Do I need to frame my art?

The correct frame can make or break a piece of artwork. Look at the two versions of the Mona Lisa to the right, and consider which frame does it justice.

While modern contemporary works are often sold frameless, which seems to suit their style, there are many works which significantly benefit from a frame. In such cases the frame is actually part of the artwork, and is required to complete it - would you consider putting on your business suit but then go out barefooted? More than being purely decorative, a frame often helps to define the edge of the picture - to contain the eye within the picture. In examples of bad framing I've seen, the frame has failed to contain the eye, with the result that eye is lead to wander away from the painting itself - not what you want to show off your latest investment.

In contrast the right frame can bring a picture to life, to make it 'pop' as one artist friend said. The colours can become bolder and deeper. The picture can become more three dimensional (instead of sad and flat). I've experienced this personally while selecting frames for my work - many pieces take on added life when framed correctly. Look at the Mona Lisa's to the right - which one has more presence and life when hung on the wall.

Are frames expensive? They can be depending on size and the frame chosen. However, as previously stated, they are part of the whole artwork. Depending on the media, a very good quality 16x20 inch custom made frame may cost you around $200-300 through an experienced framer. However this is a small price to pay for the degree by which it can enhance a piece of art.
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A quick lesson in history. Before the beginning of the 20th century, most painted works were framed. This was partly due to what was expected and fashionable, but more so because works in this period demanded a frame to enhance the work. Artists realised that the frame was an integral part of the work, and many well-known artists would spend considerable time selecting the correct frame for the work. Often the frame would cost more than the artwork itself (not surprising since many frames were ornately hand-carved and covered in hand applied gold leaf) – however the cost was justified as it was considered that the frame was part of the overall work – not just a whimsical accessory so you could hang the work on a wall.