork with bespoke picture framing today. For more information and to get further insight into the work of Rory Browne visit his website. You will see past exhibitions he has completed and see several of his amazing pieces and learn a bit more about the man himself, you may even want to get to his next exhibition or invest in one as I’m of sure they will appreciate over the years. We wish Rory all the success for the future. www.rorybrowne.co.uk |
AuthorAuthored by members of the Artscape team, working on all things Artscape to bring the breadth of Artscape's products and services to a wider audience. Archives
November 2024
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