Choose Complementary Colors

When framing artwork on paper, the right mat can help make the work pop, but you need the right color. Start your selection by identifying the 3 most dominant colors in the artwork. Often you’ll want to avoid choosing a mat that matches the primary color as your eye won’t know whether to focus on the art or mat. Instead you might select a mat in the same hue but a bit darker shade or a lighter tint. The frame color should always complement the image. If the artwork is predominantly cool in temperature, choose a cool colored frame. If the artwork is predominantly warm in temperature, choose a rich, warm frame. A natural wood or a dark bronze frame usually looks good with anything. The exception, of course, is a black & white photo or painting. A common option for these is a white mat and black frame, or try the reverse with a black mat and white frame. The rule of thumb is that white (or light) will help the image expand, while contrastly black (or dark) will contract it. It’s best to lay both options out to see which best complements the artwork.

Gallery 510 Art & Framing has a large selection of mat & frame colors to choose from. Let us help you make your selection!