“You don't have to store your memories in an old, dusty trunk anymore,” she says. “This is a nice way of handing things down from generation to generation, and the texture and depth add more visual interest than a poster or print.”
Prevatt says wall art that tells a story is all the rage with every age demographic. “People are paying more attention to what they put on their walls,” she says. “They’re looking for something more personal — adding a piece of personal history instead of just a painting.”
The result is more room for creativity, with layered frames which add dimension, and matting using unconventional materials. “Mats aren't just flat colour, as they used to be,” she says. “We can be more creative — using leather and suede, silk, denim, chenille, even burlap.
Texture plays such a big role in adding richness and depth to the piece.” She says large borders are popular and are often offset, rather than placing the image smack-dab in the middle of the frame. “Be sure to use all acid-free materials so the art lasts longer,” Prevatt advises.
“And conservation glass helps to reduce fading caused by the sun.” She says people like to frame souvenirs from their travels, wedding memorabilia—perhaps a baby's christening candle, gown, baptismal certificate and photo.
“Because of the war, we've seen a lot of people digging out military medals and photographs,” she says. “Or, when they sell a long-term home, they'll frame a photo and the key or doorknob from the house.”
Prevatt's final tip, when the product is finished, is to look through magazines to find unique ideas for hanging your wall art. “The old rules of symmetry no longer apply,” she says. “It’s all about personal tastes and creating a display that looks good.”