I readily admit I love all things French. Particularly Parisian interior design. I always add some “Paris” to my home because of wonderful memories and it just makes me feel so good. To this end, I purchased many different empty picture frames of varying sizes at a Paris flea market. Most of them were not in good shape but I didn’t care, nor did I have any intention of repairing them. To me, their designs were beautiful just as they were. I hung them all on the wall with no art inside of them. I love the texture and visual interest. I especially love imagining what their past “lives” may have been. What homes had they lived in, who were the people who had owned them, and what had been framed inside of them. They are very old so I imagine they could share many delicious stories!
In the end, we don’t or shouldn’t buy art merely as an investment. Nor should we acquire art pieces that we think others will like. Art is soulful. No matter what form it takes, it has to mean something to us. It’s in our home and whatever art we choose should please us and make us feel good and enhance our spirit. Besides personalizing our homes, art tells a story of who we are as unique human beings.
We can make art out of anything. It can be framed photos, drawings, paintings, favorite “found things,” jewelery, the list is endless. The photos shown here demonstrate many different ways to frame our treasures. From framing a fireplace to add architectural interest, to a chalkboard where a child can make new art everyday. Even the use of paint to “frame” a frame, or turning wallpaper into framed art. There are so many possibilities to artfully share our story.
I hope the photos pique your creativity. You can probably think of other ways as well. The whole idea is that your art allows your spirit to shine and makes you smile.
Apply the adage “less is more” to frames. This grouping is an eclectic and chic solution for wall decoration done inexpensively.
by decordemon
Wondering where to display the rocks your family collected on vacation? Hang some thick, natural wood frames and rest the rocks inside. (Museum wax can help hold them in place.) It turns them into instant artwork and places them an unexpected spot.
by Liz Williams Interiors
Gallery walls aren’t anything new, but sneaking in piece of framed mesh adds unique flair to this arrangement. Framing mesh not only works functionally as a place to hang jewelry, but the colorful jewelry also adds charm to the display.
by Tamar Schechner
Have an oversized bathroom mirror that extends wall to wall? Give it some visual interest by framing sections. This will also create separate areas for the sink and vanity.
by LORRAINE G VALE
No one would expect to find this vase inside a picture frame, and it creates a visual display all your own.
by usona
Simply because something is already framed doesn’t mean it can’t be re-framed. Lean an empty frame against the wall and complete the vignette with a smaller framed mirror and personal objects for a feminine and sweet look.
by French Larkspur
Add interest to a typically framed photograph with another frame via color-block. On the white wall, this piece would have been lost; against the orange, it pops. This is also inexpensive!
by H&H Design
Create a distinction around your fireplace surround by framing it. This natural wood frame brings a welcomed sense of nature to the look.
by A Waters
Find great antique frames, place mirrors inside and hang them behind your bedside lamps. Not only is it a unique and unusual spot to place framed mirrors, but they will create a great reflective glow at night.
by Jamie Laubhan-Oliver
Get creative with both the frames and the contents. Distressed window panes can hold anything from typical artwork to pages of your favorite book, attached with ribbon.
by French Larkspur
Like the idea of wallpaper but not willing to commit to an entire wall? Framed wallpaper panels are a great solution. Paint the frames the same color as the wall to give the panels the effect of molding.
Frame your frames! Gallery walls are great ways to showcase a variety of pieces; if you really want them to pop, frame the gathering and paint the background a complementary color.
by Peg Berens Interior Design LLC
Ground a wall with empty frames, and then fill the remainder with something of personal meaning.
by French Larkspur
Chalkboards are fun, functional and great for the kids. Chic-ify it with a frame; this helps it look less like it belongs in the playroom and more like a stylish wall accessory.
Until next time…
Blessings,
Nancy
Photo source: Houzz
