What is the focal point of the art?
The focal point should remain the strongest element of the completed frame design. A focal point shows up most when the mat color doesn’t match it. Imagine a photo of a single red flower against a background of green leaves. The flower grabs your attention. If the image is surrounded by a green mat, the color still allows the flower to pop out. Now visualize a red mat. The red emphasizes the flower’s color, but it doesn’t help the flower stand out. Some art doesn’t have an obvious focal point. In that case, ask your customers what they find most appealing about it. Use that as the focal point, and choose colors that make it stand out. What color is the background of the art? The foreground in art usually is more detailed than the background. By blending the mat color with the background, you avoid competing with the strongest elements in the art. Does the art have highlights and shadows? Any time there is a light source, there are highlights and shadows. Together, they add interest and
