The choice of mat board colour for your wildlife artwork can depend on various factors, including the specific artwork, your personal preferences, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Here are some considerations to help you decide:
Complement the Artwork: Choose a mat board colour that complements the colours and tones in your wildlife artwork. It should enhance the overall presentation without overpowering the subject. For example, if your artwork features earthy, natural tones, a warm neutral mat board like beige or light brown may work well.
Contrast or Highlight: If you want to create contrast and make certain elements of your artwork stand out, consider an under- mat colour that contrasts with the dominant colours in the artwork, use a neutral top mat. This can draw attention to specific details or subjects within the piece.
Museum White: A classic choice for many types of artwork is a clean, neutral mat board in a shade of white, often referred to as “museum white.” This can work well with a wide range of art styles but may not suit wildlife art.
Themed or Seasonal Choices: Depending on the theme of your wildlife artwork or the season it represents, you can choose mat board colours that evoke a specific mood or setting. For example, if your wildlife piece features autumn foliage, you might consider a mat board in warm, autumnal colours like deep red or burnt orange.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, your personal taste and the mood you want to convey in your artwork’s presentation should guide your choice. If you have a strong preference for a certain colour or believe it complements your artwork’s subject matter, go with what feels right to you.
Test and Experiment: If you’re unsure about the best mat board colour, consider getting a few different options and placing them next to your artwork to see which one looks best. A professional framer will be able to help guide your choices too.
Conservation Quality: If your artwork is valuable or you want to ensure its long-term preservation, choose acid-free, archival-quality mat boards to protect your artwork from discolouration and deterioration over time.
Remember that there are no strict rules when it comes to choosing mat board colours for wildlife artwork. It’s a matter of personal preference and the specific requirements of your artwork. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the overall presentation of your artwork while maintaining its visual integrity.