Not with gilded framing but with architecture! A great piece of art is a wonderful focal point through an opening or in a niche. I was recently reminded of this while going through images I had taken with my phone: the one in question is this image from the Renwick Gallery. Operated by the Smithsonian and located across the street from the White House, it was the first art museum built in the country.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Framing Art
Not with gilded framing but with architecture! A great piece of art is a wonderful focal point through an opening or in a niche. I was recently reminded of this while going through images I had taken with my phone: the one in question is this image from the Renwick Gallery. Operated by the Smithsonian and located across the street from the White House, it was the first art museum built in the country.
I missed this museum on all my trips to DC, but had heard about it. Maybe it was closed back then for renovation. Anyway, another reason to come back and visit DC soon. Beautiful shot. MDC
ReplyDeleteI love the Renwick Gallery. The first? Maybe, but I think you'll be hearing from supporters of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and the Charleston Museum. But there is no denying that the Renwick Gallery is a great feature of D.C. And what a great photo.
ReplyDeleteDenise - the museum is not to be missed! Small so not a huge commitment either. Full of treasures though!
ReplyDeleteClassicist - always learned in Art History that it was the first building in the US built as a devoted public art gallery. Who knows!
Oh agreed! There is nothing quite as intentionally elegant as framing one, or a series of art objects with architecture! An opening is good, but only if you are standing back a long way. A niche is brilliant because it doesn't matter where you stand.
ReplyDeleteloving it!!
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more with you dahhling, placement is everything!
ReplyDeleteI have not been to the Renwick for years but most of all remember the trompe l'oeil dado and paneling in the stairwell. Thus, next time I'm in DC I'll visit the Renwick and perhaps pay more attention to the collection!
ReplyDeleteTabernacle frames are wonderful and, as the are meant t o be, imposing
I was recently reminded of the importance of the frame working on a project about Olana and Frederick Church. Frames designed by the artist to fit in a particular place make such a difference...it draws the eye as the artist envisioned it. Great post.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous Stefan, I would love to see this museum.
ReplyDeletexoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
I love the Renwick and your advice is totally solid. I think we often miss opportunities like that to frame our pictures.
ReplyDeleteAnd a huge thank you for the Paris restaurant recommendations. Sadly, we ate way too much to eat out every meal so it's definitely going on the list for next time.
ALSO, Chez Angelina is nuts! We tried on Sunday at the Louvre location but it was out the door and around the corner. Yuck! SO, we went Monday and absolutely no line. It was definitely the most decadent chocolate experience I've ever had. I felt like the mayor in Chocolat by the end.