Gallery wrapped canvas is a method of displaying paintings where the canvas is stretched tightly over a wooden frame and secured at the back, creating a clean, finished look. This technique is favored for its modern aesthetic, allowing the artwork to be displayed without a traditional frame.
Understanding Gallery Wrapped Canvas
According to a reference from September 20, 2021, gallery wrapped canvas is defined as:
"a method of displaying paintings wherein the edge of the canvas is stretched over the frame and completely covers the stretcher bars beneath: you will not see the staples, the stretcher bars are usually thicker, and the overall presentation is sleek."
This description highlights the key characteristics that differentiate gallery wrapped canvas from other canvas display methods:
- Canvas Location: The canvas fabric wraps around the sides of the internal wooden frame (called stretcher bars) to the back.
- Staple Placement: Staples or other fasteners are applied on the back of the frame, making them invisible when viewed from the front or sides.
- Stretcher Bar Thickness: The internal wooden bars are typically thicker than those used for canvases intended for traditional framing. This adds substance to the sides.
- Visual Presentation: The resulting look is described as "sleek," offering a contemporary and frameless display option.
Key Characteristics
Based on the definition, the essential features of gallery wrapped canvas include:
- The canvas wraps around the sides of the frame.
- The canvas covers the stretcher bars.
- Staples are not visible on the sides.
- Stretcher bars are usually thicker.
- The presentation is sleek.
This method allows the artwork or print to extend onto the sides of the canvas, or the sides can be left blank or painted a solid color. It provides a finished edge, meaning the canvas is often ready to hang directly onto a wall without needing an external frame.
Gallery wrapping is a popular choice for artists and consumers seeking a minimalist yet professional way to present canvas-based artwork or photographs.
