A beautiful painting or photograph hung in the right location can really add life to a home or cottage décor. To maximize that impact, you need a custom frame.
The right frame is carefully planned and built to put the focus on the artwork, explains Tracy Kilgour of Martin’s Framing. It needs to look great, but shouldn’t be the star of the show.
“The job of the frame and the mat is to draw your eye to the art,” says Tracy, who owns Martin’s Framing along with Jeff, her husband. “We advise our clients on how to find a frame that complements the art or other subject being framed.”
Custom framing isn’t just for paintings and photographs, either. It can also enhance the look and impact of movie posters, medals, historical maps and more.
Martin’s Framing features an experienced and diverse team, all of whom bring unique talents to the table. Tracy has a background in graphic design and upholstery. “Donna has been in woodworking for years,” says Tracy. “Sue and Janice are local artists who bring their own experience and knowledge to the business.”
Most of the custom work is handmade on site at Martin’s Framing’s downtown Bracebridge location.
Glare control
If a piece requires glass, then Tracy advises thinking about where it will be hanging. If the location is near a window, for example, she suggests glass with reflection control.
“Reflection control will prevent a mirror-like situation where all you’re going to see is the lake outside,” she says. “If the space is a really sunny spot in your house, conservation glass will protect your art over time by keeping out 99 per cent of UV rays.”
Not only framing
Martin’s Framing also has an extensive collection of professional and amateur art supplies including oil and acrylic paints, pastels, brushes, quality canvases and much more.
Jeff explains they keep their art supplies well stocked and competitively priced to give same-day service to the art community in Muskoka. They can also order items they don’t have upon request.
They have a gallery area featuring local artists, as well as 17 different historical map prints of Muskoka which come fully framed and ready to hang, or can be mounted in custom frames.
“There is a real variety of styles and themes to the maps,” explains Jeff. “Which creates a nostalgic feeling to them.”
And, of course, they look great in the right frame.
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI | PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
