Reframed

Reframing artwork isn’t just a practical decision—it’s a creative one. The right frame can completely change how a piece is read, felt, and remembered. Whether you’re working with inherited art, vintage finds, or older pieces in your own collection, reframing is one of the simplest ways to make artwork feel intentional, contemporary, and alive in a modern space.

In the past, frames were often ornamental and dominated the artwork. Today it is appropriate to integrate the two and have the frame support the artwork without taking the attention away.

Clean lines, minimal profiles, and understated finishes—like matte black, natural oak, or brushed metal—allow the artwork to breathe. The frame becomes an extension of the piece, not a distraction.

Laguna 48" x 48" by Chris Masoure framed in a black floater

One can also play with contrast. Try placing an historical oil painting into a low profile black aluminum frame or a delicate watercolour in a very wide white matted approach. 

These contrasts create tension, and tension is what makes art feel current. You’re not trying to preserve the era the artwork came from—you’re placing it in conversation with today.

Photography piece by Amanda Arcuri with a bold neon pink float frame 

Matting is one of the most powerful modern framing tools. Generous white or off-white mats create negative space that feels gallery-like and intentional. Even busy or colorful artwork can feel calm and elevated when given room to breathe.

The use of oversized or asymmetrical mats and floating a work on paper to expose the edges can add a contemporary and designed appeal.

Custom framed works on canvas boards by Lee Lessem showing the impact of matting 

Modern framing thrives on rule-breaking. Artwork doesn’t have to be centered. Frames don’t have to be neutral. Collections don’t have to be uniform.

A modern reframe can also respond to the room it lives in. Consider wall color, furniture, lighting, and scale. Sometimes the best approach for a piece of art is to frame it in a way that helps it fit  into your space now—not the space it originally came from.

Custom framed photography piece by Amanda Arcuri 

Reframing existing artwork isn’t about erasing its past—it’s about giving it a present. With thoughtful choices, even the most traditional or sentimental pieces can feel relevant, bold, and perfectly at home in a modern world.