what type of artwork is right for you? original on paper or canvas? or both! :)
QUICK TIPS:
- if you want ready to hang, get stretched canvas, wired on the back. check sides of the artwork so you’ll know what’s showing from side views
- if you want to create a customized frame presentation, with glass (or plexi) protection, get an original on paper
- if you have limited space or not sure of the placement but you love the piece and want to support the artist now, get a very small to medium size original painting on paper (kind of rare at local shows but so good when available)
- there are many framing options available for both canvas and paper
if you're looking for a piece ready to hang, then artwork on stretched canvas is usually the way to go. contemporary art gallery walls have a lot of unframed stretched canvases, ready to hang. these pieces could be framed for a custom or traditional look that's seen in many art fairs. frames on canvas do not usually need the glazing (glass). it depends on your space and the conditions that the artwork will hang long term.
for canvases, i have mostly used back-stapled with the thicker edge, gallery/pro quality. i also like to support local and have some of them custom built. for current year 2023 i am working mostly on paper and some panels. flat panels need to be framed or some other non-traditional set-up (i.e. display easel if the piece remains safe, stable, and you have room space). the thicker, mounted/cradled panels can be wired to hang or also custom framed.
on the local emerging art scene i primarily collect original artworks on paper for many reasons. i always prefer to collect the one-of-a-kind original rather than a printed product. at the local level, the price difference from original to print (with original being more expensive) is usually a reasonable step. so it's worth it to me to pay the extra for the original. and again i go for the original on paper since i'm not looking to fill a wall space right away. the paper stores flat very well. most artists will sell the art with a clear protector over the art or see if they have another product they can swap out for you to keep the packaging. if not then i use my own archival sleeves to store the originals on paper, safe and out of the way, not cluttering my living space or storage. when i ship my own large original paintings i also cover the front of the artwork with glassine paper; as extra protection between the tight sandwich of all the packing materials.
i love working on paper, as it adds a unique element to my style of art. for my paper pieces that are finished with oil paint, the paper has been prepared for mixed media and oil. you would then custom frame a painting on paper based on your décor and aesthetic. MORE INFO ON MY BLOG: Custom Framing options for your Art Purchase
*note: some artists also work on unstretched canvas or loose canvas, i have an example HERE; but i rarely start work on unstretched canvas. although it's easier to ship internationally rolled in a tube and less expensive shipping costs. this may not be an option for certain artworks that are heavily textured and/or need a rigid support. check descriptions or reach out to the artist to be aware of what you're purchasing. i usually ship my canvas or paper, large or small items across the USA in a flat package, not rolled.
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