Sesqui Log Cabin in gold plein air frame, 11x4", Acrylic, by Lucinda Howe
Have you seen a description of a painting as framed in a “plein air” style frame and wondered what that meant?
Plein air painting is done “in the open air” or “outdoors”. Because time is limited, the style tends to be loose and simplified, and the paintings are often small in size ranging from 6×8” to 11×14”. Typically these paintings are framed in a simple style in silver and gold made of molding about 3 inches wide with very little embellishment.
Plein air style frames are available in varying levels of quality from discount and custom framers. The highest quality frames have perfectly joined corner miters and hand applied gold leaf.
The proportion of the frame is wide in relation to the small painting and relates well to the simple, bold style of outdoor painting. It is not the only style of framing that works for these small paintings, but it is what is meant by “plein air style”.
4 Comments
Lovely painting and frame. Where did you buy the above frame? Very nice combo.
This style is available at Michael’s. Be sure to look for the coupons or 50% off sales.
I am thinking of entering a plein air event and the prospectus asks that final paintings be framed and wired. What is the proper way to wire a plein air frame?
Hi, Cecelia. Attach the wire about a third of the way down from the top of the frame using screw eyes or d-rings.
