Frame Destination

Hello, Artie here. Welcome to my first issue of “Artie’s Eight,” a new blog series spotlighting artists and photographers from around the country. I couldn’t think of a better artist to begin with than 11-year-old Austinite Beck Seitsinger or a better way to illustrate his passion for art than in a special edition video spotlight. Beck has Asperger syndrome (a form of autism). He struggles with eye contact and understanding basic social cues when interacting with others. For most of his life, other kids his own age have had a hard time relating to Beck’s lengthy anecdotes or artistic depictions of car logos, gauges and compasses, however, his latest creative theme has become a catalyst for a true connection with his peers. “Beck’s current love of ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s’ is actually a video game that many kids play,” says Lee Ann, Beck’s mom. “So this passion truly has him engaging with kids his own age for the very first time in his life.” For Beck’s latest exhibit, he selected Wood Frame Profile 876 - Black (matte) 9440 to frame a few of his pieces. To discover his take on his own work, how he got his start and where he goes from here, keep reading.

Crayons? No thanks, Mom.

Before we get into the interview with Beck, you should know he wasn’t always interested in art. In fact, he refused to use crayons or chalk when he was a young child. It wasn’t until his mom, Lee Ann, bought him a package of markers that his interest in drawing exploded. He just needed the right tool for the job. The markers enabled Beck to indulge in his obsession with street signs, recreating them with precision in the bright colors that were a true representation. “With each passion, he will study everything he can about it so he can duplicate it to perfection,” says Lee Ann. “He will hyper-focus on whatever he loves in the moment.” His passion for art has lasted longer than just a moment in time and for many years beyond any other obsession. It might even be here to stay.

Cultivating the primal.

Beck’s art teacher, Carol Lee, compares Beck’s primal, intuitive style to the late graffiti artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. She also sees similarities with the gothic style of Tim Burton’s fantasy films. She tailors classes especially for Beck. “We do 30 minutes of painting: technique, wet-on-wet, collage, etc. Then 30 minutes of foam work,” says Carol. “The 3-D foam work is very natural for him, and we don’t know what that will lead to.” Like most artists, Beck experiences ups and downs when he’s working. “Painting makes me feel happy when it’s going like I plan,” he shares. “When it’s not how I plan, I get mad. But then it dries and I can fix it.”

See more of his work.

To see more of Beck's work, follow him at: https://www.facebook.com/beckseitsinger/

Now for Artie’s Eight with Beck Seitsinger …

Watch Beck offer his artist insight in this special edition Artie’s Eight Video Interview.

1. What is your background; how did you get started?
I started when I was about three years old. I really liked road signs, like stop signs and yield signs. So I started drawing them with markers. After that I got into car logos. I would even try to do my homework in car logos but my teachers didn't like that. I drew them all with markers.

2. What are you working on right now?
A book about the scary legends of the timber wolf. But it’s a kids book, so I don’t want to make it too scary.

3. What has been a formative experience for you; what is the best advice you have ever been given?
Do your best! But my art teacher Mrs. Lee also tells me to take my time. I like things I can get done right away, but that doesn't always make my best work. So we usually work on a few things at a time.

4. How is your personality reflected in your work?
I only paint what I have a passion for usually. Right now I like almost anything scary.

5. What type of art do you like to collect?
Scary, or if it’s in the summer, sharks.

6. What is your most indispensable tool? (Not counting the obvious, like paints, brushes, canvas, camera, etc.)
I use hot glue and felt almost every day for my quick stuff. I usually make felt stuffed creepy creatures and using a glue gun instead of sewing is super fast and good.

7. What is next for you?
Photo negative painting. I’m also planning to be an author of spooky stories, and I am learning to use Worbla [a brand of thermoplastic modeling material] to create masks.

8. What is your favorite (paint) color name?
Of course it's black.

Off the Cuff with Beck Seitsinger...A little extra from the Artist

Beck's art has been featured in the following public shows:

2018, Dia De Los Muertos presented by the Round Rock Arts

2018, East Austin Studio Tour

2018, Uncanny Nocturnes Show at The Gallery at Atelier 1205

2019, Created to Create presented by With Love, The Studio

2019, Samo Lives exhibit presented by the Soma Vida Gallery

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.

The only items you’ll normally find in a picture frame are the artwork, mat board, backing board and glazing. For some lucky art collectors, thrift store shoppers and at-home framers, however, there was a little more to the frames than met the eye.

Declaration of Independence in a $4 Frame

Perhaps one of the most famous “found in a thrift shop” legends, the story of the Declaration of Independence hidden inside a flea market frame sounds too good to be true. But it is: in 1989, a Pennsylvania man bought a damaged painting at a flea market simply because he liked the frame.

Upon taking it apart, a document fell out — one of just 24 surviving copies of the so-called Dunlap broadsides, valued at $800,000 to $1 million. At auction, the copy of the Declaration of Independence fetched over $2 million, more than double the appraised value.

Banksy’s Hidden Message

The famous yet anonymous English street artist Banksy pulled off arguably one of the most expensive and artistic pranks in October 2018 when his Girl With Balloon spray paint canvas went up for auction at Sotheby’s in London. Hidden inside the ornate wood picture frame — chosen specifically by the artist, explained a Sotheby’s employee unwittingly before the auction in a video later posted by Banksy — was a shredder. Once the gavel struck at $1.4 million, the shredder was turned on and destroyed most of the painting, much to everyone’s surprise.

Apparently, Banksy had intended for the painting to be completely shredded. But the shredder failed, and part of the painting was preserved — perhaps making it even more valuable.

‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ Movie Poster

In another thrift store find, a former antiques dealer discovered a framed print of 19th-century painting Shepherd’s Call at a shop in South Carolina. When she brought the print home and took apart the frame to clean it, she discovered something much rarer than the print she had purchased: a “window card” for 1930 movie All Quiet on the Western Front.

The movie poster was sandwiched between the print and the backing board. While the window card would not be as pricy as the one-sheet movie poster size, an appraiser informed her that it was a valuable and rare find.

Rembrandt in the Basement

A Rembrandt painting was hiding in plain sight in New Jersey — and it was the frame that disguised it. Tucked away in the basement, the 17th-century painting by the Dutch Old Master, titled The Unconscious Patient (An Allegory of the Sense of Smell), was framed in a Victorian frame, which led its owners to believe the painting was from the 19th century. Only when it was put up for auction did art dealers begin to suspect the painting was part of the artist’s series on the five senses. The painting was sold and then resold again for a reported $4 million — a hefty price for a painting that was hidden away in a suburban basement.

Flemish Painting Revealed by Frame

While the frame in the Rembrandt case disguised the art, another picture frame gave away the valuable artwork hidden — yet again — in plain sight. When at a Goodwill store, a man spotted a painting with a frame “worth about $50” that housed an oil painting he guessed “was out of the 1800s because of the frame it was in.”

To his surprise, when he visited the Antiques Roadshow television program weeks later with the painting, he was told it was actually a 17th-century work from a Flemish school in Amsterdam, worth between $20,000 to $30,000.

Artwork doesn’t typically come in standard sizes, but there’s one area where that doesn’t actually ring true: posters. There are many standard poster sizes, including movie posters, advertisements and band flyers, used for both commercial and personal advertisements as well as large format posters — but all these various sizes can be hard to keep track of.

Although there are plenty of different sizes a poster can be, there are really four sizes that are the most common either for purchase or poster printing yourself if you have access to a quality printer.

What Are the Standard Poster Sizes?

These sizes include 11" x 17", 18" x 24", 24" x 36" and 27" x 40". The later are the most common standard poster size for movie posters.

If you’re planning on choosing posters for a collection or simply wish to learn more information about the different types before you pick a size, check out our list of standard poster frame sizes to help you choose whether you're purchasing or starting your next poster printing project.

Common Poster Size by Type

Not all movie posters are made the same, and there are several different sizes depending on where and when they were used. The film industry has standardized their poster sizes — in fact, you can date a movie poster by its size — so framing movie posters is simply a matter of matching the size it is.

Standard Movie Poster Sizes: 27 x 40 and 27 x 41

The 27x40 is the most common standard movie poster size. Also called a one-sheet, this recognizable poster is used inside cinemas to promote new films. Prior to the 1980s, this size was actually slightly larger — 27x41 — so those collecting vintage posters should measure carefully to avoid a too-small frame. Frame Destination carries frames for both sizes, allowing you to display both modern and vintage printed posters. Browse here for size 27x40.

Concert and Band Posters: 11 x 17 and 24 x 36

For some, it’s not the movie posters they are after — it’s the music events and festivals. Posters for bands, concert posters and gig flyers are popular collectibles among music enthusiasts. Unlike the film industry, however, these sizes are not standardized no matter which printing company or store is used.

A handbill, the smallest band poster, is often 8.5x10 or 8.5x5. Flyers and small posters that are used as advertisements outside the venue are generally 8.5x11. The most sought-after band poster is the one on display at the venue itself; these large concert posters range from 11x17 to 24x36. We have a wide selection of both 11x17 poster frames and 24x36 poster frames precision cut in different materials that work great with any design.

Small Poster Sizes: 11 x 17 and 17 x 11

Standard paper sizes in America are letter (8.5x11 sheet), legal (8.5x14 sheet), and tabloid and ledger (11x17 or 17x11 sheet, based on the orientation). While letter and legal are simply paper sizes used primarily for office and home use — not for display — tabloid and ledger can be used as both assuming proper paper weight is used.

The 11 x 17 posters are the most popular small poster size. These work great in theatres as poster giveaways for movie promotions, as well as for commercial, like small window ads and personal advertisements in public buildings or event venues, on lampposts and bulletin boards, and as handouts where the image is front and center. The relatively small size makes these smaller posters very portable and easy to print in bulk by the thousands to get a message out or promote an event.

Medium Poster Sizes: 13 x 19, 16 x 24 and 18 x 24

Medium poster sizes include 13x19 and 16x24, but 18x24 is the most popular medium poster size. Used at event venues and on bulletin boards for a more impactful advertisement than its smaller counterpart, this standard poster size is eye-catching yet understated — and a perfect size for hanging home decor and filling in empty wall space in your living room .

Large Poster Sizes: 20 x 24 and 24 x 36

The two common large poster sizes — 20x24 and 24x36 — are used to make a statement. These large format posters are commonly found in retail stores and malls with high traffic areas as well as in outdoor advertising, as they are large enough to catch the eye of passersby on foot, in a car or on public transport. The 24x36 poster is the most popular large poster size, 2:3 aspect ration, often found at trade shows, exhibits or malls, and its impressive dimensions make it a great conversation piece in your home. There are definitely large poster dimensions like the ones you would find at a bus stop, billboard posters or subway poster but they are not as common especially when printing posters.

Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Salvator Mundi’

da vinci salvator mundi

In 2017, the art world collectively held its breath when a recently rediscovered original Leonardo da Vinci work, Salvatore Mundi, was finally available for sale; it is one of only 20 known works by the artist. The work of art, which was put up for auction by Christie’s in a frame specially selected for it, fetched a record-breaking price of just over $450 million.

New York-based antique frame and art restoration company Lowy was tasked with framing Salvator Mundi. They selected a 16th-century Italian frame featuring a black finish and gold stenciled details; by itself, the frame is worth up to $50,000 — a price that some very famous works of art have sold for themselves.

Hyundai’s Digital Picture Frame

hyundai digital picture frame

Details are scarce on this purported digital picture frame from South Korean manufacturer Hyundai, but if it truly does exist on the market, it’s one of the most expensive (digital) picture frames available. Said to be a large, four-panel digital frame that is so large that it can serve a dual purpose as a room divider, the frame has an estimated price of $70,000.

Munch’s ‘The Scream’

munch the scream

Edvard Munch’s famous The Scream was once the most expensive painting sold at auction when the gavel fell at $120 million back in 2012. Though the painting itself merits it as one of the most iconic images in the world, this version of the painting most likely reached such a high price due to the frame in which the painting was sold: the original frame features a rare handwritten poem by the artist himself. There are several versions of this painting, but only this one has the poem — without it, it most likely wouldn’t have reached that price.

Samsung’s ‘The Frame’

samsung the frame

A more accessible type of picture frame, Samsung’s The Frame was launched into the market to much ado in 2017. It’s not just a picture frame, though, or even a digital picture frame — it’s actually a television. With a starting price of around $1,000 for the smallest version, the television transforms into a real piece of art when not in use. Because of its interchangeable bevels available in a range of wood finishes, it can easily blend in with your existing décor — just like any other piece of art.

Though all of these famous frames are impressive, custom picture frames don’t have to cost nearly as much. Any of Frame Destination’s selection of wood picture frames and metal frames can you give your home a similar museum-worthy look — all without the hefty price tag.

Displaying a piece of artwork that you’ve saved from a thrift store, flea market or garage sale can bring you a sense of pride, but these prints and paintings are not always in the best condition when you bring them home.

If you don’t want to shell out big bucks going to a professional art restoration service — and your artwork isn’t severely damaged — there are a few ways to spruce up a not-so pristine piece of art.

Refresh the mat board.

Oftentimes, the mat board is the dingiest part of vintage art. White mat board shows even the most minuscule speck of dirt, stains and dullness, so simply replacing it with a fresh mat can breathe new life into old art. You can get creative and use colored mat board as a modern touch or remove the mat board completely to create a whole new look.

Replace the picture frame.

You’ll often find artwork already framed, and old, dusty frames can really bring down the overall appearance of a piece of art. When you’re shopping for thrift store artwork, try to focus your attention on the art within rather than the entire piece. Visualize the artwork in a new picture frame — you may just find that one-of-a-kind piece you’re looking for.

Cut or hide the damage.

It is difficult to remove stains from artwork; you can try to use document cleaning powder and a cleaning pad on paper items before you resort to drastic measures, but it may not be successful if the stain has set. If an old piece of artwork is irreparably damaged, however, you may be able to cut out the unsightly parts and get a new mat board cut to the print’s new size.

You can even make this a craft: collect a few vintage prints that complement each other, such as botanical prints or illustrations of fauna, and order a mat board with multiple openings. Cut out the desired portions of each print and mount them on backing board where they will show through the various openings.

If you’d prefer not to alter the print, use a piece of blank, uncut mat board and cut out a silhouette from the center — a face, an animal, a shape, or anything that covers the damaged portions of the print —and place this over the print. With this method, you create a new and unusual piece of art.

Create new art.

Instead of trying to fix the art, make it your own. The creative trend of “repurposing” unwanted paintings and prints by painting over them has grown in popularity, as seen by artists David Irvine, whose Re-Directed Art series adds whimsical characters to the background, or French artist Blase, who reimagines classics with modern touches.

If you’re not particularly adept with a paint brush, you can instead stencil letters, geometric designs or flourishes over the artwork to creative motivational or quirky prints.

Embrace its flaws.

When all else fails, learn to embrace the flaws in your thrift store artwork. Faded or torn photos may have just the worn, vintage look your living room needs; that slightly damaged painting has character that can’t be replicated. You can even enhance the “damaged aspect” by giving it a picture frame that’s been distressed to shabby chic perfection.

Don’t try this at home!

If you’re looking to truly restore the artwork rather than repurpose it, you may have some luck with DIY art restoration tips —but be careful, as you may irreparably damage the artwork even further.

Removing tape, for example, is discouraged; the Smithsonian Institution Archives’ Collections Care team says that removing tape could tear the image or leave a sticky residue that attracts dirt. Photographs and prints stuck to glass shouldn’t be removed unless you don’t mind the risk of ruining the print completely. If you do want to try, make a copy of the image just in case. There are two methods: scanning the photograph in a flatbed scanner or photographing it through the glass. These options may render varying results due to the thickness of the glazing over the photo. As a third option, a photo restoration specialist can typically assist you in capturing a copy with the highest quality possible.

It’s the new year, which means that people all over the world have been declaring their resolutions for the coming months. If you haven’t yet set your own (and “eating healthier” or “read more” aren’t the inspirational goals you’re looking for), check out our New Year’s resolutions for photographers, artists, and other creatives.

Organize all those photos and negatives.

Digital may have replaced print for everyday photography, but many people still have hundreds of old prints and negatives in storage. Some may be kept in slowly deteriorating photo albums — but more often than not, these photographs are thrown haphazardly into shoeboxes and drawers.

Make it your goal to organize your photos and store them the right way. Gather all your loose prints and negatives and place them in archival photo storage boxes; use print sleeves for extra protection or when placing in photo albums and scrapbooks. Besides checking off your resolution in one fell swoop, you’ll have a chance to view photos you may not have seen in years and reminisce with family and friends.

Use that fancy camera that’s been collecting dust.

Photography has become a widespread hobby and profession thanks to the rising popularity of DSLR cameras — but some of these advanced cameras have been left sitting in a closet, untouched due to their complexity. If you bought or received a professional digital camera but have yet to use it, make that your New Year’s resolution. Getting started with photography will take some time and patience, but it can be a rewarding practice — even if you only do it for yourself.

Up your framing game.

You already have some skills if you are framing your artwork and prints at home, but you can make it a resolution to improve them. Instead of using a single mat cut to preset sizes, design and customize your mat board in one of the most popular mat board styles. If you’ve been mounting your own prints with photo corners or strips, try out of one of the more advanced mounting techniques, such as using a museum mounting kit that includes Japanese hinging paper and starch paste. Once you start gaining confidence, you can move on to even more specialized techniques — and you may find a new passion!

Challenge yourself creatively.

Once a creative, always a creative — and across all types of art. Those that normally paint can try their hand at sculpting; photographers can put down their cameras and capture the sights they see through writing. You can make this resolution a monthly goal: each month, you’ll try a new medium. At the end of the year, you can look back at the artwork you’ve created and see how you’ve nurtured your creativity.

Refresh your frames — or finally hang that artwork.

Artwork that’s already hung often won’t get a new frame unless its old one breaks, so make it your resolution to give your artwork an updated frame. You can give a whole new look to your home simply by replacing your metal frames with wood frames, or by adding a few colorful mat boards.

Some unlucky pieces of artwork, on the other hand, never actually make it to the wall. If you still have artwork or prints that you’d like to frame and display but just haven’t gotten around to it yet, make it your goal this year. Print, hang and frame the photos you’ve saved on your camera roll or take that canvas out of storage — and design a custom frame that will enhance it. The best part of this resolution is that you will see it every day: a framed reminder that you’ve set and accomplished your New Year’s resolution.