Eric Wiegardt Studio Gallery

Unglassed Watercolor Painting: Conclusions

In the past several years I have mentioned my excitement about framing watercolors without glass. I mount them on a stretched cotton canvas (as oil painters would use) and protect the image with a diluted acrylic varnish followed by a cold wax medium. No mat is necessary in framing, and of course, no glass. Initially, I felt my collectors would readily embrace having no reflections on their watercolors (Museum Glass is a beautiful alternative, but expensive) and I would save expense in framing time. I have come to several conclusions.

The unglassed:

•
 do well in the larger sizes, larger than 22x30 (full sheet) paintings, since the weight of glass is eliminated.
•
 are not desired by all collectors; many still prefer the traditional framing of watercolors.
•
 are easier to ship: no plexiglass needs to be cut, and shipping boxes can be smaller since overall size is smaller without the mat.
•
 actually take longer to frame – therefore adding cost.
•
 framing costs are similar to the glassed. Since I prefer a wider and more expensive frame on unglassed pieces, there is little savings in eliminating mat and glass.

In conclusion, I have found this new method a great option for those concerned about glare from glass and wonderful for larger pieces. However, I will most likely keep it as an option.

Keep your brush wet!
-Eric
P.O. Box 1114
2607 Bay Avenue
Ocean Park, WA 98640

360.665.5976

info@ericwiegardt.com