It’s only the start of 2020. We’re still gaining our footing in this brand-new year. In fact, the whole decade is stretched before us like a blank canvas or a scene not yet photographed.
That can be both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking for creative people!
As artists and photographers, we inherently understand the power of color to calm our minds and lift our spirits. Color experts get it, too. Last fall, many of them chose their “2020 colors of the year” with sensitivity to our collective desire for optimism as we enter a new era.
Perhaps the most well-known color trend forecaster, Pantone Color Institute, selected Classic Blue as the Color of the Year for 2020. Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone’s Executive Director, told TIME magazine: “It’s a reassuring blue, full of calm and confidence.”
Sounds like just what we need as we face an unfolding future. In fact, if we were to flashback to 1999 and all the anxiety of Y2K, we’d fine that Pantone’s 2000 Color of the Year was another member of the restful, reliable blue family: Cerulean.
A palette of possibilities.
Ah, but Classic Blue is not alone in the 2020 color trends. Pantone selected 11 other colors for spring/summer 2020 that reflect our hope to balance stability with creative possibility. Pantone’s curated collection includes vibrant colors (Orange Peel, Biscay Green), softer tones (Sunlight, Coral Pink) and neutrals (Ash, Brilliant White).
Color curators galore.
Pantone isn’t the only company who designed their own predictions for "Color Trends 2020". When we compared the palettes picked by Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore, Behr and Crescent, we found some commonalities. We also found inspiration, which led us to bring some of these beautiful colors to our frames.
I'll highlight a few of our favorite color groupings, and the Frame Destination frames that play off these 2020 color trends.
Metal Frame Nielsen Profile 117V in Galactic Blue
Shades of blue.
Pantone was joined by others who named various blues among their 2020 color trends. Witness Sherwin-Williams’ jewel tones; Benjamin Moore’s periwinkle, blue-green and sapphire; Behr’s softly bright blue; and Crescent’s peaceful blue. Frame Destination contributes to to this bluesy palette with these new frame options:
Wood Frame Profile 792 in Sky Blue
Wood Frame Profile 311 in Blue
Canvas Floater Frame F797 in Sky Blue
16x20 Rustic Blue Picture Frame
Metal Frame Nielsen Profile 97 in Florentine Cobalt
Metal Frame Nielsen Profile 117V in Galactic Blue
Wood Frame Profile 792 in Mint Julep
Greens and in-betweens.
Shades of mint and aqua were well represented among the 2020 color trends. Take, for example, Pantone’s refreshing take on turquoise; Sherwin-Williams’ “Mint to Be” and “Restful” green; Benjamin Moore’s forest and jade; Behr’s earthy and coastal greens; and Crescent’s rich “Williamsburg Green.” Now for our takes on this spectrum:
Wood Frame Profile 792 in French Teal
Wood Frame Profile 792 in Mint Julep
Canvas Floater Frame F797 in the above shades
Metal Frame Nielsen Profile 117V in Turquoise or Cyber Green
Canvas Floater Frame F797 in Alabama Red
Warming it up.
Interestingly, two forecasters chose rosy pinks as their main “Color of the Year.” For Sherwin-Williams it’s the apricot-inspired “Romance,” while Benjamin Moore’s version is called “First Light.” The slightly darker “Bubble Shell” is among Behr’s top 15 trending colors in 2020. On the orange/brown spectrum, the color trend-setters have specified assorted shades of pumpkin, coral, brick and cinnamon. To all these, Frame Destination answers with:
Wood Frame Profile 792 in Petticoat Pink
Wood Frame Profile 792 in Bourbon Orange
Wood Frame Profile 792 in Alabama Red
Canvas Floater Frame F797 in the above shades
There’s a mat for that.
To give you more choices for creative combinations, Frame Destination offers over 250 different mat types and colors, so you're sure to find a color to complement your every artistic endeavor. Included in this lineup is one of the largest online selections of Select 4Ply mat colors—72 and counting. We invite you to peruse this wide array of mat boards or the Crescent 4-Ply Mat Boards, including "Flag Blue," a twin to Pantone’s 2020 pick, and pretty much every color under the sun.
Here's just a few Crescent Select 4-Ply mat colors we offer that match the 2020 color trends:
Color us inspired.
Are you ready to seize this fresh new decade and color it your way? Of course you are! If we can be helpful on your journey into 2020 and beyond, just reach out — we’re here for you.
It’s only the start of 2020. We’re still gaining our footing in this brand-new year. In fact, the whole decade is stretched before us like a blank canvas or a scene not yet photographed. That can be both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking for creative people! As artists and photographers, we inherently understand the power […]
Combining a love for outdoor photography with her interior design background,
Cheryl Williver enjoys creating connections. From the day her pictures won Best in Show/Student Division in a local county expo, she has been smitten with the art of photography. Since then, this New Jersey girl has enjoyed capturing nature in the form of landscapes, waterscapes, and wildlife, although architecture and commercial work show up in her portfolio as well.
Looking ahead.
A mentor once told Cheryl to “look ahead” of her image — meaning, see the entire scene before choosing the composition. She lives by that to this day. Lately she’s had fun incorporating her interior design background, turning printed images into home decor items like glass cutting boards, ornaments, and mugs.
Clearly beautiful.
When Cheryl was looking for a way to protect her photo notecards and matted prints, she chose our Protective Crystal Clear Bags. “Both the card sizes and print sizes work perfectly,” says Cheryl, adding, “I’ve been ordering Frame Destination’s pre-cut mat boards and backer boards for years as well! They make my life so much easier.” As artists and craftsmen ourselves, Frame Destination is all about protecting beautiful art, and making life simpler for artists!
See more of her work.
Check out Cheryl’s photography and photo products through Fine Art America and on social media like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. And if you’d like to learn more about Cheryl’s thoughts on connecting with her subject, along with her worst “gadget” purchase, scroll down for my Q&A with with this enthusiastic artist.
Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Cheryl Williver …
1. What is your background; how did you get started?
I got my first camera for Christmas at age 12. I took pictures all spring and summer! That summer, I entered 2 photos into the County Fair, and I won Best in Show in the Student Division! I was hooked, I haven't put my camera down since! I started my business 16 years ago, and I enjoy photographing everything from flowers and gardens to real estate and architecture, landscapes and waterscapes, animals and birds. Anything that interests me, really. And having an interior design and decorating background, I like to put my images on anything people use in their homes. I create photo notecards (which is why I order so many Frame Destination Protective Crystal Clear Bags), matted prints (more bags!), home decor and crafts with my photos. I also have professional print labs who can print my images on things like glass cutting boards, mugs, mousepads, ornaments, etc. It's FUN work!
2. How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with their subject?
Imperative! If photographers make a connection with their subject, living or non-living, we have told a story. Stories that connect with people on a personal level — that is what makes art relatable. If you've been to a certain place, or eaten a certain food, or owned a certain product, it makes that connection. If the image has great depth of field, or great lighting, or great composition, or all of these things, it creates a story that helps to make that connection.
3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?
One of my mentors told me to "look ahead of my image,” to plan ahead. This, in particular, was regarding sports photography, so that I could be ready for the shot. However, I've applied the advice to every aspect of my photography, because it means I have to look at the entire scene before I compose. Take out the things that don't belong, include the things that help tell the story. I may need to change my perspective, or lens, or settings, to get the shot just right.
4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?
My work is all about the things I enjoy, so I would have to say 100 percent! My personality shows through my images because if you know me, you know I love nature and beautiful places and things. I stop and appreciate them, and I see them differently, as many photographers do. I take the time to capture them, so that others may enjoy them.
5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?
Everyone gets creative blocks! If this happens, a change of scenery is what works for me. I get out of my office or "comfort zone" and get out and explore! I also like to look online for inspiration, because it often fuels more ideas and I then get to test them out. Creative block — gone!
6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)
My craft room! I love creating things with my hands, and I love to get creative in other ways. Recently, I've been pairing the two together, so I'll take a printed image (as my "focal point”) and then create something for or with that print to transform it into home decor to be used in a new way. I've actually tagged Frame Destination in some of my Instagram posts (around Christmas time) so you can see what I mean!
7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?
As I just mentioned, creating home decor with my images is my passion, and I'm happy that I'm able to do that and combine my two talents. It's fun, and it's being well-received at my shows.
8. What “fad” gadget do you most regret purchasing?
I bought a camera bag that was supposed to fit around my waist, to keep my arms and shoulders free while hiking and shooting, but it fell apart the day I got it! I was on vacation, and couldn't return it.
All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.
ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT? Simply respond to the questionnaire here to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.
Combining a love for outdoor photography with her interior design background, Cheryl Williver enjoys creating connections. From the day her pictures won Best in Show/Student Division in a local county expo, she has been smitten with the art of photography. Since then, this New Jersey girl has enjoyed capturing nature in the form of landscapes, […]
Experiencing a creative block can be frustrating—and frightening when our livelihood depends on our ability to create new work or make progress on a current one. The first thing to remember is that you’re not alone. Creative blocks happen to all of us! The second thing to remember is that they are temporary, even when they seem to arrive with a neon sign that says, “You Will Be Forever Blocked, So Give Up Now.” Don’t believe it. Instead, see a block as an opportunity to slow down and refill the wellsprings of your creativity.
While sharing my own ways of overcoming creative blocks, I’ll also sprinkle in ideas from others including professional artists and photographers featured in our Artie’s Eight Q&A series.
1. Shake up your scenery. If you live in the city, traipse through a park, zoo, or botanical garden. Go for a walk alongside a body of water or in a forest. Climb a mountain or a hill. If you’re a rural homesteader, take a trip to the city, visit a museum or show, or peruse local shops. Whether it be an antique shop, luxury car dealership or trendy boutique, design and inspiration is all around us. Fine artist and printmaker Mindy Lighthipe is with me on this: “I get out of the house and get into nature,” she says. “It can be planting in my garden, going out in my kayak, or traveling to a favorite destination.” Photographer-decorator Cheryl Williver concurs: “A change of scenery is what works for me. I get out of my office or ‘comfort zone’ and get out and explore!”
2. Tour your town with fresh eyes. No matter how large or small your city is, pretending to be a tourist will let you see it with a new perspective. Research what your town is known for. Make a day out of exploring its relevant sites. You might even wind up creating art with a local flavor, which can endear you to your fellow citizens. When University of North Texas photography student Hudson Ingram is feeling blocked, he looks around and starts shooting. “I just take photographs of whatever I see in my daily life,” Hudson says. “[That] gives me insight to what I might be subconsciously thinking, and I create a project based on those thoughts.”
3. Watch a movie or read a book that’s outside your normal genre. If rom-coms are your M.O., try a futuristic action movie instead. I like to read non-fiction. Yes, I learn a lot of practical stuff, but large doses can dull my senses. I mix it up with the classics, poetry, supernatural fiction, and dreamy travel essays
4. Take a class or workshop in a different art form. If you’re a photographer, try a drawing workshop. This will force you to slow down and engage with your subject in a completely different manner. Artist David Hoque agrees: “I’ve taught myself through YouTube and other sources how to improve my photography skills,” says David. “I have found that having good skills in this field is critical as a realist painter.”
5. Peruse a dictionary or thesaurus. This is an old writer’s trick that can work for artists, too. Pick a single letter, like K. What images come to your mind when you see the words “kite,” kaleidoscope,” or “karma”?
6. Out of sight, out of mind. Sometimes it feels like a project we’re working on is staring us down, ruthlessly reminding us of our block. When Rachel Kosbab, a North Carolina fine artist, isn’t sure how to finish a painting, she hides it “for a week or so and work on other projects,” Rachel says. “When I come back to it, I usually have new great ideas.” Texas photographer Jason Whitehead takes a similar approach: “I put the cameras away and try to find another outlet for creativity,” like listening to music or driving around. Michigan photographer Joshua McCann says taking a nap is one of the things that clears up his creative blocks. This technique is No. 1 on Creative Bloq’s list of block breakers.
7. Eat your way to inspiration. Colorful ingredients and beautifully plated dishes are a feast for the eyes. Plus, eating engages all our senses! I like to try new ethnic restaurants—you get to experience a little dose of culture along with the food. And if you appreciate that culture’s cuisine, check out their art as well. You may find a whole new source of artistic stimulation.
BONUS TIP: Do some reflective journaling. Verbal reflection can stir up mental visuals. The internet is full of writing prompts, but here are a few of my favorites: “____________ makes me feel wild and free.” “My best childhood memory is _____________________.” “I’ve always been fascinated by ________________.” Botanical artist Lotus McElfish told us that her blocks are most often due to her own insecurities. “[I’ve] got to get that out of the way and know my own value and artistic voice,” she says. Journaling positive affirmations can help with that. Affirmations are especially effective when we write in the second or third person: “You, Joely, are a talented artist” and “That Joely really knows how to capture beauty in a unique way.” Whatever you do, don’t feel guilty for feeling blocked. “When you beat yourself up you’re too busy beating yourself up to notice all the inspiration that surrounds you.” Sage words from Artists Magazine.
I’m always looking for new ways to overcome creative blocks. So if you have one to share, please do!
Experiencing a creative block can be frustrating—and frightening when our livelihood depends on our ability to create new work or make progress on a current one. The first thing to remember is that you’re not alone. Creative blocks happen to all of us! The second thing to remember is that they are temporary, even when […]
This western Montana artist embraces detail and simplicity at the same time. A former introvert, J Craig Platt was drawn out of his shell by his high school art teacher and by the University of Montana dance program. This art-loving panda is grateful to both of these sources, because they nudged him to become a disciplined artist who creates works that are simple and intricate all at once. Even when he’s not creating, he is working at his craft, daily.
Watercolor and beyond.
J Craig isn’t bound by one medium at a time. Although he tends to favor watercolor, his portfolio is an exploration of artistic mediums including pastel and ink; pastel and graphite and colored pencil; and ink on newsprint. Oh. And he also makes some very cool jewelry.
Minimalist framing.
For J Craig’s watercolor titled “Inglorious” — an abstract “spiral” whale — he chose the Nielsen Profile 100, a sleek black metal frame ideal for shadow boxes. “I ordered one, unsure if this particular frame would be the one,” says the self-taught artist. “Turns out, perfect. I ordered 10 more. I would also comment that Frame Destination has THE best packing department I have yet to come across.” (We’ll pass that along, J Craig!)
See more of his work.
Take a peek at J Craig’s online portfolio of paintings and jewelry, located at Blue Hare Studios. Keep an eye out for his upcoming series that infuses each painting with a “kaleidoscope of color.” To learn more about his mood-lifting bud vase and the color he has “a thing for,” see my interview below.
Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with J Craig Platt …
1. What is your background; how did you get started?
The majority of my artistic side is self-taught. Though I will give a good deal of credit to my high school art teacher, Ms. O'Leary. Her support and encouragement helped mold a quiet, introverted boy into someone better. Thank you, Ms. O'Leary! I studied dance at the University of Montana; this expanded my horizons, pulling me away from my last remnants of introversion and opening new worlds for me. I've been exploring more new worlds within the realm of art ever since.
2. What role do you think the artist plays in society?
This depends upon the individual artist and if they want to make an impact on society. As artists, if we are using our skills to influence society, we must be cognizant of what we are putting out into the world. We all see the world through our own eyes, and artists can inadvertently affect a single person or larger society with their work. My own work is, of course, is simply my personal viewpoint and emotions poured into the subject — which is part of the end result, but not the most important part of the piece. Art should inspire mindful and emotional reactions in those viewing the work. Even a negative reaction can cause one's work to be remembered. I fume to this day about what I perceived to be a bad work of art I saw in Minneapolis in 2000. All these years later and I am still shaking my head at the images. So, yea. Good or bad (though I prefer good), if I can cause a thought-provoking or emotional response in those who view my work, I feel I have done my job.
3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?
If art is going to be your world, you have to work at it every day. In direct thought or physical form. Creativity isn't always easy, you can't force the creative juices to flow. But you can work at your craft even if you are not working on something you very much want to start or finish. For myself this means sketching, writing, painting, designing jewelry, cooking — anything creative to keep my mind and spirit active and hungry for more. Every day.
4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?
Multifaceted and maybe a bit controlled (but not controlling). While my style is embedded into each painting and series, I like to believe that each one takes on a life of its own, different from its predecessors. Too much repetition makes a very dull boy.
5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?
Creative blocks … yes, I get them. To answer this question, I'll loop back to question #3 on best advice: Keep working. On something, on anything that keeps your creative mind flowing. The blocks will soon fall away.
6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)
Well, it's not exactly a “tool.” It is a small Japanese bud vase where I keep my tiny 5/0 brushes. The vase is full of memories and makes me happy to see it. It always helps to be in a good mood when you're working.
7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?
I have a new series of six or nine paintings. I never know the actual number of paintings until I get to the end. This series will be free form and a kaleidoscope of color within each painting. A new challenge for myself, to just let go.
8. What is your favorite paint color name?
Puce. Though, I never actually use that color. I just like the word, puce. My favorite color is a watercolor, lapis lazuli. It paints much different that it looks coming out of the tube. Also, I have a thing for lapis lazuli.
All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.
ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT? Simply respond to the questionnaire here to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.
This western Montana artist embraces detail and simplicity at the same time. A former introvert, J Craig Platt was drawn out of his shell by his high school art teacher and by the University of Montana dance program. This art-loving panda is grateful to both of these sources, because they nudged him to become a […]
I’m an old-soul panda, and I recognize an old-soul human when I see one. What impresses me most about this young adult is that he’s not only a student of photography — he’s a student of people. As a photography student at UNT, Hudson Ingram is currently focused on relationships and the emotions that come with them. His responses to my Artie’s Eight Q&A make this clear, but so does his work.
Trios and transparency.
Our team here at Frame Destination enjoyed taking a walk through Hudson’s portfolio, which showcases a trio of series titled “Disconnect,” “Anonymity of an Observer” and “Peripheral.” In each of these bodies of work, Hudson explores aspects of his relationships with friends and family. By digitally inserting a transparent image of himself into his “Disconnect” photographs, Hudson reveals the detachment and unrequited admiration many of us have felt at one time or another.
Hudson’s choice to highlight his art.
We’re excited to have framed the photograph Hudson shares with us here. He ordered Wood Frame Profile 852, which was “exactly what I asked for and helped highlight the work!” says Hudson.
See more of his work.
You can peruse his online portfolio or follow him on Instagram. And if you happen to be near Denton, Texas, in February 2020, check out the UNT Parallax “Lucid Dreams” exhibit, which will feature some of Hudson’s latest images.
Now for Artie’s Eight Q&A with Hudson Ingram…
1. What is your background; how did you get started?
I was born in 1997 in McKinney, Texas. I starting taking photographs as a child, but never really considered myself an artist until high school. That’s when I had a capstone experience on mastering camera control through a mentorship with Tin Star Photography. When I began college at the University of North Texas, I really started to view myself as an artist. My classes helped me discover how to apply a deeper meaning to my work and how that can help me not only as an artist, but as a person.
2. How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with their subject?
In photography there is a direct connection between what the photographer sees through their viewfinder or screen and what the viewer is shown. This enables people to experience the photographer’s perspective, and creates curiosity—if not about the subject matter, then how it was shot. The photographer's own personal connection to the subject is what drives the the photograph and can affect the image created.
3. What has been a formative experience or the best advice you’ve received within your career?
You will make work that can be absolute crap, but that crap will eventually lead you to good or even great work.
4. What ways does your work reflect your personality?
I am a young adult still figuring out life, and I'm pretty sure that I won't ever figure it out. But in trying to understand it through my photography, I hope that I can convey what is going on in my life to whoever sees it.
5. Creative blocks, do you get them? If so, how do you overcome them?
I definitely can't think of anything some days, and on those days I just take photographs of whatever I see in my daily life. Continuing to do so gives me insight to what I might be subconsciously thinking, and I create a project based on those thoughts.
6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)
Relationships with others are what has fueled not only my work but my life. Everything for me has been built on relationships or the lack thereof.
7. Do you have a new project you are working on, or a new passionate idea?
I am currently working with film in both 35mm and medium format to show my perspective of my own envy.
8. What “fad” gadget do you most regret purchasing?
Mainly things that haven't worked for longer than a day. Flash sync controls, remotes, etc.
All artwork and/or photographs used in this post are subject to copyright held by the featured artist.
ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT? Simply respond to the questionnaire here to apply to be included in an upcoming Artie’s Eight Spotlight.
I’m an old-soul panda, and I recognize an old-soul human when I see one. What impresses me most about this young adult is that he’s not only a student of photography — he’s a student of people. As a photography student at UNT, Hudson Ingram is currently focused on relationships and the emotions that come with […]
“You artists are so hard to shop for.” I’ve heard that line before, and maybe you have to. As an advocate for artists in the home or their business, Frame Destination believes in championing holiday wishes for creatives. Check out our list of unique gifts for the photographer, artist, home decorator, family CEO, and dedicated DIYer. If something catches you eye, share this post with family, close friends and even on social media — with a subtle hint, like: “I’d flip over item #3, just fyi.” Of course, feel free to consult this festive list to treat your fellow artists as well. ’Tis the season!
Multicolor Wall Clock
When artists and photographers are in the process of creating, it’s easy to lose track of time. Of course cell phones and computers deliver this information, but sometimes our eyes need to glance away from those ubiquitous screens. This ultra-flat, super quiet clock is a fun yet practical gift for anyone on your list who would appreciate a splash of color that also happens to be functional. Buy here.
Multicolor Wall Clock, MoMa, $34.95 Non-Member Price / $31.45 Member Price
History of Art Tote
A tote bag always comes in handy, and why not make it clever? From da Vinci to Dali and beyond, this bag recounts art history at a glance via smiley faces illustrated by Donald Seitz. This one’s available from our friends and the Museum of Modern Art. Now if we could just get these clever faces in emoji form on our cell phones. Buy here.
History of Art Tote, MoMa, $20 Non-Member Price / $18 Member Price
Artie Leather Weight
Anyone who’s tried to hold down a print while mounting it for framing knows you can’t just grab random objects to do the job, lest you scratch the print. Enter the Artie Leather Weight. Heavy enough to keep prints in place, but covered in soft, non-abrasive leather to protect the art. Priced low enough to buy a set of four, and cover every corner. They’ll wonder how you knew. Buy here.
Artie Leather Weight, Frame Destination, $10.35 each
Sensory Gloves
Photographers who work in colder climates shouldn’t have to risk frostbite to capture stunning images. Taking gloves on and off is annoying. Come to the rescue of your photographer friend with these Sensory Gloves by AquaTech. They’re fleece-lined from wrist to fingers keeps the cold at bay. Neoprene tops the thumb and index finger, outfitted with a secret hole where digits can pop through to get the shot, and quickly retreat to warmth. (01/07/2020 update - AquaTech appears to be sold out of these gloves. But, they are available through other suppliers such as Overland Photo Supply and Roberts Camera. We are leaving the Aquatech link up though in case they are restocked.) Buy here.
Sensory Gloves, AquaTech, $49.95
Art & Machine Playing Cards
Here at Frame Destination, we appreciate it when someone offers a fresh spin on a normal, everyday object. Take these playing cards, for example, featuring a palm-sized walk through the history modern art, design and machine technology. Each suit displays one of four eras: Bauhaus typography (spades), mid-century book covers (hearts), late-1900s silkscreen posters (clubs) and contemporary art and design in the age of mobile (diamonds). As far as looks go, every hand’s a winning hand. Buy here.
Art & Machine Playing Cards, Art of Play, $15.00
Honey Fund Shadowbox
Creatives have a running list of cutting-edge equipment and supplies they’d love to own, but can’t afford quite yet. Maybe it’s out of your reach, too. Still, you can show your support (and your own DIY prowess) by custom-creating a savings shadow box to motivate your recipient’s desire to save, save, save. Decorate the inside of the shadow box as a visual reminder of the item of their dreams; for example, a beautiful photo of the European city they’d love to visit and photograph, or an image of the expensive oil color set they’ve been eyeing.
To create this unique gift, order the shadow box in the size of your print with a piece of 3/16-inch backing board. Order a piece of standard acrylic separately that is two inches smaller than your frame size.
Example: If your print is 11x14 inches, order a frame kit with a piece of 3/16-inch foam core. If the print is horizontal, order the acrylic at 9x14. If it’s vertical, order it at 11x12. Note that “Honey Fund” tag is not included, but you can easily make your own custom tag with card stock and colored sharpie markers — and don’t forget to slip in some cash to start them off! Buy here.
Honey Fund Shadow Box Bank, FrameDestination.com, starts at $21.90
Lightroom Keyboard Shortcuts
Many photographers enjoy taking their craft beyond scouting and shooting into the world of post. With this gift, you’ll help the lucky photographer on your list to work much faster in Adobe Photoshop Lightroom as they take their images to next-level greatness. Buy here.
Adobe Lightroom Shortcuts Keyboard Skin, XSKN, $13.99 on Amazon
Frame Destination Gift Card
Ah, the ever-flexible Frame Destination Gift Card. We’re fans. Who wouldn’t be? Your recipients get to choose exactly what they want, no returns necessary. They’re perfect as a stand-alone gift for artists and photographers who need ready-made picture frames and other framing supplies on a regular basis or as a companion gift to another item on this list. Another thought: a gift card is a great add-on to a personal gift: your recipient gets to choose how to frame that print or original art you’ve selected just for them. Buy here.
Happy Holidays Gift Card, FrameDestination.com, $5.00 - $1,000.00
Merry Mentions Over $50
We couldn’t resist adding this trio of ideas, despite their price tags. Just in case you want to splurge, or perhaps split the cost with a group of friends.
Museum Membership Give them a reason to visit a local art museum any time, not just when company is in town. From the Dallas Museum of Art to Los Angeles County Museum of Art to the Museum of Modern Art in New York — check your local museums for gift membership opportunities. Prices vary.
Glide One Strap System, $64.95 We’re impressed by the ergonomic split-strap design that’s not just comfortable, but lets you nimbly slide a camera from your side to your eye so you never miss a shot.
Glide One Strap System, $64.95
Transparent Tripod Easel, $199 Five adjustable settings make it functional, but we’re smitten with how the acrylic elegance vanishes into the background while your artwork takes center stage.
Transparent Tripod Easel, $199
“You artists are so hard to shop for.” I’ve heard that line before, and maybe you have to. As an advocate for artists in the home or their business, Frame Destination believes in championing holiday wishes for creatives. Check out our list of unique gifts for the photographer, artist, home decorator, family CEO, and dedicated […]