As a custom framer, I thrive on creative challenges. And as the owner of my own shop, Framed By Kosal in Monroe, Connecticut, I’m proud of the reputation that I’ve earned in the industry for taking framing design to unexpected levels. Whether it’s by using unusual mounting techniques, surprising materials, or even moving parts, I’m always looking to unveil something new to delight my customers.
Such innovative techniques have helped me win multiple Best in Show awards during Tru Vue® Framing Competitions and wow visitors to the Tru Vue booth at WCAF Shows with my innovative pieces.
The Moment
The theme for the 3rd Annual Tru Vue Framing Competition was “Rethink, Renew, Restore,” with the challenge to reframe an old project and improve upon it. For my project I chose the piece “Passing Time,” which features a black-and-white photo shot by my friend Tennie D’Amato of her son walking on the Al Bennett Fishing Pier at Seaside Park in Bridgeport.
In 2011, the pier was destroyed by Hurricane Irene. But as a child, my father would take me fishing out on the pier, and the photo is a reminder of my fond childhood memories of time spent with my dad.
The Design
The image for “Passing Time” is timeless. But for the Tru Vue Framing Competition, I wanted to provide an update to its original presentation, which included a weathered, white-painted wooden frame.
My plan was to execute an integration of design that was seamless with the subject of the photograph. My new design and use of materials was inspired by my memories of standing on that pier looking out to the open water and seeing the shimmering glare of the sun reflecting off its surface.
Reflecting on Time
The textured frame reminded me of the rough textures of the weathered pier, and the mirrors accent on the frame was to create the sense of open space and reflection of water. The use of accent corners on the frame was to mimic the photo corners used to mount photographs in an album, signifying a captured snapshot of a moment in time.
To impart visual drama, I used the layering of Tru Vue Museum Glass®. The first layer has an accent line painted on it, and is set behind the artwork to mount to the entire piece. A second layer of Museum Glass glazes the entire project. Along with enduring protection, the anti-reflective benefits ensured amazing viewing clarity that vividly enhances the sharpness of the black-and-white image – allowing me to truly “Raise My Glass.”
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This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace independent professional judgment. Statements of fact and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) individually and, unless expressly stated to the contrary, are not the opinion or position of Tru Vue or its employees. Tru Vue does not endorse or approve, and assumes no responsibility for, the content, accuracy or completeness of the information presented.