Priya Kapoor
When it comes to measuring a painting, the general convention is to give the dimensions of the artwork itself, excluding the frame. This is especially true for jury submissions, gallery exhibitions, and online listings, where the focus is on the artwork rather than its presentation. However, when selling a framed painting, providing both the image size and the framed size can be beneficial. Artists have the freedom to choose the sizes and proportions that best suit their creative vision, but it's worth considering standard sizes to avoid framing costs exceeding the value of the artwork. The online art market is highly competitive, so providing detailed information and visually appealing photographs that showcase the painting's scale can help buyers make informed decisions.
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What You'll Learn
- When selling art, it's important to provide as many details as possible, including dimensions?
- The convention is to give the dimensions of the painting itself, not the frame
- If selling framed paintings, it's helpful to provide both the image size and framed size
- For online sales, a series of photographs can help buyers visualise the artwork in a real space
- When measuring art for framing, it's important to be accurate to ensure the frame fits perfectly?
When selling art, it's important to provide as many details as possible, including dimensions
When selling art, providing as many details as possible is crucial, and this includes its dimensions. Dimensions are essential as they give buyers the necessary information to help them visualise the artwork in a real-world context. This is especially important when selling art online, as the buyer cannot see the piece in person. By providing dimensions, you enable the buyer to understand the artwork's scale and how it might fit into their space.
When giving the dimensions of a painting, it is standard practice to provide the width first, followed by the height. For example, a frame measuring 30 inches in width and 24 inches in height would be referred to as 30x24. This measurement indicates a horizontal orientation, also known as a landscape format. If the measurements are switched, with height given first and then width, this indicates a vertical orientation or portrait format. It is worth noting that galleries and museums often use the height-first convention, while framers, builders, and carpenters typically follow the width-first approach.
The convention is to give the dimensions of the painting itself, excluding the frame. However, if the artwork is being sold framed, it is helpful to provide both the image size and the framed size. This is especially true if the frame has a significant impact on the overall size or appearance of the piece. In some cases, the depth of the canvas may also be relevant, particularly if it is deeper than standard stretcher bars, as this will influence the choice of frame.
To measure a painting, start by measuring the width and height of the artwork itself. If the painting has an interesting border, you may want to include this in your measurements, especially if it contains part of the composition or the artist's signature. Next, consider the desired border width and add this to your measurements. This will give you the overall size of the mounting board or mat board required. When measuring a stretched canvas, it is recommended to measure at both ends and in the middle, both horizontally and vertically, as the canvas may not be perfectly symmetrical.
Providing detailed and accurate dimensions is essential when selling art. It ensures that buyers have the information they need to make informed decisions and visualise the artwork in their own space. It also helps to ensure that the artwork can be properly framed and displayed, enhancing its impact and improving its overall presentation.
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The convention is to give the dimensions of the painting itself, not the frame
When it comes to providing the dimensions of a painting, the convention is to give the measurements of the painting itself, excluding the frame. This means that the first measurement represents the horizontal width, followed by the vertical height. Sometimes, a third measurement, indicating the depth of the canvas, is included if it is particularly deep. This standard practice applies to various contexts, such as jury submissions, gallery exhibitions, catalogue listings, and online platforms.
There may be instances when providing the framed size is beneficial, such as when selling framed paintings. In such cases, it is perfectly acceptable to provide both the image size and the final dimensions with the frame. This additional information can be valuable for buyers, helping them visualise the artwork in their space and make informed purchasing decisions.
It is worth noting that the online art market is highly competitive, and providing detailed information becomes crucial. Presenting a series of well-photographed images can significantly enhance the appeal of your artwork. For instance, capturing a painting hung on a clean wall from an angled perspective can provide buyers with a sense of scale. Alternatively, placing larger paintings above a sofa in a well-decorated room or leaning smaller paintings against a wall can create a similar effect.
While the convention is to give the dimensions of the painting itself, artists have the freedom to choose the sizes and proportions that best suit their creative vision. Some artists opt to work within standard frame dimensions, especially when selling artwork in certain price ranges. However, others prioritise their artistic expression and storytelling through paint, regardless of whether their work adheres to conventional sizes. Ultimately, the decision to follow standard dimensions or embrace free-form sizes is a personal choice for each artist.
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If selling framed paintings, it's helpful to provide both the image size and framed size
When selling art, it is important to provide as much detail as possible to help buyers make decisions. While the convention is to give the size of the actual painting, if you are selling framed paintings, it is helpful to provide both the image size and the framed size. This is especially true when selling online, as the buyer cannot see the artwork in person.
Including the framed size in the measurements can help buyers visualise the artwork in a real space. For example, you could suggest that a large painting might be hung above a sofa, while smaller paintings could be placed on top of a bureau. This gives the buyer a sense of scale.
It is also important to consider the depth of the canvas, as this will determine the rabbet (the inner portion of the frame that holds the canvas) required. If the canvas is over 1/4" thick, a shadow box frame may be needed.
There are no standard frame sizes, but it is important to consider the cost of framing when pricing your artwork. If you are selling paintings for less than $1000, it may be worth painting in standard sizes so that the frame does not cost more than the painting itself.
When measuring your artwork, always measure the width and height yourself, even if you think you know the size. Start by placing the art in the orientation in which you would like it to be viewed, then measure the width and height, as well as the thickness. It is important to get these measurements right, as the rest of the framing process depends on them.
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For online sales, a series of photographs can help buyers visualise the artwork in a real space
When selling artwork online, it is important to provide as much detail as possible to help buyers visualise the piece in a real space. While the dimensions of the artwork are important, it is also crucial to provide photographs that showcase the artwork in a way that helps buyers relate to it. Here are some tips to achieve this:
Firstly, consider the location of the photograph. A neutral-coloured wall is generally recommended as a backdrop since bright colours can distract from the artwork or alter the colour balance in the photo. However, it is also suggested to include environmental" photographs that show the artwork in a real-life setting. For instance, hang a large painting on a wall above a sofa in a room with nice decor, so the buyer can visualise the scale and how it might look in their home. For smaller paintings, consider leaning the artwork against a wall on top of a wooden bureau. Only add props if they do not distract from the painting.
Secondly, lighting is crucial when photographing artwork. Natural light is often recommended, especially indirect sunlight on cloudy or overcast days, as it can beautifully illuminate the artwork. If natural light is not an option, a lighting kit can be used, with lights positioned halfway between the camera and the canvas at a 45-degree angle to eliminate shadows and "hot spots". Diffuse the light with a white sheet or white plastic to evenly distribute the light, or use white foam core to create a "raking light" effect. Ensure the camera is set up so that the lens lines up with the middle of the painting.
Thirdly, the camera settings can make a significant difference in the quality of the photograph. A high ISO will result in a grainy photo, so a lower ISO setting between 100 and 1600 is recommended. Adjust the f-stop or aperture setting to control the depth of field. A lower f-stop will result in a shallow depth of field, with parts of the image blurry, while a higher f-stop will keep the entire image in focus. For artwork, an aperture setting of f/8, f/11, or f/16 is suggested to narrow the lens opening. Additionally, set a timer of 4-5 seconds to prevent camera shake when pressing the shutter button.
Finally, it is essential to provide high-quality photographs that accurately reflect the artwork. These photos will be used for product listings, prints, applications, and social media profiles. They are often the first impression of your artwork and can make a significant difference in sales. If you are unable to take high-quality photographs yourself, consider hiring a professional photographer.
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When measuring art for framing, it's important to be accurate to ensure the frame fits perfectly
Measuring art accurately is crucial to ensure the frame fits perfectly. This process is essential, whether you're framing your own artwork or purchasing a frame for a painting you've bought. Getting the measurements right ensures that your artwork is securely held in place and is displayed to its best advantage.
When measuring art for framing, it's essential to start by determining the orientation of the piece. Decide how you'd like to view the art, whether in portrait (vertical) or landscape (horizontal) orientation. Framers generally measure width first and height second for a landscape orientation, while galleries and museums measure height first and width second for a portrait orientation. It's important to be consistent with your measurements to avoid confusion.
After determining the orientation, you can begin taking measurements. Measure the width and height of your artwork, ensuring you consider the thickness as well. If your artwork is over 1/4" thick, you may need a shadow box frame designed for items with depth, such as wrapped canvas or 3D collectibles. For thinner pieces, a standard picture frame will usually suffice.
When measuring, use a ruler or measuring tape to get accurate results. Confirm the measurements yourself, even if the artwork or artist provides them, as slight variations can significantly impact the fit. Additionally, consider the depth of the canvas, especially when selecting a frame with a rabbet (the inner portion that holds the canvas). Choose a frame with a rabbet deeper than the canvas stretcher bars to ensure a proper fit.
If you're ordering a frame online, pay close attention to the ordering process. Some websites require you to enter the overall artwork size, including any desired borders, and they will then calculate the necessary frame and mat board sizes. Others may ask for the frame size directly, so be sure to understand what measurements are required for a proper fit.
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Frequently asked questions
There are no standard dimensions for a painting. Artists are free to choose the size and proportions that best suit their work and their storytelling. However, certain sizes may be more marketable or cost-effective, especially for emerging artists.
Generally, the dimensions given for a piece of art refer to the artwork itself, excluding the frame. However, it is helpful to provide both the image size and the framed size when selling paintings with frames. This is especially important for online sales, where providing detailed information and photographs helps buyers visualise the artwork in their space.
When measuring a painting for framing, it is crucial to measure the artwork correctly. Start by orienting the art as you intend to display it, then measure the width and height. For three-dimensional artwork, also consider the thickness and depth. If the artwork is on textured paper or canvas, measure at multiple points as it may not be perfectly symmetrical.
The frame size depends on whether you plan to use a mat board and the desired border width. The frame size should accommodate the artwork, mat board (if used), and any desired border. For online ordering, the width and height measurements determine the inside dimensions of the frame. To ensure the artwork fits securely, the frame's lip will overlap the artwork slightly, typically by about 1/4" all around.
