Framing Brenders
The Framing Place and Gallery, the parent company of the Algonquin Art Centre, was asked by world-renowned artist Carl Brenders to frame his new original for the 2010 show, “Change: an Artist’s Perspective”. Matt Coles, Art Director of the Algonquin Art Centre as well as an experienced framer, was assigned the difficult and rewarding task of framing this masterpiece, valued at $56, 000.00 US. “It was truly an honour to take on this project” says Matt, “since Brenders’s wildlife paintings are among the very best in the world, and to participate in enhancing the beauty of his 2010 piece was an unforgettable experience.”
The quality of Brender’s piece, which depicts two Bengal tiger cubs and is called “India was their Empire,” demanded a frame of particular design to complement the precision and detail of the original: “It was clear upon first glance that a standard frame would not suffice, “ explains Matt, “and after much brainstorming and telephone conversations with Carl, who was in Belgium at the time, we decided to use a frame which reflected the patterning of the tigers.” Such a frame was no ordinary one: with double layers of water-gilded 12k white gold, and with a distressed onyx panel, the rich tones of the tigers and their surroundings were accentuated. “We used a Concerto frame, which is one of the finest custom made frames available. Its gold finish, gilded corners, and overall design sustains the balance of Brenders’ composition, while complementing its pattern—a beautiful frame for a beautiful piece, and the end result is breathtaking.”
Framing is certainly one of the more unsung elements in the art world, but occasionally, extra-ordinary pieces demand much creativity and vision from the framer. “It’s really an art form” explains Matt; “I”ve been an aspiring painter for sometime now, and I can tell you that the same sense of composition and design which goes into painting applies to framing as well.” The framed “India was their Empire” will be on display at the Algonquin Art Centre from July 1st to August 1st.
